Latest news with #ScotchWhisky
Forbes
a day ago
- General
- Forbes
6 Bottles You Must Try If You Want To Learn About Scotch Whisky
With the incredible range of Scotch whiskies available to try today, it's become trickier than ever to figure out where to start. Diving in also means learning a new kind of whisky vocabulary - sherry bombs, peat, ex-bourbon, Islay, single malts, grain whisky - it can all feel a little overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be intimidating. While there's always new Scotch whiskies being released all the time, I've curated here what I'll call an ideal 'starter pack'. Each of these six whiskies is a great introduction to the different kinds of aroma and flavor profiles you can find in Scotch. While some of these are well-known, these aren't 'beginner whiskies'. The way they are made and matured also serves as an excellent way to start learning about production, maturation and even the history of Scotch whisky. So in no particular order, we've got: This iconic whisky is considered to be one of the industry's gold standard products. The Basics: Johnnie Walker Black Label is one of the most widely recognized Scotch whiskies in the world and features possibly whisky's most recognisable mascot, the 'Striding man'. It is also widely considered by the global whisky industry to be a masterpiece in terms of the quality and consistency that has been maintained over decades at a mass scale of production. First released in its current form in 1909, it's produced by Diageo and blends around 40 different malt and grain whiskies, with a minimum age of 12 years. Why is it important: Black Label is a perfect example of the blender's art: consistency, complexity, and a seamless integration of styles is achieved while mixing together 40 different malt and grain whiskies drawn from all over Scotland. Matured in a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, it also features just a light whisper of barely perceptible peaty smoke. It's also an incredibly flexible whisky. Whether enjoyed neat, with ice or in a cocktail it'll always be satisfying to drink. Tasting notes: Table Whisky from the Leith Export Co. The Basics: Grain whisky is an underrated Scotch whisky category. When it comes to Scotch whisky terminology, 'grain' refers to anything that isn't made with 100% malted barley, and usually is distilled with a piece of equipment called column or continuous stills as opposed to the more traditional pot stills. Chapeau to the good people behind the Port of Leith Distillery in Edinburgh for releasing this affordable grain, which they've actually sourced from another Edinburgh distillery, the mysterious North British grain whisky distillery in Gorgie. Why is it important: Grain whisky often gets overshadowed by single malts, but this bottle shows just how elegant and approachable grain can be. Grain whisky features less of the variety found in malts - great grain whiskies tend to be sweet, floral and creamy. Table Whisky is the current and hip go-to for an easy to find, high quality and budget-friendly example of the category. Tasting Notes: The Deanston 12 Year Old label. The Basics: A Highland distillery housed in a former cotton mill, its 12 Year Old was reintroduced in 2012 with a bump in ABV and a promise that no chill-filtration nor caramel coloring added into the whisky. The distillery itself also generates its own power through an onsite hydro-energy facility. Why is it important: This whisky is entirely aged in ex-Bourbon casks, which comprise the vast majority of casks used to age whisky around the world, including in Scotland. Deanston 12 is an ideal example to illustrate the kinds of aromas and flavors that can be typically found in great ex-Bourbon casks - which tend towards lighter profiles. Tasting Notes: The Tamdhu 12 Year Old is entirely matured in sherry casks. The Basics: Located in the Scottish whisky capital of Speyside, Tamdhu exclusively matures its whiskies in sherry casks. The 12 Year Old expression debuted in 2018 as part of a revamped core range. Why is it important: This bottle demonstrates the power of sherry cask maturation without going too dry or deep. Using only Oloroso-seasoned European and American oak, Tamdhu 12 is rich and full-bodied. It's a great ambassador for sherried Scotch, showing how cask seasoning plays a major role in shaping flavor. Tasting Notes: Springbank Distillery's stills. The Basics: Campbeltown's Springbank is revered by most whisky connoisseurs and is one of the most old-school, largely making whisky exactly using the same methods as 50-60 years ago. Everything is done on-site, from malting to bottling. Its flagship 10 Year Old, is matured in a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. Why is it important: This is a perfect representation of what Campbeltown whiskies are about. While classifying whisky profiles by 'region' tends to be counterproductive, Campbeltown only has three of them (two of them owned by Springbank's owners), and they definitely share some key characteristics. Springbank 10 is coastal, oily, and ever so slightly peated,. Tasting Notes: Laphroaig Quarter Cask The Basics: Laphroaig is often the first distillery people think of when the word 'peat' is mentioned. One of Islay's poster children, Laphroaig's whisky is both loved and hated because of it's bold, medicinal and smoky profile. Therefore it serves as a perfect, if polarizing, example showcasing the aromas and flavors of heavy peat. Why is it important: When the Quarter Cask was first launched in 2004, it represented a bold move in maturation - using smaller casks (quarter casks, hence the name) to create an intense full profile across a shorter space of time. The whisky is first aged in standard ex-bourbon barrels and then transferred to smaller American oak quarter casks, increasing the contact between whisky and wood. Personally I prefer the result here over the distillery's iconic 10 year old. Tasting Notes:
South China Morning Post
a day ago
- Business
- South China Morning Post
UK Scotch whisky makers cheer news of FTA with India, eye expansion
Global Scotch whisky producers are eagerly eyeing India after New Delhi and London concluded their long-awaited free trade agreement (FTA), as lower tariffs are set to propel sales in the world's largest market for the popular alcoholic drink. Finalised last month, the deal will lead to India halving its levy on British whiskies and gin from 150 per cent to 75 per cent starting from the middle of next year, and reducing it further to 40 per cent over a 10-year period. While this could make imported Scotch whiskies much more accessible to Indian consumers, analysts and industry insiders say foreign distillers will still face stiff competition from increasingly sophisticated domestic brands. India currently accounts for just three per cent of global Scotch whisky sales by volume, despite being the top export destination for the product. The UK is India's largest whisky trading partner both in value and volume terms, according to Indian government data. 'India's alcoholic drinks market is at a crossroads, combining strong demand for home-grown products and rising interest in high-quality imported premium products,' said Sanjit Padhi, chief executive of the International Spirits and Wines Association of India. The new FTA could expand consumer choices, enhance quality benchmarks, and create a level-playing field benefitting domestic and international players, Padhi said.
Scottish Sun
11-06-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
All the Father's Day bargains landing in Lidl's middle aisle this week including bargain steak and whisky
You can get gifts from £3.19 WITH LOVE All the Father's Day bargains landing in Lidl's middle aisle this week including bargain steak and whisky SHOPPERS can pick up top value presents for Dad in Lidl ahead of Father's Day. The discount supermarket offers time-limited deals in its 'middle aisles' which are shelves where stock changes each week. Advertisement 7 Head to Lidl for Father's Day treats Credit: Alamy And in celebration of father figures of all types, shoppers can this week get food and drink presents starting from just £1.49. This drop of Middle Aisle buys will be available in stores from June 12 ahead of Father's Day falling on June 15. If you spot something you like, it's a good idea to move quickly because once items are gone, they won't be restocked. Here are all the deals you can get... Advertisement Ben Bracken Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70cl - £15.99 7 Lidl has some great value whisky options for dad If the father figure in your life enjoys whisky, you can get some great value options from the retailer. Stock his drinks cupboard with this Ben Bracken single malt. Advertisement It was a gold winner at the world whiskies awards so sure to go down a storm with the top man in your life. Western Gold Gold Bourbon Whiskey 70cl - £14.99 7 Lidl Western Gold Whiskey Credit: Lidl This Western Gold is another spirit that Dad should appreciate if he likes a bourbon. It costs £16.99 but users of the Lidl Plus app can get an extra £2 off to take the price down to £14.99. Advertisement Five Lidl rosés you need this summer, according to a wine expert - a £6.99 buy is as light & crispy as £22 Whispering Angel Birchwood XXL Ribeye Steak - £18.99 7 Cook a feast for your father with these steaks Credit: Lidl If you fancy showing your dad some appreciation by whipping up a showstopping meal, this pack of four ribeye steaks ought to do the trick. Just add some chips and a nice sauce and gather the family to enjoy a delicious meal to recognise the special man. J.D. Gross Seashell Chocolates 250g - £3.19 7 The Belgian seashells are one for the choc-loving dad Credit: Lidl Advertisement These seashell chocs are a fab alternative to the pricier Guylian. And if your dad has a sweet tooth, he'll love them. The price comes in at £3.49 but if you join the Lidl Plus app, you can get a pack for £3.19. Belgian Ales 6 x 330ml - £15.99 7 Dads can taste a selection of Belgian ales Credit: Lidl Advertisement A selection of ales is a great gift for anyone who thinks of themselves as a bit of a beer connoisseur. There are six in the pack and each one is different so that Dad can find his favourite. Try Piraat, Bornem and Golden Draak. Perlenbacher Beer Keg 5L - £14.99 7 Dads will love this beer keg for a gathering with friends Credit: Lidl Advertisement This beer keg is a bit of a novelty present. But could be great if he's planning on having some pals around for drinks or a barbecue. The five litres of beer should keep everyone topped up for quite a while. How to save on your supermarket shop THERE are plenty of ways to save on your grocery shop. You can look out for yellow or red stickers on products, which show when they've been reduced. If the food is fresh, you'll have to eat it quickly or freeze it for another time. Making a list should also save you money, as you'll be less likely to make any rash purchases when you get to the supermarket. Going own brand can be one easy way to save hundreds of pounds a year on your food bills too. This means ditching "finest" or "luxury" products and instead going for "own" or value" type of lines. Plenty of supermarkets run wonky veg and fruit schemes where you can get cheap prices if they're misshapen or imperfect. For example, Lidl runs its Waste Not scheme, offering boxes of 5kg of fruit and vegetables for just £1.50. If you're on a low income and a parent, you may be able to get up to £442 a year in Healthy Start vouchers to use at the supermarket too. Plus, many councils offer supermarket vouchers as part of the Household Support Fund.
Associated Press
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
DEWAR'S SCOTCH WHISKY RETURNS TO THE U.S. OPEN, DEBUTING THE NEWEST ITERATION OF "THE CHAMPIONS EDITION" 19 YEAR OLD WHISKY
DEWAR'S 19 Year Old The Champions 5th Edition is finished in Calvados Apple Brandy Casks and pays homage to apple brandy's deep-rooted connection to Pennsylvania. HAMILTON, Bermuda, June 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DEWAR'S® Blended Scotch Whisky proudly announces the release of the fifth iteration of DEWAR'S 19 Year Old The Champions Edition, in celebration of the 125th U.S. Open held at Oakmont Country Club in Pittsburgh, PA. This limited-edition, collector's bottle honors the continued partnership between the two iconic brands, celebrating the craftsmanship, prestige, and legacy found in both the world of golf and fine whisky. Finished in Calvados Apple Brandy Casks, this year's edition honors apple brandy's historic ties to Pennsylvania, where the region's abundant apples have been utilized for brandy production as far back as the 18th century. This release continues DEWAR'S tradition of innovative cask finishes that define The Champions Edition series, following in the footsteps of past expressions including Rye Casks in 2024, Napa Valley Red Wine Casks in 2023, American Oak & Rye Casks in 2022, and First-Fill Ex-Bourbon Casks in 2021. Six-time Master Blender of the Year, Stephanie Macleod, once again applies DEWAR'S distinctive double aging process to create a whisky that is as smooth as it is complex. Showcasing a vibrant flavor profile of green apple, apricot, and dried citrus, carefully selected to reflect the nuance and heritage of both DEWAR'S and the region it nods to. 'With each new edition of Dewar's 19 Year Old, we challenge ourselves to explore a finish that both elevates the whisky and tells a deeper story. For this year's expression, the Calvados Apple Brandy Casks offered a beautiful synergy with our double aged whisky, bringing layers of orchard fruit, subtle spice, and a delicate richness. Creating a finish that not only enhances the flavor profile, but also nods to Pennsylvania's historical connection to apple brandy.' - Stephanie Macleod, Master Blender To further elevate the experience, DEWAR'S has also partnered with acclaimed Two Michelin Star Chef Gabriel Kreuther to create bespoke whisky infused golf ball chocolates. These limited edition chocolates, designed as the perfect pairing for Father's Day, highlight and complement the whisky with flavor notes of dark chocolate ganache & cookie praline. The creation of these chocolates is in continuation of DEWAR's ongoing partnership with Chef Kreuther where he previously created chocolates for the launch of DEWAR's Double Double 38 Year Old. The golf ball chocolates will be available exclusively at while supplies last. At the tournament, fans can enjoy the Lemon Wedge, the U.S. Open's signature cocktail, crafted with award-winning DEWAR'S 12 Year Old, lemonade, and club soda. Refreshing and simple, it's the perfect serve whether you're enjoying the championship at home or on the course. 'Our partnership with the U.S. Open is rooted in a shared commitment to heritage, excellence, and pushing the boundaries of our craft. Now in its fifth year, The Champions Edition has become a symbol of that connection, celebrating not just a world-class tournament, but also the artistry and tradition behind every bottle of DEWAR'S. We're proud to once again raise a glass to the players, the fans, and the moments that make the U.S. Open the time honored tradition it is.' - Brain Cox, Global Vice President of Scotch Whisky The fifth iteration of the DEWAR'S 19 Year Old Champions Edition commemorative bottle will be available in limited quantities just in time for Father's Day, exclusively at select fine wines and spirits retailers, as well as online via our website. For more information on DEWAR'S whisky products, please visit or on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY ©2025. DEWAR'S AND ITS TRADE DRESS ARE TRADEMARKS. DEWAR'S 19 YEAR OLD 'THE CHAMPIONS' EDITION Limited edition bottles on shelves nationwide HERE MSRP $79.99 (750ML) ABV: 43% DEWAR'S LEMON WEDGE COCKTAIL Ingredients: 1½ oz. DEWAR's 12 Year Old 3 oz. Club Soda 2 oz. Lemonade Method: Combine ingredients over ice and stir for desired dilution. Garnish with lemon. Cheers! See HERE for all Hi-Res Imagery About DEWAR'S DEWAR'S® is the World's Most Awarded Blended Scotch Whisky, celebrated for its exceptional quality and taste. Founded in 1846, DEWAR'S grew from a small wine and spirits merchant shop in Scotland, to one of the largest Scotch whisky brands in the world. DEWAR'S core range includes the iconic DEWAR'S White Label and DEWAR'S Cask Series. The Premium range comprises DEWAR'S 12 Year Old, DEWAR'S 15 Year Old and DEWAR'S 18 Year Old; these expressions are crafted using DEWAR'S Double Ageing technique, which involves a two-stage maturation process for a smoother mouthfeel and silkier texture. The Luxury and Prestige collections include older rarities such as DEWAR'S 21 Year Old and DEWAR'S 38 Year Old and are crafted using a meticulous four-stage ageing process for ultimate smoothness. DEWAR'S spirit of discovery and approach to the art of blending results in a taste that continues to win applause and capture the curiosity of today's whisky drinkers. The DEWAR'S brand is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. About Bacardi Limited Bacardi Limited, the world's largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR'S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON'S® Scotch whisky, D'USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL'S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 8,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram. About the USGA The USGA is a nonprofit organization that celebrates, serves, and advances the game of golf. Founded in 1894, we conduct many of golf's premier professional and amateur championships, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women's Open. With The R&A, we govern the sport via a global set of playing, equipment, handicapping and amateur status rules. The USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, is home to the Association's Research and Test Center, where science and innovation are fueling a healthy and sustainable game for the future. The campus is also home to the USGA Golf Museum, where we honor the game by curating the world's most comprehensive archive of golf artifacts. To learn more, visit Media Contact: Ben King Nike Communications [email protected] View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE DEWAR'S
Scotsman
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
The 18 best Scotch whiskies according to the International Wine and Spirit Competition 2025 - including Glenfiddich and Bowmore
The 2025 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) medals have been awarded, with 10 Scotch whiskies given a coveted double gold accolade. Spirits at the awards are blind tasted by an expert and independent panel of judges selected by the organiser. Bronze, Silver, Gold and Double Gold medals are awarded according to a consensus reached by the judging panel. This year 18 Scotch whisky brands took home a double gold medal including single cask bottlings from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society and a special release from Ardbeg. Picture: OurWhisky Foundation/Jo Hanley Here we take a look at all the double gold medal winners. Single Malts up to 12 years old category Glenmorangie Lasanta Single Malts between 13 and 20 years old Aberfeldy 16 Years Old Aberfeldy Madeira Cask 16 Years Old Balblair 15 Year Old Bowmore 19-Year Old Pinot Noir Cask Finish Glenfiddich 14 Year Old Bourbon Barrel Reserve Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky - Mizunara Oak - Aged 16 Years The Glenlivet 15 Year Old French Oak Reserve Single Malts non age statement Loch Lomond Remarkable Copper Single Malt Scotch Whisky Single Malts 21 years old and over Scotch Malt Whisky Society 12.87 - Velvety smooth with a hint of spice (independent) A'Glac Charran 27 Year Old Glenfiddich 29 Year Old Grand Yozakura Scapa 21 Year Old Ardbeg Seann Chreag Ardbeg Vintage_Y2K 23 Years Old Scotch Blends 21 years old and over Royal Salute 25 Year Old The Treasured Blend Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom Over 100 Scotch whiskies were awarded a gold, silver, bronze or double gold medal at this year's tasting judging. The International Wine and Spirits Competition was created by Anton Massel in 1969 in London with the first official competition taking place in 1970. Competition entries now regularly exceed 12,000 and cover, as the name suggests, wines and spirits. You can find out more and see the full list at the IWSC website here.
