Tuesday, March 21, 2023

ARDBEG LAUNCHES NEW BBQ INSPIRED SINGLE MALT

The Islay based Ardbeg Distillery, has today announced the launch of a new barbecue-inspired limited-edition bottling.

Ardbeg BizarreBQ (50.9% ABV) is a non-age-stated single malt Scotch whisky, which has been matured in a combination of double-charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and the distillery’s unique BBQ casks that have been extra-charred on an old-fashioned brazier.

Ardbeg BizarreBQ

Created by Ardbeg’s Director of Whisky Creation, Dr Bill Lumsden, this latest release is said to capture and complement the flavours of smoky barbeque. The unique flavour concept for the expression has been aided by the expertise of grilling guru, Christian Stevenson (AKA DJ BBQ), resulting in an Ardbeg that packs a meaty, peaty punch.

Fuelled by a shared obsession for smoke and its rich flavour possibilities, Dr Bill Lumsden and Christian Stevenson, have been on a mission to create a new single malt that complements both whisky-making and barbequing. The new expression also marks the next phase of the distillery’s journey to uncover new ways of experiencing and enjoying smoky flavours.

Commenting on the launch, Dr Bill Lumsden, said: “Ardbeg BizarreBQ is certainly a hare-brained idea, but with DJ BBQ’s help I was able to cook up something truly incredible. Puffs of charcoal and soot mingle with smoky wood and aromatic herbs and spices. The undeniable smell of bonfire and BBQ embers linger in the background. Deep, warming smoke follows in flame-grilled steak, chilli oil, cured leather and clove. If there’s one Ardbeg you want with you grill-side, it’s this one.”

Ardbeg BizarreBQ, will initially be available from the Ardbeg Distillery Visitor Centre and in Germany from April 3rd. It will then launch in the UK in June, and then globally later this year.


Posted by Steve Rush

Monday, March 20, 2023

LOCHLEA LAUNCHES ITS LATEST SEASONAL RELEASE

The Ayrshire based Lochlea Distillery, has announced the launch of their latest limited-edition seasonal release.

Lochlea Sowing Edition - Second Crop (46% ABV) is a non-age-stated single malt Scotch whisky, which has been matured in first-fill Bourbon barrels.

Lochlea Sowing Edition - Second Crop

This latest release has been produced using barrels selected from higher up in the distillery warehouse. The heat, faster maturation and older spirit combine to show clear progression from 2022’s First Crop.

Lochlea Sowing Edition – Second Crop, which follows on from their ‘First Crop’ releases in 2022, and continues to tie-in and reflect the farming calendar, is said to deliver notes of sweet red apple and pear, vanilla pods and almond oil.

Commenting on the launch, John Campbell, Production Director and Master Blender at Lochlea, said: “Sowing Edition Second Crop has evolved in a couple of ways, with some older liquids being used in this release. We have also selected barrels from different levels within the warehouse to produce a Lochlea single malt with a lovely balance between Bourbon cask influence and signature Lochlea fruit, grass and malty notes.”

Limited to 11,000 bottles, Lochlea Sowing Edition - Second Crop, will be available later this month from specialist retailers, for a RRP of £50.00.


Posted by Steve Rush