Rare, Forty Year Old Bunnahabhain 40 YO Whisky

Bunnahabhain 40 YO - rare scotch whisky
Bunnahabhain 40 YO

The multi-award winning Bunnahabhain is the flagship malt whisky from Burn Stewart Distillers. Bunnahabhain is exported to over 30 countries around the world.

Bunnahabhain recently announced it will release a one-off rare single malt that discovered after four decades later in its Islay distillery, located on the north-east of Scotland.

The company’s distillery plans to release only 750 bottles. Each bottle will be hand signed and individually numbered.

Master Distiller, Ian MacMillan, discovered the casks of the rare whisky quietly matured were listed in the ledgers of the distillery.

The ‘Turney’ whisky casks were initially filled with the precious Bunnahabhain malt over 40 years ago by eminent Glasgow wine merchants, J G Turney.

Ian MacMillan, was quoted, “It was an exhilarating moment to stumble on such a special find. There
are very few 40 year old Islays and unlike any other, Bunnahabhain’s taste is considered unique because the distillery does not heavily peat the fine malted barley.”

Bunnahabhain 40 YO
RRP: £1,999
Unchill-filtered (41.7% ABV)

This great tasting malt whisky makes the perfect addition to any party or social gathering. Also make it a holiday gift for that special person in your life. He or she won’t be disappointed.




Johnnie Walker Beijing – Luxury Whisky Embassy

Johnnie Walker House Beijing - China scotch bottles
Johnnie Walker House Beijing

The world’s number one Blended Scotch Whisky, Johnnie Walker, is proud to announce the grand opening of Johnnie Walker Beijing located at the prestigious Ch’ien Men. It is the world’s largest luxury whisky embassy outside of Scotland.

With the success of the first Johnnie Walker House in Shanghai which opened last year, and continuing the brand’s “Keep Walking” campaign, Johnnie Walker House Beijing provides consumers an exclusive luxury whisky experience.

Johnnie Walker House Beijing - China scotch
Johnnie Walker House Beijing

Lawrence Law, General Manager, Johnnie Walker House stated, “Johnnie Walker House Beijing is a multi-sensory experience, showcasing Scotch Whisky culture; it is a luxury boutique, selling the Master Blender’s finest work; it is a private club, providing a new cultural platform for whisky appreciation; and it is an artistic space, providing inspiration for new forms of creativity.”

Guests at Johnnie Walker Beijing can select and buy rare whisky; they will have the opportunity to participate in the art of blending, and partake in whisky and culinary food-pairings provided by chef Phoebe Cleland. Explore the four level House while learning the story behind the whisky’s journey to China, and experience the Johnnie Walker culture with expert guides educating you on the workings of the whisky distillation process.

Whisky known to be the choice of drink among men is now a growing favorite among women too. Christina Hendricks is the latest Johnnie Walker brand ambassador stating: “I enjoy it and drink it at home, it’s something my husband and I enjoy together, but it’s also something that I drink socially. I’m a Johnnie Walker on the rocks girl.”




Chivas 18 by Pininfarina from Ultra-Premium Scottish Whisky – Chivas Regal

Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Mascherone - Chivas Regal
Chivas 18 by Pininfarina – Chivas Regal

The ultra-premium Scottish whisky, Chivas Regal, and Italian designer, Pininfarina, joined forces to create Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Limited Editions, which rolled out January 2, 2013 in over 30 countries.

The series includes two Chivas 18 collectible display cases and one made-to-order display unit, an artistic piece of furniture hand crafted in Italy by Pininfarina. Each includes a bottle of Chivas 18 with Pininfarina’s design notes and Italian company logo proudly displayed. The limited edition design theme is “The Drop” which dictates the shape of the pieces.

The first edition from Chivas Regal, based on a streamlined drop, a delicate shape in a rich blue metallic finish with a wood veneer, represents the oak barrels used during the aging process of Chivas 18, capturing 85 flavors in each drop. Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Limited (Edition 1) is priced at $145.

The second edition features a larger drop shaped case and solid wood inlay. Included are the limited edition bottle along with two glasses each individually numbered to symbolize the exclusive status. Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Limited (Edition 2) is priced at $585.

The third edition, with its smooth sleek shape, incorporates both Chivas 18 and Pininfarina’s values in luxury designs as well as the collection’s drop theme. This elegant piece of furniture features an oak internal structure, covered in aluminum. A light at the base brings this creative piece to life.  At this time, the retail price is still unknown.

Chairman of Pininfarina, Paolo Pininfarina said: “Italian style means a sense of proportion, simplicity and harmony of line and we applied this sensibility to the designs we developed for Chivas 18.”




House of Martell Cognac – L’OR de Jean Martell “Dome”

House of Martell cognac - L'OR de Jean Martell Dome
House of Martell cognac

The House of Martell is pleased to reveal the luxury gift box (called the “Dôme”) of L’OR de Jean Martell, a prestigious cognac, the most complex blend of the Martell Range.

Cognac is brandy, and is also called eau de vie. It is produced by doubly distilling white wines produced in any of the designated growing regions.

Martell gave Eric Gizard, French interior architect and designer, the task of creating a special box to further enrich L’OR de Jean Martell, the result of a series of “rare encounters”. The combination of Grande Champagne and Borderies creates a unique blend of elegance, power, and richness.

This elegant box designed by Eric Gizard matches the sophistication of the blend and allows you to carry and display this most beautiful gem in its collection. Called upon for his creativity, the main idea behind the bottle was to surround L’OR de Jean Martell with several skins that would gradually lead to the cognac and make a ritual out of serving it.

The result is dramatic. The Sèvres Crystal decanter is presented under a Dome, which itself is sheathed in a delicate cover of fine-grain leather and the metallic luster of a lid which sits perfectly enshrined within its container. When the carafe is beneath its Dome, it is topped by a transport cap, but once it is displayed, the formal crystal cap returns to its original place.

When Eric Gizard launched the Dome to retail outlets he applied his presentation concept using a back-lit display case to showcase the warm color of the cognac, with its mahogany tints. A concave mirror behind the carafe creates a stunning optical effect and highlights the crystal decanter in the simplest way, as if levitating above its base.

Discover L’OR de Jean Martell visuals on site in prestigious places such as Le Lucien bar at Fouquet’s in Paris or Les Airelles hotel in Courchevel.




Celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

John Dekuyper & Sons - Crave Chocolate Liqueur
John Dekuyper & Sons – Crave Chocolate Liqueur

Mark your calendar … January 3 is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day. Yum ! Chocolate covered cherries are a big hit during the holidays, and a common gift, to those that “Crave” the smooth, rich chocolate cherry flavor.

To celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day hopefully you were one of the lucky ones and received a bottle of Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur that unveiled in October. Beam Inc. launched John DeKuyper & Sons™ Crave Chocolate Liqueurs featuring three tempting flavors – Chocolate Cherry, Chocolate Mint and Chocolate Chili.

This premium chocolate liqueur with its sweet cherry taste takes center stage complimented by hints of cocoa … leaving a delectable taste of fruit, vanilla and bittersweet chocolate. Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur is delicious when served over ice, with a splash of milk or as a yummy addition to any cocktail.

Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur
Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur

Bring in the New Year right and celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day and try anyone of the tasty cocktail recipes listed below. Additional recipes and information can be found at http://www.dekuyperusa.com/crave.

BOOZY CHERRY CHOCOLATE MILK

Ingredients:

· 2-3 parts JDK & Sons ™ Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur

· Milk

Instructions:
· Pour liqueur in a collins glass and add ice-cold milk to taste
· Stir & enjoy

CHOCOLATE CHERRY MARTINI

Ingredients:
· 1 1/2 partS JDK & Sons ™ Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur
· 1 part Premium Vodka (regular or vanilla)

Instructions:
· Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice
· Shake vigorously and strain into a martini glass
· Garnish with Maraschino Cherry (optional)

GROWN-UP CHERRY HOT CHOCOLATE

Ingredients:
· 2-3 parts of JDK & Sons ™ Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur
· Hot Chocolate

Instructions:
· Pour liqueur in a warmed coffee mug and add hot chocolate ot taste
· Top with whipped cream

LUSCIOUS CHERRY RUSSIAN

Ingredients:
· 1 part JDK & Sons ™ Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur
· 1 part Premium Vodka (Effen recommended)
· Milk or Half & Half

Instructions:
· Build ingredients over ice in an old fashioned glass
· Add a splash of milk (or half & half) to make it even more luscious

CHERRY MACAROON MARTINI

Ingredients:
· 1 part JDK & Sons ™ Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur
· 1 part Cruzan Coconut Rum
· Soda Water

Instructions:
· Shake all ingredients (except Soda Water) with ice
· Strain into a martini glass and top with a splash of soda water
· Garnish with Maraschino Cherry (optional)

DESSERT MANHATTAN

Ingredients:
· 1 1/2 parts JDK & Sons™ Crave Chocolate Cherry Liqueur
· 1 part Jim Beam® Bourbon

Instructions:
· Build over ice, stir gently, and serve




Enjoy Tequila Don Julio 1942​ This New Year’s Eve

Tequila Don Julio 1942​
Don Julio

New Year’s Eve is quickly approaching and parties are planned all over the world. Leave all the stress in your daily lives and party like there is no tomorrow.

If you make plans to celebrate the New Year in your favorite, exclusive bar, then make sure they provide you and your party with “high-roller” Tequila Don Julio 1942 cocktails and bottle service.

Tequila Don Julio 1942 is an aged to perfection añejo tequila that is very popular with celebrities and makes the perfect drink to elevate your celebratory experience on this special occasion.

Are you staying home this New Year’s Eve? Then break out your cocktail shaker and mix up the following cocktail recipe to wow your guests. Either way, Tequila Don Julio 1942 is the perfect spirit to make you feel like a high roller this New Year’s Eve.

Try this great tasting cocktail with Tequila Don Julio 1942:

42 Minutes to Midnight

Ingredients:
1 1/4 ounces Don Julio 1942
1/4 ounce Grand Marnier
1/2 ounce Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/4 ounce Simple Syrup
1/4 teaspoon of Chipotle Chili Powder
Sugar or Salt (to rim glass)
Lime Wedge for Garnish

Preparation:
1. Rim glass with sugar or salt to taste.
2. Combine Tequila Don Julio 1942, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and chipotle chili powder into a cocktail shaker.  Shake well.
3. Strain contents into a heavy rocks glass.
4. Garnish with lime wedge.

Ideal Serving Glass:
Heavy Rocks Glass

Yield:
1 drink, no drink contains more than 0.6 fluid ounces of alcohol




Crown Royal XR LaSalle – Extra Rare Whisky Series from Crown Royal

Crown Royal XR LaSalle premium whisky
Crown Royal XR LaSalle

We’re proud to announce the newest edition to the Extra Rare Whisky Series from Crown Royal – Crown Royal XR LaSalle.

If you are looking for that perfect gift for the person who has everything or if you’re looking to give an extraordinary gift that speaks for itself … consider Crown Royal XR LaSalle.

The new Crown Royal XR LaSalle is exclusive and limited and represents the ultimate of Crown Royal luxury and craftsmanship.

This latest edition to the Crown Royal Extra Rare Whisky Series includes a reserve of the final batch of whiskies that were saved from the renowned LaSalle Distillery, closing its doors in 1993 after nearly 70 years.

Featuring a unique bottle shape, this premium whiskey also features a deluxe glass stopper and iconic velvet bag. The new Crown Royal XR is available this holiday season with a suggested retail price of $129.99 for a 750 ml bottle.

So if you want to enjoy the finest blended Canadian whisky, try the new Crown Royal XR LaSalle from premium whisky maker Crown Royal.




Nachtmann Aspen Smash – Delicious New Cocktail at The Little Nell

Nachtmann Aspen Smash cocktail - The Little Nell
The Little Nell

Aspen offers the most diverse selection of terrain and on-snow experiences in the Rocky High Mountains state of Colorado. There are four world-class mountains within the area. After a fun day of either skiing or snowboarding, you want to relax with a great tasting cocktail.

The Little Nell in scenic Aspen, Colorado has introduced the Nachtmann Aspen Smash, a new signature cocktail of Aspen’s iconic and only five-star hotel.

This delicious tasting cocktail is infused solely with hallmark Colorado spirits and crafted by newly-minted Master Sommelier Sabato Sagaria exclusively for the legendary Aspen hotel.

The Little Nell will exclusively offer the “Nachtmann Aspen Smash,” served in a Nachtmann Aspen rocks glass, beginning December 2012, just in time for the start of the Aspen ski season, through the winter months.

Sabato Sagaria was quoted, “The ingredients of the Nachtmann Aspen Smash are only enhanced by the Nachtmann Aspen tumbler, which perfectly reflects the pristine nature of Aspen’s icy wonderland, a mix of greenery, snow and sunshine.”

For many, Aspen calls to mind brisk winter days spent skiing, socializing or shopping, or perhaps time spent out in the elements, a welcome escape to nature. Whatever activities you fancy, coming home to a relaxing drink and dinner by the fire is an essential part of the routine.

And what better way to fit in with the jet-set crowd than ending your night with a “Nachtmann Aspen Smash” at The Little Nell. [cid:image002.jpg@01CDBDB8.CB4DAD30] Inspired by the naturally vibrant city, Nachtmann’s Aspen collection is a series showcasing precision-cut, elegantly faceted crystal glassware, offering the timeless style and easy sophistication of Aspen’s elite for all.

The Little Nell Hotel - Aspen

Earlier this year, we reported about The Little Nell’s new Veuve Clicquot Branded POP-Up Champagne Bar

Below is the drink recipe …. enjoy!

Nachtmann Aspen Smash
Glassware: Nachtmann Aspen rocks glass
Garnish:  Mint bouquet on top, lemon wheel
Recipe:
2 oz Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey
½ oz Leopold Bros. Maraschino Liqueur
6 sprigs of mint
2 lime wedges
1 1/2 oz sweet and sour*
crushed ice

Directions:
Fill Nachtmann Aspen tumbler overflowing with crushed ice.
In shaker, muddle mint with lime.
Add whiskey, maraschino and sweet and sour to shaker.
Strain onto crushed ice.
Garnish with mint bouquet on top and a lemon wheel on the side of the glass.

* Sweet and Sour
1.5 cups hot water
1.5 cups sugar
1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice
In a large glass pitcher or jar combine all the ingredients and stir. Let cool.




Appleton Estate Rum Releases Oldest Rum in the World

Appleton Estate Rum Releases Oldest Rum in the World
Appleton Estate Rum

Appleton Estate Rum recently released the oldest rum in the world to honor and celebrate 50th year of Jamaican independence.

Jamaica Independence Reserve comprises rums that have been aged for a minimum of 50 years in hand-selected oak barrels and is believed to be the oldest rum available for sale in the world.

This particular hand-blended rum was put aside back when Jamaican first gained independence. The rum was aged in American oak barrels for half a century, thus making it the world’s oldest rum according to the distillery.

Appleton Estate Jamaica Rums are created at the world-famous Appleton Estate in Jamaica. It’s the oldest sugar factory and distillery and the rums are exclusively distributed in the US by Kobrand Spirits.

These old rums were watched after for over fifty years – initially by Master Blender Owen Tulloch, then by his protege and current Master Blender, Joy Spence.

Master Blender, Joy Spence carefully examined each barrel as the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence approached, to make sure the barrels had aged to perfection.

By planning ahead, the rums that make Appleton Estate 50-Year-Old Jamaica Rum were purposely set aside to eventually be used to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence.

The barrels full of rum were moved from the warehouse to the blending hall and blended together in a special vat and left to “marry,” for several months. The process allowed each rum’s character, flavor and bouquet were allowed to fuse together in harmony.

The end result is the highly anticipated Appleton Estate 50-Year-Old Jamaica Rum – Jamaica Independence Reserve Rum – Oldest Rum in the World.

Each bottle of this rare Appleton Estate rum blend costs £3,500 There are only 800 bottles worldwide available for sale.

For purchase information from Appleton Estate’s white glove concierge service, please visit http://www.appletonestateinsider.com




1494 Private Membership Club – New Partnership With Connoisseur Golf

1494 whisky membership club

1494 is a private, members only club that uniquely unites individuals in the collection and enjoyment of single malt Scotch whisky.

New York City based 1494 was officially launched on June 1, 2012 and celebrates the spirit’s 518th anniversary. The organization’s name honors the first written record of Scotch Whisky’s distillation at the orders of Scotland’s Renaissance King, James IV on June 1, 1494.

1494 has partnered with Connoisseur Golf and developed an exclusive Founders Golf and Distillery trip to Scotland in June 2013.  In addition, 1494 will also utilize Connoisseur Golf’s luxury services for its members and for follow-on trips to Scotland.

Connoisseur Golf provides bespoke luxury golf travel for both individuals and businesses looking to experience an ultimate golf vacation to beautiful Scotland.

Scotland has over 500 golf courses and Connoisseur Golf affords their clients the opportunity to make their own little piece of history, and follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous golfers.

Saint Andrews golf course - Scotland
Saint Andrews

The Founders Golf and Distillery trip will include:
. Private Jet: New York – Edinburgh roundtrip
. Welcome Cocktails and Dinner
. Personal Chauffeured Mercedes 24/7 with Concierge/Driver
. Golf on The Old Course, St. Andrews; The PGA Centenary Course; Gleneagles; Royal Troon and Turnberry
. Helicopter Transfers
. Full Scottish Breakfast overlooking the Courses each morning
. Private Dinners
. Six nights in Executive Suites at The 5* Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
. One night in a Member Room at an exclusive private championship course
. Meet Host Member Gordon Sherry (Former British Amateur Champion/Walker Cup Player)
. Clay Shooing at the Gleneagles Gun School
. Two nights in Deluxe Ocean View Suites at The 5* Turnberry Resort
. 3 VIP Distillery Tours arranged by 1494

This history and outstanding personal service, makes Connoisseur Golf the perfect partner for 1494 and its discerning members.

Setting the gold standard for the New York City private-membership experience, 1494 has spared no detail
in perfecting a membership model that features exclusive benefits and privileges befitted to royalty.

Annual dues for a 1494 Founding membership is $175,000.




Martell Cordon Bleu Modern Masters Campaign by House of Martell

Martell Cordon Bleu Modern Masters
Martell Cordon Bleu Modern Masters

Modern Masters is an “Advertising-as-art” series that’s dedicated to Martell Cordon Bleu through the unparalleled vision of selected, talented artists.

Makers of the finest cognac, the House of Martell is honored to unveil the next chapter of its Martell Cordon Bleu Modern Masters campaign, which will feature well-known photographer Bruno Aveillan.

The iconic Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac bottle was designed with Aveillan’s personal interpretation. It was created in an exquisite space-turned-gallery and softly illuminated softly by the warm glow of light
installations.

When asked about the inspiration behind his design, Bruno Aveillan answered, “What interested me was the meeting of two worlds. Martell Cordon Bleu alludes to a century of savoir-faire, meeting an environment edging into the avant-garde. I wanted to create a fragmented, impressionistic look to engage the viewer in a more emotional way.”

Below is a video of the making of Martell Cordon Bleu Modern Masters film:

Bruno Aveillan is a talented photographer, multimedia artist and director, who has won numerous International Awards (Cannes Gold Lion, Gold London International Award …). In addition, Aveillan has exhibited worldwide, notably at the MOMA in New York or the Louvre Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris.