For whisky lovers, you are in luck. The Macallan has just announced a brand new 60 Years Old liquid.

As the second oldest whisky The Macallan distillery has launched to date, this new Scotch whisky comes in a stunning crystal Lalique decanter.

As the perfect gift for the most discerning Scotch connoisseur, The Macallan 60 Years Old in Lalique Curiously Small Stills is the ideal choice.

But if you want to impress even the most extravagant person in your life, you better move fast. The availability of this special decanter is extremely limited. Only 400 decanters will be available worldwide.

Price for the Macallan 60 Years Old in Lalique Curiously Small Stills from The Macallan is valued at $20,000.

For those looking for something a little more affordable, The Macallan is dressing their signature Sherry Oak 12 Years Old bottles (SRP $49.99) in a whole new way with six special cases created by acclaimed photographer Nick Veasey (http://www.nickveasey.com/).

Nick Veasey uses his unique style of X-ray photography and captures the six pillars that make The Macallan unique. Each box is sold individually, featuring either a feather, scissors, liquid drop, still, cask or house to represent the six pillars.

I Spirit Vodka

Four Italian tastemakers have collaborated and released a classic recipe and the original Italian vodka: I Spirit.

The partnership between famed restaurateur Arrigo Cipriani (proprietor of Harry’s Bar), the enterprising Lapo Elkann of FIAT family fame, Friulian distiller Marco Fantinel and Venetian entrepreneur Francesco Cosulich, produced I Spirit Vodka which is the essence of culture, taste and Italian flavors from yesterday and today.

I Spirit is a traditional recipe from the northeastern region of Italy. The I Spirit Vodka palette is a bright crystal, with elegance on the nose. The flavor is warm and velvety, reminiscent of the ingredients from which it is made.

In 2009 at the same Harry’s Bar where Ernest Hemingway enjoyed his fine vodka, Arrigo Cipriani and Lapo Elkann − two Italians with a global outlook − get together and revive the myth of Italian vodka.

Critics have fallen in love with the great taste of I Spirit Vodka. I Spirit Vodka scoring an impressive 91 at their first tasting competition at the prestigious Ultimate Spirits Challenge in New York.

I Spirit can be served over ice, neat, or in an array of delicious tasting cocktails. I Spirit Vodka is perfectly matched with fresh Italian-grown produce, such as basil, cherry tomatoes or wild berries. I Spirit has a suggested retail price of $34.99 for a 750 ml bottle, or $39.99 for a 1 liter bottle.

Pisco Porton white spirit

For the perfect holiday drink, consider Pisco Portón from Peru. Pisco Portón is the culmination of a passion for excellence and tradition that has endured since 1684 at Hacienda La Caravedo in Ica, Peru.

Pisco Portón is a mosto verde pisco and meant to be both savored alone and mixed in cocktails by adding a new dimension of both flavor and aroma.

Each batch of Pisco Portón is distilled to proof eliminating water and artificial additives for a flavor as natural as the first Thanksgiving dinner.

Great tasting Pisco Portón is made from wine and this new white spirit also pairs quite well with food.

To locate where Pisco Portón is sold, please visit www.piscoporton.com.

Retail price ranges between $40 – $50.

Pisco Portón recipes:

Autumn Leaves

• 1 oz. of Pisco Portón®
• 1 oz. of Drambuie™
• 1/4 oz. of Campari™
• 1/4 oz. lime juice

– Combine and chill all ingredients.
– Serve in a martini glass with an orange wedge and twist of lime.

Pink Passion

• 2 parts Pisco Portón
• 1 parts pomegranate juice
• 1 part tangerine juice
• Sugar to taste
• Pomegranate seeds for decoration
• Ice

– Place the ingredients in a blender filled with ice cubes, and blend until frappe is smooth.
– Serve in a martini or iced cocktail glass and decorate with pomegranate seeds.

The Absolut Crystal Pinstripe Bottle

ABSOLUT Vodka and Swedish design duo Skogsberg&Smar have partnered together again and created the next generation of their much publicized crystal bottle – The Absolut Crystal Pinstripe Bottle.

Celebrated Swedish designers Magnus Skogsberg and Mimmi Smart of Skogsberg&Smart have reinterpreted the iconic shape, using superior quality crystal from the esteemed Reijmyre glassworks in southern Sweden. Reijmyre glassworks in Sweden’s Småland region was founded back in 1810.

The Absolut Crystal Pinstripe Bottle is a luxurious hand-blown, hand-cut and hand-engraved the design that was inspired by the heritage of Saville Row’s bespoke pinstripe tailoring, the epitome of luxury, elegance and sharp sophistication.

The Absolut Crystal Pinstripe Bottle is presenting in an exclusive handmade treasure chest, clad in opulent pinstripe fabric, complete with two matching crystal tumblers.

Only 800 Absolut Crystal Pinstripe Bottles have been made. Each bottle will be numbered and signed by the master crafter following approval. The expected retail price for the Absolut Crystal Pinstripe Bottle is $1,500.

In addition, for those with darker tastes, a stylist black version of the bottle has also been created. The ABSOLUT Crystal Pinstripe Black Bottle. This must have collector’s bottle has a very limited edition run of only ten units.

The ABSOLUT Crystal Pinstripe Black Bottle will be priced at $10,000.

The exquisite crystal and black crystal sets will be available around the globe this Autumn/Winter at selected airports and premium retailers.

Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro

Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro is a new tequila being released by Tequila Don Julio.

Just in time for the upcoming holidays, the new Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro makes the perfect gift and has a suggested retail price of $70.

Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro  is the world’s first clear añejo tequila, and is proud to be a new innovation in the tequila category that filters Añejo tequila through a specialty process to restore the crisp agave flavor traditionally found in a Blanco.

The end result from Tequila Don Julio, is a tequila that combines the signature flavors of a Blanco with the complex notes of wild honey, vanilla and toasted oak typical of a smooth Añejo for a unique hybrid that is clear in color.

Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro was created to honor the 70th anniversary of the year founder Don Julio González began perfecting the art of making tequila. The rest is history.

This announcement from Tequila Don Julio is a significant one in the tequila category. Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro becomes the first new product Tequila Don Julio has released since 2002 with Tequila Don Julio 1942.

So for the ideal holiday gift or to use in upcoming parties, Tequila Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro is a strong, refined drink with the perfect tequila taste.

Gurkha – His Majesty’s Reserve Cigar

The high end cigar market has definitely changed over the past several years. There has been a strong emergence of U.S. based cigar companies. Legendary Gurkha cigars is clearly the leader.

The worldwide economic slump has hit the Cuban cigar industry hard, but Miami based cigar company – Gurkha, is doing quite well. Gurkha continues to be awarded some of the highest honors in the cigar industry.

Looking for the perfect gift for that man in your life or a friend, relative, co-worker, boss, etc… can be a challenge. Maybe this is the ideal gift for him.

You can’t find anything better to go along with a bottle of holiday cheer, than a limited edition, $1,500 His Majesty’s Reserve Gurkha Cigar.

The His Majesty’s Reserve cigar by Gurka or as it’s more commonly known – “HMR”, is the world’s most expensive cigar.

During the time of British rule in India, colonial soldiers began rolling their own cigars from the local tobacco. Back then, the British held a fondness for the legendary Nepalese fighters and they inspired them to name their cigars “Gurkhas.”

Since that period, Gurkha has proudly become America’s premier producer of fine tobacco products.

What makes luxury cigar maker Gurkha unique is they combine both art and taste to offer a unique, but total overall experience to the cigar consumer.

Gurkha cigars are made from the world’s finest tobaccos and spices.

Blended by Kaizad Hansotia, each Gurkha cigar is a true masterpiece that both inspires and celebrates the rich art of a hand-rolled cigar.

Many of the most famous and expensive of cigar brands sell their cigars in a plain cedar box. But unlike those other cigar companies, all fine-made Gurkha cigars come packaged in a work of art. Each Gurkha cigar container reflects the product line’s individual character and unique traits.

So whether you are a seasoned cigar aficionado or a novice smoker, an extremely unique Gurkha cigar, such as the $1,500 His Majesty’s Reserve Gurkha Cigar …. can be truly enjoyed by all.

For information on the Gurkha His Majesty’s Reserve Cigar plus all Gurka cigars please visit: http://www.gurkhacigars.com/cigars.cfm

Just when you think Hollywood and our celebrities can’t get anymore ridiculous, the latest “hot item” story surfaces. And this one is all wet, literally. Introducing Bling H20, a natural spring water bottled at the source at English Mountain Spring against the exotic backdrop of Dandridge, Tennessee.

Yes, Tennessee… Not the French Alps like Evian, but Tennessee. Home of Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, and now Bling H20.

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smokey Mountains, Dandridge is the county seat of Jefferson County. Its most notable landmark is a large country club and golf course. As of the census of 2000, there are 2,078 people, 749 households, and 516 families residing in the town.

I am guessing not one of those 2,078 people has ever spent $30-$90 for a single bottle of natural spring water. I would imagine that you have to travel four hours or so from Tennessee to find people stupid enough to pay that price.

Bling H20 is in fact, more expensive than some very appealing fine wines. But it’s not about the water. It’s about the water’s vessel–and the supposed status symbol that results from being seen with it. Bling H20 comes in 750ml frosted bottles studded with sparkling Swarovski crystals. It is indeed as classy as a gold front tooth.

The fast-growing favorite of the Hollyweird crowd was earlier marketed just to simple-minded celebs and the self-absorbed socialite circle, but now you too can flash it about as long as your wallet holds out by ordering it through the Bling H20 web site.

Bling H2O’s founder, Kevin Boyd, a Hollywood writer-producer whose credits include “The Jamie Foxx Show” is the “brain” child behind the overpriced glorified tap water. Apparently having The Jamie Foxx Show on his resume wasn’t enough reason to be laughed at parties.

But soon, no after-party, dressing room, or celebrity gathering will be complete without a case or two of Bling H20 on ice. Paris Hilton reportedly was even seen feeding it to her dog. Right after the dog licked its own ass no doubt.

One sip of this trendy Smokey Mountain dew and you just might be able to answer the age-old question, “Does a bear shit in the Tennessee woods?”

Article by: Robert Bolson

Whisky Exchange Whisky Show

The Whisky Exchange Whisky Show 2011 provides an excellent opportunity for both whisky fans and connoisseurs to sample some of the finest and rarest whiskies available today.

This luxury whisky festival takes place in London at the beginning of October, on the 7th and 8th.

Attendees of the Whisky Exchange Whisky Show 2011 will have the chance to take part in master classes, and indulge in a delicious whisky infused lunch that uses ingredients locally sourced from Borough Market and designed by whisky food pairing expert, Martine Nouet.

The main show takes place inside the atmospheric arches of the Great Halls at Vinopolis, where exhibitors will be offering samples of whiskies from all over the world, including Indian, Japanese and even English whiskies.

This incredible whisky event will be tailored for whisky novices as well as aficionados, with the long session times enabling a more relaxed interaction between guests and exhibitors.

You will find two bars serving delicious cocktails, plus live acoustic music beig played in the Show Brasserie will also contribute to a lively, friendly ambiance at the Show.

Tickets for The Whisky Exchange Whisky Show are available for £95 per day or for £175 for a weekend ticket from www.whisky-show.com.

Be sure to plan ahead. Since this is an exclusive event, show admittance is strictly limited to only 500 visitors per day.

Vodka Collins – I Spirit

Nothing says summer than a fun party, BBQ or an outdoor Sunday brunch with friends and family. Alcoholic cocktail drinks are a must to beat the summer heat and enjoy the company of others.

If you are looking for sophisticated cocktail that truly evokes the true Italian spirit, then consider I Spirit Vodka.

I Spirit Vodka is a five-times distilled vodka from the historic land of Friuli. I Spirit Vodka was created by Italian tastemakers Lapo Elkann of Fiat family fame, the Cipriani family, Venetian entrepreneur Francesco Cosulich and Friulian distiller Marco Fantinel.

I Spirit Vodka is also championed by Brand Manager Cesare Martini (great-grandson of the founder of Martini & Rossi, Alessandro Martini).

This Italian spirit was formed with signature Italian grace and care, launched by families whose names are synonymous with luxury and the Italian lifestyle. I Spirit is a combination of the highest quality grains, hand-selected white grapes and fresh spring water from the Italian Alps.

It seems that I Spirit Vodka is a winner with industry expoerts as well as the premium vodka spirit was awarded the Ultimate Spirits Competition in New York awarded I Spirit an impressive 91 score in their first official beverage competition.

You can find I Spirit Vodka in a variety of popular New York and New Jersey restaurants and bars, including all Cipriani locations, 90 Acres, Mailalino, Gramercy Tavern, Provocateur at the Gansevoort and more.

We have included two refreshing summertime I Spirit signature cocktail recipes to serve at your next party or event.

Vodka Collins
4/5 I Spirit Vodka
1/5 Lemon Juice
1/2 Sugar Teaspoon
Add carbonated water, slices of orange and lemon, black cherry

Vodka Gimlet
2/3 I Spirit Vodka
1/3 Lime Juice
1 Teaspoon of Powdered Sugar

This premium vodka is also available for purchase in New York and New Jersey shops, as well as online at http://www.italianwinemerchants.com/ and http://www.astorwines.com/.

Don Julio Pomegranate Margarita

Mexican Independence Day is September 16^th and there’s no better way to celebrate this occasion by drinking a delicious cocktail with Tequila Don Julio.

Summer may be winding down, but the parties never end. Celebrate one of Mexico’s most important holidays with Mexico’s most popular ultra-premium tequila – Tequila Don Julio.

The classic Margarita has been one of the most popular drinks of all-time. No you can enjoy the Mexican Independence Day holiday with a modern twist on the Margarita cocktail.

The Don Julio Pomegranate Margarita combines Don Julio Blanco – a crisp, citrusy tequila that highlights the flavors of agave  – with a refreshing splash of pomegranate juice for a festive take on an a traditional favorite.

Don Juilo 1942

Another option is to elevate your tequila experience just like Don Julio Master Distiller Enrique de Colsa. Treat you and your party guests to Don Julio 1942. It’s best to enjoy Don Julio 1942 either neat or on the rocks. Don Julio 1942’s rich caramel and honey notes make it the perfect drink to toast to the holiday.

Pomegranate Margarita
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces Tequila Don Julio Blanco
2 1/2 ounces pomegranate juice
2 teaspoons fine sugar
1/2 ounce lime juice
Sugar (to rim glass)
1 lime wedge

Preparation:

1. Combine Don Julio Blanco, pomegranate juice, fine sugar and lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice.  Shake well.
2. Rim margarita glass with sugar.
3. Strain ingredients into margarita glass.
4. Garnish with lime.

Ideal Serving Glass:
Margarita glass

Yield:
1 drink

His Majesty’s Reserve (HMR) – Gurkha

Gurkha Cigar founder, Kaizad Hansotia, has defined the luxury cigar brand sector like no other.

In stark contrast to other luxury cigar companies who use the standard cedar box, Hansotia is world renowned for creating limited edition, handcrafted works of art that not only complement the cigars themselves, but distinguish the cigar’s brand.

From his every day blends geared to the recreational cigar smoker to the creation of His Majesty’s Reserve, which holds the title as the “world’s most expensive cigar ever made.” HMRs retail for $16,000 for a case of 20. Hansotia takes pride in understanding his clients and the luxe goods marketplace.

Gurkha Cigar just issued its SpecOps series, which was inspired by the Navy Seals and features an indestructible travel humidor, survival knife with leg sheath and 20 medium bodied cigars.

Over the course of the past year, Gurkha polled 2,000 customers in an effort to get their perceptions and advance some new creations. In doing so, the company’s clientele gave them dramatic insight into some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands.

“I have been playing with some interesting ideas, creations and blends, and I was curious to see the perception of the uber-luxury automotive, timepiece and alcohol brands through the eyes of our clientele,” stated Kaizad Hansotia, founder of Gurkha Cigars. Hansotia added, “We asked our clients to share their ultimate wish list of spirits, timepieces and super cars. We were amazed at the feedback since some items that we thought were locks for the list didn’t even make the top 5 such as Porsche, Mercedes, Johnny Walker Blue and Rolex .“