Latest news with #LochLomondGroup
Forbes
28-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Loch Lomond Group Acquires The New York Distilling Company
The bar at the New York Distilling Company, which has just been acquired by the Loch Lomond Group. The Loch Lomond Group (LLG), a Scottish distilling company known for its wide portfolio of award-winning whiskies and spirits, has announced its acquisition of the New York Distilling Company (NYDC), based in Brooklyn, New York for an undisclosed sum. The move marks LLG's entry into American whiskey production and adds a new dimension to its existing range of premium spirits. NYDC co-founders Allen Katz and Tom Potter will stay with the company, operating in continued leadership roles. The acquisition includes NYDC's full suite of whiskey and gin brands, with a particular emphasis on the Jaywalk Rye Whiskey line, which is produced using Horton Heirloom Rye—a rare grain with historical ties to early American distillation. LLG plans to invest in NYDC's distillation and visitor experience facilities and will use its international distribution network to support the U.S.-based distillery's expansion efforts, and also make further inroads into the U.S. market through its partnership with distributor and importer Foley Family Wines and Spirits. New York Distilling Company co-founder Allen Katz Founded by Allen Katz and Tom Potter in the late 1990s, the New York Distilling Company was born out of Katz's deep interest in classic American spirits, cocktails and gin. His decision to start building a distillery was the result after years of travel and immersion in a wide variety of international food and drink traditions, especially a formative visit to a well-known English gin distillery: 'The paramount visit for me was a trip to Plymouth gin in southern England,' he said. 'If I may be very direct, it was my holy s*** moment - an urban distillery right there in the middle of a city, and I couldn't concentrate. We were there for an educational excursion with a group of bartenders and journalists, and all I could think about was 'a distillery in New York City, a distillery in New York City'. How could perhaps this be made possible?' Now, the company produces both gin and rye whiskey but is prioritizing the latter by reviving Horton Rye, a rye varietal that was once commonly used in New York State during the 17th and 18th centuries but had fallen out of cultivation. In 2015, Katz and his team acquired just ten seeds from Cornell University's seed bank. 'We got from Cornell 10 seeds. Literally, it's not a made-up number…we now have nearly 15 years later, perpetual crop rotation of 250 acres of this one unique historic and antique variety of American rye,' Katz said. Horton Rye differs markedly from standard varieties. 'The head of the grain is only a third of the size of conventional rye... the sugars are going to be concentrated in a relatively small number of seeds,' Katz explains, illustrating the grain's unique flavor characteristics. 'The astounding detail of this variety of Rye is some concentrated flavours and aromas that I would put on a tropical scale'. NYDC's flagship Jaywalk Rye line includes multiple expressions, including bonded and 100% heirloom versions, all produced with Horton. Slowly, it is increasing the amount of spirit made for whiskey production compared to its gins, which include its Dorothy Parker American Gin and Perry Tot's Navy Strength Gin. Brooklyn's New York Distilling Company For the Loch Lomond Group, the acquisition is part of a broader strategy to diversify its offerings and expand in key international markets, an impressive gamble amidst uncertain sales of whisky around the world and American-imposed tariffs on whisky from across the pond. The group also recently announced a new distillery and visitor centre in Luss, Dumbartonshire, in addition to steadily increasing its international presence with brands such as Loch Lomond Whiskies, Glen Scotia, and Ben Lomond Gin over the years. Bringing NYDC into its stable enables LLG to enter the American whiskey market with a well-regarded, established producer. It also allows NYDC to scale its operations and reach wider audiences through LLG's distribution channels. 'How do we get ourselves into a more significant orbit?' Katz remarked when asked about why he decided to work with LLG. 'One of the critical linchpins of working with Loch Lomond is that the network they have has those people in place for us to share our story'. Andy Jack, LLG's Group Head of Whisky Marketing, highlighted the natural fit between the two companies. 'What Allen and the team at NYDC were looking for was almost the perfect mirror of what we were looking for, which is somebody that can help us supercharge our business in the U.S.' Jack also believes LLG is uniquely placed to take advantage of changing international markets: 'Part of this is de-risking global supply chains. We can help with that…we're probably slightly better placed to be agile and flexible and take advantage of some of the opportunities that are coming up'. In theory, the acquisition will allow each side to focus on its strengths: LLG brings scalability, global logistics, and market access, while NYDC contributes a distinctive product range rooted that draws on American tradition to create spirits that have become known for their quality. This is therefore a calculated step forward for both LLG and the New York Distilling Company. With the deal now in place, both companies hope to continue building their legacies—one steeped in Scottish whisky tradition and innovation, the other rooted in the celebration and rediscovery of historic American rye.
STV News
21-05-2025
- Business
- STV News
Glen's Vodka maker takes over New York distillery
The maker of Glen's Vodka has announced a 'milestone' takeover of a US whiskey group, which will see the opening of a new visitor centre at Loch Lomond. The Loch Lomond Group announced the takeover of the Brooklyn-based New York Distilling Company (NYDC) on Wednesday. Known for making bourbon, the 14-year-old American distillery also produces Dorothy Parker Gin. It is particularly known for using Horton Heirloom Rye, which was brought to America from Europe in the 17th century. Allen Katz and Tom Potter, the founders of the New York Distilling Company, said: 'Horton Rye was extensively used in the 17th and 18th centuries in the New York area for making Rye but had subsequently almost completely died out. 'The team at The New York Distilling Company was initially gifted ten seeds from the historic 'seed bank' at Cornell University in 2015 and has now revived this historic Rye variety by successfully growing and cultivating this 'heirloom rye' with their partner farmers in Seneca Falls, New York and subsequently distilling the successful harvests in New York to making some truly incredible whiskeys.' The Loch Lomond Distillery has been based at Alexandria, in West Dunbartonshire, since 1814, but the limited company which owns it is registered in London. It is known for making its namesake single malt alongside Glen Scotia and Littlemill, as well as Ben Lomond gin and Glen's vodka. The group is set to open a new distillery and visitor centre at Luss, on the western shore of Loch Lomond, in June. bigpartnership via Supplied The New York Distilling Company (NYDC) is based in Brooklyn. bigpartnership via Supplied Chief executive of the Loch Lomond Group, Colin Matthews, said: 'We look forward to working closely with the talented and ambitious team at NYDC to invest in both the facilities and products, while supercharging its growth both domestically in the US and around the world through the existing Loch Lomond Group distribution network as well as providing our help and expertise in the continued creation of fabulous flavours.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Scotsman
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Glen Scotia unveils its oldest whisky - a 50 year old inspired by 'maritime air'
Campbeltown distillery, Glen Scotia has released a new 50-year-old whisky - a single malt shaped by the elements of the unique geographic setting and refined by the craftsmanship of human hands. The inaugural expression in a new collection, Glen Scotia Elements of Campbeltown Release Number One: Air marks a pivotal moment in the distillery's history, as its oldest ever release. The Elements of Campbeltown Collection takes inspiration from the Celtic five-fold knot, as air, water, fire and earth bind together in perfect harmony to create the fifth circle in the centre denoting the spirit. Drawing from Glen Scotia's oldest maturing casks, each chapter will showcase a different element and the influence it has on the spirit. A celebration of the distinctive character of Scotland's smallest whisky region; and testament to the environment that has shaped it over generations, Release Number One: Air captures Campbeltown's maritime climate and the subtle nuances it weaves into the whisky over time. Every drop is a tribute to the patience, precision, place and power of nature that have played a part in its creation. Five decades in the making, the precious Glen Scotia 50 Year Old was distilled in 1973 and bottled at a natural cask strength of 42.3% ABV in 2024. Fully matured in refill American oak hogshead casks to preserve the distillery's character at this age, the coastal influence is woven into the flavour of the spirit, creating hints of salinity between complex and ever-changing layers of baked orchard and tropical fruits. This single malt brings an array of aromas, from flaked almonds, vanilla fudge and salt crystals to sweet edible seaweed and fresh glazed apple tart. There is a medley of flavours with a creamy sweet and salty texture, white pepper, powdered ginger and a lingering coconut finish. Michael Henry, Loch Lomond Group master blender, said: 'Responsibility for whisky of this age, where the passage of time shapes and moulds the character of the spirit is a privilege. "With the first release in this milestone collection for Glen Scotia, I want to give people the opportunity to experience our distillery character at this remarkable age and showcase how time has shaped it. "Matured exclusively in American oak, with its more subtle, supportive cask influence, the character shines through. "Bringing this whisky to its optimum condition has been through knowing the character of the spirit, its interplay with the wood and thoughtful cask management, with a vision already laid down for future releases that will bring people on an incredible journey.' Iain McAlister, Glen Scotia master distiller and distillery manager added: 'Since 1832, our climate has left a fingerprint on our spirit as enduring as the generations that cared for it. "While times may change, the effects of the natural forces endure through the decades. 'Air' is a masterpiece sculpted by the elements for half a century, its scent a symphony of natural elements and timeless tradition. "It is remarkable to think about all the hands this 50-year-old would have passed through, each inheriting it and opting to let it continue its journey beyond them until this optimal moment.' To mark the release, Glen Scotia has collaborated with UK artist Gina Parr to create a unique piece of art capturing the essence of 'air' in the distillery's historic dunnage warehouse, where salty sea air intertwines with heavy spirit vapours to create a distinctive scent and atmosphere. Gina took inspiration from Campbeltown's coastal air stream and Glen Scotia's distilling process to create an oil painting to adorn the cabinet doors concealing each whisky decanter. Using the sensorial experience of her visit, she depicts the abstract yet distinctive air of the distillery and town and its interplay with the whisky. The solid ash and birch display cabinet draws inspiration from an easel in an art gallery and features deep coastal tones and an amber hue on the exterior, selected by Gina to reflect the surroundings and provide a nod to the whisky itself. Housed in the luxurious white leather interior is a bespoke Glencairn crystal decanter encasing the precious whisky. Created exclusively for the new collection, it features a delicate band around the base to represent 'air' while a Celtic knot crowns a heavy brass stopper and is presented alongside a hardback book telling the story of this single malt. Gina Parr said: 'Glen Scotia 50 Year Old started life in the same year I embarked on my own creative journey. For me, this beautifully matured whisky mirrors my art practice – rooted in history, shaped by dedication, and inspired by nature and the elements, which are always sensory and deeply emotive. "I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to collaborate with Glen Scotia for this very special release. "My work is driven by the sights and experiences of living and working in a coastal town in Devon. I love being by the sea, so I knew I would be inspired by Campbeltown. "But there was so much I didn't anticipate - the stunning landscapes and textures, the beautiful curve of the harbour - all of which shaped the creative process. "The distillery itself was awe-inspiring. The smells were overwhelming in the most wonderful way, weaving together the town, the spirit vapour, and the salty sea air into one evocative experience.' Limited to only 100 individually numbered crystal decanters worldwide, Glen Scotia Elements of Campbeltown Release Number One: Air has an RRP of £35,000 and is available by enquiry at and in specialist retailers from May 2025. Glen Scotia has been producing whisky in Campbeltown since 1832 and is one of only three surviving distilleries in the town which was once known as the 'Victorian whisky capital of the world'. Maintaining much of its original design, including the stillroom, and the dunnage warehouse, to this day, the distillery follows in the footsteps of its founders, using traditional methods, carefully creating the subtly maritime Campbeltown style it is renowned for.
Daily Record
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Legendary Scottish distillery announces its 'oldest whisky ever'
Only 100 individually numbered crystal decanters will be available worldwide. An iconic Scottish distillery has released its "oldest ever whisky", describing the spirit as a "masterpiece". On Thursday, May 8, Glen Scotia unveiled the Glen Scotia Elements of Campbeltown Release Number One: Air. The new whisky is the inaugural expression in a new collection celebrating the five elements. According to the distillers, Release Number One: Air is a single malt. It was shaped by the elements of Glen Scotia 's unique Campbeltown setting. Release Number One: Air has been five decades in the making, having been distilled in 1973 and bottled at a natural cask strength of 42.3 per cent ABV in 2024. It was fully matured in refill American oak hogshead casks in order to preserve the distillery's character. The whisky features aromas of flaked almonds, vanilla fudge, salt crystals, seaweed, and fresh glazed apple tart. Meanwhile, tasting notes include white pepper, powdered ginger, and a lingering coconut finish. Release Number One: Air is limited to only 100 individually numbered crystal decanters worldwide. According to Glen Scotia, it has a recommended retail price of £35,000. Loch Lomond Group master blender Michael Henry commented: "Responsibility for whisky of this age, where the passage of time shapes and moulds the character of the spirit is a privilege. "With the first release in this milestone collection for Glen Scotia, I want to give people the opportunity to experience our distillery character at this remarkable age and showcase how time has shaped it. "Matured exclusively in American oak, with its more subtle, supportive cask influence, the character shines through. Bringing this whisky to its optimum condition has been through knowing the character of the spirit, its interplay with the wood and thoughtful cask management, with a vision already laid down for future releases that will bring people on an incredible journey." To celebrate the release, Glen Scotia collaborated with UK artist Gina Parr to create a unique piece of art capturing the essence of 'air' in the distillery's historic dunnage warehouse. Parr took inspiration from Campbeltown's coastal air stream and Glen Scotia's distilling process to create an oil painting to adorn the cabinet doors concealing each whisky decanter. The solid ash and birch display cabinet takes inspiration from an easel in an art gallery, while the bespoke Glencairn crystal decanter is housed within a white leather interior. Created exclusively for the new collection, it includes a band around the base to represent 'air', while a Celtic knot crowns a heavy brass stopper and is presented alongside a hardback book telling the story of the single malt. The Elements of Campbeltown Collection is inspired by the Celtic five-fold knot, featuring the elements of air, water, fire, earth, and spirit. Drawing from Glen Scotia's oldest maturing casks, each chapter will showcase a different element and the influence it has on the spirit. Glen Scotia has been producing whisky in Campbeltown since 1832. Today, it is one of only three surviving distilleries in the town and maintains much of its original design. Glen Scotia master distiller and distillery manager Iain McAlister stated: "Since 1832, our climate has left a fingerprint on our spirit as enduring as the generations that cared for it. While times may change, the effects of the natural forces endure through the decades. "'Air' is a masterpiece sculpted by the elements for half a century, its scent a symphony of natural elements and timeless tradition. It is remarkable to think about all the hands this 50-year-old would have passed through, each inheriting it and opting to let it continue its journey beyond them until this optimal moment.'
