New Booze News: W.L. Weller, The Glenlivet, The Macallan and More!

Another week and as always, more new booze news to share. This week we have a little something for everyone. In bourbon news, Buffalo Trace has a new Weller release (shout out to wheated bourbon fans!). The distillery created this bourbon by using a recipe created by fans in an interactive experience. Another brand using technology is The Glenlivet. The brand has just released a product that challenges drinkers to “crack the code” on their latest single malt release. Those looking for something a bit more traditional can seek out the new The Macallan release. But be warned, there are only 35 bottles available in the US. Those in the market for a 50-year-old single malt should call their retailers now. The details to these and other new releases are all in the booze news for the week of March 26, 2018!

W.L. Weller CYPB

CYPB was created in response to the over 100,000 fans who completed the interactive experience called “Craft Your Perfect Bourbon”. Buffalo Trace launched this educational experience in November 2015 which allowed fans to select the recipe of the bourbon. The mash bill, warehouse placement, age, and proof of a bourbon were the choices given.

The majority selected a wheated bourbon recipe aged for 8 years, which for Buffalo Trace is Weller. Most requested top floor warehouse placement and a bourbon to be between 90-99 proof.

“Although we certainly didn’t set out to produce a new bourbon based on this ‘Craft Your Own’ experience, the results are overwhelmingly consistent, so why not give whiskey drinkers what they want?!’” explained Kris Comstock, senior marketing director. “We’re thrilled how so many fans have interacted with the website, and we hope more will try their hand at crafting their perfect bourbon.”

CYPB is a limited edition Kentucky straight bourbon with one batch to be released each year beginning summer 2018.

Suggested retail price $45.

W.L. Weller CYPB / Photo Credit: Buffalo Trace

The Glenlivet Code

Like the brand’s Alpha and Cipher releases before it, Code is a no age statement release with no bottle information provided to the consumer…at least initially. Consumers are encouraged to scan the back of the package using the Shazam app where you’ll be invited to “crack the code”.

“With The Glenlivet Code, we had a unique opportunity to create a whisky that has never been crafted before, using new casks and techniques to push the boundaries of what people expect from The Glenlivet,” said master distiller, Alan Winchester. “This year’s limited edition is a labyrinth of flavors that will test the senses of even the most discerning whisky drinker and we’re excited to invite consumers worldwide to take on the ultimate challenge by unlocking its mystery taste.”

Bottled at 48% ABV in a black, opaque bottle. Available in 28 markets globally beginning March 2018.

Suggested retail price of $120.

The Glenlivet Code / Photo Credit: Pernod Ricard

The Macallan 50 Year (2018 Release)

Announced in spring 2018, this single malt release from The Macallan matured in one sherry-seasoned European oak butt for 50 years.

Nick Savage, master distiller at The Macallan, said. “After being left to mature for half a century, this wonderfully rare single malt is full of rich flavor and beautiful natural color. Coveted by whisky connoisseurs and collectors around the world, The Macallan 50 Years Old is an incredible addition to our expanding range of unique, mature whiskies and marks another pinnacle of The Macallan whisky makers’ art.”

Bottled at 44% ABV, only 200 bottles available worldwide which includes the Americas, Asia Pacific, and European markets. Of these, the US will receive just 35 beginning in April 2018.

Suggested retail price ~$35,000.

The Macallan 50 Year (2018 Release) / Photo Credit: The Macallan

Barrel-Finished Genevieve Gin

Distilled at San Francisco-based Hotaling & Co. (formerly known as Anchor Distilling Co.), this is an aged version of the company’s Genevieve Genever-Style Gin. Genevieve was first introduced in 2007 and is made in the traditional oude genever-style beginning with a mash of wheat, barley and rye.

“This is the natural evolution of our take on Dutch genever,” says master distiller Bruce Joseph. “Our previous releases were unaged. This release takes on added dimension from time spent in once-used Old Potrero Single Malt Rye Whiskey barrels.”

Aged for 33 months, the gin is bottled at 47.3% ABV.

Available this month nationwide with a suggested retail price $70.

Barrel-Finished Genevieve Gin / Photo Credit: Hotaling & Co.

Belvedere Ginger Zest

Available beginning April 2018, this flavored extension from Belvedere is made with ginger, lemon and a touch of grapefruit. These ingredients are macerated into their 100% non-GMO Polish rye vodka. Notably, the vodka is 100% natural with no sugar added.

“In developing a new maceration, we wanted to capitalize on cocktail trends and flavors that offered range and versatility,” remarks Matt Pomeroy, Global Director of Education at Belvedere Vodka.“In Polish history, there are roots in warming vodka with spices. Blending an exotic spice, like ginger, with the approachable flavors of grapefruit and lemon makes for a refreshing, beautifully-balanced drinking experience.”

Suggested retail price $29.99 for 750ml, with liter ($38.99) and 1.75L ($49.99) bottles also available.

Belvedere Ginger Zest / Photo Credit: Noah Fecks Photography

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