It’s #LSADrinks time! Wondering what’s new in the world of all things ABV? This month includes Penfolds, Meikle Tòir and more.
The March 2024 edition of #LSADrinks continues to take a look at the most exciting events and launches happening in Malaysia and beyond. Whether it’s the launch of Meikle Tòir in Malaysia or the latest Penfolds x Nigo collaboration, there’s just so much to look forward to in the world of ABV. Keep reading to find out what’s new this month!
Meikle Tòir officially launches here in Malaysia
The GlenAllachie Distiller’s Meikle Tòir is now available in Malaysia! The beloved peated Speyside single malt scotch whisky is known for its heather honey and sweet-yet-smoky notes. With a name that means “big pursuit”, Meikle Tòir sure knows how to make a massive entrance. With Billy Walker (its Master Distiller) at the helm, the whisky maker has been crafting peated whisky since 2018 — which the distillery has never been done at the time. Featuring four diverse whiskies, Meikle Tòir’s earthy packaging comprises illustrations by Iain McIntosh and features the peak, Ben Rinnes, and other Speyside surroundings.
Whether it’s The Original, The Sherry One, The Chinquapin One or The Turbo, each release by Meikle Tòir is concocted using three crucial components. They include the long fermentation of 160 hours which creates a complexity that’s ester-rich and bold as well as the use of quality casks brought into the distillery from all around the globe. Last but not least, it’s the choice of peat. For Meikle Tòir, only mainland peat from St. Fergus is utilised — resulting in its oaky, smoky and sweet elements.
If this is your first time savouring Meikle Tòir, why not start with The Original? Made with rye barrels, American virgin oak casks and first-fill Bourbon casks, the peated whisky (50% ABV) has balanced hints of ginger, almonds, peat logs and honey. You might also want to check out The Turbo; a truly unique spirit finished in three American virgin oak casks and five Oloroso hogsheads. On the nose, look forward to notes of burnt orange peel, toasted hazelnuts and manuka honey before arriving at charred oak and mocha characteristics with every sip.
Learn more HERE.
Savour Changyu, China’s first winery, at Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion
In 1892, around the same time Cheong Fatt Tze was building the Blue Mansion in Penang, he established Changyu — the first winery in China and now the biggest. More than a century later, the winemaker which began its journey in China’s Shandong Province has risen to be one of the most sought-after wines in the world. August Wilhelm Baron von Babo,, an Austrian viticulturist, supported Cheong Fatt Tze with the importing of American and European vines back then.
Now, Malaysians can experience Changyu wines for themselves at The Blue Mansion’s Indigo and The Bar ar. There are five options to choose from at the moment, including the Changyu Riesling N118 and Changyu Noble Dragon N158. The latter, for example, is a full-bodied red wine with notes of pepper, cassis and plums. Looking for a white wine instead? Try the Longyu Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc De Noir — a dry white wine beloved for its strawberries and honeysuckle characteristics. And, if you’re in the mood to splurge, there’s also Longyu Long 12 Cabernet Sauvignon. Vanilla, blackberry and spicy notes combine to form a dry red wine.
Changyu wines at The Blue Mansion range from RM75 to RM1,070. Savour the wines on its own or pair them with a decadent meal at Indigo.
Learn more HERE.
There’s only one bottle of the Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition in Malaysia
The Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition — crafted by Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop — comprises 53 rare malt and grain whiskies; a nod to 1953 when it was first created for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The latest creation comes in a sapphire blue Dartington Crystal decanter and will be housed in a Westminster Abbey-inspired wooden box. Inside the box, you will find artwork influenced by each country in Great Britain and their respective crests and jewels. There are only 500 bottles of this coveted blend around the world and one here in Malaysia; priced at RM118,000. To purchase, you’ll have to liaise directly with Pernod Ricard Malaysia at 03 7953 8800.
Sandy Hyslop on Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition: “This expression is a momentous tribute to both the British Monarchy and Royal Salute’s unique origin story. I wanted to mark this memorable occasion with a blend that was as iconic and special as the original Royal Salute 21 Year Old Signature Blend that was created in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Crafting this blend has been the perfect occasion to reflect on the innovative approach we’ve taken to blending whisky for the past 70 years, and a moment to look forward to what can be achieved in years to come”.
On the nose, the Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition exudes notes of roasted chestnuts, dark chocolate and red currants. Savour the rare whisky and experience hints of fresh ginger and sweet figs on the palate.
Learn more HERE.
Here’s a look at the first ever Penfolds Grange by Nigo
One of the renowned fashion designers in the world and one of the most illustrious winemakers have come together once again for something truly special. Last year, they collaborated on one-of-a-kind apparel styles called One by Penfolds. Now, Nigo, of Human Made, and Penfolds recently unveiled Penfolds Grange by Nigo. Celebrating its 180th anniversary this year, Penfolds see its iconic Grange given a limited edition design for the first time ever. Nigo’s aesthetics for the 2019 Grange look was inspired by his visit to the Penfolds Magill Estate Winery two years ago.
So, what makes Penfolds Grange by Nigo different? For starters, each gift box comprises a bottle neck tag, the Penfolds logo in the typography of Human Made, a unique grape graphic and a bandana. Each unit is numbered, with only 1,500 available for the 750-millilitre option and 150 for the 1.5-litre option. In addition, this collaboration also saw the introduction of a handwoven silk rug — created in a dyed purple grape design. Each piece took two months to complete by artisans in Nepal and there will only be 25 in the entire world.
Nigo himself on Penfolds Grange by Nigo: “I have been a collector of Grange for many years, but it wasn’t until I visited Penfolds Magill Estate that I truly understood the craftsmanship and history behind the historic wine. It was an honour to be the first person to collaborate on a design for Grange, especially as the brand celebrates its 180th anniversary”.
Learn more HERE.
Stay tuned for more #LSADrinks updates!
(Hero & Featured Image Credit: Penfolds)
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Written by
Ronn Tan
Senior Writer, Fashion & Dining
After graduating with a Masters in Fashion Journalism from Instituto Marangoni London, Ronn took on a role as Lifestyle Writer. Now on a more project-centric position with Lifestyle Asia, he actively writes about drinks, fashion, and everything cool. When he's not typing on the laptop or managing a shoot, you will find him visiting the newest restaurants or sipping on a Negroni.
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