Episode 419: April 6, 2013

Scotch Whisky exports account for 80% of all Scottish food and drink exports each year, along with about 25% of all UK food and drink exports. The Scotch Whisky Association released its final 2012 export report this week, with little to no gain from 2011. SWA Chief Executive Gavin Hewitt discusses the export data and other key issues facing the industry on this week’s WhiskyCast In-Depth. In the news, Diageo’s Nick Morgan outlines the company’s plans for a massive expansion of distilling capacity in Scotland, Beam North American President Bill Newlands discusses the Maker’s Mark controversy, and we’ll get  sneak previews of this year’s Four Roses Limited Edition Single Barrel Bourbon from Jim Rutledge and the new Wild Turkey visitors center from Jimmy Russell. This week’s tasting notes include the Highland Park Loki, Teacher’s 50, and WhistlePig Rye TripleOne whiskies.

Links: Scotch Whisky Association | Diageo | Dewar’s | Maker’s Mark | Jim Beam | Four Roses | Wild Turkey | Kentucky Distillers Association | International Wine & Spirits Competition