10th June, 2017: Kolkata witnessed the making of whisky connoisseurs, as USL-Diageo demystified the elusive ‘Art of Blending’ for audiences eager to master the craft. Taking the participants through the complex journey of blending Scotch Whiskies, Shantanu Sengupta, United Spirits Brand Ambassador, unraveled the rich legacy and science that makes sipping on‘Scotch Whisky a savoring and unforgettable experience’.
Thisintriguing journey was designed to understand the history, mystery and mastery involved in making the ‘Fine Blended Scotch Whiskies’. Shantanu took guests through the world of Scotch, transporting them to its origin– Scotland, the land that perfected the art of making a ‘wee bit of dram’ over centuries. A fun, interactive session, where the enthusiasts indulged in trivia that revealed facts of blending and what makes a quintessential Scottish blend so coveted.The guests enjoyed the tasting &nosing experience of Vat69, Black&White, Triple Gold Reserve, Johnnie Walker Red Label, and Johnnie Walker Black Label.
Shantanu Sengupta, United Spirits Brand Ambassador, said, “Art of Blending by United Spirits-Diageo is an intriguing session for all who would like to understand scotch whisky and the art of blending it. By the end of the session, the participants are well-versed with the rich heritage and craftsmanship that comprise the making and blending of five of the finest Scotch Whiskies, such as Black&White, Vat 69, Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve, Johnnie Walker Red Label and Johnnie Walker Black Label. The individual leaves the session as an aspiring Whisky Connoisseur who now understands nosing, flavour, texture and taste.”
The evening ended on a high note with the Kolkata chapter of USL-Diageo’s ‘Art of Blending’ turning the audience into whisky connoisseurs!
**Drink Responsibly**
About United Spirits Limited (USL)
USL is a subsidiary of Diageo plc which is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits, beer and wine categories. In 2013-14, Diageo plc acquired a 54.8% shareholding in USL making India one of its largest markets.
Founded in 1826, USL is the largest Indian spirits company, selling around 120 mn cases annually, involved in the manufacture, sale and distribution of beverage alcohol. USL produces and sells Scotch whisky, IMFL whisky, brandy, rum, vodka, gin and wine. Its portfolio includes much-loved brands such as McDowell's No.1, Royal Challenge, Signature and Antiquity. USL also imports, manufactures and sells Diageo’s iconic brands such as Johnnie Walker, VAT 69, Black & White, Smirnoff and Ciroc in India. The company also successfully operates strong brand extensions like Johnnie Walker The Journey, Black Dog Sparkling Water, Smirnoff Experience, Royal Challenge Sports Drink, McDowell’s No.1 Soda and Bagpiper Soda among others.
The company is listed on the BSE Limited (Bombay Stock Exchange) and National Stock Exchange of India Limited (National Stock Exchange). For more information about USL, our people, vision, brands, and performance visit us at www.unitedspirits.in.
About USL-Diageo Scotch Whiskies:
- VAT69: The ‘One in a Hundred’ scotch blend that stood out, VAT69 was the outcome of Sir William Sanderson’s relentless pursuit to create the best blend in 1882. The preferred choice of the avant-garde, it has a fruity, soft finish and a spicy aftertaste
- Black&White:Best enjoyed when shared and savoured amongst friends, James Buchanan created Black & White in 1902. Named after two affable and lovable Scottish terriers, 3 malts whiskies together form the heart of this blend: Dalwhinnie, Clynelish and Glendullan. Black&White a light a predominant grainy note and smooth, long-lasting flavor
- Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve: Created by Sir Walter Millard’s ingenious craft, this Scotch Whisky is triple matured for enriched quality. Millard named this blend, ‘Black Dog’ after his favorite fishing fly. For over 130 years, this luxury blend continues to enchant whisky lovers with elegant woody flavors with silky smooth finish
- Johnnie Walker Red Label: A timeless classic, the Walker family used their vast knowledge of Scotland’s malts and grains to create a rich, full-bodied blend with universal appeal. With its combination of light whiskies from Scotland’s east coast and dark, peaty whiskies from west coast, Johnnie Walker Red Label has exceptional rich, deep flavors
- Johnnie Walker Black Label: With its origins in 1870s, Johnnie Walker Black Label is an acclaimed masterpiece of blending craftsmanship. Its depth drawn from over 40 selected grains and malt whiskies, each aged for a minimum of 12 years. It is smooth and warming, with a medium sweet finish and hints of peat