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Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition is a tribute to Captain William McCoy |
The Edrington Group has launched Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition, the latest addition to the whisky brand’s core range, in India.
First unveiled in March, the premium blended whisky is being promoted in Delhi Duty Free stores at Indira Gandhi International Airport from 1 April to 31 May.
Released more than 80 years after the end of the era which it celebrates, Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition is a tribute to Captain William McCoy, who smuggled Cutty Sark blended Scotch whisky into America during the Prohibition era of the 1920s.
According to the brand, Captain McCoy’s reputation for honesty, dealing only in genuine, unadulterated liquor, gave rise to Cutty Sark being referred to as “˜The Real McCoy’.
Although conceived originally for the Americas market where the legend of Captain McCoy lives on, this premium blended Scotch whisky is said to have found favour on the other side of the world in a market which is known for its love of whisky.
“Sales of imported spirits are growing at a phenomenal rate in India thanks to the national love of spirits, the increasing wealth of the population and the internationalisation of the market,” said Edrington Regional Marketing Manager Asia Travel Retail Claren Wong.
“The New Delhi airport is the number one airport in India in terms of traffic and sales so we were delighted when Delhi Duty Free agreed to list Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition. There is something about its story – defying the odds, outwitting the authorities – which captures the imagination of travelling consumers. That romantic element, combined with Prohibition’s rich and refined taste, gives us confidence that this new release will stand the test of time.”
Under the supervision of Master Blender Kirsteen Campbell, Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition is handcrafted in small batches from top quality grain and single malt whiskies, matured in American oak casks and bottled at 50%abv. It is presented in a black glass bottle with an authentic looking label of the era.
Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition (1L) has a recommended retail price of US$45. Those who purchase a bottle at Delhi Duty Free during the two-month launch promotion will enjoy a US$5 discount.
Cutty Sark Prohibition will join the Edrington portfolio at the TFWA Asia exhibition held this month (stand number: H36, basement 2).
Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition tasting notes
Appearance: Warm golden colour
Nose: Layers of soft ripe citrus fruits, dipped in fresh honey and dusted with fragrant spices
Palate: Creamy richness; hints of toffee with peppery notes
Finish: Super smooth with soft lingering warmth and subtle hints of spice
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Sales of imported spirits such as Cutty Sark are growing rapidly in India, says Edrington |