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Sir Ivan Menezes to retire from Diageo; Debra Crew to be appointed Chief Executive Officer

Diageo recently announced that Sir Ivan Menezes has decided to retire as Chief Executive Officer and depart from the Diageo Board on 30 June 2023, following ten successful years leading the Company. Debra Crew, currently Chief Operating Officer, will be appointed Chief Executive Officer and join the Diageo Board, effective 1 July 2023.

Ivan joined Diageo through the merger of Guinness plc and Grand Metropolitan plc in 1997 and has held a number of senior positions in the business including Chief Operating Officer; President, Diageo North America; Chairman, Diageo Asia Pacific; and Chairman, Diageo Latin America and Caribbean. Ivan has been an Executive Director of Diageo since July 2012 and has served as Chief Executive Officer since July 2013, overseeing an outstanding period of change, growth and high performance.

During Ivan’s tenure, Diageo has made great strides towards its ambition to become one of the best performing, most trusted and respected consumer products companies in the world. Diageo has grown significantly during this period, now selling over 200 brands in more than 180 markets and is today, the number one company by net sales value in Scotch whisky, vodka, gin, rum, Canadian whisky, liqueurs, and also tequila, a category in which only eight years ago the company had no substantive position. And in December 2022, Guinness became the number one beer in the on-trade in Great Britain for the first time.

Led by Ivan, Diageo has developed a leadership position in sustainability, becoming one of the top 1% of companies globally to achieve a “Double A” rating for Water Security and Climate Change from CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), as well as a particularly strong stance on inclusion and diversity, with the company ranked number one in the UK, and number two globally, in Equileap’s 2023 Gender Equality Report. And with Debra’s appointment as Chief Executive Officer, women will make up more than 50% of Diageo’s Executive Committee from 1 July 2023. During the past decade, Diageo’s total shareholder returns have strongly outperformed the FTSE100, and the Company has continued its progressive policy to increase dividends every year. In January 2023, Ivan was awarded a Knighthood for services to Business and to Equality in His Majesty The King’s 2023 New Year Honours List.

Prior to being appointed Chief Operating Officer in October 2022, Debra was President, Diageo North America and Global Supply, leading Diageo’s largest market to 14% organic net sales growth in fiscal 2022, following on from 20% organic net sales growth in the prior year. Debra originally joined the Diageo Board as a Non-Executive Director in April 2019, before stepping down from the Board when appointed President, Diageo North America in July 2020.

Debra is the former President and CEO of Reynolds American, Inc., where she delivered strong performance growth before the company’s acquisition, having previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer, and President and Chief Commercial Officer. Prior to that, Debra spent five years at PepsiCo, where she served as President, North America Nutrition; President, PepsiCo Americas Beverages; and President, Western Europe Region. Prior to PepsiCo, Debra held positions with Kraft Foods, Nestlé S.A. and Mars, Inc.

Debra is a graduate of the University of Denver, earned an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and previously served as an officer in the United States Army. She currently serves on the board of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc., having previously served on the boards of Newell Brands and Mondēlez International.

Javier Ferrán, Chairman, Diageo, said: “The Board is enormously grateful for Ivan’s contribution over the past decade. Under his stewardship, Diageo has consistently delivered a truly impressive performance to become one of the most respected businesses in the world. Ivan has transformed Diageo’s global footprint, brand portfolio and strategic focus, positioning our business as a clear leader in premium drinks. At the same time as delivering consistent shareholder returns, Ivan has nurtured a diverse and talented global workforce and made significant progress on the most material sustainability issues facing our business. Ivan leaves Diageo extremely well positioned for future growth, and we thank him again for everything he has helped us to achieve.

The Board has diligently planned for Ivan’s successor, and we are delighted to have appointed a leader of Debra’s calibre to the role. Debra has been a highly valued member of Diageo’s leadership team in recent years with an impressive track record of delivery both at Diageo and across other global consumer goods companies. She has deep consumer industry expertise as well as proven strategic capabilities, strong operational performance and a clear ability to build and lead teams. I have no doubt that Diageo is in the right hands for the next phase of its growth.”

Sir Ivan Menezes, Chief Executive Officer, Diageo, said, “It has been an enormous honour leading Diageo over the past decade. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved during that time, and I would like to thank my 28,000 talented colleagues around the world for all of their hard work, creativity and passion. I would also like to thank the Board for their encouragement, challenge and support over the years.

Royal Salute Launches King Charles III Edition

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First created as a gift for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the day of her Coronation in 1953, Royal Salute, the master of exceptional aged Scotch whisky, marks the start of a new era of contemporary monarchy with a precious limited-edition expression, the Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition.

Since its inception, Royal Salute has honoured the British Monarchy and marked significant milestones with unique expressions that represent and embody a moment in history. As the Scotch originated as a Coronation gift 70 years ago, there couldn’t be a more fitting moment for Royal Salute to pay homage once again.

Expertly crafted by Royal Salute Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, the coveted expression is a timeless whisky to be treasured and savoured for years to come. A blend of over 53 rare malt and grain whiskies, to reflect the year Royal Salute was first crafted, the Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition is a beautifully rich and complex expression with notes of fresh redcurrants, dark chocolate praline, and freshly roasted chestnuts, and a palate of sweet figs and fresh ginger leading up to a long and rich finish with a playful spice.

Commenting on the precious release, Sandy Hyslop, said, “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.”

The Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition is housed in a Dartington Crystal decanter, tinted in a deep sapphire blue hue, reminiscent of the precious stones set within the Imperial State Crown. In keeping with Royal Salute’s signature style, the decanter is presented in a stunning wooden box inspired by the iconic Westminster Abbey, with details intricately chiselled into the wood, paying tribute to the historic setting of British Coronation ceremonies since 1066. The jewels and crests of each country forming Great Britain were the inspiration for the artwork inside the gift box, symbolising the unity under the Crown and enduring solidarity between the nations.

Only 500 precious bottles of the Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition will be available from April 2023, at selected specialist retailers for RRP $25,000 USD.

Indian Rum, Camikara, Makes Historic Win with Gold at IWSC Awards 2023

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Piccadily Distilleries is the first ever ‘Gold Medal’ won by an Indian rum at the prestigious IWSC Awards 2023, recently announced in London, for their newly launched rum – Camikara. It has been awarded the gold medal in the 11- to 15-year-old category, with a stunning 95 points.

Camikara is a small batch luxury sipping rum with mere 6.6% of the original fi¬lled quantity left to be savoured by us and the remaining 94.4 % evaporated as angels share, which makes it as one of its kind to be ever released to the consumer. It is the first pure cane juice ‘sipping rum’ to come from India, after being matured for twelve long years in American oak barrels. Bottled at a strength of 50% ABV, Camikara has no added colour, caramel, sugar or flavours, making it a 100% natural rum.

India, the world’s largest sugarcane producer, has never created a quality, luxury rum. Although there have been several brands available in the Indian market, they have always been at the entry level. A premium category rum capable of competing on a worldwide platform and making India proud has never been researched.

Camikara is the proof that India can produce a premium quality rum with the abundant bounty of sugarcane available to us, complex yet smooth and is revolutionising the rum industry in India and globally. Derived from the Sanskrit word for “liquid gold”, Camikara rum is a celebration of land, time, culture and people. Camikara was born for two reasons: to rediscover the past; and to pave the way for the future.

India has been a whisky dominant country, but the country is now gradually shifting towards a preference for rum since 2015, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -4.88%. During the period 2015 to 2020, the country’s rum intake grew to a combined sales value of ₹1,47,597.29 million, dominated by the sales of entry level rum, but the luxury category still remains untapped. India is expected to grow in its rum intake with the Indian market expected to increase the demand to 293.30 million litres by 2027 with a further annual growth of 5.75% (CAGR 2023-2027).

Piccadily Distilleries is the first time in the history of India that an Indian rum has been the recipient of this award, making India proud on the international forefront. Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Siddhartha Sharma, Promoter, Piccadily Distilleries said, “We wish to break the shackles of the colonial mindset where we were browbeaten to prefer whisky over rum, where it was drilled into us that rum was cheap and harmful compared to whisky. Going with the philosophy of Piccadily distilleries, we have created something that stands testament to our land and time, unabashedly different to any global product. We wish that cane juice spirit will be seen in a different light with many more new age distillers championing the cause of Indian rums, creating a category which will be able to challenge any rum from any global region. Camikara treasures these accolades with a deep sense of appreciation for the discerning, appreciative consumers that have made this unrivalled win possible.”

By prioritising quality above all else when it comes to producing this now iconic rum, the brand continues to expand this category, and is planning to launch different aged expressions of rum in the coming years, starting with a three-year aged pure cane juice rum for its supportive consumer base.

The well-deserved accolade shows that the indigenous rum has emerged as a worthy contender, and the world is awakening to the new star from India that is Camikara.

Hennessy X.O unveils Masterpiece collaboration with Kim Jones

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In a first for the Maison, the acclaimed fashion designer transcends couture and Cognac in a special collection featuring a collectible sneaker, Masterpiece decanter, and Limited Edition bottle.

Hennessy is recently a collaboration with the world-renowned British Artistic Director Kim Jones. In an audacious meeting of two icons, the Hennessy X.O x Kim Jones collection bridges street and luxury in a unique celebration of the legendary blend’s impact on culture.

Interweaving the richness of Hennessy X.O’s 150-year heritage with Kim Jones’ creative vision, the collaboration features the Hennessy X.O Masterpiece designed by Kim Jones, the Hennessy X.O Limited Edition bottle by Kim Jones, and in a first for the brand, the HNY Low by Kim Jones. This also marks the first time Maison Hennessy has partnered with a fashion designer, and that Kim Jones collaborates with a spirits brand.

“We are thrilled to embark on a new odyssey blending Cognac-making and couture with Kim Jones, a creative master of our time,” said Laurent Boillot, Hennessy CEO. “Inspired by the emblematic personality of Hennessy X.O, Kim has developed a resolutely contemporary collection that is destined to make an impact on culture today and in the future.”

For Hennessy X.O, Kim Jones pays tribute to Cognac-making and couture, two processes that touch on an understanding of science and the natural world as well as artisanal craftsmanship and savoir-faire. He follows in the footsteps of a formidable lineage of great masters who have helped cement Hennessy X.O’s cultural resonance over the years, including Frank Gehry, Cai Guo-Qiang and Ridley Scott.

“I’m fascinated by the rich heritage of Hennessy, a household name behind which artisans have spent hundreds of years creating this special cognac,” says Kim Jones. “Storytelling is very important for me regardless of what I’m designing or who I’m collaborating with – I want my designs to educate and inspire people through the stories they tell.”

Designed by Kim Jones and crafted in an LVMH-owned shoe factory in Italy, the limited edition HNY Low by Kim Jones is inspired by early basketball shoes. It is made of a light Cognac-coloured nubuck leather, a material that takes on the patina of time, a reference to the precious eaux-de-vie.

Contrasting with the classic upper, a technical sole in tonal grooved rubber features an imprint of Cognac vines and the Hennessy X.O x Kim Jones logo on its underside, while the initials KJ and the Hennessy bras armé emblem discreetly adorn the heel.

“I wanted it to be elevated and chic, to reflect both the long heritage of cognac and my own design values,” says the designer, who also transposed the curves of the Hennessy X.O bottle onto the sneaker. “I wanted it to feel like you’re almost looking into the bottle. It’s a glass of Cognac in sneaker form.”

True to the sneakerhead aesthetic, Kim Jones made packaging a part of the overall experience. Each pair of HNY Low by Kim Jones comes sheathed in cotton dust bags bound by a high-end drawstring, a shape recalling bottles that used to be wrapped in thick paper during travel. The sneakers are presented in an oak box that revisits the barrels used to age the eaux-de-vie, its wavy top echoing the plateau for the Hennessy X.O Masterpiece designed by Kim Jones.

Retailing at a suggested price of 650 euros, the HNY Low by Kim Jones will drop in March 2023 in partnership with HBX as the global exclusive online retail partner, and in selected retail spaces.

Designed exclusively for Hennessy by Kim Jones, produced using 3D printing technology, and finished by hand, the sculptural Hennessy X.O Masterpiece has been produced in only 200 examples. The decanter demonstrates how humanity and technology can work together to create something unique, “like a piece of bespoke couture for a bottle,” the designer notes.

The Hennessy X.O Masterpiece draws inspiration from the making of Hennessy X.O, an art perfected by eight generations of Master Blenders. A specially developed titanium casing entirely encapsulates the bottle like an architectural second skin. Its twisting folds evoke both the couture technique of draping and the way in which, at the turn of the 20th century, Hennessy bottles were carefully hand enveloped in tissue paper as a way of protecting their fragile parchment paper labels. Its base, an undulating oak plateau, nods to the barrels used to age eaux-de-vie that would eventually be blended to create Hennessy X.O.

While the bottle is entirely obscured from view, the Cognac can be extracted using the fusil designed by Kim Jones, an elegant and playful ritual to serve a glass of the Hennessy X.O blend. As a finishing touch, the decanter itself has been dipped in gradient colours, an effect inspired by the shades of the different eaux-de-vie selected by the Master Blender to compose Hennessy X.O.

Says Kim Jones, “When I saw how the vintage Hennessy bottles were wrapped, it spoke volumes to me about how precious each one is, and how they were handled. I was particularly touched by their history, and the sense of how generations have dedicated their time to making each step of the process better and better. That same process also holds true with fashion.”

The third element of the collaboration is the Hennessy X.O Limited Edition ‘ready-to-wear’ version of the decanter specially imagined by Kim Jones. The Hennessy X.O bottle is encased in an aluminum second skin, its structure showcasing the signature shape of the bottle while evoking a couture silhouette. A true representation of the merger of fashion and culture with excellence and legacy, the limited edition bottle is the final piece of the Hennessy X.O x Kim Jones partnership.

n time for the collection launch, Hennessy X.O unveils The Fabric of Time, a campaign video featuring a cameo of Kim Jones as he steps into the Hennessy X.O universe. Created by French creative trio Bleu Désert, the video places the collection at the convergence of human and mechanical movement.

Through the artistic mind of Kim Jones, the piece introduces a strange futuristic environment, halfway between a distillery and an haute couture atelier. An elusive robot takes the viewer through the space, slowly uncovering the inspiration behind the poetic details of The Fabric of Time as it passes next to an imposing mechanical alembic system. As the robot enters the main room, the Hennessy X.O Masterpiece designed by Kim Jones is revealed under the concealed watchful eye of the designer.

The Fabric of Time and collection items will be displayed in select global retail locations, each evoking the futuristic elements of the collaboration and video through interactive content and experiences.

Severe drought and extreme heat pose a new threat to wine production

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Average production volume is expected in the EU, with positive performances recorded in Italy, France, and Germany, which balanced out the low harvests expected in Spain and Greece, which were particularly affected by the heat wave during summer. First harvest forecasts in the USA indicate that production volume will be slightly lower than in 2021. After the record-high figures of last year, Southern Hemisphere vineyards produced average volumes, with the only exception of New Zealand that, thanks to favourable climatic conditions, records the largest production ever.

In 2022, despite the heat wave that touched many regions of the world, global wine production volume is expected to be at a level similar to the one observed last year. This would be the fourth consecutive year where the global production level can be considered as slightly below average.

This year harvest has been characterised by extreme heat and record-breaking drought that sped up ripening in vineyards all over the globe. A report recently published by the Global Drought Observatory indicated that almost two thirds of the European territory was in a state of drought or on alert due to heat waves and extremely low rainfall: this has been the worst drought in the last 500 years. And Europe was not the only region impacted: from East Africa to California, extreme temperatures have been recorded this year.

World Production

Based on the information collected on twenty-nine countries, which represent 91% of the world production in 2021, 2022 world wine production (excluding juices and musts) is estimated between 257.5 and 262.3 mhl, with a mid-range estimate at 259.9 mhl.

The 2022 wine production volume can be considered slightly below its 20-year average and seems to have fallen by 1% compared to 2021. This is due to higher than-expected harvest volume in Europe (despite the drought and heat waves during spring and summer) and average production level recorded in the Southern Hemisphere and in the USA. Overall, in 2022 the dry and hot conditions observed across different regions of the world have led to early harvests and average volumes, nonetheless an overall good quality is expected.

It should be noted, however, that the figures for 2022, must be taken with caution as there are still large countries like China and Russia for which information is not available yet. Also, the high volatility in production volumes observed over the last years at regional levels makes the forecasting exercise even more difficult.

Northern hemisphere

European Union

In the European Union (EU), a series of adverse weather events – spring frost, hail, excess heat, and drought – have been observed all along the 2022 growing season.

Spring and summer heatwaves across Europe have resulted in early ripening. At the beginning of the season, there was widespread concern among key stakeholders that yields were expected to be lower due to extreme heat and lack of rainfall in many areas. However, in the end, the absence of major grape diseases and late summer rains made up for it, resulting in higher yields than initially expected in several regions and countries.

The result is an overall early harvest and an estimated wine production volume of 157 mhl, excluding juices and musts. This volume shows an annual increase of 3.5 mhl (+2%) compared to 2021. Overall, preliminary estimates for 2022 wine production in EU countries indicate quite a heterogeneous situation, due to different weather conditions throughout the year, undergone in different vine regions.

Notwithstanding the drought that hit certain regions, 2022 proved to be a favourable year for wine production in the two largest EU producing countries – Italy and France, which together account for 36% of the world and 60% of the EU wine production – mainly thanks to the rains at the end of the summer. Italy, still ranking first producer of the world at 50.3 mhl, estimates a volume in line with its 2021 wine production. France, after the very low vintage of 2021, characterised by severe damages due to early frost in April, followed by summer rain, hailstorms, and mildew, is the EU country with highest growth rate with respect to the previous year: it foresees a production level of 44.2 mhl, which represents +17% compared to 2021. Dry and hot weather this year reduced disease pressure on vines and lead to an early start of the grape harvest.

Spain in 2022 will be the third largest wine producer in the world with an estimated production of 33.0 mhl.

This relatively low volume (-6% compared to 2021 and 12% lower than its five-year average) can be attributed to drought and limited access to water in many regions.

Among the other major wine producing countries in the EU, positive performances with respect to 2021 have been recorded in Germany (8.9 mhl, +2% / 2021), Romania (4.6 mhl, +4% / 2021), Bulgaria (0.9 mhl, +5% / 021), Slovenia (0.7 mhl, +15% / 2021), and Croatia (0.6 mhl, +12% / 2021). In these countries, the dry and hot growing season has been beneficial for vineyards, a large part of which have been very productive, despite the hot temperatures.

On the other hand, several countries within the EU expect a negative growth with respect to 2021. For example, Portugal, the fifth largest European wine producer, has an estimated 2022 wine production volume of 6.7 mhl (-8% / 2021). The harvest in Portugal, like in many other EU countries, has been hit by excessive heat during summer, coupled with little rainfall. However, it should be noted that the expected 2022 level is in line with its five-year average. Hungary’s estimated wine production is 2.5 mhl in 2022, a level 3% below 2021 and 15% lower than its five-year average.

Also in this case, the extreme temperatures recorded in spring and summer lead to an early and relatively small harvest. Similarly, Austria, with 2.3 mhl, estimates a wine production that is 6% lower than 2021 and 8% lower than its five-year average. One of the countries that was hit harder by the heat wave this season is certainly Greece, where the expected wine production in 2022 is estimated at only 1.7 mhl. This represents not only a sharp fall with respect to the previous year (-29%), but also a steep decline compared to its five year average. Lastly, Czech Republic expects a wine production of 0.6 mhl, a level 8% lower than 2021 in line with its five-year average.

Outside EU

In the USA, fourth producer at world level, the preliminary estimate for 2022 wine production is 23.1 mhl. This figure is 4% lower compared to last year, and 6% lower with respect to its five-year average. This relative decrease can be partially attributed to early frost damages, drought-like conditions in summer and consequent lack of water supply in certain wine regions.

At this time of the year, data on grape harvest in China is not available. However, wine production is likely to continue the contraction that started in 2016 for structural reasons outlined in previous OIV reports on the state of the vine and wine sector

As for Eastern European countries, wine production in Georgia is estimated to be in line with the already large production of 2021 (+2%), with a record-high level of 2.1 mhl.

This volume is due to favourable weather conditions that lead to high grape yields and a governmental subsidy programme that has pushed production to record levels. In Moldova, wine production in 2022 is estimated at 1.3 mhl, a decrease of approximately 7% compared to 2021 volume. This year, exceptionally, data on grape harvests and wine production in Russia are not yet available.

Switzerland is expected to record 1.0 mhl, which is 59% higher than the extremely low volume of 2021. The Swiss wine production volume of this year is not only larger than last year, but also 12% higher than the average observed over the last five years. The heat waves experienced across Europe were beneficial for Swiss vineyards at relatively high altitudes.

Southern hemisphere

In the Southern Hemisphere, where harvests end in the first trimester of 2022, preliminary figures on wine production tend to be more accurate in this period of the year. After a significant decline in wine production in 2020 caused by unfavourable climatic conditions and a record-high 2021 harvest, in 2022 the wine production estimate for the southern hemisphere is about 55 mhl, -7% compared to the previous year, but fully in line with its last five-year average. Overall, in 2022 the southern hemisphere wine production is expected to account for 21% of the world total.

All major South American wine-producing countries have registered a fall in production with respect to 2021. Chile is the largest producer in the southern hemisphere in 2022, with wine production peaking at 12.4 mhl, benefitting from dry conditions and just 7% below last year’s exceptionally high production (7% above its five-year average). In 2022, due to extremely variable weather conditions (frost, heavy rainfalls, etc.), Argentina’s wine production has decreased by about 1.0 mhl, with production reaching 11.4 mhl (-9% / 2021).

Brazil has an estimated wine production volume of 3.2 mhl in 2022. Even though this represents a decrease of 10% with respect to 2021, the expected volume of this year, despite dry spring and drought summer conditions, is higher than the average observed in the last five years.

In South Africa, wine production in 2022 is estimated at 10.4 mhl, which marks a decrease of 4% compared to 2021. However, it should be noted that this figure is perfectly in line with its five-year average.

Australia registered the largest negative variation with respect to last year in the whole southern hemisphere.

With 12.1 mhl, Australia records a -18% compared to 2021. This is due to cold spring temperatures and heavy rainfalls in summer combined with seasonal adjustments made by winemakers after the record-high vintage of 2021. New Zealand represents, once again, the exception in the southern hemisphere. While in 2021 New Zealand was the only major Southern Hemisphere country to have a below-average wine grape harvest, in 2022 it saw a record-high wine production level, reaching for the first time in its history 3.8 mhl (+44% / 2021). A mix of excellent climatic conditions and high international demand has certainly contributed to this historically high harvest volume.

Bacardi promotes Stephanie Macleod to drive premiumisation and growth of its whisky business

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Bacardi is promoting Stephanie Macleod, Master Blender for its portfolio of Scotch whiskies, to a newly created role as Director of Blending, Scotch Whisky – a promotion that recognises her talent and 25 years’ experience in crafting Scotch whisky.

A multi-award winning and highly respected figure in the whisky industry, in her new role Stephanie will continue to lead the famed blending legacy of Dewar’s Blended Scotch whisky, William Lawson’s Scotch whisky, and the five Single Malts – Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, The Deveron and Royal Brackla – as Malt Master.

Her expanded remit will also see her develop the people and processes needed to continue to the premiumisation of the range and help deliver on the family-owned spirits company’s ambition to be industry leaders in innovation and quality.

“It’s an exciting time for Scotch whisky right now as demand grows around the world for top quality, beautifully crafted blends and malts. In my new role, I’ll be ensuring we are able to meet this increasing demand – both now and for many decades to come – while continuing to deliver new, exciting and curated Scotch whiskies, spanning our Blended and Single Malt portfolios,” says Stephanie Macleod, Director of Blending, Scotch Whisky, Bacardi.

At the 2022 International Whisky Competition, Stephanie was crowned ‘Master Blender of the Year’ for an unprecedented fourth year in a row, a feat which recognises her world-leading expertise in the art of blending. She is only the seventh Master Blender in Dewar’s 176-year history.

Stephanie became the first female Master Blender for Dewar’s in 2006, following her official three-year training with the then Master Blender. She joined Bacardi, based in Glasgow in 1998, and began her career in whisky as a Sensory Analyst at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, working on a project which attempted to unlock the maturation secrets of Scotch whisky.

“The consistent quality and flavour of every drop of our Scotch whiskies is thanks to Stephanie and her team. As Director of Blending, she will bring her mastery of the entire whisky-making process – from barley to bottle – to play a pivotal role in delivering our bold growth ambitions for Scotch whisky,” says Dave Ingram, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Bacardi.

Stephanie is passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent within Bacardi and the whisky industry. She leads a team of Blenders and Assistant Blenders who learn from her wealth of knowledge and expertise every day.

As well as heading-up this talented team, Stephanie will continue to share her story and her love of whisky to inspire others around the world to nose, taste and enjoy a sensory experience which is unlike any other.

Bacardí Rum appoints Roberto Ramirez Laverde as Global SVP

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The world’s most awarded rum welcomes back Roberto Ramirez Laverde as Global SVP, Bacardĺ rum, effective immediately. Roberto takes on an open role following the promotion of Ned Duggan to Global Chief Marketing Officer of Bacardi and President of Bacardi Global Brands Limited. Roberto reports to Ned and joins the Marketing Leadership Team. He will be based in Bermuda.

During his previous tenure at Bacardi from 2013-2019, Roberto contributed to building the premiumisation strategy for the company’s aged Bacardĺ rums and Facundo rum collection. He contributed to launching the iconic rum brand’s portfolio of premium, aged rums and building the architecture that continues to define the premium rum category. Earlier in his Bacardi career he led the Rums Category for Latin America and Caribbean Region, originally joining Bacardi in 2013 as Marketing Director for Mexico. There he supported brands across the portfolio including Bacardĺ rum, Grey Goose Vodka, Bombay Sapphire, Dewar’s Scotch Whiskey and Patrón Tequila.

“In addition to being a brilliant marketer, Roberto understands the value of consumer mindsets, and equally important, he gets Bacardi. He knows our people, our culture and brings a strong track record of collaborating that is key to continue unlocking even greater growth for the brand across the globe,” says Ned Duggan.

Roberto rejoins the brand from Mastercard in Latin America and the Caribbean where he served as Senior Vice President Marketing and Communications for the last four years.

“I am thrilled to be back at Bacardi and to work with the incredibly talented team who has been building and leading the brand. Together, I know we will build Bacardi’s next great story,” says Roberto Ramirez Laverde.

Originally from Mexico, Roberto is fluent in Spanish, a father of four girls and a multi-awarded marketer, including “1 of the 10 most Effective Marketers in Latin America” and most recently, “Best Regional Marketer in Latin America” by Adlatina, an AdAge partner.

Beam Suntory Launches Regenerative Agave Program for Carbon Capture in Tequila Industry

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Beam Suntory recently announced that it is launching a first-of-its-kind pilot programme within the tequila industry to explore regenerative agricultural practices in the agave fields near its Casa Sauza operations in Jalisco, Mexico. The programme has the potential to reveal new opportunities to improve carbon capture and supports Beam Suntory’s Proof Positive sustainability agenda and commitment to achieving net zero emissions in direct operations by 2030.

In partnership with environmental professional services company Red BioTerra, the pilot programme will explore methods of maximising carbon capture in agave fields by introducing additional plants, which absorb carbon during the day, between rows of agave, which absorbs carbon at night to avoid water loss. If successful, this method is expected to neutralise 50% of Casa Sauza’s emissions by 2026, and 100% by 2030.

“This marks an exciting step toward more sustainably sourcing the highest quality agave for our renowned Casa Sauza tequila, ultimately benefitting the environment through the power of regenerative agriculture,” said Kim Marotta, Global Vice President of Environmental Sustainability, Beam Suntory. “We are proud to be working toward our sustainability commitments with cutting-edge initiatives across our entire family of brands.”

The pilot programme is the latest development in Casa Sauza’s long-held commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The tequila brand has one of the industry’s lowest water usage rates and is working toward further reducing water, energy and waste at its facilities through continuous production improvements and new technologies – including switching from fuel oil to natural gas. Casa Sauza is also part of the Charco Bendito Project, through which it supports the restoration and protection of a sub-basin of the Lerma–Santiago River and promotes reforestation, soil conservation and recharging the aquifer.

“Caring for the environment is a core value in our pursuit to produce the finest tequila,” said Servando Calderon, General Manager Tequila Operations, Casa Sauza. “We are proud to be kicking off this new pilot programme, which has the potential to capture more than 36,800 tons of carbon per year – leading to healthier soil, increased biodiversity and reduced soil erosion.”

Results from the pilot programme, which is inspired and supported by parent company Suntory Holdings’ Growing for Good initiative, are anticipated by the end of its first year of study, with the potential to extend for an additional seven years.

Carlsberg Group appoints new Chief Executive Officer

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The Carlsberg Group recently announced that Jacob Aarup-Andersen will join Carlsberg as Chief Executive Officer, replacing Cees ’t Hart, who will retire by the end of Q3 2023 at the latest. His starting date will be announced later.

Jacob Aarup-Andersen, who is Danish, joins Carlsberg from ISS A/S, where he has served as CEO since 2020. ISS is a global leader in facility management with 360,000 employees operating in 60 countries globally. At ISS, Jacob has led a financial turnaround and the development of a strategy with a core focus on technology and digitisation, sustainability and diversity, equity and inclusion. During his tenure at ISS, the company has regained its growth momentum, with 2022 results above expectations. Prior to ISS, Jacob had senior leadership roles at Danske Bank and Danica Pension. Before that, Jacob worked as an investment professional in firms such as Danske Capital, TPX-Axon Capital, Montrica Investment Management and Goldman Sachs.

Chair of Carlsberg’s Supervisory Board Henrik Poulsen says, “As part of our ongoing succession planning, the Board has been through a comprehensive assessment of CEO candidates from around the world, with Jacob Aarup-Andersen emerging as the best candidate. Jacob is an outstanding CEO with a strong track record in delivering shareholder value and organic and inorganic growth in addition to driving the ESG and digitisation agendas.

“Jacob brings a unique blend of excellent strategic skills, financial acumen and discipline, global operational experience and an engaging and purpose-led leadership style. We’re pleased that he’ll be leading the next stage of Carlsberg’s value-creating growth journey, and we’re looking forward to welcoming him at Carlsberg.”

Jacob Aarup-Andersen says, “I’m really looking forward to joining Carlsberg, a truly iconic company. I’ve always admired the unique heritage and strong values of Carlsberg and look forward to building further on that great foundation. The Group’s strong international presence as well as its brand portfolio and ambitious ESG agenda, combined with the long-term mind-set and the values of giving back to society through the Carlsberg Foundation, are truly inspiring.

“I’m very impressed with the successful journey that Carlsberg has been on these past years. Cees and the leadership team have created a strong foundation, both financially and strategically, and I will continue the strong shareholder value focus. I’m looking forward to working with the team over the coming years to further accelerate the full growth and value creation of this unique company.”

The Macallan reveals a new edition of The Harmony Collection celebrating the world of coffee

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The Macallan has recently unveiled the second edition of The Harmony Collection- Smooth Arabica. This limited annual release will be available exclusively at the Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad International Duty Free stores from March 2023.

Driven by the brand’s inherent curiosity and its innovative and creative mindset, each release features distinctive packaging that incorporates organic by-products and gives them new life.

This new Collection celebrates the world of coffee and is inspired by the Ethiopian Arabica coffee bean. Its hybrid packaging was created using repurposed and recycled materials including discarded coffee bean husks.

The Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner has created the intensely flavoured whisky to pair with coffee. He immersed himself in the art of coffee by hosting a masterclass with world renowned coffee experts at The Macallan Estate.

Among the coffee masters who shared their knowledge with Steven were Ethiopian coffee grower Kenean Asefa Dukamo, whose family works with the Arabica variety showcased by the whiskey; Scottish coffee roaster Lisa Lawson, a pioneer of speciality coffee in Scotland acclaimed for her roasting techniques; and award-winning American barista Andrea Allen, renowned for creating incredible coffee experiences. UK-based coffee artist Dhan Tamang crafted a range of coffee art, sharing his knowledge on the art of the perfect coffee serve and sensory perceptions, while leading coffee historian Professor Jonathan Morris provided an insight into the roots of coffee and how it has become the global phenomenon it is today.

Steven selected a combination of American and European oak casks to achieve the distinctive notes offered by this single malt. Smooth Arabica conveys the flavours of a gently spiced and soft americano which come through at an ABV of 40% which can be paired with coffee to provide a new way to savour The Macallan.

This expression is presented in a presentation box, which incorporates repurposed coffee bean husks, a by-product in the coffee-making process. Paper expert Michele Posocco from Italian paper mill Favini worked with The Macallan to create the innovative packaging. The vibrant green on the Smooth Arabica pack represents the unroasted coffee bean.