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10 March 2005

Black Watch Toast to Success of the 2005 Malt Whisky Trail

One of The Black Watch’s most flamboyant figures yesterday journeyed north to toast the success of the 2005 Malt Whisky Trail and receive a commemorative cask of fine malt whisky.

Glen Moray Distillery in Elgin presented The Black Watch’s Pipe Major Duthie with a specially selected cask of its newly distilled spirit, in recognition of the bravery displayed by the historic regiment during the Iraq conflict and to mark the distillery’s first year as a member of the World’s only Malt Whisky Trail.

Speyside in Moray is home to more than half of Scotland’s distilleries and a cooperage, and the area’s unique and stunning scenery, dramatic coastline and historic villages draw in thousands of visitors to the area each year.

Pipe Major Duthie said: “Whisky production means everything to the area and the livelihood of its inhabitants. I can say on behalf of the Black Watch that we are honoured to be presented with such a fine gift and we give our famous toast for good luck – Deoch Slainte` Mhath, Agus Slainte’ An Ban Righ, Agus Slainte’ Mhath Do Na Huile’. This means - Here’s a great health, and health to the Queen, and great health to the company (everyone that is present).

Edwin Dodson, Distillery Manager at Glen Moray, said: “Our distillery has historic links with the Black Watch and we have been proud to feature the regiment on our 16 year old malt for the last 20 years. We are honoured to have this opportunity to recognise the vital role played by our armed forces across the world.”

Charles Currie, Aberdeen and Grampian Tourist Board’s leisure marketing manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome Glen Moray Distillery as a new partner on the World’s only Malt Whisky Trail.

“The trail continues to be very popular with visitors and provides a unique selling point for Moray as Scotland’s Whisky Country – a position which is undeniable given the number of distilleries in the area and the reputation of the Speyside single malts.

“The addition of Glen Moray will help to broaden the trail’s appeal and geographic spread and will reinforce Moray’s position as the leading whisky destination in the world.”

Benromach Distillery in Forres joined the Malt Whisky Trail only five years ago and its place on the trail has been a key contributor to the success of its Visitor Centre.

Ian Chapman, Benromach’s Marketing Controller, said: "After laying dormant for 15 years and following extensive refurbishment, Benromach Distillery and Visitor Centre joined the Malt Whisky Trail in August 2000.
“The Malt Whisky Trail gives Benromach an excellent opportunity to access national and international markets and it is an important contributor to our visitor numbers each year."

250,000 copies of the new Malt Whisky Trail brochures will be distributed throughout the UK and Europe. Anyone interested in visiting the World’s only malt whisky trail can call 0845 2255121 for the new Malt Whisky Trail booklet or visit the website at www.maltwhiskytrail.com.

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