Yorkshire based Filey Bay’s inaugural single malt whisky distillery team is reveling in triumph as it basks in the glory of its remarkable achievements at a distinguished global whisky competition.
A remarkable feat transpired as Spirit of Yorkshire, headquartered in Hunmanby, was awarded a constellation of gold medals for its Filey Bay single malt whiskies in the esteemed 2023 World Whisky Masters Competition. Seven of their finely crafted concoctions claimed the golden accolade, shining amidst the global competition.
The bestowed gold medals adorned the bottles of Filey Bay Flagship, Filey Bay STR Finish #3, Filey Bay Moscatel Finish #3, Filey Bay Port Finish #1, Filey Bay Sherry Cask Reserve #3, Filey Bay Double Oak #2, and Filey Bay Peated Finish Batch #3. This remarkable accomplishment didn't go unnoticed, with judges commending the latter for its subtle undercurrents of "candied ginger" and a "gentle smoky aura."
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Joe Clark, Spirit of Yorkshire's Whisky Director, expressed, "We courageously submitted seven of our prized creations in the Europe (excluding Ireland and Scotland): Single Malt category. It is a true source of delight and immense pride that we triumphed in seizing seven out of the 19 gold medals presented within this category. Remarkably, we stand among a mere quartet of English whisky distilleries that achieved this prestigious gold accolade."
Spirit of Yorkshire's Co-founder and MD, David Thompson, concurred, conveying, "After patiently awaiting the maturation of our spirit into bona fide single malt whisky, it is nothing short of exhilarating to comprehend that the expertise of our offerings has been lauded by industry luminaries. It is a testament to our heart and soul that our spirit's character and maturation have ignited fervent admiration within the industry."
The World Whisky Masters competition, a distinguished undertaking orchestrated by the revered spirits magazine and digital haven, The Spirits Business, is where these triumphs unfolded.
Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery stands as the cradle of Yorkshire's pioneering single malt whisky, the acclaimed Filey Bay. It occupies a coveted position as one of the precious few field-to-bottle distilleries worldwide that meticulously cultivates 100% of the barley integral to its whisky production. As the spotlight turns toward their gold-adorned bottles, Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery exemplifies the epitome of craftsmanship and the artistry of whiskey production.
About Filey Bay
Filey Bay, a name that resonates with the essence of Yorkshire's picturesque coastlines and the craftsmanship of single malt whisky, is an offering from the esteemed Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery. Situated in Hunmanby, Yorkshire, this distillery stands as a beacon of innovation and tradition, crafting whiskies that encapsulate the spirit of the region and the dedication of its creators.
Crafting a Unique Identity:
Filey Bay is not just a whisky; it's a tribute to the coastal beauty and character of Yorkshire. The name itself draws inspiration from the scenic Filey Bay, which stretches along the North Sea and captures the rugged charm of the Yorkshire coast. This geographical connection is integral to the whisky's identity, echoing the influence of the region's climate, culture, and terroir.
Field-to-Bottle Excellence:
What sets Filey Bay apart is its commitment to a field-to-bottle approach. Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery takes pride in cultivating 100% of the barley used in its whisky production. This meticulous attention to detail allows them to have complete control over the raw materials, ensuring that every element contributing to the whisky's flavor profile is carefully nurtured.
Variety and Craftsmanship:
The Filey Bay range encompasses a diverse array of expressions, each reflecting different facets of the distillery's expertise and creativity. From the flagship Filey Bay expression to various finishes and cask types, each whisky is an exploration of flavors, aromas, and nuances that pay homage to the maturation process, cask influence, and the mastery of the distiller.
Innovation and Tradition:
While deeply rooted in tradition, Filey Bay also embraces innovation. The distillery's pursuit of excellence is demonstrated through its experimentation with different casks, finishes, and techniques. This blend of tradition and innovation results in whiskies that are a bridge between the classic and the contemporary, appealing to a wide spectrum of whisky enthusiasts.
Recognition and Acclaim:
The accolades received by Filey Bay whiskies, including prestigious gold medals at international competitions, are a testament to their quality and craftsmanship. The distillery's dedication to producing exceptional single malt whiskies has garnered attention from experts and aficionados alike.
A Taste of Yorkshire:
When enjoying a glass of Filey Bay whisky, one can anticipate a sensory journey that captures the essence of the Yorkshire coastline. The whiskies often feature notes that evoke the sea breeze, the warmth of coastal flora, and the character of the rugged landscape.
In summary, Filey Bay is more than just a whisky brand; it's a manifestation of Yorkshire's soul, distilled into liquid form. With its field-to-bottle philosophy, commitment to quality, and reverence for tradition, Filey Bay pays homage to the coastal beauty, culture, and craftsmanship that define the region. It's a whisky that invites enthusiasts to savor not only the spirit within the bottle but also the rich tapestry of Yorkshire's heritage.
About The World Whisky Masters Competition
The World Whisky Masters Competition stands as a prestigious and globally recognized event that reverberates throughout the spirits industry. Organized by The Spirits Business, a renowned international spirits magazine and digital platform, this competition brings together a panel of expert judges, distillers, and industry professionals to evaluate and celebrate the finest whiskies from around the world.
Celebrating Excellence:
The primary objective of the World Whisky Masters is to recognize and celebrate excellence in the realm of whisky production. It provides distilleries and brands with an unparalleled platform to showcase their craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication to producing exceptional whiskies.
Diverse Categories:
One of the remarkable aspects of the competition is its comprehensive range of categories. The competition encompasses a multitude of whisky styles, including single malt, blended whisky, bourbon, rye, and more. This diversity ensures that various expressions, techniques, and traditions are duly acknowledged and honored.
Blind Tasting Evaluation:
The evaluation process of the World Whisky Masters is characterized by its commitment to impartiality and objectivity. All entries are subjected to a blind tasting, where the judges evaluate the whiskies solely on their merits, without any knowledge of the brand or distillery behind them. This approach ensures that the assessment is based solely on the sensory experience each whisky delivers.
Expert Panel:
The panel of judges comprises seasoned experts with profound knowledge and experience in the whisky industry. These judges possess a discerning palate, an understanding of traditional and contemporary techniques, and an appreciation for the nuances that define exceptional whiskies.
Award Levels:
The competition bestows awards at various levels of distinction. Whiskies are evaluated based on their quality, character, and adherence to style. The awards range from gold medals to master medals, with master medals being the pinnacle of achievement, reserved for whiskies that exhibit exceptional mastery and craftsmanship.
Global Impact:
Winning an award at the World Whisky Masters carries immense significance within the industry. The accolades provide brands and distilleries with validation and recognition for their dedication to producing outstanding whiskies. Additionally, the competition's reach and credibility extend globally, amplifying the impact of the awards.
In conclusion, the World Whisky Masters Competition is more than a competition; it's a platform that elevates the artistry of whisky production to new heights. It celebrates the diversity, innovation, and heritage of the whisky world, while also serving as a benchmark for excellence. As the global whisky community eagerly awaits the results of each edition, the World Whisky Masters continues to shape the narrative of exceptional whiskies and distilleries on an international scale.
