The Headliner - the Ninth ‘Icons of Wales’ commemorates David Lloyd George Wales’ only UK Prime Minister. David Lloyd George was known for making more headlines than any other 20th century statesman, hence the name “The Headliner”.
David Lloyd George accidentally created the Welsh premium whisky as we know it today. He did so during the first World War by passing the Immature Spirits Act of 1915. This restricted opening hours for alcohol sales and raised the taxation as he felt the heavy drinking was doing more damage to the population than all the enemy submarines put together. The result was that whisky was sitting in casks for longer before being bottled and sold. The difference in taste was dramatic and news spread about the new tastes and textures in whisky developed as a result of longer cask time all thanks to David Lloyd George.
“David Lloyd George is widely remembered for social reformation and for his leadership towards the end of World War I, But, those of us in the Welsh whisky industry remember the choices he made to kickstart premium spirits in Wales – even though the whisky boom was an after-effect of his reforms! Lloyd George actively restricted distilleries and public houses with higher taxes and opening hours. That meant any whisky distilled across Wales was essentially fermenting for longer – meaning we ended up with premium spirits completely by accident.” ~ Stephen Davies, CEO for Penderyn.
Penderyn - The Headliner
- Bottled at 46% ABV
- Master whisky maker: Aista Jukneviciute
Matured in ex rum and port casks, The Headliner has quite a fruity nose with touches of nutmeg, oak and red berries. It’s full and sweet on the palate, offering hints of salted caramel and black pepper for extra spice.
“The Headliner is one of our most daring creations of the past decade, I think it reflects the surprising changes that unfolded during Lloyd George’s time in charge. This is a whisky that isn’t afraid to show you something new, and to stand apart from tried and tested standards. You may expect it to taste a certain way, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised once you’ve tried its wonderful finish” ~ Stephen Davies, CEO for Penderyn.
Oddly enough the 10th release in the series was announced prior to this one in mid August.
