Passengers on board the Viking Line Cinderella got a rare chance to observe one of sport’s most iconic trophies being showcased by Loch Lomond Whiskies.
The Claret Jug was presented alongside the range of premium Scotch whiskies from Loch Lomond, Glen Scotia and Littlemill at the event - one of the biggest events in the calendar for whisky enthusiasts which sees more than 5,000 guests sail from Stockholm to Mariehamn.
As part of the experience, travellers became some of the first to sample the latest editions in the range inspired by Loch Lomond Whiskies’ five-year partnership with The Open, golf’s original championship, including the 19yo Loch Lomond Open Course Royal Portrush Collection. The expression has been created in partnership with Darren Clarke, the 2011 Open Champion and Loch Lomond Whiskies’ brand ambassador. Matured in American Oak, the expression maintains its fruit character with notes of honey sweetness and other tropical fruits coming to the fore.
A Loch Lomond Single Cask and Loch Lomond vintage 1999, which was created in honour of golf ambassador Paul Lawrie was also brought on board the ship.
The independent distiller, based in Alexandria, near Loch Lomond, also used the opportunity to unveil two new travel retail exclusives for its Glen Scotia and Littlemill brands. Glen Scotia Vintage 1991 and Littlemill Vintage 1992 featured as part of a sampling masterclass delivered by brand ambassador Ibon Mendiguren.
André de Almeida, managing director for global travel retail, Loch Lomond Group, said: “As we returned to the Viking Line Whisky Fair for the third consecutive year, we did so as the official Spirit of The Open – a unique position which allowed us to bring more than just our range of premium Scotch whiskies.
“To have the iconic Claret Jug showcased at our stand was an incredible sight for those on board the ship. We have an exciting year ahead, as we travel to Portrush for the 148th Open and the Viking Line Fair marks the beginning of our 2019 golf activations.”
Loch Lomond Group were joined by more than 550 whisky brands presenting at the festival.
André de Almeida continued: “The Nordic market is expanding, and the Viking Line Whisky Fair presents a fantastic opportunity to showcase the diversity of our Scotch whisky brands. Working in partnership with our GTR Nordic Distributor Five Eyes, we were able to bring a variety of styles and flavours, from the ghost distillery of Littlmill, to the innovative Loch Lomond distillery and the seaside influence of Campbeltown where our historic Glen Scotia originates.”




