The Highland tourist tax: Is Scotland pricing out whisky tourists? Whisky The latest available data from the Scottish Tourism Economic Activity Monitor in Scotland (STEAM) shows that between 2012 and 2024, visitor numbers to the Highlands increased 82 per cent to 9.4m. Spending increased by a similar amount, to £2.1bn. A large share of that is directly linked to the Scotch whisky sector. You’d think, therefore, [...]
Fielden: Crafting a modern whisky brand Whisky This month’s issue of Whisky Business, City AM’s monthly look at the world of whisky, takes a look at a new English whisky brand, Fielden Spend five minutes online looking for confirming evidence, and you’ll find plenty of commentary arguing that consumers the world over are drinking and spending less on alcohol. However, the underlying, real-world data [...]
Two centuries of Old Pulteney Whisky This month’s issue of Whisky Business, City AM’s monthly look at the world of whisky, examines the history of Old Pulteney If there’s one Whisky that encapsulates the rugged beauty of Scotland’s Highlands and its coastal areas more than anything else, it’s Old Pulteney. Founded by James Henderson, a serial whisky entrepreneur, in 1826 to supply fishermen [...]
The World of Fine Spirits launches with a focus on ultra-premium coverage June 30, 2026 Whisky Business: City AM’s monthly look at the world of whisky. Here, Alex Martin, editor of the new publication, The World of Fine Spirits, takes a look at what it takes to succeed in a tough industry. It’s hard to know which industry is more under threat: spirits or journalism. The former is facing a generational shift in [...]
How The Macallan mastered the long game June 11, 2026 This month’s issue of Whisky Business, City AM’s monthly look at the world of whisky, takes a look at The Macallan and its unique ownership structure. The Macallan is one of the most iconic Scotch whisky brands, having carved out a niche for itself at the luxury end of the market. Bottles have consistently broken records at [...]
The Lakes Distillery launches a new limited-release single malt May 28, 2026 The Lakes Distillery has earned a reputation for award-winning, exceptional English whiskies, taking home four gold medals for its Galáxia, Isadora, and Decadence expressions, as well as The One Fine Blended Whisky in 2024. In 2025, the distillery built on this record with the launch of its first permanent style of sherry-led whisky, Signature. It [...]
Tormore Distillery’s renewed focus on fruit-forward whisky May 14, 2026 Whisky Business: City AM’s monthly look at the world of whisky. When it opened its doors in 1960, Tormore became one of the first new distilleries of the 20th century. Built by drinks conglomerate Schenley, it became known as the ‘pearl of Speyside’ thanks to its size and unique art deco design. Schenley wanted a showpiece, [...]
Four Tequilas and Mezcals you need to try May 14, 2026 From bright Tequilas to smoky Mezcals and the rustic character of Raicilla, agave spirits span a wide and intriguing spectrum of flavours and styles from Mexico and beyond. Here are four vibrant agave spirits for seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike available at the Whisky Exchange. Did you know there is a hidden distillery school [...]
Diageo launches the new Scotch whisky Rare Series aimed at private clients April 30, 2026 Diageo has unveiled a new high-end whisky collection as it doubles down on its push into the global luxury spirits market. The drinks giant has introduced the Rare Series, a collection of Scotch whiskies aimed at private clients and collectors. The initial release includes five single malts drawn from distilleries across Scotland. The range features [...]
Cognac: The storied history of France’s luxury spirit April 16, 2026 Whisky Business: City AM’s monthly look at the world of whisky. This week, a look at the world of Cognac. Cognac is one of the world’s most storied spirits. Created around 500 years ago, more out of necessity than anything else, Cognac is today associated with luxury, high-end quality and refined craftsmanship. The story of its [...]