Samuel Gulliver’s celebrates England rugby
English whisky producer Samuel Gulliver’s has unveiled an expression that marks 20 years since the men’s England team won the Rugby World Cup.
The Fine Drop is a celebration of England Rugby’s ‘finest drop goal’, which was scored by Jonny Wilkinson in the 2003 World Cup final, and subsequently took the team to victory. Founder Stuart Gulliver said: “We are absolutely delighted to be unveiling our latest expression: The Fine Drop. “This exceptional English whisky pays homage to the historic moment when England's rugby team clinched victory against Australia with an unforgettable drop goal to become world champions.” The single malt English whisky joins Samuel Gulliver’s England’s No. 6 Single Malt Whisky as one of the ‘official whiskies’ of England Rugby. It has been matured in ex-red wine French oak casks from Margaux, Bordeaux, which gives the spirit roasted aromas of dark cherry and lightly spiced currant. It is said to have a dry, red berry finish. The French red wine casks were chosen as a nod to the host nation of this year’s Rugby World Cup, which began on 8 September. Gulliver’s claims to be the first English whisky company to release a Margaux cask-finished whisky. Bottled at 46% ABV, The Fine Drop is now available for RRP £79 (US$99) and is available through the Samual Gulliver’s online store as well as through retail specialists. Last week, two former England rugby players launched their own gin brand, called Blackeye.
