The 1890 vintage was discovered in the Heering cellars in Denmark where it had been perfectly aged since production more than 120 years ago. Only a few bottles were found, all perfectly preserved in original casks, hand packed in wooden casings, and exquisitely marked with the original Royal Arms as purveyors to The Royal Danish and Imperial Russian courts as well as his Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales. The exact value of the rare blend is currently unknown, but estimated to be worth over $100,000.
To explore the vintage’s quality, a tasting was organized in May at The Campbell Apartment in New York City with some of the industry’s top experts. The panel included Jörgen Tilander, owner of the Cherry Heering brand; Jackson Cannon, famed New England mixologist; Akiko Katayama; former Iron Chef Judge and renowned international author; and Tony Abu Ganim, a pioneer in the spirit world. The vintage rating was based on five factors including: mouth feel, stretch on the palette, degree of sweetness, post resonance, and overall balance.
“This vintage is really well kept, providing notes of chocolate and cigar - as if they really rolled everything into the whole spirit,” noted panelist Ganim. “I was eager to see how long it can be aged and still maintain a refined taste. It is deep, more rounded, more impactful – this is my favorite.”
To everyone’s delight the blend was in immaculate condition, prompting the charitybuzz online auction and Sotheby’s live event. All proceeds will benefit the charity organization DIFFA, Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids. Fashion has been the communication platform for the Cherry Heering brand for quite some time, and this is an opportunity for them to give back.
About CHERRY HEERING®
Cherry Heering lays claim to being one of the best all-time classic and quality tasting brands. The liqueur, purveyor to H.M. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark and H.M. Queen Elizabeth II of the U.K., is the original cherry brandy found in classic cocktails including the Singapore Sling and the Blood & Sand. Cherry Heering, a product of Denmark, is one of the world's first brands to reach a global market. It has traveled the globe on a victorious course, gaining a foothold even in the most remote areas. Today, you will find Cherry Heering in more than 100 markets worldwide. Since its launch in 1818, Cherry Heering’s original recipe has been upheld without any artificial ingredients, colors, or flavors.
Star Mixologist Dale DeGroff is joining forces with Cherry Heering and he'll treat the auction winner to a special tasting and mixology class! The lucky winner will get to meet the man himself and have a unique tasting prepared just for them. With Cherry Heering’s rich history in mind Dale might teach you how to mix up Queen Victoria's favorite Cherry Heering cocktail that she used to drink in the colonies, or perhaps Rudolf Valentino’s favorite the Blood & Sand!
In keeping with the theme of DIFFA's Be Present auction, the winner will also receive a surprise present to complement this extraordinary experience!