TROON GAINS DISTILLERS APPROVAL

Troon spring barley has received full approval from the Institute of Brewers [IOB] for the northern region. This area encompasses, north Wales and Northern Ireland, Northumberland, Cumbria and all of Scotland.

"We're delighted that Troon has gained full approval," says Lee Robinson of Troon's breeder Nickerson. "It's our first variety since Pearl or Decanter to receive IOB backing, so we're doubly pleased."

Alan Macdonald, procurement manager for Diageo is also happy to see Troon on the IOB approval list. "Troon is very attractive to the malt whisky distilling industry," he explains. "Its large grain size and relative earliness in ripening will be of particular interest to growers who are committed to quality markets within Scotland. The variety is already set to command a significant market share within our procurement programme during the next year." 

Troon has completed successful trials at Diageo distilleries during the past year, the results of which have given them the confidence to progress with it for 2005 and beyond.

Mr Macdonald adds: "We are already making plans for grower contracts for Harvest 2005, when we expect to contract around 80000 tonnes for specific malt whisky production throughout our sites in Scotland."

 For further information contact:

Frank Curtis on 01472 371471 or fcurtis@nickerson.co.uk or go to www.nickersonuk.com