Emporia takes helm of Cutty Sark

Emporia Brands and Berry Bros & Rudd have

agreed to appoint

Emporia as the UK distributor for Scotch whisky brand Cutty Sark.

Simon Berry, chairman of Berry Bros & Rudd, said: "Cutty Sark is unique because it was the first whisky to be launched [in 1923] by a specialist wine merchant ."

Emporia's chairman, James Rackham, added: "I believe that the time is now right to reintroduce Cutty Sark in the UK . I am confident that we can soon establish the brand in the growing premium sector as a high quality whisky with a subtle and elegant taste that suits today's consumer."

Cutty Sark is made from a selection of

more than 20 single malt whiskies, predominantly from Speyside, which are blended with grain whiskies. The range includes Cutty Sark Original (rrp £15.99) and Cutty Sark Blended Malt (£19.99).

The brand will

celebrate its 85th birthday this month with tastings in pubs and London restaurants. It has also teamed up with TheDrinkShop.com and mixology expert Andy Pearson to

hold a cocktail-creating competition using Cutty Sark as the main ingredient.