Distiller William Grant has borrowed techniques used for malt whiskies to introduce two new innovative blends. Grant's Ale Cask Reserve and Sherry Cask Reserve have been created to breath life into the premium blended market. The final flavours of the two have been determined by putting the spirit into casks which have contained sherry, and ale. It is common practice for malts to be finished in port, sherry or bourbon casks, but the technique has never been used for a blend. The Ale Cask Reserve has gone into casks which previously held Edinburgh Strong Ale from the Caledonian Brewery and its partner was finished in sherry casks. Both are packaged in William Grant's distinctive triangular bottles and will retail at £12.99. The concept has been well received by the trade and the major multiples and specialists have agreed to list the blends from this month. William Grant and its distributor, First Drinks Brands, are planning to support the launch by advertising in the broadsheets which will be weighted to London and the south east and Scotland. This will run up to and beyond Christmas. The ads will be backed up by a promotional campaign which is now being developed. First Drinks believes the Cask Reserves will interest existing blended whisky drinkers who will be attracted by the point of difference. It hopes men under 35 will add it to their drinks repertoire and women will be attracted by the sweeter finish of the Sherry Cask Reserve. Marketing manager Alec Guthrie said research indicated the new launches would not compete directly with Grant's flagship blend, Family Reserve. He said their addition would create a halo effect and raise the profile of the Grant's brand and the blended whisky category. {{DRINKS }}