Glenfarclas marks 190th anniversary with limited-edition release

Tuesday 28 July: Glenfarclas Distillery today marks its 190th anniversary with the release of a limited-edition bottling featuring five decades of whisky laid down by the family-owned distillery.

Glenfarclas 190, the final release in the Anniversary Trilogy, marks 190 years of distilling, taking consumers on a flavour journey spanning five decades. Reflecting the true full-bodied and robust character of Glenfarclas Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, the release is bottled at 51.4% ABV – formerly 90 British proof by the system used to indicate alcohol content for the first 154 years of production at the distillery.

Distillery Manager Callum Fraser said of the new whisky: “Glenfarclas 190 perfectly embodies the flavour of Glenfarclas – from the smooth, rich, velvety feel on the mouth to the flavours of green apples, sherry sweetness, spicy Christmas cake and long finish with a touch of dark chocolate and fresh tobacco. By drawing on spirit across five decades, we were able to pull out the fruitier notes from the 70s, rich sherried flavours from the 80s and 90s, and the toffee caramel notes from casks laid down in the 2000s.”

The release of Glenfarclas 190 follows the Speyside distillery’s anniversary expressions, Glenfarclas 175 and Glenfarclas 185. Presented in bespoke packaging inspired by labels through the decades, the release celebrates the distillery’s rich heritage and tells the story of its long and distinguished history. The liquid was hand-selected by Distillery Manager Callum Fraser, who was named Scotland’s Master Distiller of the Year at the 2026 Icons of Whisky Awards, alongside Managing Director Douglas Belford, who was recognised as a Master of the Quaich in 2025. Together, they selected the casks that make up this release, creating a whisky that reflects both the exceptional quality and traditional character of Glenfarclas.

Fraser continued: “In creating Glenfarclas 190, Douglas and I reviewed the incredible volume of casks in our warehouses and selected 78 casks to marry together to create this finished whisky. Testament to the traditional methods we use at Glenfarclas, including our direct fired stills, we hand selected each spirit and created a composition based on over 60 years’ industry experience. Balancing the creation of a whisky that’s 90 British proof with getting the flavour profile we wanted was intricate work, all done by hand and without the technology many modern distilleries rely on. It’s this ability to start with a blank canvas and uncover different flavours across our casks, experiment with volumes and marrying, and produce something uniquely Glenfarclas, that makes my job so fulfilling.”

Since it was first licensed in 1836, Glenfarclas Distillery has laid down its spirit in the finest sherry casks, sourced in recent decades from a family-run bodega in Jerez, Spain. Remaining true to its traditional direct-fired distillation methods, Glenfarclas continues to produce a spirit that is a testament to the time-honoured craftsmanship and expertise passed down through six generations of the Grant family.

John Grant OBE, chairman of Glenfarclas Distillery, added: “Celebrating 190 years of distilling at Glenfarclas is a proud moment. As custodians for six generations, our commitment to producing the finest single malt whiskies using traditional methods remains steadfast.”

A limited release, 15,000 bottles of Glenfarclas 190 will be released globally and will be available to purchase in the UK and international markets from August 2026 with a UK RRP of £95. Non chill filtered, and with no added colourings, Glenfarclas 190 offers a journey through 190 years of whisky production at Glenfarclas.

For more information on Glenfarclas Distillery visit www.glenfarclas.com.

About Glenfarclas

Glenfarclas Distillery was first licensed in 1836, and the Grant family has been producing the finest Highland single malt Scotch whisky, renowned across the world, at Glenfarclas Distillery since 1865. Located in the heart of Speyside, the independent family-owned and managed distillery creates handcrafted single malts using traditional distillation and maturation methods. Glenfarclas has two core ranges that can be purchased globally: the Aged Range and the Family Cask Range along with special limited-edition whiskies. The oldest family-owned distillery in Speyside, family members are, and always will be, fully involved in each and every element of the business.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Honors Sen. Stephen West With Top “100 Proof” Award

FRANKFORT, KY.— The Kentucky Distillers’ Association is honoring Sen. Stephen West with its prestigious “100 Proof Award” for his bold leadership in championing landmark legislation to support and strengthen Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Sen. West, R-Paris, was the primary sponsor of Senate Bill 50 in 2024, which allows Kentucky craft distillers to self-distribute up to 5,000 of their products annually – a transformational change for small and emerging distilleries across the Commonwealth.

KDA President Eric Gregory praised Sen. West’s leadership.

“Senator West understands that our craft distillers are entrepreneurs who need smart, targeted reforms like this to compete and grow,” he said. “Senate Bill 50 strikes that balance, preserving the integrity of Kentucky’s regulatory system while giving small businesses the tools they need to succeed.

“This forward-thinking policy strengthens rural economies, supports job creation and ensures the next generation of Kentucky distillers has the opportunity to thrive. On behalf of our members, we are proud to present Sen. West with our 100 Proof Award and thank him for his unwavering support of our craft.”

The KDA created the “100 Proof Award” in 2009 to recognize elected officials who exhibit exceptional care, diligence and initiative in promoting and protecting Kentucky Bourbon. Nominees must receive a unanimous vote from the KDA’s Governmental Affairs Advisory Group and the KDA Board of Directors.

It is the highest honor bestowed by the state’s iconic Bourbon industry on elected officials.

KDA officials recently presented Sen. West with a commemorative barrel head in Frankfort.

Previous recipients of the non-partisan award include U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, Gov. Andy Beshear, Senate President Robert Stivers, House Speaker David Osborne, Rep. Susan Westrom, Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer and more.

For a complete list, visit https://kybourbon.com/industry/advocacy/.

Bourbon is one of Kentucky’s most treasured signature industries, generating $10.6 billion in economic impact every year, supporting 24,000 workers with $2 billion in salaries and benefits, and pouring more than $370 million into local and state taxes.

Bourbon also plays a vital role in the state’s tourism efforts through the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure, attracting nearly 3 million visitors from all over the globe every year to this bucket-list phenomenon.

Visit www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com to learn more.

 Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon®.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon®. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging craft distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s signature spirit. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

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EDINBURGH WHISKY BUSINESS CROWNED SCOTLAND’S STARTUP OF THE YEAR 

Edinburgh, An Edinburgh whisky company that is redefining how people create and own Scotch whisky has been crowned Scotland’s Overall StartUp of the Year 2026 at the UK StartUp Awards.

Tailored Spirits Co., the Leith-based bespoke whisky specialists also secured the title of Scotland’s Food & Drink StartUp of the Year in the Food & Drink category of the awards, marking a major milestone in the company’s rapid rise since launching in 2024.

The awards recognise the UK’s most exciting emerging businesses and celebrate founders demonstrating innovation, commercial success and growth potential. Tailored Spirits impressed judges with its distinctive business model, strong commercial performance and ambitious vision for the future of Scottish whisky.

In feedback, the judging panel praised the company for its “rapid growth and distinctive approach to creating bespoke spirits for clients and brands”, highlighting its £2.35 million turnover, growing team of eight and strong early commercial progress.

The judges added: “The business has turned a specialist product idea into a serious food and drink operation. We recognised a startup with impressive execution, clear market demand and the capability to build a premium Scottish drinks business with wider growth potential.”

Founded by whisky entrepreneurs Adam Harding, Carl Johnstone and Tom Costello, Tailored Spirits Co. was created to give whisky enthusiasts, collectors, businesses and private clients access to a part of the Scotch whisky industry that has traditionally remained out of reach.

Rather than operating as a traditional independent bottler, the company guides clients through every stage of creating their own whisky project – from sourcing exceptional single casks and shaping maturation to designing labels, building brands and bottling finished products.

Today, Tailored Spirits works with private clients, luxury brands, hospitality groups and entrepreneurs around the world, helping them create bespoke Scotch whisky experiences and products tailored to their own stories and ambitions.

Carl Johnstone, Co-Founder of Tailored Spirits Co., said: “We are incredibly honoured to be named Scotland’s Overall StartUp of the Year. To receive this recognition among so many innovative and ambitious businesses is a proud milestone for our team and a reflection of the journey we’ve been on since launching Tailored Spirits Co.

“The evening was made even more special by also being named Scotland’s Food & Drink StartUp of the Year. To be recognised both within our sector and across the wider Scottish startup ecosystem is a tremendous achievement and one that means a great deal to us.

“When we founded Tailored Spirits Co., our vision was to create the world’s leading bespoke whisky company, offering clients access to exceptional single-cask Scotch whiskies through a truly personalised experience. These awards are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our amazing team, the trust our clients place in us, and the incredible support of our partners, suppliers and the wider Scottish whisky and entrepreneurial communities.

“Building a business is never done alone, and we’re hugely grateful to everyone who has played a part in our journey so far. While we’re honoured by this recognition and proud of what we’ve achieved, we firmly believe this is just the beginning of the Tailored Spirits Co. story.”

Tailored Spirits Co-founder, Tom Costello added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have won the Food & Drink category at the UK Startup Awards for Scotland, and even more honoured to walk away with the overall award for Best Scottish StartUp.

“It’s mad to think how far we’ve come. We started out in the back of my wife’s plant shop, with our newborn son being passed between me and the two co-founders, Adam and Carl, in between feeds and naps. None of this would have happened without the support of our families and friends right from the start, so thank you to everyone who helped us build this.

“I’m hugely grateful to our brilliant staff, our dedicated team, and the network of partners and suppliers who help us deliver such fantastic service to clients all over the world. Now I’m genuinely excited to head to Hertfordshire for Ideas Fest to represent Scotland. This win was totally unexpected, but I’m honoured to fly the flag for our country, and who knows, maybe we can go all the way!”

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans, Founder of the UK StartUp Awards, said: “All of the winners show exactly why the UK startup economy remains so exciting. They are not just coming up with clever ideas; they are building businesses with real purpose, commercial credibility and the potential to scale.

“What impressed the judges was the evidence behind their ambition, from customers and partnerships to investment, innovation, impact and growth. Across every region, we are seeing founders creating jobs, opening new markets and challenging established industries.”

Following its Scottish success, Tailored Spirits Co. will now represent Scotland at the UK StartUp Awards national final in September as part of Ideas Fest, where the country’s leading entrepreneurs, investors and business leaders come together to celebrate innovation and business growth.

Find out everything about Scotland’s most exciting bespoke whisky bottler here: https://www.tailoredspirits.co.uk/ 

The International Wine & Spirits Competition Releases Results for the North American Spirits and Ready-to-Drink (RTD) categories

Five Spirits Take Gold Outstanding, Including a 99 point Bourbon

LONDON (June 16, 2026) — The Olympics of the Drink Industry concluded in the Bourbon Capital of the World as spirits industry professionals from around the globe descended upon Bardstown, KY, to judge the IWSC’s (International Wine & Spirits Competition) North American Whiskey, Ready to Drink (RTD) competition on June 4-5, 2026.  After two days of sipping, spitting, and double-blind judging, they have released the results.

This is the first year the IWSC judging included the Rum category, and of those submitted, two rum entries achieved Gold Outstanding status.

Only Five Spirits Reached Gold Outstanding

• 99 Points – Lochs of Jura Barrel 10 YO Bourbon Whiskey by Bardstown Bourbon Company (Available at retail later this summer)
• 98 Points – Old Bardstown Bottled in Bond 4 YO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Willett Distillery
• 98 Points – Coors Whiskey Company Blended American Malt Whiskey 8 Years by Coors Spirits Company

The IWSC is considered the most prestigious of the spirit award competitions, with a very low overall medal rate, making it all the more meaningful for those brands that do take home the honors.  This year, only 1.3% of entrants received the top honor of Gold Outstanding at the North American competition.  A gold outstanding means the brand has scored between 98-100 points and is described as “an outstanding spirit with a naturally exceptional balance, complexity and power. An example that immediately sets itself apart from others in the category.”

Medals awarded include Gold Outstanding,Gold, Silver and Bronze.  In addition to the Gold Outstanding medals, judges also awarded 44 Gold medals and 176 Silver medals across all categories.

Overall, the judges were impressed by the quality of the submissions and the increasing diversity across North America’s spirits industry.  “Each year, there are more unique submissions and excellent liquids,” continued Davies. “The future looks very exciting for U.S. Whiskey, it was really good to see some whiskeys that were super balanced with some really great oak integration, and generally high quality, particularly within the Bourbon and Rye categories.” 

Top-scoring products advance to the prestigious Trophy Judging round. Winners are revealed at the IWSC Awards Celebration in November 2026 in London.

For a complete list of the 2026 North American tasting results, visit IWSC 2026 tasting results | IWSC

About the IWSC

Since 1969, the IWSC has set the global standard for beverage excellence. Known as the “Olympics of the drinks industry,” the IWSC evaluates more than 12,000 entries annually from 90-plus countries. Judges are key decision-makers in the industry, including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, Master Distillers and Senior Buyers. These experts assess wines, spirits and alternative drinks using a rigorous panel process that ensures fair evaluation. The IWSC stands out for its expert judging, consistent attention, comprehensive categories and global recognition. For producers, it offers benchmarking, recognition and business connections. For consumers, IWSC medals guide excellence in a wide selection of drinks.

Partners of IWSC’s Global Judging in Kentucky include: James B. Beam Distilling Co., Maker’s Mark, Angel’s Envy⁠, Heaven Hill Brands, Kentucky Eagle, Glencairn, Total Wine & More, Mint Experiences, and Buzick Construction.

About the IWSC Competition Global Judging

Since 2022, the IWSC has held in situ Global Judging events, an initiative introduced by Strategy and Business Development Director Christelle Guibert. The IWSC is proud to be the first international drinks competition to institute a series such as this. Until today, wine and spirits have been judged in Italy, Austria, Georgia, Turkey, Italy, Argentina, Australia, the United States, South Africa and China. The competition is committed to the initiative due to the opportunities it gives all producers in a region to take part, no matter what their size is, and allows for the drinks entered to be judged in context by judges who are up to date with the region and its most recent developments.

SCOTLAND’S LARGEST MULTI-CITY WHISKY FESTIVAL RETURNS

Scotland, August 2026; Scotland’s whisky scene will take centre stage from 20th August as Whisky Week returns, transforming Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh into Scotland’s largest whisky trail through a rolling programme of tastings, tours and exclusive experiences.

Running until 13th September, the festival invites whisky lovers to discover Scotland’s thriving whisky culture through specially curated menus, exclusive drams and unique experiences, while celebrating the country’s world-renowned whisky bars, distilleries and producers.

Whisky Week Dates

• Whisky Week Aberdeen: 20th-30th August 2026
• Whisky Week Glasgow: 27th August-6th September 2026
• Whisky Week Edinburgh: 3rd-13th September 2026

Unlike traditional whisky festivals, Whisky Week doesn’t take place in a single venue. Instead, visitors explore a trail of participating bars, with each one partnering with a different distillery or whisky brand to offer its own exclusive festival menu.

Participating venues include renowned whisky destinations such as The Pot Still, Teuchters Bar, Teuchters Landing, Port of Leith Distillery, The Black Cat, The Grill, The Tippling House and Aberdeen Whisky Shop, with a packed programme of tastings, events and exclusive experiences taking place throughout the festival.

Festival partners include Glenfiddich, Springbank, Glengoyne, Glen Moray, Kingsbarns, Kilchoman, Wemyss Malts, Caol Ila and Tamnavulin, alongside a growing line-up of independent Scotch whisky producers showcasing the diversity of Scotland’s whisky industry.

Gregor Sey, Co-Founder of Whisky Week, said: “Whisky has always been about more than what’s in the glass. It’s about the people you share it with, the stories behind every dram and the venues that bring Scotland’s whisky culture to life. Whisky Week was built around a simple idea: people we like, in places we like, with a drink we love.

“Whether you’re a lifelong whisky enthusiast or trying your first dram, Whisky Week is about discovering something new, supporting brilliant venues and enjoying great whisky in great company. We hope people leave having found a new favourite dram, a new favourite venue and a few great stories to take home with them.”

Every participating venue will offer at least one dram for £5 or less, while Whisky Week wristband holders unlock exclusive festival menus, tastings, tours and whisky experiences throughout the festival.

Whisky Week takes place in Aberdeen (20th-30th August), Glasgow (27th August-6th September) and Edinburgh (3rd-13th September). Advance wristbands are priced at £9 (£12 during each festival) and include access to every participating venue, exclusive festival menus, a printed Whisky Week guidebook and festival wristband.

Tickets for Whisky Week are available now at www.whiskyweek.co.uk.

Whisky Week is a multi-city whisky festival celebrating Scotland’s whisky culture through its bars, distilleries and people. Bringing together whisky lovers, venues and producers across Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh, the festival offers exclusive drams, curated menus, tastings and experiences designed to encourage discovery and connection.

W: https://whiskyweek.co.uk/
I: https://www.instagram.com/whiskyweekhq
F: facebook.com/whiskyweekhq
L: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/whiskyweek/

The House of Suntory’s Hibiki Whisky Debuts First Global Campaign: “The Masterpiece of Japanese Artistry”

The campaign features award–winning actress Anna Sawai and the historic Chiso kimono house to honor modern Japanese artistry across whisky, nature and kimono art

NEW YORK, NY, — The House of Suntory, the founding house of Japanese whisky, announces Hibiki Whisky’s first global campaign, “The Masterpiece of Japanese Artistry,” inviting consumers worldwide to experience key elements of Japanese culture through whisky, nature and contemporary artistry. Featuring internationally acclaimed and award–winning actress Anna Sawai in her debut as Hibiki’s first Global Ambassador, the campaign bridges tradition and modernity through a rare collaboration with one of Japan’s oldest-run kimono houses and pinnacle of luxury, Chiso kimono house.

At the heart of the campaign is a cinematic hero film that draws parallels between kimono-making and whisky blending, two crafts shaped by time and precision. Sawai appears as Hibiki’s Global Ambassador, wearing a kimono from the historic Chiso kimono house, crafted using traditional yuzen dyeing techniques and seasonal motifs inspired by Japan’s landscapes. Within the hero film, a butterfly rests on Anna’s hand, echoing the patterns of the Chiso kimono. Subtle yet symbolic, it becomes a thread throughout the campaign. The butterfly, a kokimurasaki (purple) motif, echoes Hibiki’s signature kokimurasaki hue, which is found on the neck of the bottle, and is one of Japan’s most noble colors.

Embodying both global influence and a deep appreciation for Japanese heritage, Sawai serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity, interpreting the quiet strength of Japanese culture for an international audience.

“Becoming Hibiki’s first Global Ambassador feels natural because we share the same reverence for Japanese artistry and the beauty found in patience, balance and detail,” says Sawai. “Hibiki represents a quiet kind of mastery, something refined over time with care and intention. As an actor, I’m drawn to that same philosophy of craft, where every choice is deliberate, and every moment matters. To represent a brand that embodies the harmony between nature, time and human artistry is incredibly meaningful to me.”

Complementing the hero film are two behind-the-scenes features exploring Sawai’s discovery of the beauty behind Hibiki and kimono-making, and how elements like water and time shape both.

The film follows Sawai to the Kyoto studio of renowned washi paper artist Eriko Horiki, who has handcrafted the washi labels adorning every Hibiki bottle since 1989. A hallmark of the brand’s visual identity, these labels give Hibiki its “face,” transforming water, fiber and time into something quietly beautiful and enduring. The other offers an intimate glimpse inside the historic Kyoto atelier of Chiso kimono house, where Sawai is shown an intricate kimono which she wears in the hero film and key campaign visuals.

Celebrated for its refined, complex flavor, Hibiki Whisky is a meticulous blend from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries, reflecting the Japanese concept of ‘wa’, balance and harmony, through careful blending.

The campaign will run throughout 2026 and includes a kimono installation at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York timed to the opening of the new terminal. Campaign content will launch across key markets including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Northern Europe, China, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Spain, India, Canada, Brazil and Mexico.

For more information on the new campaign and to watch the hero film, please visit us online here.  

Instagram @suntorywhisky_hibiki | #TheMasterpieceOfJapaneseArtistry

About The House of Suntory  

Suntory is renowned as the founding house of Japanese Whisky, beginning with Shinjiro Torii’s creation of Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki in 1923 and carried forward by his son, Keizo Saji, founder of the Hakushu and Chita Distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation.

Today, the House of Suntory continues to craft award-winning spirits, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Chita®, Kakubin®, Hibiki®, and Suntory Whisky Toki™. All 100% distilled, matured, and bottled in Japan, in full compliance with the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) standards. The House of Suntory also includes Roku™ Japanese Gin, Haku™ Japanese Vodka, and Kanáde Japanese Liqueur, reflecting the same dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation that have defined Suntory for over a century.

In 2025, Yamazaki® made history at the International Spirits Challenge as the first brand to win Supreme Champion Spirit three years in a row, and in 2024, Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo was named Master Blender of the Year. Furthering this legacy of excellence, the Osaka Spirits & Liqueurs Craft Distillery, home to Roku Gin, Haku Vodka and Kanáde Japanese Liqueur was awarded the 2025 Liqueur Producer Trophy by the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). The House of Suntory will open the Osaka Craft Distillery to the public for the first time in 2026.

About Suntory Global Spirits  

As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com

About Anna Sawai

Anna Sawai is an internationally acclaimed Japanese actress, recognized for her work at the intersection of cultural heritage and global storytelling. In 2024, she became the first Japanese actress to win a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress for her performance in Shōgun, alongside a Golden Globe Award and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Her filmography and credits include Giri/Haji, Justin Lin’s blockbuster F9, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and Pachinko, with upcoming projects including her portrayal of Yoko Ono in The Beatles biopic series.

As Hibiki’s first-ever Global Brand Ambassador, Sawai brings contemporary resonance to a brand defined by time, balance, and Japanese artistry.

About Chiso kimono house

Founded in Kyoto in 1555, Chiso is one of Japan’s oldest family-run kimono houses and a leading example of Japanese artistry. Renowned for its mastery of Kyo-Yuzen, a hand-dyeing technique producing garments that resemble hand-painted works of art, Chiso creates meticulously crafted kimonos with precision and elegance.

While rooted in tradition, Chiso engages with contemporary culture through collaborations with artists, designers, and cultural institutions. Its Institute for Chiso Arts and Culture, flagship store, and creative subsidiary ensure the preservation and evolution of its craft.

In 2026, Chiso partners with the House of Suntory’s Hibiki whisky to create a monumental kimono installation and custom piece, uniting two legacies of Japanese artistry through a shared dedication to nature, time, and artistry.

The Macallan has unveiled its first UK domestic boutique at Harrods, a stand-out retail destination showcasing the whisky brand’s commitment to peerless craftsmanship and creative mastery in the heart of the capital.

Located in the former Baccarat Bar and next to the Harrods Fine Wines & Spirits Department, the new boutique is now home to one of the most extensive ranges of the world’s most valuable Single Malt Scotch Whisky available outside The Macallan Estate in Speyside. Products on offer include rare releases as well as limited edition expressions.

As a special Harrods‑exclusive release and to celebrate the opening of the new boutique, renowned Spanish painter and illustrator Javi Aznárez and long‑time collaborator of The Macallan, has created a distinctive packaging design for The Macallan Rare Cask 2026. Limited to just 100 bottles and available only at Harrods, this collectible edition will be released on opening day at the boutique on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

To complement the extensive product offering, a personalisation and gifting station allows guests to have their bottle purchase engraved with a name, date or inscription of choice and beautifully gift-wrapped. A multi-purpose space, the boutique also features a sampling bar and can transform into a fine dining space for private experiences, bringing the brand’s Speyside home to guests through seasonal flavours inspired by The Macallan Estate.

The boutique features artwork by acclaimed artist and designer David Carson and globally renowned pop artist Sir Peter Blake. Carson most recently created a striking new visual identity for The Macallan’s Timeless collection. His new artwork for the boutique draws on the collection’s visual language – red for European oak and white for American oak – with elements of wood and amber echoing the sherry seasoning and cask staves. Across four decades, Blake has woven The Macallan’s history into collage – each work a chapter, each character a storyteller. In this piece in the boutique, figures from previous works return, to form one final gathering on the lawn of Easter Elchies House – the spiritual home of The Macallan.

The boutique was designed in collaboration with internationally award‑winning architect Jamie Fobert – whose work includes Venice’s historic Fondaco dei Tedeschi and the National Portrait Gallery extension in London – and brings The Macallan’s retail concept, Nurtured by Nature, to life. Immersive installations throughout the space invite guests to discover the mastery of whisky making and the brand’s deep connection to nature, which has shaped The Macallan for over 200 years. Whilst botanical features and merchandising reimagine the brand’s 485‑acre Estate in Speyside.

The space offers a carefully considered experience through sight, scent, touch and taste, that reflect The Macallan’s Six Pillars – the foundations of The Macallan’s character and spirit – with design touches woven throughout to reflect these principles and The Macallan’s heritage.

The opening of The Macallan Boutique at Harrods underlines The Macallan’s continued dedication to delivering standout retail experiences for customers across the globe and follows the unveiling of a new boutique for The Macallan at Heathrow Terminal 5 in 2025.

Jaume Ferras, Creative Director, The Macallan commented: “Opening our new boutique at Harrods marks a major milestone for The Macallan, expanding our presence in London and building on our ambitions of delivering standout retail experiences for consumers across the globe. 

“In partnership with Harrods, we have been able to push boundaries and curate an incomparable retail experience, bringing craftmanship and creativity to the fore. We look forward to welcoming guests from across London and beyond, and immersing them into the world of The Macallan.”

The Macallan Boutique at Harrods represents a new chapter in the brand’s relationship with the Knightsbridge store. Previous activations within the renowned department store have included an interactive experience at Harrods to mark the release of a collection of whiskies created to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the James Bond film franchise.

Andre Lewis, Head of Buying – Food, Wine & Spirit at Harrods, commented: “We are thrilled to deepen our long‑standing relationship with The Macallan through the opening of this exceptional new boutique at Harrods. Our customers come to us in search of the world’s finest craftsmanship and most compelling luxury experiences, and The Macallan consistently delivers both. This boutique will offer an extraordinary opportunity to sample and purchase some of the rarest and most celebrated single malts, brought to life through a space that beautifully captures the spirit of the Speyside Estate. We look forward to welcoming whisky connoisseurs and curious visitors alike to discover this remarkable destination within our store.”

Maker’s Mark Launches Airport-Exclusive Artist Series

In time for summer travel, artist Alexandra Pacula brings iconic cityscapes to life in a limited-edition series exclusively for global travel retail

LORETTO, Ky., July 15, 2026 – Maker’s Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced a global travel retail exclusive series featuring custom, city-inspired labels designed by acclaimed artist Alexandra Pacula. Available for a limited time in select airports, the bespoke Maker’s Mark bottles are inspired by destinations including New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai, Singapore, Seoul, Sydney and Melbourne,[GM1.1] inviting travelers to discover and collect each release throughout their journeys.

“At Maker’s Mark, we’ve always believed that character comes from doing things differently, and this Artist Series – City Edition brings that idea to life by capturing the distinct spirit and creative energy of iconic cities around the world,” said Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director of Maker’s Mark. “Today’s travelers are looking for experiences that feel personal and memorable, and we’re proud that each beautifully designed bottle is something they can enjoy long after their trip ends.”

Drawing on her signature style of painting inspired by long-exposure photography techniques, Pacula captures each city’s movement, light and rhythm through layered, expressive compositions. Her process mirrors the craftsmanship behind every bottle of Maker’s Mark, with hand-painted details nodding to the brand’s iconic red wax seal.

Pacula said: “Maker’s Mark has a very intentional approach to craft, and I wanted to mirror that in this body of work. I spent time in each city, immersed in its rhythm and atmosphere, and translated those impressions into expressive visuals that bring each label — and each place — to life.”

“Travel retail continues to be a key channel for premium spirits, as consumers increasingly seek exclusive and experience-led purchases during their journey,” commented Ashish Sagar, Interim General Manager, Global Travel Retail at Suntory Global Spirits. “With the brand’s distinctive craftsmanship, the Maker’s Mark Artist Series creates a collectible proposition that truly stands out in airport retail.”

The Maker’s Mark Artist Series – City Edition will be available beginning in Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Singapore (SIN) and Seoul (ICN) airports in July, followed by London (LHR, LGW, STN) and Paris (CDG) in August. The series will continue to roll out in Dubai (DXB), Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and in the United States in New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX) in September.
For more information, visit www.makersmark.com.

ABOUT MAKER’S MARK

Maker’s Mark® is the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon driven by a vision for better flavor and a better world. In 1953, founders Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr. broke from tradition—burning the family’s 170-year-old recipe to create a bold, balanced bourbon made with soft red winter wheat for signature sweetness and creaminess. From the start, the Samuels went to remarkable lengths to craft uncompromisingly delicious bourbon—a perfectly unreasonable spirit that endures today. Every bottle is still hand-dipped in red wax, every barrel rotated by hand and every decision guided by the brand’s higher purpose.

Staying true to its founders’ vision, Maker’s Mark has expanded its portfolio with award-winning, super-premium expressions, including Maker’s Mark 46, Cask Strength, and Cellar Aged, as well as Private Selection, the brand’s custom barrel program. In 2025, the distillery debuted Star Hill Farm Whisky. Named World’s Best Wheat Whisky and the first to earn Estate Whiskey certification, Star Hill Farm Whisky inspired the Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance, a bold commitment to advance regenerative farming beyond its business.

Maker’s Mark is proud to be both B Corp and Regenified Certified – milestones driven by the sustainability leadership at Star Hill Farm, home of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which strives to be the most endearing, culturally rich and environmentally responsible homeplace in the world.

Alexandra Pacula (b. 1979, Poland) is a cityscape and landscape artist, focusing on realism through oil painting. She received her BFA from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, completing her MFA in painting and drawing at Montclair State University in New Jersey. Pacula is fascinated by light and its transformations. About her painting she says, “My work investigates a world of visual intoxication; it captures moments of enchantment, which are associated with urban nightlife… I recreate the feeling of dizziness and confusion by letting the paint blur and allowing shapes to dissolve. I suggest motion in order to slow down the scene and capture the fleeting moments, which tend to be forgotten.”
Represented by Gallery Henoch in New York, Alexandra Pacula’s work is in several public and corporate collections, including Harvard Law School, PACE University, and Tohokushinsha Film Corporation in Tokyo. She has frequently exhibited in solo and group exhibitions.

BERRY BROS. & RUDD EXPLORES THE PAST AND FUTURE OF SCOTCH WHISKY IN 2026 ODYSSEY COLLECTION

Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchant, Berry Bros. & Rudd, has unveiled its 2026 Odyssey collection – The Auld and the Bold – a celebration of the dialogue between Scotland’s great whisky traditions and a new generation of distillers redefining the category around the world.

Comprising 20 single-cask whiskies, rums and a cognac, The Auld and the Bold continues Berry Bros. & Rudd’s Odyssey series, first launched in 2024,  an ongoing collection of themed annual releases which brings together single cask spirits connected by a mutual influence to form an “Odyssey”.

The Auld and the Bold explores how whisky traditions have travelled beyond Scotland, inspiring producers across the globe while continuing to shape some of the country’s most revered distilleries.

Felix Dear, Spirits Curator at Berry Bros. & Rudd, said:

“For this year’s Odyssey collection, we wanted to explore the relationship between heritage and innovation. Scotch whisky remains the benchmark that has inspired generations of distillers, but some of the most exciting spirits being made today are emerging from places far beyond Scotland.

“The Auld and the Bold brings these worlds together, showcasing both the timeless qualities that define great whisky and the fresh perspectives that continue to push the category forward. Whether the spirit comes from Speyside, Tasmania, Yorkshire or New Zealand, what unites these bottlings is a commitment to character, craftsmanship and a strong sense of place.”

The Scottish whiskies in this release showcase the remarkable breadth of Scotch. From the waxy, time-honoured elegance of Glenlossie 1975 to the fruit-laden character of Glencadam and Blair Athol, finished in an unusual Viognier cask, the collection highlights the diversity of styles found across Scotland. Rich sherry influence shines through Longmorn, Glen Garioch and Tamdhu, while Caol Ila, Williamson and Ruadh Mhor offer distinct expressions of peat and smoke. Together, these casks showcase the patience, provenance and generational expertise that remain at the heart of great Scotch whisky.

Beyond Scotland, the collection shines a light on a new generation of whisky makers inspired by Scotch tradition yet shaped by their own landscapes and climates. Australia’s Lark delivers remarkable depth through Tawny cask maturation, India’s Paul John marries Scottish peat with tropical ageing, while New Zealand’s Thomson brings distinctive Manuka-smoked character to the fore. England’s Spirit of Yorkshire demonstrates the evolution of English single malt, offering a vibrant, fruit-driven style rooted in place and craftsmanship.

Denmark’s Thy and Finland’s Teerenpeli similarly draw on traditional Scotch whisky-making techniques while expressing them through local barley, climate and maturation. Together, these whiskies capture a global whisky renaissance: rooted in Scottish tradition, yet shaped by distinctive terroirs, innovative production and a confident sense of place.

Three Caribbean rums join the collection, highlighting the category’s extraordinary diversity. From Foursquare’s refined tropical character and Diamond’s vibrant fruit profile to the legendary intensity of Caroni, the selection showcases some of the world’s most sought-after rum styles. Completing the release is a 35-year-old early-landed Cognac from Frapin, distilled in France, matured in the UK, and bottled at natural cask-strength.

The Auld and the Bold includes 20 bottlings from 20 distilleries and will be available from July 16^th 2026. All bottlings will be available to purchase from the Berry Bros. & Rudd spirits shop at No. 1 St James’s Street, London.

For more information on Berry Bros. & Rudd and the Odyssey: The Auld and the Bold collection, visit www.bbr.com.

Glenfiddich charts a new course in travel retail exclusivity with The Voyage Collection

William Grant & Sons has introduced Glenfiddich The Voyage Collection, a new permanent travel retail-exclusive (TREX) range that showcases key milestones in the brand’s cask maturation and finishing evolution.

The collection brings together four expressions that reflect different stages in Glenfiddich’s maturation journey, from the distillery’s pioneering Solera system through to its first-ever single malt finished in Port pipes.

The Voyage line highlights Glenfiddich’s long-standing focus on wood management, cask finishing and flavour development.

For almost 50 years, cask finishing has been central to Glenfiddich’s whisky-making philosophy. The new collection was curated by Malt Master Brian Kinsman, who has selected expressions that reflect the distillery’s continuing focus on innovation.

The Voyage Collection comprises four whiskies, each showcasing a distinct approach to secondary maturation: Warehouse Eight Solera, 12 Year Old Rum Cask Finish, 5 Year Old Sherry Cask Finish and 18 Year Old Port Cask Finish.

Warehouse Eight Solera pays homage to the Solera Vat system introduced at the Glenfiddich Distillery in 1998. Solera Vat adapted a technique associated with Andalucía to single malt whisky production.

The 12 Year Old Rum Cask Finish highlights one of the distillery’s early experiments in flavour exploration. It combines Speyside character with tropical notes derived from rum cask maturation.

The 15 Year Old Sherry Cask Finish reflects the influence of sherry casks, which have formed part of Glenfiddich’s whisky-making tradition for more than a century.

Completing the range is the 18 Year Old Port Cask Finish, the first Glenfiddich expression to be finished in Port pipes. The expression marks an exciting new development in the distillery’s maturation programme.

Alongside the launch, Glenfiddich has introduced refreshed packaging that combines heritage design with a more contemporary presentation. The revamp incorporates archival references drawn from more than five generations of the Glenfiddich family, while retaining the brand’s stag emblem, which has appeared on the bottle since the 1960s.

The updated stag has been refined to reflect each whisky’s character and is framed by the distillery’s founding year of 1887. The new design language is intended to reinforce Glenfiddich’s Speyside heritage while supporting its positioning within the premium spirits category.

William Grant & Sons Regional Managing Director, Global Travel Retail Rufus Parkinson said, “Global travel retail is a unique space where brands can create desire, engage discerning travellers at a moment of discovery and leave an impression well beyond the point of purchase.

“The Voyage Collection was developed with today’s shoppers in mind: distinctive, elevated and rooted in stories that invite exploration.”

He added: “As a permanent exclusive range, it not only strengthens Glenfiddich’s presence in the channel, but also signals a bold new expression of the brand for consumers around the world.”

Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman commented: “What makes this launch so special is the way it brings together different chapters of Glenfiddich in one curated collection. Each expression has its own personality, shaped by a distinctive maturation journey, yet all are united by the same spirit of curiosity and craft of the invisible forces that shape a whisky over years.

“For travellers, it offers a rare opportunity to experience the breadth of Glenfiddich’s cask expertise.