Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2026 Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Release
This year’s release features the collection’s oldest Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey to date

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (March 3, 2026) – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Each spring, this annual, highly limited release showcases some of the distillery’s oldest inventory of aging American Whiskey, continuing the standard of excellence Heaven Hill has practiced since 1935.

Each release in the ultra-premium collection features one of the six traditional American Whiskey mashbills produced by Heaven Hill, one of the only heritage distilleries to produce this range. The 2026 edition, the oldest since the series debuted in 2022, highlights Heaven Hill’s traditional Bourbon mashbill, comprised of 78% Corn, 10% Rye and 12% Malted Barley, and is bottled at Barrel Proof and non-chill filtered.

With an age statement of 22 years, this release is comprised of 270 barrels produced in February, July and August of 2003 and bottled in December 2025. The barrels were aged on the 5th and 6th floors of Rickhouse Y, where over two decades of Kentucky seasons imparted remarkable depth and character to the whiskey.

The extended maturation results in a Bourbon defined by pronounced oak structure balanced by layers of caramelized sweetness and baking spice. Rich aromas of seasoned oak, dark caramel and toasted vanilla give way to notes of leather, warm cinnamon and subtle dried fruit on the palate. The finish is long and resonant, showcasing lingering notes of charred oak, toffee and a peppery spice that speaks to both its proof and age.

“This 22-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a striking example of how thoughtful aging and careful barrel selection can unlock extraordinary character in our traditional Bourbon mashbill,” says Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll. “After more than two decades in Rickhouse Y, these barrels have developed a remarkable balance of oak influence and preserved sweetness. It’s a testament to the patience and long-term vision that define the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection.”

Along with its innovation-focused counterpart, the Parker’s Heritage Collection, the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection reflects Heaven Hill’s commitment to excellence and ultra-aging techniques. Releases from both collections provide insight into the long-term planning behind Heaven Hill’s American Whiskey inventory and its dedication to quality, craft and heritage.

As with previous releases, the Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 750ml bottle will be accompanied by a premium box in signature Heaven Hill blue. The Heaven Hill Distillery seal is prominently featured on the box, strip stamp and label, mirroring Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond and the Heaven Hill Grain to Glass line. In keeping with the collection’s focus on transparency and provenance, specific attributes including warehouse location, production dates, mashbill percentages and barrel count are noted prominently on the packaging.

Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey will launch nationally in limited quantities, with select international availability, beginning in early March 2026 at a suggested retail price of $319.99.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 2 million barrels aging in more than 70 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond, Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond, Henry McKenna, Parker’s Heritage Collection along with its extensive and diverse collection of unique and innovative products. In the past five years alone, Heaven Hill Distillery has been named Distiller of the Year eight times, including 2024 and 2023 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. Other recent honors include 2024 and 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition’s Most Awarded Distillery and the 2023 Icons of Whisky World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

2011 Bruichladdich 11 Year Old “Dramfool’s Jim McEwan Signature Collection 5.1″ First Fill Bourbon Cask #2477 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Previously $325) $228.89 View

Colour – Primrose Yellow, Aromas – Opens beautifully on a combination of Primrose, Myrtle, Lily, Marigold and mint. It’s like walking through the peat fires next to the Atlantic Ocean! Then the sweetness of the toasted barley and mellow oak drift in bringing with them little hints of bourbon spiciness laid down by the first spirit matured in the cask. “Its gentle on my mind” Taste – The spirit is balanced & restrained on the palate. This is pure Islay; No smoke, just barley & oak and time by the Ocean. The opulent flavours seduce the taste buds with mellow oak and barley sugars. The Maritime Islay character is with you all the way, fresh and clean and packed with passion & traditional skills from a dedicated team of Distillers who bring the magic to the spirit. No computers, no colouring, no chill filtration, just a special spirit from a special place.

According to the bottler: “Distilled on 11th July 2011 this whisky spent its whole 11-year life maturing in cask #2477. This maturation took place in a 1st fill bourbon cask from an unknown American Distillery. Bottled in July 2022 as Release 5.1 of the Jim McEwan Signature Collection, like all bottlings within the collection, it was bottled un-chill filtered, with no added colour, and at natural cask strength of 59.0% (as we always say, Jim would have it no other way!), it yielded only 238 bottles.”

2012 Port Charlotte 10 Year Old “Dramfool’s Jim McEwan Signature Collection 7.2″ First Fill Bourbon Barrel Cask #2554 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Previously $370) $258.10 View

Aromas – Opens on a beautiful combination of peat smoked barley with tantalising hints of lemon & honey then waves of heather in bloom drift by. Little notes of juniper and pine mingle beautifully with the spiciness of bourbon residue and sweetness of malt extract. It’s Islay at its best, in the early summer with the warm winds from the Atlantic Ocean caressing the barley fields and depositing the salty moisture on the land that give the barley its unique flavour. Palate – The sweetness of malt extract is in harmony with the smokiness from the peat and also the spicy residue from bourbon-soaked staves, it evolves slowly creating the flavour profile that makes this spirit unique. The most important element of this spirit is that it is distilled by Islanders who simply walk in the footsteps of their fore-fathers; no computers, no chemists, no BS, just passion pride and patience.

This release was distilled on July 18th, 2012 after spending its entire 10-year life maturing in cask #2554, a first-fill Bourbon barrel from the Jack Daniels distillery. It was bottled in February 2023 without chillfiltration and no added color, at a natural cask strength of 60.6%. Only 232 bottles were produced. Tasting notes from Jim McEwan: “Aromas – Opens on a beautiful combination of peat smoked barley with tantalising hints of lemon & honey, then waves of heather in bloom drift by. Little notes of juniper and pine mingle beautifully with the spiciness of bourbon residue and sweetness of malt extract. It’s Islay at its best, in the early summer with the warm winds from the Atlantic Ocean caressing the barley fields and depositing the salty moisture on the land that give the barley its unique flavour. Palate – The sweetness of malt extract is in harmony with the smokiness from the peat and also the spicy residue from bourbon-soaked staves, it evolves slowly creating the flavour profile that makes this spirit unique. The most important element of this spirit is that it is distilled by Islanders who simply walk in the footsteps of their forefathers; no computers, no chemists, no BS, just passion, pride and patience.”

2011 Port Charlotte 11 Year Old “Dramfool’s Jim McEwan Signature Collection 6.2″ First Fill Bourbon Barrel Cask #2125 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Previously $400) $274.07 View

Aromas – Opens beautifully on a brilliant combination of peat embers and a spicy sweetness encapsulated in a cradle of sweet mellow oak with a drift of the Ocean bringing a freshness seldom found in many whiskies matured full term by the Atlantic. Palate – The sweetness of the malted barley works wonderfully with the spiciness from the bourbon soaked staves. Add to that peat fire embers and the marine overture all held in a halo of mellow oak. It envelopes the taste buds like a warm peat fire on a stormy night as the wind and rain batters the Island. It’s a must have dram for the disciples of single malts hand crafted by Islanders who add the Islay DNA to the spirits they distil with pride and passion!

Distilled on 15th June 2011 this whisky spent its whole 11-year life maturing in cask #2125. This maturation took place in a 1st fill bourbon cask from Jack Daniels. Bottled in February 2023 as Release 6.2 of the Jim McEwan Signature Collection, like all bottlings within the collection, it was bottled un-chill filtered, with no added colour, and at natural cask strength of 60.2% It yielded only 209 bottles.

Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

March is all about new beginnings from a seasonal perspective, so it’s only right that we get into this month’s whiskies with the same attitude. Isn’t it time you got into the new stuff? March Outturn is now live. To celebrate the third year of our partnership with the OurWhisky Foundation, our all-women Tasting Panel has selected whiskies for International Women’s Day. Pick up Cask No. 35.412: Layers of intrigue or Cask No. 122.86: Brine and pine to enjoy this weekend and beyond. A 5% charitable donation from all sales will go to OurWhisky Foundation.

TAKE ME TO THE BOTTLES

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults, 87 Giles Street, Leith EH6 6BZ

Contact: sales@smws.com or call 0131 555 2929 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm). Visit the Society at here for membership information

This is your chance to join and to take advantage of their great offers!

Spot the SMWS bottles in this amusing You Tube video

New: Dalmore 17 Year Old

An elegant new addition to The Dalmore’s Highland single malt collection, the 17 Year Old sits between the 15 and 18 Year Old expressions, offering a sweeter, more delicately balanced profile.

Matured first in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, it develops notes of sweet vanilla and warming nutmeg before a refined finish in a selection of exceptional Oloroso sherry casks, including Amoroso, rare Apostoles, and Matusalem casks from Gonzales Byass. The result is a luxurious whisky layered with orange marmalade, sweet toffee, dried fruit and gentle wood spice.

A refined and decadent expression of The Dalmore’s signature style.

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ralfy review 1119 Extras – Contrasting two Bunna’s (both fab)

A Distinctive Mother’s Day Gift: Fettercairn 16 Year Old

For a truly imaginative Mother’s Day gift, Fettercairn 16 Year Old offers a refreshing burst of tropical character.

Renowned for its bold, flavour-led approach to whisky making, Fettercairn’s pioneering copper cooling ring allows only the lightest vapours to rise during distillation, creating an exceptionally smooth spirit. The result is a vibrant Highland Single Malt layered with passionfruit, ripe mango, Madagascan vanilla and a whisper of warm spice.

Whether enjoyed as a relaxed afternoon dram or as part of a celebratory Mother’s Day toast, Fettercairn 16 Year Old brings a sense of occasion to the moment.

For those looking to elevate the celebration, the Fettercairn 1824 Martini is a unique and sophisticated choice.

To make it at home, simply combine:

• 37.5ml Fettercairn 16 Year Old
• 12.5ml kumquat liqueur
• 10ml honey syrup
• 15ml lemon juice
• 4 dashes coffee bitters

Shake briskly with ice, fine strain into a chilled Champagne coupe, then top with Cremant. Garnish with a fresh lemon twist for a final touch of finesse and serve well chilled in elegant glassware.

Fettercairn 16 Year Old is available from a range of retailers, including The Whisky Shop, RRP £87.

Kentucky Bourbon’s Impact On State Economy Remains Strong & Substantial

Latest Data Shows Distilling Now $10.6 Billion Industry Supporting Local & State Economies Despite Mounting Headwinds

FRANKFORT, Ky. (February 2, 2026) – As outside threats continue to jeopardize its future growth, Kentucky Bourbon remains a key and substantial contributor to the state’s economy, as a $10.6 billion signature industry supporting nearly 24,000 jobs, a new report shows.

Yet its long-term fortunes remain a roller coaster of uncertainty and unpredictability, threatened by a volatile global trade arena, shifting generational consumer tastes, soaring barrel taxes, and evolving market and geopolitical conditions that have slowed alcohol sales and slashed exports.

The eighth edition of the biennial study using the latest data also shows the distilling industry bought a record 84% of its corn from Kentucky farm families and now generates an all-time high of $372 million in state and local tax revenue.

“This comprehensive analysis demonstrates the economic impact of Kentucky’s homegrown and historic Bourbon industry, which remains significantly ahead in jobs, investment and stature from over a decade ago,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

“Bourbon is a long-term business, and the data shows that its Kentucky foundation remains strong,” he said. “But we also must remember that its future isn’t guaranteed and this data is a snapshot in time.

“We need the support of elected officials at every level of government to help create a stable, competitive environment so Bourbon can produce more American jobs, satisfy the global thirst for our signature spirit and continue to invest in our Kentucky home.”

The report was conducted by noted Kentucky economist Dr. Mike Clark using the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Kentucky Department of Revenue, the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and more trusted sources.

Dr. Clark is Director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Kentucky and the former Chief Economist for the Kentucky Legislative Research Commission. He takes over the biennial study from Dr. Paul Coomes, who has retired.

Among the report’s top findings, Kentucky’s distilling industry now:

• Contributes $10.6 billion in annual economic impact to Kentucky, up from $9 billion in the previous study released in early 2024.
• Supports 23,935 jobs with $2 billion in salaries, wages and benefits, an increase of more than 800 jobs in the last two years despite recent cutbacks.
• Generates $372 million in local and state tax revenue every year, an increase of $200 million over the last 10 years alone.
• Reports plans to invest another $1.45 billion in the next five years.
• Purchases 3 million bushels of corn annually, of which KDA members say 84% comes from Kentucky farmers, up from 70% in the previous report.
• Has more licensed distilleries than ever before, with 125 locations owned and operated by 104 companies in 45 of the state’s 120 counties. 
• Pays a skyrocketing amount of taxes on aging barrels of spirits, including $75 million in 2025, a 163% surge in the last five years alone.
• Stores a record 1 million barrels of spirits, of which 16.1 million are Bourbon.
• Provides the second-highest job multiplier in the state behind the automobile industry, supporting Kentucky farm families, cooperages, truckers and more.
• Dominates the national distilling scene with 27% of both the country’s spirits output and employment, with Tennessee second at 8.4% .

This marks the eighth study of the impact of Kentucky’s distilling industry on the state economy since 2009. “Together, these reports provide a clear, long-term record of Kentucky Bourbon’s growth as a signature industry and the policy challenges that determine its future,” Gregory said.

“Kentucky Bourbon has been around for more than 200 years and overcome its fair share of challenges. By working together, and with the sacred name of Kentucky on every bottle, we must ensure the next report is a toast to progress.”

2026 Bourbon Economy Report Quotes

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear

“Despite national challenges from tariffs and harmful federal policies, Kentucky’s $10.6 billion bourbon industry continues to show the world its importance by supporting nearly 24,000 jobs and generating a record $372 million in local and state tax revenue,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “This industry is essential to our success and way of life, and as Governor I’m going to keep standing up for Kentucky bourbon and the hardworking people who make it so special.”

Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers pointed to the industry’s broadening geographical impact.

“One of the many positive outcomes from the Kentucky Bourbon’s industry’s long-term growth is that rural communities have benefited economically, right alongside our cities,” Stivers said. “There are now distilleries from Pikeville to Paducah and from Augusta to Adairville. Forty-five Kentucky counties now have at least one distillery, with one developing in my home county of Clay. That’s a number far beyond the industry’s traditional core counties where these operations are bringing commerce, tourism and vibrancy to their communities while attracting additional development like restaurants, lodging and retail.”

Kentucky House Speaker David Osborne said the road for Bourbon’s success runs through the General Assembly.

“It should surprise no one that legislative action to modernize our Commonwealth’s alcohol laws, advance responsibility measures and reform taxes to create parity all charted the path for Kentucky Bourbon’s growth the past decade,” Osborne said. “Now Bourbon attracts tourists by the millions, contributes abundantly to our workforce and tax base, and makes Kentucky an envy of other states and nations across the globe.”

Kentucky House Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade tied distilling’s growth to pro-business policies.

“The kind of prosperity and broad impact in this comprehensive study clearly demonstrates what happens when elected leaders pass pro-business policies to unburden a signature industry from outdated and cumbersome policies and punishing taxes,” Meade said.

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 legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. 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.

MARCH 2026 AUCTION NOW LIVE!

Spring is in the air, and while this month’s auction may be small in size, it’s certainly big in character—packed with fascinating bottles. Released in 2010 to mark the opening of The Whisky Lounge at The Vintners Rooms within The Vaults in Leith, Edinburgh, this rare commemorative bottling of Macallan was produced in an edition of just 250 bottles!

Or, how about this Lagavulin 11 Years Old Manager’s Dram. The Manager’s Dram series has long been one of the most coveted insider releases from the distilleries within the Diageo portfolio. Traditionally reserved for distillery staff, each annual edition is drawn from a single distillery, with the distillery manager selecting exceptional casks to create that year’s bottling. Produced in very limited quantities and presented at natural cask strength, these releases are highly prized by collectors.This example was distilled at Lagavulin, matured for 11 years and bottled at cask strength in 2013.

Glenfiddich’s 2021 collaboration with luxury retailer Mr Porter; Matured in a combination of ex-European sherry casks, ex-bourbon casks and new American oak before being married to create this distinctive limited edition expression. A collectible release limited to just 1,500 bottles worldwide!

Released in 1997 to celebrate the centenary of Aultmore Distillery, this rare commemorative bottling was produced to mark 100 years since the distillery’s founding. The label uniquely lists the staff working at the distillery at the time of its centenary, making it a particularly personal and collectible release. Distilled in 1981 and matured for 16 years in cask #2508, it was bottled at natural cask strength in 1997. Bottle number 9.

These are only a few of the old, limited and collectable bottles featured in our March auction, to view more wee gems visit clickwhiskyauctions.com. Register to bid. Remember, you’ve got to be in it to win it! Auction ends Sunday 22^nd March from 8pm GMT.

Iberian Series #5
Moscatel Cask Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey

75cl · 46% ABV

£83.95

ADD TO BASKET

NOSE : A fresh and floral balance of zesty fruits with dustings of nutmeg and rich vanilla oak.

TASTE : Vibrant fruits combined with textured layers of toffee and honeycomb, subtle undertones of dried herbs, all while the oak remains consistent.

FINISH : Pot still spices and wine seasoned oak lingering until the very end.

A Guide To Irish Whiskey

In many ways, the story of Irish whiskey is the story of whisky itself. Essentially, it’s a spirit made from fermented grains, distilled and aged in wooden casks for a minimum of three years. Often stereotyped as light and delicate, it actually encompasses a great breadth of styles, from richly sherried, spicy pot still whiskies, to bright, tropical blends, and even robustly smoky single malts.

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