DOUGLAS LAING & CO MARKS 40 YEARS OF FÈIS ÌLE WITH A BESPOKE BIG PEAT LIMITED EDITION

BIG PEAT FÈIS ÌLE 2026

Douglas Laing & Co. introduces Big Peat Fèis Ìle 2026 – a bespoke small batch release crafted in celebration of Islay and the 40th Anniversary of the island’s iconic festival. Marking four decades of Fèis Ìle, this special bottling honours the spirit, community and shared passion that have made the festival a global pilgrimage for collectors and admirers of Islay Whisky.

Each year, Fèis Ìle transforms the island into a celebration of Whisky, culture and camaraderie, drawing visitors from across the world to experience Islay at its most vibrant. This edition captures that atmosphere – not only the festival itself but the people and moments that continue to define it.

Big Peat has always brought “his” supporters together and this 2026 Edition continues that tradition in a uniquely celebratory way. This year’s bespoke presentation features a mosaic-style label formed from submitted images of Big Peat fans worldwide, each face contributing to the unmistakable image of our bearded Islay character. Just as every dram contributes to a greater blend, every individual featured plays a part in Big Peat’s story – a fitting tribute to Islay and to the global family who raise a glass each year in “his” honour.

Big Peat’s 2026 Fèis Ìle Edition brings “his” selection of Single Malts from renowned Islay distilleries together before being elevated through a finishing period in exceptional Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. This indulgent influence enhances Big Peat’s signature style while adding rich Sherry-led depth and refinement.

Expect a shovelful of feisty sweet smokiness from the outset – everything Islay is famous for: peat and smoke in abundance, now layered with notes of dried figs and dates, freshly roasted coffee, toasted walnuts and cocoa. The result is a lingering velvety finish where peat remains powerful yet beautifully balanced.

Bottled at a natural cask strength of 52.6% ABV and presented in a premium bespoke carton, this limited edition embodies Big Peat at full power – “his” style, uncompromising and unforgettable.

Chloe Wood, Big Peat Brand Manager, comments:

“Fèis Ìle reaching its 40th Anniversary is a significant milestone for Islay and for the global Whisky community. With this bespoke release, we wanted to celebrate not only the island’s spirit selection and cask craft but the people who have supported Big Peat over the years. Bringing their faces together to form Big Peat felt the most fitting way to mark the occasion. This edition captures everything Big Peat stands for – character, craftsmanship and Islay.”

Big Peat Fèis Ìle 2026 is available from select retailers, Whisky specialists, and online, with a suggested retail price of £60.00/€69.00.

Ériu is the latest Poitín release from Killowen Distillery, named in honour of the Irish Goddess Ériu, the mythical figure from whom Ireland takes her name. In Irish mythology, Ériu was seen as a powerful guardian of the land, making her the perfect inspiration for a spirit rooted in tradition and place.

Built from a mash bill of 30% oats, 30% rye, and 40% heavily peated malt, this poitín delivers waves of creamy cereal notes, earthy spice, and distinctive peat smoke. The spirit was then rested for 3 weeks in our own Killowen Rum casks, allowing the cask to lend rich notes of molasses sweetness, soft fruit, and gentle warmth to the final spirit, all bottled at a bold 55% ABV.

As with every Killowen release, Ériu was distilled long and slow using traditional direct flame fired stills, creating a spirit packed with texture, flavour, and authenticity. What makes this release even more special is, that this is the first mashbill that Patrick has full reign over! He came up with the mashbill and decided the cask finish also. So a truly special one to get your hands on … he even hand signed and wrote the numbers on all the labels.

Release Date: Tuesday 26th May 2026  @4pm (GMT – Killowen Time) Price: £37

N.B Only 150 Bottles will be available for purchase and thelink will not be live until 4pm on Tuesday 26th May 2026

Purchase Here

Double Neat Makes Foray Into DTC Snack Industry With the Launch of

New Whiskey-Inspired Brand

From Bourbon Beef Jerky to Whiskey-Infused Coffee & Sweet Collaborations, Double Neat Doubles Down on Elevated Snacks for Whiskey Lovers

[PORTLAND, Maine – April 21, 2026] – Those looking for an afternoon pick-me-up without having to raise a glass will rejoice as Double Neat announced today the launch of its elevated, whiskey-inspired snack brand offering a lineup of delectable whiskey-infused snacks, coffee and gift sets designed to make every pour or social gathering a little more memorable.

Crafted for those who appreciate whiskey culture as much as the drink itself, Double Neat’s offerings deliver rich, smokey, sweet and spiced notes that pair effortlessly with a glass in hand or stand alone as a satisfying indulgence. All whisky-infused snacks and coffee are made in small batches with thoughtfully sourced ingredients.

Whether it be for a salty addition to the bar cart, a gift for a whiskey connoisseur or a high-quality snack on-the-go, some Double Neat staples include:

• Bourbon Glazed Beef Jerky: As the #1 seller, this is the snack that earned its seat at the whiskey table. With a sweet bourbon glaze, brown sugar depth, and a warm cayenne finish, you’ll never guess it comes protein packed, gluten-free and made with premium U.S. beef.
• Cinnamon Whiskey Pecans: Sold in packs of three, since you won’t be able to have just one, the buttery pecans come with a sweet cinnamon glaze and slowly roasted for that perfect crunch.
• Whiskey-Infused Coffee: Available as whole bean, ground, or Keurig-compatible pods, the small-batch roasted beans come with real whiskey infusion resulting in bold, smooth flavors with oak and caramel notes.
• Jumbo Bourbon Brownie: The Bourbon Brownie was born out of a collaboration with Bella’s Home-Baked Goods, an artisan bakery out of the Hudson Valley that’s been handcrafting Italian biscotti, brownies, and more for over 23 years using all-natural ingredients. Made with real Kentucky bourbon, the Dutch cocoa mixed with brown butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips blend harmoniously to create the perfect end cap.

“More than a product line, Double Neat aims to create a community around intentional downtime and create a platform that celebrates those end-of-day moments when conversation flows, the pace slows, and the experience matters,” said Kyle Taylor, founder of Double Neat. “Our goal with Double Neat is to bring the essence of whiskey into thoughtfully crafted snacks and coffee that deliver the same depth, character, and quality people expect from a great pour. For us, it’s about savoring the ritual of whiskey culture, without it always being about the drink itself.”

For more information or to purchase products from Double Neat, visit DoubleNeat.com. Be sure to follow @DoubleNeatSnacks on Facebook and Instagram and @DoubleNeatHQ on TikTok to stay in the loop with new products and announcements.

About Double Neat

Double Neat is a direct-to-consumer (DTC) snack brand that offers a curated lineup of whiskey-infused snacks, coffee and elevated gift sets. Founded by Kyle Taylor, Double Neat products deliver rich, smoky, sweet, and spiced profiles that echo the experience of a great pour, without requiring a glass. From bourbon-glazed beef jerky and cinnamon whiskey pecans to whiskey-infused coffee and curated bar-ready gifts, Double Neat brings whiskey-inspired indulgence into everyday moments. Designed for those who appreciate bold flavor and quality craftsmanship, all Double Neat products are made in small batches with thoughtfully sourced ingredients. For more information, visit DoubleNeat.com.

Ten Years of Tiree Whisky Company Ltd!

Today (May 22nd) we’re celebrating 10 years since the inauguration of Tiree Whisky Company Ltd at A’ Bhuain 2016 – Tiree’s second official homecoming.

We marked our launch with an independent bottling, The Cairnsmuir, named after the ship that ran aground off Tiree carrying spirits and wine that famously made its way ashore for islanders to enjoy.

At the launch event, we spoke about Tiree’s distilling heritage and shared our hopes for the future:

“Today is the initial step in re-establishing the island’s connection with the Scotch Whisky industry and we hope that this is just the start.”

Ten years later, that vision has become reality. We now produce Single Malt and Single Grain Scotch Whisky here in Tiree.

We’re also delighted that next May, the third edition of A’ Bhuain will take place, and we’ll welcome homecomers to the Distillery and introduce them to our Tiree spirits for the first time.

A’ Bhuain 2027 will take place between 16th – 21st May 2027. We’ve their official preview video below.

www.tireehomecoming.com
Here’s to the last decade – and the next. Slàinte! 🥃

THE COUNCIL OF WHISKEY MASTERS Announces Its 2026 Master Examinations in Scotland, New Board Leadership, and Expanded Candidate Support

Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands — The Council of Whiskey Masters has announced that its annual Master Examinations will take place from 6–9 October 2026 at the Atholl Palace Hotel in Pitlochry, Scotland. Approximately 30 advanced candidates will be evaluated for the designations of Master of Scotch, Master of Bourbon, or the globally oriented Master of Whiskey.

The Master Examinations represent the highest level of professional whiskey certification, combining blind sensory evaluation with advanced knowledge of whiskey production, history, and analysis. Candidates participate from around the world after completing structured prerequisite study programs delivered remotely prior to the Master level.

The Council also announced a planned leadership transition. Monique Huston will assume the role of Chairman of the Board, succeeding former Chairmen Bernhard Schäfer, Steve Beal, and Martin Duffy, who all remain actively involved as Chairmen Emeritus and examiners. Huston, a Keeper of the Quaich, is Vice President of Spirits at Winebow, a leading global fine wine and spirits importer.

“I am thrilled and humbled to assume the role of Chairman of the program, raising standards across the whiskey industry through rigorous and credible education,” said Huston. “The opportunity to work with the Council at this level is a unique vantage to drive additional visibility and passion in the global whiskey community.”

The Council of Whiskey Masters comprises an international body of industry leaders, authors, master distillers, and master blenders, also including Rachel Barrie, Dave Broom, Lew Bryson, John Campbell, Alasdair Day, Michael D’Souza, Patricia Dillon, Stefan van Eycken, Andrew Faulkner, Serghios Florides, Nancy Fraley, Michael Fraser Milne, Sébastien Gavillet, Tobias Gorn, Davin deKergommeaux, Charles MacLean, Stephanie Macleod, Joseph Micallef, Ian Millar, Arthur Nägele, Eddie Nara, Fionnán O’Connor, Hans and Becky Offringa, Paul Pacult, Susan Reigler, Clay Risen, Ingvar Ronde, Marcy Rudershausen, Gavin Smith, Matt Strickland, Peggy Noe Stevens, Michael Veach, Andy Watts, and Ian Wisniewski, along with all 40 Master program graduates produced by the Council. These members play an active role in the development of the Council and its candidates.

A significant number of these Council members will serve as examiners and judges during the 2026 examination residency in Pitlochry, with Richard Paterson joining as an additional examiner.

Candidates preparing for the examinations receive structured support, with individualized mentoring by current Masters, and cohort-based tasting and theory preparation led by Adam Edmonsond, plus special intensive sessions delivered by industry legends Paul Pacult, Matt Strickland and Ian Wisniewski.

Edmonsond, a Master of Whiskey, noted: “The level of preparation now available to candidates is exceptional. Practically all past program graduates are involved in the process and are now taking responsibility for the next generation. It is a unique strength of our organization.”

“The Master credential is intended to signify genuine depth of knowledge, advancing the careers of our students based on true merit” said Jörn Kleinhans, Founder of the Council of Whiskey Masters. “All program participants commit to objective mastery across the full scope of whiskey.”

More information on certification pathways and enrollment is available at www.whiskeywasters.org.

HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY UNVEILS RITTENHOUSE UNITED STATES 250TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE EDITION STRAIGHT RYE WHISKY
A Limited-Edition, 10-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Release Honors America’s Semiquincentennial and Pennsylvania Heritage

Bardstown, Ky. (May 21, 2026) – Heaven Hill Distillery proudly announces the release of the Rittenhouse United States 250th Anniversary Commemorative Edition, a 10-year-old Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whisky crafted to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence. Launching in May 2026, this special-edition product celebrates Rittenhouse’s Pennsylvania heritage with commemorative Liberty Bell packaging and will be allocated across select US markets and at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience.

Rooted in Pennsylvania’s historic rye whiskey tradition, a cornerstone of early American distilling, Rittenhouse Rye pays tribute to a time when rye was the spirit of choice across the region. Named after Philadelphia’s famed Rittenhouse Square, the brand has long been synonymous with the bold, spicy character of classic Monongahela rye. This commemorative release both honors that enduring legacy and marks a defining milestone in the nation’s history, as Heaven Hill Distillery continues to preserve the authenticity and heritage of one of America’s most storied whiskey styles.

The Rittenhouse 250th Anniversary Edition is a Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey, adhering to the rigorous standards established by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. Aged for 10 years and bottled at 100-proof, the whiskey is composed of a mashbill of 51% rye, 35% corn, and 14% malted barley. Non-chill filtered and drawn from 90 carefully selected barrels aged across multiple rickhouses and floors, this release reflects both craftsmanship and patience.

“This special release is a tribute not only to America’s 250 years of independence, but also to the enduring legacy of rye whiskey in our country’s history,” said Molly Vincent, Associate Director, Luxury Whiskeys at Heaven Hill. “Rittenhouse has long stood as a symbol of classic American rye, and this 10-year-old Bottled-in-Bond expression showcases the depth and character that define both the brand and the milestone it commemorates.”

Presented in striking commemorative packaging, the release prominently features “1776–2026” to mark the Semiquincentennial. Patriotic design elements, including stars and red, white and blue coloring, reinforce the national celebration, while the iconic Liberty Bell pays homage to Rittenhouse’s Pennsylvania roots. The packaging also highlights key quality markers, including “Aged 10 Years” and “Bottled-in-Bond,” underscoring the whiskey’s elevated age statement and distinction.

The Rittenhouse United States 250th Anniversary Commemorative Edition will be available in limited markets across the country at a suggested retail price of $99.99. For more information, visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

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 nine 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.

Our May 2026 Auction ENDS SOON!

Place your bids until 7pm (GMT) Sunday 24th May.

www.whiskyhammer.com

Every month, we present an incredible selection of whiskies and other fine spirits to our members right across the globe. You will find everything here from limited edition releases and vintage bottles to whole casks of rare whisky. There is certainly something for everyone – whether you are looking to collect, invest or enjoy!

Bladnoch – Pure Lowland Malt (1970s) 75cl

St. Magdalene – 1965 (Gordon & MacPhail) Connoisseurs Choice (75cl)

Bruichladdich – 21 Year Old (Limited Edition) Cask Strength

Bowmore – 25 Year Old (The Gulls) 75cl

Selling whisky? Why not arrange the pick-up of your bottles using our global courier service? If you’re based in Scotland, you might want to arrange the personal collection of your bottles. Wherever you’re based in the world, we will make getting your bottles into our monthly auction as simple as possible. Get in touch with the Whisky Hammer team now by dropping them a message at sales@whiskyhammer.com.

£214.98 GBP

Glenallachie 17 Year Old 2009 is a richly indulgent Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, drawn from a single Oloroso sherry hogshead (#1426) and bottled in 2026 at a natural 53.0% ABV. This limited release, with just 356 bottles, showcases Glenallachie’

• 17 year old Speyside single malt Scotch whisky from Glenallachie
• Matured in a single Oloroso sherry hogshead (#1426)
• Distilled 2009, bottled 2026 at 53.0% ABV
• Limited to 356 bottles
• A classic sherry-matured single cask with depth and complexity
• Non chill-filtered and natural colour

The Glenallachie 17 Year Old 2009 Single Oloroso Cask is a bold and rewarding Speyside whisky, delivering everything expected from a top-tier sherry cask—rich fruit, chocolate depth, and warming spice. Complex, indulgent, and highly collectible, it’s an excellent choice for lovers of premium sherried single malts.

Established in 1923, Suntory operates distilleries like Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita, creating award-winning single malts, blends, and grain whiskies. In addition to whisky, Suntory produces other spirits, including gin and vodka, but its whiskies, such as Yamazaki, Hibiki, and Hakushu, are especially revered for pioneering Japanese whisky on the global stage.

VIEW ALL SUNTORY WHISKY

Arran Milroy’s Exclusive Trio 58.87% 210cl

We’re big fans of Arran here at Milroy’s. So much so that we picked out three different 11-year-old casks to exclusively release! This bundle comprises one each of our ex-sherry, ex-bourbon and peated first-fill bourbon bottlings – the perfect way to savour the versatility of this Island single malt Scotch whisky distillery. With a hearty discount too!

 Arran Milroy’s Exclusive Trio bundle for £189.00