WORK BEGINS ON NEW SPEYSIDE BISTRO AT COLEBURN DISTILLERY SITE 

The owners of the historic Coleburn Distillery have broken ground this month with plans for first phase of Whisky Resort at Coleburn granted.

Moray Council has approved plans for an on-site bistro at Coleburn Distillery in Longmorn, Elgin, marking a significant milestone in the site’s wider master plan to create a world-class whisky and hospitality resort, anticipated to be the first of its kind globally.

With an opening targeted for late autumn this year, The Kitchery at Coleburn will be housed within the former Piggery building. Once used for livestock, the structure is being thoughtfully reimagined as a contemporary bistro showcasing food and drink rooted in locally sourced Scottish produce. The project carefully adapts the historic building for modern use while preserving its original character.

Developed in collaboration with award-winning design studio Significant Others, the project reflects a multi-million-pound investment in the famous whisky region. It is expected to create 15 direct jobs, alongside additional opportunities across the local economy, particularly in agriculture, logistics, and hospitality.

Gwenda Smits, Director at Coleburn commented:

“This marks the first of many milestones in the development of the wider Coleburn Whisky Resort, The Kitchery is just the start and breaking ground feels like a very special moment.

“Opening the space as an initial introduction to the site establishes it as an integral part of what will be a much larger offering, giving visitors the opportunity to return year-round, follow its progress, and enjoy the food and beverage experience. Central to the overall project is the sense of community and coming together, and we can’t wait to welcome people from both near and far to the new bistro in the heart of Speyside.”

The architectural approach to The Kitchery draws on traditional forms, thoughtfully balanced with contemporary interventions. New glazed façades will create  a warm and inviting arrival, drawing visitors into the space. The building’s elongated form has been used to choreograph a considered customer journey, with each stage offering a distinct and evolving experience, reinforcing a sense of quality and discovery throughout.

The experience will begin with a welcoming bar and retail space. From there, guests will move into a private dining and tasting room, divided by a bespoke stave wall that offers a sense of separation while still feeling connected. Beyond this, the space will open out into a relaxed bistro, with a mix of cosy booths and flexible seating for up to 62 guests. At its heart, a chef’s table-style finishing kitchen will add a touch of theatre, bringing energy and interaction to the dining experience.

Materiality will play a central role in shaping the interior atmosphere. Warm leathers, natural timbers, aged copper, and backlit rippled glass combine to create a rich, layered aesthetic rooted in the spirit of the distillery while delivering a fresh, contemporary feel. 

Ruth Hay, Director at Significant Others added:

“It’s an incredibly exciting time for everyone involved. Seeing The Kitchery come to life this year will mark a significant milestone, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum with the next phases of the masterplan as the wider vision for Coleburn continues to unfold.”

Construction began on the site last month, with the installation of a biomass boiler implemented as part of a broader commitment to sustainability, in collaboration with Reheat.

Neil Harrison, Director at Reheat, commented:

“We’ve been working with the team at Coleburn on how best to underpin their operations with low carbon energy for some years now, and it’s fantastic to see this first practical step being taken on their journey to bring their plans to reality with the installation of a district heating network to meet the heating and hot water needs of multiple buildings on the site.”

“There are many more steps to follow, but their decision to opt for a biomass system underlines their commitment to the local economy, local sourcing, and doing things the right way from the off, plus a project combining listed buildings, district heating, a hospitality setting, and whisky is at the centre of our competence Venn diagram.”

At the end of last year, The Distillery at Coleburn unveiled its first collection of whisky bottlings, the ‘Local Heros’ collection, which brings together exceptional whiskies under a unifying vision, celebrating the makers, custodians, and enthusiasts whose passion continues to connect local heritage with a global whisky community.

The inaugural release introduced three blended malts bottled on-site in Speyside, comprising ‘Sweet Peat’, ‘Big Smoke’, and ‘Sherry Bomb’, each offering a distinct flavour profile.

About Coleburn Distillery:

Coleburn Distillery, located in the heart of Speyside, is being brought back to life as part of a landmark project to create a world-class whisky and hospitality destination. Once a working distillery, Coleburn is now being reinstated as a fully operational site, complete with a new distillery and visitor bistro in the first phase of development.

Future plans include whisky lodges, Pagoda penthouse and bistro, making Coleburn a true destination for whisky lovers and visitors from around the world. At its core, the project is about reviving the Coleburn spirit and offering a premium whisky experience rooted in heritage, craft, and place.

ENDS TONIGHT May 11, 2026 @ 8PM EDT

SHIPPING AVAILABLE ACROSS CANADA

Bid like an Auction Pro! Tips below.

Iron Gate Auctions Operated under license by Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis and Alberta Auction license #352487.

Spring has arrived, and Iron Gate’s third Spirits Auction of 2026 is in full bloom. This exceptional sale is headlined by the 1973 Macallan Handwritten Label, created to commemorate the Opimian Club’s 10th Anniversary—widely regarded as the rarest release in the handwritten Macallan series. Sharing the spotlight the 1964 Black Bowmore and a 1965 Springbank Local Barley.

When bidding keep a few things in mind.

• The Buyers Premium is 19.5% based on the hammer price (not 20-24%+ like other auctions)
• Sales tax is 5% (not 13%. Iron Gate is based in Alberta)
• Shipping is available in Canada through a 3rd party called Calgary Shipping for a fee.  Flat rate for some postal codes.  Check out: https://calgaryship.com
• Set your favourites so you can focus on the bottles you care about (it’s like having a mini auction just for you)
• Use Absentee or Proxy bidding to stay within your budget. Set your max bid and forget about it. You will get notified once your max bid is exceeded by someone else.  This is a great tool if you will be away on holidays (someplace warm) or busy during the auction close.

THE AUCTION

Tamnavulin 2013 12 Year Old, Tartan Army Bottling

£52.00

Distilled in 2013, this 12 year old Tamnavulin is a vatting of four ex-bourbon casks. Produced as a Tartan Army bottling. Distilled 14th November 2013 and bottled 26th February 2026.

TyndrumWhisky.com
The Green Welly Stop
Tyndrumwhisky, Tyndrum
Crianlarich, Perthshire FK20 8RY
United Kingdom

ralfy review 1127 – Tullibardine 15yo @43%vol:

Tomintoul Distillery backs volunteers on the frontline of Scotland’s mountain rescue with lifesaving avalanche tech

Volunteers who risk their lives to save others in the Cairngorms are heading into the mountains with a crucial new layer of protection thanks to Tomintoul Distillery’s continued support as the Official Spirit of the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team (CMRT).

The most recent round of funding from Tomintoul has enabled CMRT to upgrade its avalanche safety kit with new transceivers for the entire team. These small, powerful devices are designed for the worst-case scenario: locating a rescuer buried beneath the snowpack after an avalanche. In the Cairngorms, where volunteers operate in some of Scotland’s most hazardous conditions, this technology can mean the difference between life and death.

CMRT deputy team leader, Willie Anderson, explains:
“Avalanche transceivers are a basic but lifesaving part of kit. They give our volunteers an extra degree of safety when working in high risk conditions, dramatically speeding up our ability to find any of the team at risk.

“Our volunteers regularly go out in the dark, in storms and in places where avalanches are a very real danger. These devices don’t just help us help others — they help us protect our own. Seconds really do save lives and Tomintoul’s support means we can operate in the mountains better protected and better prepared.”

Alongside the vital equipment boost, the Speyside distillery has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the CMRT, announcing a third consecutive year of support. The milestone arrives at a meaningful moment for Tomintoul Distillery as it closes out its 60th anniversary year — six decades rooted in the Cairngorms, shaped by its landscape and deeply connected to the people who protect it.

Robert Fleming, Master Distiller, said:

“Our surrounding landscape shapes our whisky – from the water and the climate to the mountain air. But it’s the people who safeguard this place who truly inspire us. Supporting CMRT isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s real, lifesaving impact on the ground. These volunteers go out in conditions most of us can barely imagine and we’re proud to stand with them as we enter our third year together.”

CMRT remains one of the busiest mountain rescue teams in Scotland, with around 40 highly trained volunteers responding to many callouts each year across the Northern Cairngorms, Ben Alder and the Monadhliath Mountains — some of the most challenging terrain in Scotland. The team relies heavily on donations and grants to maintain its kit, training and operational readiness.

As the team reflects on another demanding winter season in the mountains, Tomintoul’s continued backing helps ensure that the volunteers who protect the region are protected themselves.

Visit www.TomintoulWhisky.com to find out more.

Tomintoul Distillery

Tomintoul Distillery is nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, within the whisky producing region of Speyside. The distillery, established in 1965, is named after the nearby village of Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands of Scotland.

Tomintoul’s signature range includes the popular 10-Year-Old, 14-Year-Old and 16-Year-Old, as well as the multi-award-winning Cigar Malt and premium 21-Year-Old and 25-Year-Old.

About CMRT

Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team (CMRT) is a charity registered in Scotland, as part of the Independent Scottish Mountain Rescue (iSMR). CMRT are one of the busiest mountain rescue teams in Britain, responding to many accidents, injuries and avalanches throughout the year.

Evan Williams® Expands Award-Winning Flavors Lineup with New Evan Williams Blackberry

Smooth bourbon meets ripe blackberry flavor in a fresh new nationwide release

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Evan Williams®, the #1 American-owned Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, is bringing the flavor with the launch of Evan Williams Blackberry, a bold new flavor extension joining the brand’s award-winning lineup of flavored whiskeys. Arriving in stores across the U.S. beginning in March, Evan Williams Blackberry delivers a fresh pick for consumers looking to enjoy bourbon in new and flavorful ways.

Combining Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon with ripe blackberry flavor, Evan Williams Blackberry offers a bold yet balanced taste that’s smooth, approachable, and versatile. Bottled at 65 proof (32.5% Alc./Vol.), the new expression layers juicy fruit notes with subtle caramel and a rounded bourbon finish making it easy to enjoy however the moment calls for it.

“When you need a fresh pick, Evan Williams Blackberry delivers,” said Max Stefka, AVP Global Whiskey Brands at Evan Williams. “This new flavor builds on the momentum of our award-winning flavors lineup, combining the quality and consistency Evan Williams is known for with a vibrant blackberry profile that’s perfect for sipping, simple mixing with lemonade or soda, and sharing with friends.”

Designed for versatility, Evan Williams Blackberry is easy to enjoy no matter the occasion. Whether served as a chilled shot, poured over ice, or mixed into simple two-ingredient cocktails, the smooth bourbon and ripe blackberry flavor make it effortless to elevate everyday moments. The expression pairs seamlessly with classic mixers like iced tea, cream soda or spiced sodas, and even shines in playful serves inspired by nostalgic combinations—like a blackberry twist on a PB&J shot. A standout serve is the refreshing Blackberry Lemonade, which highlights the whiskey’s fruit-forward character with a crisp, easy-drinking twist and hint of bubbles. From backyard gatherings to tailgates, Evan Williams Blackberry delivers bold flavor with easy preparation, making it a go-to for casual get-togethers and celebratory occasions alike.

Evan Williams Blackberry Lemonade

2 oz. Evan Williams Blackberry

Lemonade

Soda Water (Optional) Pour Evan Williams Blackberry over ice, fill with lemonade, and top with soda water.

The launch of Evan Williams Blackberry marks another step in the continued growth of the brand’s award-winning flavors lineup, broadening the ways consumers can enjoy Evan Williams in both casual and celebratory moments. Those looking to experience Evan Williams Blackberry can find it available nationwide, beginning in March at a suggested retail price of $14.99 for a 750ml bottle.

ABOUT EVAN WILLIAMS:  Evan Williams is among the leaders in the American Whiskey segment as the #1 American-owned Bourbon and the world’s second largest-selling Bourbon. In 1783, the brand’s namesake opened Kentucky’s First Distillery on the banks of the Ohio River. Many years and barrels later, Evan Williams Bourbon is still produced the right way, using the same time-honored methods. Since 2015, Evan Williams has proudly supported Veteran-focused organizations nationwide, contributing more than $750,000 to initiatives that honor and empower those who have served our country. In 2024, the brand debuted ‘Evan Williams Bourbon Nation’ to celebrate college athletics through a partnership with Learfield, making Kentucky’s 1st Distiller Game Day’s #1 Pour. The multi-year deal currently includes powerhouse universities across the country. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams through an immersive visitor’s center experience that brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit as an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Learn more at www.EvanWilliams.com.

MAY 2026 AUCTION NOW LIVE!

Our May 2026 Auction is now live, featuring a standout selection of Diageo Special Releases. First launched in 2001, this sought-after series has become a highlight of the whisky calendar, showcasing rare, limited-edition single malts from across Diageo’s portfolio. This lineup includes bold cask-strength expressions from Oban, Talisker, Clynelish, Cardhu, Cameron Bridge, Singleton of Glen Ord and Lagavulin – each with distinctive cask finishes and striking 2022 release themes.

Distilled in 1977 at the now-silent Glen Albyn Distillery, this exceptional single cask whisky was matured for 30 years before being bottled in 2007 by Douglas Laing for their esteemed Old Malt Cask range. Drawn from cask DL REF #3405, it is a rare and characterful snapshot of a lost Highland distillery with just 179 bottles ever produced.

Distilled in 1998 – the final year of production at the now-demolished Imperial Distillery – this 25 Years Old single cask is a rare survivor from a lost Speyside name. Matured in refill Bourbon Barrel #100916 and bottled at natural cask strength in 2023 by Cask 88, it captures some of the very last spirit ever laid down at the distillery. Limited to just 200 bottles, each with a uniquely varied label illustrated by Johnathon Freemantle, this is a highly collectible release.

Or how about this Aberfeldy 19 Years Old (Bottled 1991), a rare example of the coveted staff-only releases from within Diageo’s distillery portfolio. Produced in limited numbers, these annual bottlings saw each distillery manager select exceptional casks to be presented at natural cask strength. This bottling is an opportunity to acquire a whisky originally reserved for those who made it.

These are only a few of the old, limited and collectable bottles featured in our May 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 17^th May from 8pm BST.

Artful Dodger: Casks Uncovered

Independent bottlers give us the chance to experience whiskies in a different light. Styling themselves as a band of “professional whisky thieves”, Artful Dodger Whisky Collective seeks out remarkable casks and releases them for drinkers to enjoy.

The result is a range of distinctive single cask bottlings, often presented at natural cask strength and without chill filtration, each chosen to showcase the individuality of the whisky inside.

Explore our latest Artful Dodger releases and uncover something truly distinctive.

​ SHOP NOW ​

Local Heros Sherry Bomb 46% 70cl

Bold, fruity and dense, Local Heros Sherry Bomb brings a warming, jammy, indulgently spiced perspective to the three-strong collection of blended malts from the team behind Coleburn Distillery. Aged in both ex-Oloroso and refill casks, the bottling offers a toasted, nutty and rich flavour profile – a classic sherry-matured expression. Local Heros was released to celebrate the whisky community, and it provides something of a taster while we wait for the planned Whisky Resort at Coleburn to take shape.

£52.50

Tasting notes:

Nose: Rich and indulgent, the nose opens with honey-roasted cashew, cinnamon and milk chocolate-coated strawberry notes, alongside granola and marmalade on toast.

Palate: Nuttier than the nose, hazelnut and walnut notes emerge, alongside dried figs, apricots and raisins. There’s a smattering of baking spices, all set within a rich, creamy, vanilla-like texture.

Finish: Medium length with lingering spiced chocolate and toasted oak.