Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week Returns for Fifth Annual Celebration of The Original Whiskey Cocktail

The award-winning brand will once again raise funds for the hospitality community through donations for every Old Fashioned sold at participating bars and restaurants

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (October 9, 2024) -Elijah Craig Bourbon is proud to announce the launch of its fifth-annual Old Fashioned Week, running from October 11 through October 20, 2024. This 10-day celebration invites bourbon enthusiasts to enjoy the iconic Old Fashioned cocktail at participating bars and restaurants across the country, all while supporting a great cause. Elijah Craig’s mashbill and aging regimen lends itself to making the perfect spirit-forward Old Fashioned. Its signature warm spice and subtle smoke flavor complement the sweetness and spiciness of the cocktail’s key ingredients. For every Old Fashioned sold, Elijah Craig will donate $1 per drink (up to $100,000) to the Southern Smoke Foundation, an organization providing critical support to food and beverage workers through emergency relief and mental health services.

“Elijah Craig is proud to give back to the hospitality community by supporting our friends at the Southern Smoke Foundation through our fifth annual Old Fashioned Week,” said Max Stefka, Group Product Director of Elijah Craig. “Visiting a participating bar for a balanced Old Fashioned helps put dollars directly into the pockets of food and beverage workers when they need it most.”

Since its inception in 2020, Elijah Craig’s Old Fashioned Week has raised over $400,000 for organizations dedicated to supporting the hospitality industry, including the Southern Smoke Foundation. With Elijah Craig’s help, Southern Smoke has provided nearly 1,000 no-cost mental health counseling sessions and $150,000 in emergency relief grants to industry workers across the U.S.

Internationally, Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week will take place once again in Canada with proceeds benefiting the Bartenders Benevolent Fund, and for the first time in the UK, with efforts benefiting the hospitality industry via The Drinks Trust. The 2024 Old Fashioned Week will continue this impactful legacy, with every cocktail enjoyed helping to make a difference.

Elijah Craig is encouraging consumers to join the festivities by using the “Find a Bar” tool on oldfashionedweek.com to discover participating venues nearby. Many of these locations will feature creative riffs on the classic Elijah Craig Old Fashioned, giving guests unique ways to raise a glass in celebration. With 7000 venues participating in 2023, and estimations for equal sign ups this year, consumers will have no shortage of options when it comes to choosing where to cheers. This week is a celebration of bartenders, barbacks, chefs, runners, dishwashers, waitstaff, and many more service workers who are the backbone of the industry.

Bartenders interested in showing off their creativity can submit their own Old Fashioned recipes to the annual “New Era of the Old Fashioned Cocktail Contest” hosted by Elijah Craig and VinePair. Entrants get a chance to win a $15,000 cash prize and will be featured in Elijah Craig’s “Old Fashioned Week Cocktail Companion: Volume 2” cocktail book. The drinks will be judged based on balance, flavor, aroma, and character, along with other factors, like innovation, inspiration, and presentation. Bartenders can enter now through November 1st.

To amplify the reach of Old Fashioned Week, Elijah Craig will launch a national media campaign featuring a brand ad running on connected TV and digital video networks like Hulu, Roku, ESPN, and Peacock. For those looking to enjoy Old Fashioned Week from home, consumers can find Elijah Craig Old Fashioned displays paired with every ingredient necessary to craft the perfect Old Fashioned at retailers across the U.S.

The Signature Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Recipe

INGREDIENTS

2 oz. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon

25 oz. Simple Syrup

3 Dashes of Bitters

Orange Swath

1 Brandied Cherry (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

In a mixing glass add bitters, simple syrup, Elijah Craig Small Batch, and ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain cocktail over a large ice cube in a double old-Fashioned glass. Garnish with a swath of orange and a brandied cherry.

Elijah Craig invites Bourbon fans everywhere to join us in raising a glass to the Old Fashioned cocktail and the dedicated workers who make our hospitality experiences unforgettable. Share your favorite recipes, build your own Old Fashioned riffs, and gather friends and family to hit the town (or stay in to make your own, of course). Be sure to tag @ElijahCraig and #OldFashionedWeek on your photos or videos for a chance to be featured on the brand’s social channels. Let’s toast to another successful Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week and continue to support the Southern Smoke Foundation in their vital work for the bar and restaurant community.

ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Elijah Craig Bourbon bears the name of the Reverend Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” who established his distillery in 1789 on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in modern day Georgetown, Kentucky. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels. The clear, unaged corn liquor became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the family of whiskeys includes Elijah Craig Small Batch, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. First brought to market in 1986, Heaven Hill Distillery’s Master Distillers were selecting a small number of barrels of the finest Bourbon to make Elijah Craig Small Batch long before the term “small batch” even existed. It is this attention to detail and superb craftsmanship that give Elijah Craig an ideal balance of age, robust body, and rich flavor. Elijah Craig accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon, Best Single Barrel Bourbon (aged 11+ years) and Best Straight Bourbon at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com.

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

Earlier, we were proud to launch the second expression of The Hearach whisky. The Hearach First Fill Oloroso Cask Matured single malt celebrates our casks’ connection to the Andalusian region of southern Spain.

Here, we work closely with the team at Bodega Jose Míguel Martín to source the beautiful Oloroso sherry butts in which we mature our island spirit. As our casks make a long journey from their cooperages in Huelva and wineries in Jerez to the Isle of Harris, they bring with them a sense of this special place.

Rich bold, and aromatic…I’m happy to confirm this new dram from our island distillery is absolutely delicious and perfectly designed for drinking. If you haven’t already done so, do consider ordering your bottle today and open it to discover more…

We have lots more stories from Spain to share over the coming months, but meantime scroll down to enjoy some more photographs from our recent visit…

¡Salud! / Slàinte!

FIND A STOCKIST

Hombo Shuzo Mars “The Y.A. #2” Pure Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) $139.99 View

The Y.A. #2 (Yakushima Aged) is the next installment in Mars’ blended malt series from the Komagatake and Tsunuki distilleries. The whiskies are married together and aged entirely on the island of Yakushima approximately 60km off the southern coast of Kyushu. The year round rain, subtropical temperatures, and insane humidity has an intense effect on the whisky. The 2nd release has a smokier profile than the first. Think grilled pears, black tea, honey with sea salt and you’re in the ballpark. Aged in ex-bourbon and sherry barrels. 15ppm, 49% ABV.

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

FALL 2024: GREAT WHISKIES OF JAPAN

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Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 542: Nc’nean Huntress 2024 – Orchard Cobbler

The third release of the Huntress whisky by Nc’nean is called Orchard Cobbler, named after a fruit stew with some pastry on top. Lovely stuff, bottled at 48.5%, Mark tasted it at a wine domain in his neck of the woods. Enjoy!

https://youtu.be/1cZy20cX5r4

DEWAR’S® BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY CONTINUES LEGACY WITH U.S. OPEN: UNVEILING THE FOURTH EDITION OF “THE CHAMPION’S EDITION” 19 YEAR OLD WHISKY

Celebrating the 124th U.S. Open in Pinehurst, the newest iteration of DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition is finished in First-Fill Rye Whisky Casks

DEWAR’S^® Blended Scotch Whisky introduces the fourth iteration of DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition. Crafted to honor the enduring collaboration between DEWAR’S and the U.S. Open Championship, this limited-edition whisky celebrates the 124th U.S. Open Championship at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club.

Described as the cradle of American golf, the Pinehurst Resort & Country Club was originally designed by Scotland-born Donald Ross as a stateside golf club along the sands of the Carolinas that harkened back to his homeland. With a similar mission to bridge rich heritage and modern innovation, DEWAR’S Blended Scotch Whisky honors the best of Scotland, Scotch, and golf with the release of DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition.

Crafted under the expertise of five-time Master Blender of the Year, Stephanie Macleod , at 43% ABV for a nuanced flavor profile, the 2024 expression showcases the brand’s signature double aging process and is finished in first-fill rye whisky casks, producing a Blended Scotch Whisky that is as rich and refined as the sport of golf itself. Commencing with ripe notes of pear and heather honey, it evolves into a spicy tapestry, imparting hints of cinnamon and cocoa powder that gently warms the palate, leading to a refreshing finish.

Continuing its tradition, DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition returns for its fourth year, having previously finished in Napa Valley red wine casks in 2023, American oak & rye casks in 2022, and first-fill ex-bourbon casks in 2021.

Additionally, at the 124th U.S. Open, DEWAR’S proudly reintroduces the official cocktail of the championship, the Lemon Wedge. The refreshing, citrus-forward cocktail features the acclaimed DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, and is infused with lemonade and club soda, delivering the perfect accompaniment for enjoying every moment of the competition.

Stephanie Macleod, Master Blender for DEWAR’S commented: “Crafting DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition for the 124th U.S. Open has been a remarkable journey, echoing the precision and finesse of the sport itself. The marriage of our distinguished 19 Year Old whisky, a unique age statement within the category, with the distinctive character of first-fill rye whisky casks has resulted in a symphony of flavors that pays homage to both the rich heritage of Scotch whisky and the enduring allure of golf. With each sip, the liquid reveals notes of cinnamon and cocoa, leading to a smooth finish that lingers on the palate.”

Brian Cox, Vice President of DEWAR’s North America commented: “Throughout the centuries, golf has woven a tapestry of camaraderie, competition, and celebration—a tradition cherished by enthusiasts worldwide. With the release of Dewar’s 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition for the 124th U.S. Open, we honor this timeless connection between the sport and the shared moments that follow. Just as golfers gather at the 19th hole to recount their tales of the course, this special-edition whisky becomes an integral part of this ritual—a companion to the stories shared, the bonds strengthened, and the memories made.”

Making the perfect Father’s Day gift this season, the fourth iteration of the DEWAR’S 19 Year Old – The Champion’s Edition commemorative bottle will be available in limited quantities, exclusively at select fine wines and spirits retailers, as well as online via our website.

This article appears here well after the original publication date and as a matter of interest.

ralfy review 1048 Extras – Energy Drinks and Single Malts.

Lux Row Distillers introduces Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish

Latest addition to the Lux Row brand family will debut at the distillery in October before a nationwide release in early 2025

ST. LOUIS (Sept. 9, 2024) – Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers is expanding its Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey family with the release of Lux Row Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish. The new release is crafted from small batches of 4-year-old ryed straight Kentucky bourbon finished for six months in casks that held PX Sherry, an intensely rich and sweet wine made from overly ripened, sun-dried grapes. Offered at 112 proof (56% ABV), Lux Row Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish will be available this October exclusively at the distillery for $59.99 per 750mL bottle. A nationwide release of Lux Row Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish is planned for early 2025.

The PX Sherry cask finish imparts an aromatic bouquet of dried figs and dates, and decadent flavors of grape syrup and candied fruit followed by hints of spice, roasted coffee, and dark chocolate. The result is a unique and balanced pour.

“We wanted to meld the intensely sweet flavors of PX Sherry with the spicy, peppery notes of our ryed bourbon,” said Lux Row Master Distiller John Rempe. “The outcome is a delicious combination of two opposing yet complementary flavors that results in a truly unique expression.”

Lux Row Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish is the latest release in Lux Row’s award-winning lineup. The brand family includes fan favorite 12-year Double Barrel and last year’s addition, Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel, which recently earned a Platinum medal at the ASCOT Awards, and a Double Gold designation at the SIP Awards.

“Premium bourbon consumers want products that are unique and high-quality,” said Lux Row Brand Manager Eric Winter. “Our newest PX Sherry finish delivers on both fronts and provides an opportunity to grow the Lux Row brand by appealing to bourbon drinkers who seek out one-of-a-kind flavor options and taste profiles.”

To learn more about Lux Row Small Batch PX Sherry Cask Finish visit LuxRowDistillers.com.

About Luxco

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora Gonzalez Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com

OCTOBER AUCTION NOW LIVE!

Almost time to turn the clocks back, so a fitting time to take a look at a few vintage bottlings in our LIVE October auction, like this 1980 Ardbeg Kildalton. With only 1300 bottles produced, this is a rare beast indeed!

Or how about this bottling, distilled in 1977 by the now closed Lowland distillery Inverleven. Aged for 26 years then drawn from a single Cask #3095 and bottled by Duncan Taylor for their Rare Auld range at Cask strength. Bottle 165 of only 168 produced!

Another rare find is this bottling, distilled at the Glencraig Distillery in 1975 then bottled in 1999 by Elgin based independent bottlers Gordon & MacPhail. Expressions like these are a great example of bottlings under the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ label of distilleries which are unfortunately now closed.

Released in the late 2000’s the Macallan Ghillies Dram celebrates the River Spey, which provides superb Salmon fishing to anglers and is part of the boundary to the Easter Elchies Estate, home of the Macallan Distillery. Named ‘Ghillies Dram’ in recognition of Willie Bremner, ghillie to the beat or stretch of river owned by the Macallan which attracts keen anglers from all over the world, not only to this famous stretch of river but to the distillery too, where they can sample different whiskies from the distillery itself. Funds from the sale of this expression were made available to the restocking of young fish to the river. This lot is accompanied by a watercolour picture of the beat owned by the estate, depicting images of pools known for good Salmon fishing. Bottle number 776 of only 800 bottles produced!

These are only a few of the bottles featured in our October 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 20th October from 8pm BST.

We have some exciting news! Our 50th Anniversary Cask Club is back by popular demand, with three additional distilleries added: Society casks from distilleries 10, 11 and 123 are now available in addition to the last few from distilleries 8 and 42. So whether you’re a peat freak, a sherry buff or a lover of Highland malts, you’ll find a cask tailored to your taste among our 50th Anniversary selection.

There are very few of each available, so don’t miss out! This is an unmissable opportunity to own a piece of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s future and embark on a whisky’s remarkable journey, witnessing its transformation from new-make spirit to 10-year-old whisky in 2033.

The idea is simple – you, by yourself or together with friends, can share in the experience of selecting a cask of new-make spirit from five celebrated, and very different, Scottish distilleries. You’ll be able to monitor the cask’s maturation through to 2033. Then, on the Society’s 50th anniversary in 2033, you’ll be able to bottle your own whisky with a specially customised label and share the delights of your 10-year-old dram.

Don’t miss this chance to join the 50th Anniversary Cask Club and be part of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s story through to 2033. Visit the website now to discover more.​​​​​​​

JOIN THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY CASK CLUB TODAY

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