LAPHROAIG RELEASES NEW ADDITION TO THE EXPERIMENTAL ‘ELEMENTS’ SERIES INSPIRED BY DISTILLERY MISHAP

Laphroaig Elements 3.0 explores the surprising impact of kiln fire on whisky flavor, pushing the boundaries of Laphroaig’s unmistakable character

New York, September 2025: Laphroaig unveils the third release in its pioneering Elements Series, a collection of bold whiskies that experiment with aspects of our production techniques. Now available in the U.S., Elements 3.0 is a single malt that explores the unexpected flavor impact of an extraordinary event at Laphroaig distillery. Following a kiln fire that burned longer and at significantly higher temperatures than usual, the resulting spirit led to a rich and distinctive whisky, with notes of chocolate and burnt caramel.

Famed for its innovative approach to whisky making, the Elements Series examines how small changes in production can bring new depth to the final product. The third release in the Series continues this tradition, following the success of Elements 1.0 in 2023 and the multi-award-winning Elements 2.0 in 2024, which experimented with changes in wort, mash size and malt makeup, and extended fermentation respectively.

George Campbell, Laphroaig Distillery Manager, commented, “Our Elements Series focusses on pushing the boundaries of traditional whisky making while retaining the distinctive character that defines Laphroaig. The period of unexpectedly hot kiln smoking presented a unique opportunity to explore how such an event could influence the flavour of Islay’s iconic dram. Elements 3.0 adds an exciting new twist to our multi-award-winning range, and I’m eager to hear what our Friends think of this latest addition.”

Sarah Dowling, Lead Whisky Maker, Laphroaig, added, “Through the Elements Series we have been able to experiment and gain a deeper insight into the many variables that contribute to Laphroaig’s rich and characterful profile. Our third release is a fascinating example of how innovation in the distillery can lead to delightful discoveries, enhancing our understanding of the origin of specific flavour compounds. Elements 3.0 not only offers a new way to experience the bold and distinct taste of Laphroaig but also explores aspects that impact the smoky flavour, making it a must-try for whisky explorers and enthusiasts.”

Each release in the Elements Series is designed to highlight the specific experiments behind its creation, with packaging that alludes to the experiments and the people involved, providing a unique look into the magic of the whisky-making process.

SRP: $165; Bottled at: 55.3% ABV 

Aroma: Charcoal, chocolate and spice. Deep smoldering charred peat notes layered with a wash of maritime brine. Sweet and citrusy; vanilla, lemon zest and butterscotch. A hint of cinnamon spice, plums and dates draws you in and invites you to take a sip

Taste: A roar of intense peaty characters which tingle and warms the palette, intermingled with notes of roasted cocoa beans and bitter dark chocolate. As the rich phenolic characters subside, a tangy fruitiness comes to the fore with the introduction of blackberry, plum, and gooseberry notes with indulgent characters of a crème brûlée

Finish: Long lasting and drying, with elongated notes of iodine, leather and sooty chimney smoke 

About Laphroaig® Whisky

Laphroaig is the number one selling Islay single malt globally* and is synonymous with this famous whisky island. Established in 1815 by the Johnston brothers, Laphroaig has stayed true to its bold and unforgettable character for over 200 years.

Today, Laphroaig is one of only a handful of distilleries that continues to make whisky using traditional techniques like floor malting barley. From hand turning the barley and burning the peat at low temperatures to flavor the malt with cool smoke to slow distillation to maintain quality, this is what truly makes Laphroaig.

Our single malt whisky embodies the character of Islay in every drop of Laphroaig. From the distinctive peat which gives us our unique smoky character to the steadfast confidence and passion of our people, making Laphroaig unmistakable. The gives us our distinctive taste of Islay, salt and smoke with a surprising sweetness. ​

​Laphroaig’s commitment to bold character has earned us a dedicated following of brand fans, the Friends of Laphroaig.  Launched in 1994, the same year HM King Charles granted the brand a Royal Warrant, this global community has since grown to over 700,000 whisky lovers representing over 170 countries.

*by volume and value in 2023. Source: IWSR Global Database 2024 

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

Gordon & MacPhail completes a multi-million-pound warehouse expansion

Family-owned Scotch whisky and premium spirits specialist, Gordon & MacPhail, has completed a multi-million-pound warehouse expansion at Benromach Distillery, as part of its long-term investment into the future of the business and continued commitment to the local community.

Gordon & MacPhail, which owns both Benromach Distillery and The Cairn Distillery, as well as maturing and bottling some of the world’s rarest Single Malt Whiskies under its Gordon & MacPhail brand, created an additional three warehouses on the site as part of its first phase of warehouse expansion.

The completion of Warehouse 10 marks the end of this phase and alone will increase maturation capacity by more than 25%. A racked warehouse covering 472m², it will be able to hold approximately 9,000 casks of Scotch whisky.

Working with another local family-owned business, Roberston Construction Northern, which led on the build Gordon & MacPhail will now be able to mature a wealth of single malts across its warehouse complex at Benromach Distillery, including new-make spirit from The Cairn Distillery.

Jade Crotty, Head of Compliance & Infrastructure at Gordon & MacPhail, said: “At Gordon & MacPhail we are always thinking ahead to the future of the business. We continue to invest in the local and surrounding areas – through new warehouses, distilleries, and the careful refurbishment of historic buildings – to ensure our infrastructure meets the needs of today, and generations to come. 

“The new warehouse complex at Benromach Distillery is just one example of this. Increasing our maturation capacity will allow us to continue to produce high-quality single malts across our portfolio of brands for decades to come.”

Ian Phillips, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Northern, said: “We are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with Gordon & MacPhail where we have developed a clear understanding of their business. Being the contractor of choice to deliver all three warehouses in the current phase of expansion reflects the trust earned through years of working together. Projects like this not only strengthen our partnership but also bring lasting benefit to the region through continued investment and growth.”

In addition to this, the multi-generational family-owned Scotch whisky specialist, which has strong local roots, is investing in the refurbishment of its spiritual home on South Street, Elgin. The project, which is also being led by Robertson Construction Northern, will see the creation of a world-class visitor experience, showcasing Gordon & MacPhail’s heritage and legacy.

Gordon & MacPhail opened a temporary shop, The Courtyard, within Johnstons of Elgin in March 2025, allowing it to continue serving local and international visitors across its in-depth range of spirits and Scotch whiskies during the temporary closure of South Street.

For more information on Gordon & MacPhail, please visit www.gordonandmacphail.com.

About Gordon & MacPhail 

Gordon & MacPhail is a family-owned Scotch whisky specialist. Based in Elgin and operating on an international level, Gordon & MacPhail is owned by the third and fourth generation of the Urquhart family. Bringing together over 130 years of expertise in Scotch whisky production with a passion for building a business that will continue for generations to come, Gordon & MacPhail owns both Benromach Distillery in Forres and The Cairn Distillery in Grantown-on-Spey, as well as maturing and bottling some of the world’s rarest Single Malt Scotch Whiskies under its Gordon & MacPhail brand

For more information on Gordon & MacPhail, please visit www.gordonandmacphail.com.

About Robertson Group

Robertson is one of the largest family-owned construction, infrastructure, property and support services businesses in the UK. For almost 60 years our sustainable growth has enabled us to invest in our business, the future of people and communities, and to deliver on major projects, housing developments and facilities management for customers nationally. Our scale gives us the ability to accept big challenges and build mutually beneficial partner relationships, but we think locally too. Ultimately, our approach is about making progress safely towards a sustainable future. It’s the Robertson Way.

Robertson has offices in Stirling, Dundee, Elgin, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Haydock, Gateshead and Sheffield. www.robertson.co.uk

The James B. Beam Distilling Co. is introducing the annual release of Old Grand-Dad 7-Year-Old Bonded Bourbon!  Each year’s release of this high-recipe Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is produced from a single distillation season in accordance with the Bottled-In-Bond Act. This release was barreled in the spring of 2018.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Deep copper tones

Nose: Bold caramel and vanilla

Palate: Sweet caramel flavors with notes of charred oak & vanilla notes

Finish: Full-bodied and long with velvety caramel notes

First bottled in 1882, Old Grand-Dad is a traditional and storied bourbon. The iconic Old Grand-Dad brand was acquired by James B. Beam Distilling Co. in 1987; known to be a favorite amongst bartenders, collectors, and whiskey aficionados, the current day “OGD” is specifically formulated with more rye for a spicy yet still pleasantly light flavor.

Historically inspired by vintage releases, this fine bourbon is cut to 100 proof to reach its optimal and distinctively classic OGD flavor and body. Patiently aged while converging the high rye recipe bourbon drinkers know and love with extra time in the barrel.

🥃OLD PERTH BODEGA 🥃

A Limited Edition Celebration of Heritage

Today we proudly launch a brand-new limited edition that celebrates Old Perth’s rich tradition and heritage. With just 1,200 bottles available worldwide, Old Perth Bodega honours our long-standing traditions and deep sherry roots. Bodega is a rare vatting of single malts fully matured in Oloroso, Pedro Ximénez, Palo Cortado and Solera casks. The result is a spirit of remarkable depth, complexity, and elegance.

Tasting Notes
Nose: Spiced oak, bright orange zest, rich treacle, and dark fruits.
Palate: Silky sweetness and refined nuttiness.
Finish: Long-lasting and juicy, with smooth milk chocolate.
ABV: 52.4%
RRP: £52

“This release is a true celebration of Old Perth’s DNA — a whisky deeply rooted in tradition, shaped by exceptional casks, and bottled with our signature bold yet balanced style,” says Graeme Mackeddie, Head of Production.

See below on where to buy

Kentucky Classics (Old Fitz 7 Year Bottled in Bond, Heaven Hill 7 Year Artist Series, & Elijah Craig Ryder Cup 2025) Whiskey Collector Pack

(3x750ml)

$160.00

This fun pack includes the famously hard to get new Old Fitz 7 year Bottled in Bond, the special Heaven Hill 7 Year Bottled in Bond Artist Series, and the unique Elijah Craig Ryder’s Cup Limited Edition Finished in Toasted Maple Sugar & Applewood Staves. 3 unique and unusual bourbons well under market price that will go over well on the back bar as well as the in the glass.

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

ralfy review 1095 – North Star 26yo Blended Scotch @ 44.2%vol:

Heaven Hill Grain to Glass® Announces 2025 Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

Crafted from seed to sip with locally grown grain, this limited-edition release reflects the full journey of whiskey-making at Heaven Hill Distillery®

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (September, 2025) – Heaven Hill is proud to unveil the 2025 edition of its Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, a limited-edition release that highlights the artistry and transparency of America’s largest family-owned and operated distillery. Crafted entirely from seed to bottle in Nelson County, Kentucky, this small-batch expression honors Heaven Hill’s enduring commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity.

The 2025 edition features a mashbill with a higher secondary grain content than Heaven Hill’s traditional Wheated Bourbon mashbill: 35% wheat, 52% corn, and 13% malted barley. The selected corn varietal—Beck’s 6225, along with the mashbill’s wheat component are grown by family-owned Peterson Farms on one of two sites in Nelson County, reflects the distillery’s dedication to sourcing local, carefully chosen grain. Aged over six years at Heaven Hill’s Cox’s Creek rickhouse site, the whiskey is non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel proof, 106.6 proof (53.3% ABV).

The result is a beautifully balanced bourbon with a warm, rounded profile. Its burnished copper hue invites the senses, followed by aromas of caramelized sugar, light vanilla, and sweet oak. On the palate, vanilla and caramel interlace with subtle floral notes of lavender and rose petals, creating a soft and creamy mouthfeel. The finish lingers with toasted nuts, leather, and coffee tones, making this release a remarkable example of wheated bourbon craftsmanship.

“With this edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon, we celebrate not only the time-honored tradition of wheated bourbon but also the transparency that defines this series,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Master Distiller at Heaven Hill Distillery. “From selecting the Beck’s 6225 corn seed varietal to bottling at barrel proof, every choice reflects our mission to share the full story of how great whiskey is made. This bourbon offers both whiskey enthusiasts and collectors an authentic connection to our grain-to-glass philosophy.”

The label design continues the series’ commitment to storytelling, featuring detailed illustrations of Bernheim Distillery and artwork celebrating the farming traditions that sustain Kentucky whiskey-making. Each bottle highlights the unique corn varietal, mashbill, distillation, and release year, reinforcing Heaven Hill’s dedication to transparency.

The 700ml bottles will be available across the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $99.99. This release also proudly supports Farm Rescue, honoring 20 years of aiding farm families in crisis.

The Heaven Hill Grain to Glass series exemplifies the Shapira family’s legacy of quality and innovation, offering whiskey lovers a deeper appreciation of the people, ingredients, and processes behind their favorite spirits. The line has already earned prestigious recognition, including the 2024 Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon being named a Best of Class finalist from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition along with a Double Gold designation from this year’s Spirits International Prestige (SIP) Awards.

For more information about Heaven Hill Grain to Glass, visit: heavenhilldistillery.com/grain-to-glass

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 Distillery Unveils Heaven Hill Master Distillers Unity in Celebration of the Grand Opening of Heaven Hill Springs Distillery

Bottling contains the last remaining barrel of Bourbon produced at the original Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (September, 2025) – Heaven Hill Distillery proudly announces the release of Heaven Hill Master Distillers Unity, a limited-edition Bourbon created to commemorate the grand opening of the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. This once-in-a-generation release embodies the past, present, and future of America’s largest independent, family-owned and led distilled spirits producer.

A Tribute to Legacy and Renewal

At the heart of Heaven Hill Master Distillers Unity lies the last remaining barrel that was distilled at the historic Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in 1991 by the legendary Parker Beam and aged for 34 years. This singular whiskey barrel is mingled with 14-year-old, 8-year-old, and 6-year-old Bourbon crafted at Bernheim Distillery by former Master Distillers Parker Beam and Denny Potter, as well as current Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll—uniting generations of craftsmanship in one extraordinary bottle.

Born from just 27 barrels, the release marks a full-circle moment as Heaven Hill returns to Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World, with its new state-of-the-art Heaven Hill Springs Distillery. Only approximately 4,000 bottles will be available, each bottled at 107 proof to commemorate the original barrel entry proof used at Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery and priced at $225. The Bourbon is crafted from Heaven Hill’s traditional mashbill of 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye.

Tasting Experience

In the glass, this remarkable Bourbon reveals a deep copper hue and an expressive nose of sweetness, oak, and warm spice. The palate is rich and layered, offering notes of butterscotch, chocolate, and caramel, mingled with pecans and toasted almonds. A long, elegant finish lingers with nuanced aged oak and warm spice, leaving a lasting impression of depth and refinement.

A Once-in-a-Generation Bourbon

Heaven Hill Master Distillers Unity stands as a symbol of both heritage and progress—honoring the distillers who shaped the company while marking a bold new chapter for Bourbon in Bardstown. Crafted from the last remaining barrel of Bourbon that was produced at the original distillery and joined by select Bourbons spanning more than three decades, this release captures a unique and pivotal moment in Heaven Hill’s story.

“This release represents both a tribute to our past and a toast to our future,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Heaven Hill Master Distiller. “By uniting the last available barrel from the Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery with carefully chosen selections produced at Bernheim Distillery, we are weaving together generations of dedication, artistry, and vision. It is a rare opportunity to share a Bourbon that tells the story of where we’ve been, while also celebrating where we are going. Heaven Hill Master Distillers Unity is not just a bottle—it is a living legacy, a bridge between our past and present created to mark one of the most important milestones in Heaven Hill’s journey and in the broader Bourbon industry.”

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.

Kentucky Distilleries: Stories in Every Barrel

Stephanie Manning, K&L Spirits Expert

Kentucky’s state motto, “Unbridled Spirit,” is striking in its accuracy. It captures both the personality of its people and the amber liquid that puts the state on the map: bourbon whiskey.

I moved to Louisville over 12 years ago. My first job was at a downtown whiskey bar where every shift felt like a crash course in America’s native spirit. The more I learned—about the family dynasties, the folklore, the oddities of maturation—the more I wanted to know. Inevitably, my thirst (literal and figurative) for bourbon spilled over into the world of distillery tours.

Some folks tell you, “If you’ve seen one distillery, you’ve seen them all.” I, for one, couldn’t disagree more. The equipment may look similar, but each place has its own heartbeat. The first time I drove to Four Roses, the sunny, Spanish mission-style buildings made me think I’d taken a wrong turn into California.

At Heaven Hill in Bardstown, you might spot company president Max Shapira quietly eating lunch in the employee cafeteria, an unexpected reminder that it’s still a family business. At Wild Turkey, after strolling across the long railroad bridge that spans the river in Lawrenceburg, you might meet Jimmy Russell—over sixty years on the job and still grinning—giving you a brief encounter with bourbon royalty. Keep reading here.

Bluegrass Distillers’ Elkwood Reserve 18 Year Old Single Barrel Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) $419.99 View

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) $22.99 View

Knob Creek 9 Year Old “Cask Strength Single Barrel Select – K&L’S 5TH FLOOR X MAGIC A” 127.2 Proof K&L Exclusive Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) $64.99 View

Knob Creek 9 Year Old “Cask Strength Single Barrel Select – K&L’S 5TH FLOOR X MAGIC C” 128 Proof K&L Exclusive Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) $64.99 View

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select “The Versailles Barrels” K&L Exclusive Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (1L) $47.99 View

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select “The Louisville Barrels” K&L Exclusive Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (1L) $47.99 View

Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection “Double Double Oak” Heavy Charred Oak Finished Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (700ml) $199.99 View

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