Keeneland® and Maker’s Mark® Introduce Latest in Commemorative “Greats of the Gate” Bottle Series Honoring Hall of Fame Thoroughbred Lexington

The Annual Release Coincides with the 250th Anniversary of the City of Lexington;  Proceeds will Support Kentucky Nonprofits

LEXINGTON, KY – Wednesday, April 2025 – Keeneland Race Course and Maker’s Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced the second bottle in the “Greats of the Gate” 10-year commemorative bottle series celebrating Thoroughbred racing’s most iconic horses. Proceeds from each year’s limited-edition bottle benefit nonprofits that support Kentucky’s horse racing industry and vibrant culture of hospitality and the arts.

The limited-edition bottle will arrive on shelves on April 11th – the same day as the prestigious $650,000 Maker’s Mark Mile (G1) during Keeneland’s Spring Meet. The bottle will be available exclusively at select Kentucky retailers that sell Maker’s Mark with a suggested retail price of $179.99. The 2025 “Greats of the Gate” bottle will honor the legendary racehorse Lexington, who competed from 1853 to 1855, winning six of seven races, and was famously sold to stud for the highest price ever paid for an American racehorse at the time.

“The ‘Greats of the Gate’ series is a unique opportunity to honor the legendary horses who shaped the sport while also supporting the organizations that allow Kentucky’s culture to thrive,” said Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and Managing Director, Maker’s Mark. “We’re incredibly proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Keeneland, which has deep roots in Kentucky’s horse racing heritage and whose patrons enjoyed the very first Maker’s Mark cocktails in the 1950s.”

The bottle features an illustration by Kentucky artist Tyler Robertson with artwork wrapping around the bottle in orange and black – the racing silks colors of Lexington. The bottle’s crown will be dipped in bright orange wax and topped with a white silk ribbon. Every bottle will include a certificate of authenticity signed by Maker’s Mark Managing Director Rob Samuels; Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin; renowned artist Tyler Robertson; and Bret Jones, President of Airdrie Stud, and a descendant of the horse’s owners.

“Keeneland and Maker’s Mark share a mission of service and philanthropy that benefits both the horse industry and our community,” Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin said. “We are proud the commemorative bottles continue to be both a prized collectors’ item for our fans and a successful fundraiser for so many worthwhile organizations.”

Proceeds from the commemorative bottle will benefit the nonprofits Kentucky Classic Arts by providing support for musical theatre performance opportunities for Central Kentucky; Kentucky Harvest by expanding their food rescue and donation efforts across the Commonwealth; Kentucky Arts Center of the Bluegrass providing free entry to guests for the museum along with arts programming; and Blue Grass Farms Charities through building a new pantry opening this summer at The Thoroughbred Center.

Over the course of the 10 years, Keeneland and Maker’s Mark are committed to raising $4 million for various Kentucky nonprofit organizations through this bottle series.

For more information, please visit www.makersmark.com and www.keeneland.com.

About Keeneland Race Course  

Since its first race meet 89 years ago, the Keeneland Association has devoted itself to the health and vibrancy of the Thoroughbred industry. The world’s largest Thoroughbred auction house, Keeneland conducts five on-site sales a year, in January, April, September and November. Graduates of Keeneland sales dominate racing across the globe at every level. In April and October, Keeneland offers some of the highest-caliber and richest Thoroughbred racing in the world. Keeneland hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championships in 2015, 2020 and 2022. Uniquely structured, Keeneland is a privately held company with a not-for-profit mission that returns its earnings to the industry and the community in the form of higher purses and millions of dollars donated in support of horse industry initiatives and charitable contributions for education, research and health and human services throughout Central Kentucky. Keeneland also maintains Keeneland Library, a world-renowned public research institution with the mission of preserving information about the Thoroughbred industry. To learn more, visit Keeneland.com.

About Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark® is the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon driven by a vision for better flavor and a better world. Maker’s Mark began with the innovative spirit of Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr., who in 1953, fulfilled their dream to create a delicious bourbon without the bite, using soft red winter wheat instead of rye to enhance the softness, sweetness and signature creaminess. Highly desired around the world, Maker’s Mark is handmade, hand-dipped in our signature red wax, and every barrel continues to be rotated by hand and is aged to taste not time.

Always true to the founders’ vision, Maker’s Mark continues to shape the brand’s future through purposeful, flavor-driven innovation. In recent years, the brand has introduced thoughtful, super-premium expressions to its portfolio, including Maker’s Mark 46, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength, and Maker’s Mark Cellar-Aged, all Double Gold winners of the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, as well as Maker’s Mark Private Selection: the brand’s custom barrel program.

Advancing its mission to cultivate bourbon that betters the world, while crafting the most flavorful product possible for consumers, Maker’s Mark is the largest bourbon distillery in the world to achieve B Corp Certification and the first distillery to achieve Regenified Certification, a reflection of the brand’s dedication to sustainable agriculture practices at Star Hill Farm, home to the Maker’s Mark Distillery. For more information, visit www.makersmark.com.

Maltstock program announcements

Relaxedly but surely our program for 2025 is taking shape! Watch this space as we will start announcing our program in the next couple of weeks! Go on and read all about it.

Annette, Bob, Klaas, Stan and Teun

Confirmed Whisky companies @ Maltstock

Isle of Raasay Distillery

One of Scotland’s most relaxed ‘new kids on the block’ and arguably the one with the best view of the Isle of Skye! Raasay is producing great whisky and wants to come and tell all about it during the Friday Masterclass!

Chichibu Distillery

Chichibu (and Yumi) returns! We are so stoked to be able to announce that long-time Maltstock guest and fan Yumi Yoshikawa will be with us once again. Come and meet her, share a dram and attend her relaxed Drinks with sessions!

Scotch Malt Whisky Society

Last year SMWS were with us and they sponsored the Whisky Quiz. This year SMWS will host the quiz! Join the quiz, test your whisky brain and have relaxed fun!

Hogshead Imports

Those of you who were with us last year, might have seen the around, relaxedly sniffing around Maltstock and promoting their wonderful products to our relaxed guests. We are proud to announce that Hogshead will be with us again!

Buy your Maltstock ticket NOW!

Join the Global Celebration of Canadian Whisky.

Years in the making, the domain for Canadian Whisky Day (™) has finally been secured from the previous owner. The vision is finally coming to fruition…

Canadian Whisky Day is dedicated to promoting the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Canadian whisky. The mission is to educate, inform, and connect whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The aim is to foster a deeper appreciation for Canadian whisky, guiding our community with knowledge and passion.

Canadian Whisky Day (TM) is celebrated across the World on the third Saturday in November. The inaugural celebration is November 15, 2025.

From Grain to Glass, stay tuned as our newsletter launches with details on the forthcoming podcast, and other developments – including the launch of the website.

You can email, or subscribe through info@CanadianWhiskyDay.com

Cheers,

Gerald

Experience an extraordinary evening at one of the magnificent dinners held at The Nth 2025 Universal Whisky Experience! Join us at SW Steakhouse on April 22, 2025, at 7:30 PM for an exclusive tasting featuring the prestigious Royal Salute King Charles III Coronation Edition and many more Royal Salute bottles. Although not for tasting, the stunning and rare Royal Salute Art Edition II: Time Chamber by Conrad Shawcross will be the star of our show. Hosted by Peter Prentice, Global Luxury Client Director, this is an unmissable celebration of luxury whisky and fine dining. 🥃✨ #Nth2025 #UniversalWhiskyExperience #RoyalSalute

Book your tickets and join us at this year’s

The Nth Las Vegas April 23-25, 2025

BUY DAY 1 PACKAGE

BUY 2 DAY PACKAGE

Luxury Scottish Retreat, Linn House, Welcomes Seafood Master, Jack Stein, For The Spring Edition Of Its Supper Series

Linn House, the picturesque and undiscovered ‘home of whisky’ in Speyside, will reopen its doors for the second edition of its unforgettable food and whisky experience, The Supper Series, coinciding with the renowned Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival from Wednesday 30th April to Sunday 4th May 2025.

This Spring, Linn House welcomes celebrated chef Jack Stein, Chef Director at Rick Stein Restaurants, who will tempt guests with a seafood-forward menu, highlighting the fresh flavours from his Cornish home and the local Moray Coast, paired with a selection of world-renowned Scotch whiskies. This one-of-a-kind dining experience will celebrate the natural harmony between fresh seafood and expertly crafted whisky, offering guests a journey through taste and tradition.

The intimate dining series will take place amongst the stunning surroundings of Linn House, the luxury guest retreat owned by Scotch producer Chivas Brothers, makers of globally recognised whiskies including The Glenlivet and Aberlour. It will offer guests not only a remarkable culinary journey but also a true taste of the region, immersed in the natural beauty of Speyside, promising an extraordinary experience that goes beyond the plate.

Jacques-Henri Brive, Head of Luxury at Chivas Brothers, said: “Jack Stein’s seafood mastery is a perfect counterpoint to our expertly crafted whiskies, celebrating craftsmanship and flavour in new and unexpected ways. Amidst the atmosphere of the Spirit of Speyside Festival, these events create moments to indulge in the best of both worlds.”

Jack Stein, Chef Director at Rick Stein Restaurants, said: “I’m incredibly excited to swap the Cornish coast for the rolling hills of Speyside as part of my festival residency at Linn House. My approach to cooking respects and elevates seafood in all forms – and I see whisky as being just as complex of a spirit as it is an ingredient. It’s going to be a truly special event and I can’t wait to share it with our guests.”

Starting at £95 per person, the “From Cornwall to Moray Coast” Linn House Supper Series will be available for dinner from Wednesday 30th April to Sunday 4th May 2025 inclusive. Each event can be booked individually for dinner, or for those seeking a full Scottish escape, double rooms at Linn House are available for an additional £279. This rate includes bed and breakfast for guests wishing to extend their stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in an extraordinary Speyside experience.

To secure your spot at the dinner or purchase an overnight stay at Linn House, please visit this link.

Linn House Supper Series will continue seasonally with events designed to bring flavours of the world to Scotland through innovative food and whisky experiences in partnership with renowned Chefs. More details on future events will be released in due course.

Celebrating The Glenturret’s Success in Delivering the Certificate in Scotch Whisky

In 2024, The Glenturret sent four of their staff to complete our flagship Diploma in Single Malt Whisky course. This achievement opened the door for them to become Approved Course Providers for our Certificate in Scotch Whisky course, an attractive and cost-effective option for that boosts team morale and saves valuable time and resources.📖 Read the Post

The Hebridean Whisky Trail Welcomes a New Treasure

The Hebridean Whisky Trail, a voyage through wild beauty and remarkable distilleries, is thrilled to introduce our newest destination: the Isle of Tiree Distillery. Prepare to chart a course to the Isle of Tiree, known in Gaelic poetry as Tir an Eòrna, the Land of Barley, where a warm Hebridean welcome awaits you at this distinctive new addition to the Hebridean Whisky Trail.

Forged on Scotland’s Atlantic Coast, the Hebrides have always held a special allure for those seeking adventure and authentic experiences. Now, the spirit of Tiree joins the esteemed whiskies of Talisker, Torabhaig, Isle of Raasay, Isle of Harris, North Uist and Benbecula, adding its own unique character to the Trail.

Tiree boasts a rich history of whisky production, with records suggesting an astonishing fifty distillers on the tiny island around 1768. In fact, each farm on Tiree often had its own still, producing whisky from the island’s plentiful barley for both local enjoyment and export. While legal distilling declined over time, the entrepreneurial spirit of islanders Ian Smith and Alain Campbell has rekindled this proud tradition with the establishment of Tiree Whisky Company Ltd. Their aim is to preserve and promote the island’s whisky heritage and revive distilling on Tiree.

The inspiration for Tiree Whisky Company is deeply rooted in the founders’ connection to the islands. As members of the traditional music band Trail West, Ian and Alain toured the Hebrides and witnessed the positive economic impact of island distilleries on their communities. This sparked a vision to bring a similar benefit to their own community on Tiree.

Family lies at the heart of the Tiree Whisky Company. The distillery itself is housed in a shed with a special history: it was the former workshop of Ian’s father, Bernie. Alain even had his first job sweeping the floors there, creating a poignant link between the past and present. The summerhouse where Ian and his friends played as children now serves as the shop and visitor centre. Their families are always available to lend a hand in keeping the business running, a testament to the age-old Hebridean spirit. This deep connection with their heritage underscores their commitment to reviving an old industry.

The Isle of Tiree Distillery stands out as one of the smallest and most traditional whisky production operations in Scotland. Their entire process, from mashing to bottling, takes place within a single room. This low-tech, high-tradition approach offers visitors a truly unique opportunity to witness the journey from grain to bottle in an intimate setting. As Ian Smith explains, visitors often get a much clearer understanding of how whisky is made by visiting their small-scale operation.

The small production size at Tiree allows for exciting experimentation. They have already worked with barley and are soon to offer rye whisky, alongside exploring different casks and fermentation periods. This passion for innovation, driven by their own interests, promises a diverse and exciting range of spirits. As Alain Campbell notes, their fermentation times can vary significantly, influenced by factors like the seasons, weather, and even the ferries. They are keen to explore the nuances this brings to their spirit.

“Overall, the journey’s been so much fun. We are at the stage now that we were only dreaming of back in 2017, it was kind of pie in the sky stuff then. Through a lot of hard work and challenges, we’ve managed to get there. It’s been great, so much fun, and a really rewarding process.”

Running a distillery on a tiny remote island presents its challenges, including weather, financing, staff, and logistics, to name a few. However, the rewards are immense, particularly the pride in providing local employment opportunities to keep people on the island, and also in connecting with their island’s heritage. Being able to offer a bar on-site, providing a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy their gin, whisky, and cocktails, is rewarding as well. The distillery boasts a stunning location right on the edge of the sea, offering another stunning Hebridean Whisky Trail #dramwithaview experience.

We invite you to embark on a journey to the Isle of Tiree and experience the unique charm and tradition of the Tiree Whisky Company. Discover their passion for crafting exceptional spirits in a truly special setting. With the hands-on approach in their traditional distillery, a visit to Tiree promises an unforgettable stop on the Hebridean Whisky Trail, and a taste of the Land of Barley’s revived whisky heritage.

The A–Z of Scotch Whisky

Whether you’re swirling your first dram or are already deep in your whisky journey, our A–Z is your gateway to better understanding the world of Scotch. Featuring 150+ words every whisky lover needs to know, you’ll find a list of clear, concise definitions of the most important terms in the industry.📖  Read the Post

Whisky Words: Bung Hole

Ever heard of a Bung Hole? It’s the small hole on top of the cask where the bung (usually a piece of wood) is hammered in after filling the cask with spirit. It’s a small detail, but it’s crucial to whisky maturation.🎬 Watch the Video | 📖 Read the Post

The Olympics of the Drink Industry accepting entries through late April

LONDON (April 2, 2025) — Spirits industry professionals from around the world will descend upon Bardstown, KY, the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” to judge the International Wine & Spirits Competition’s (IWSC) North American Whiskey and Ready to Drink (RTD) competition June 4-7, 2025.

Although the IWSC was founded in 1969, this is only the second year the North American Whiskey and RTD categories have been judged in the United States, and IWSC’s only North American event held this year.

The judges, who represent the worldwide standard of beverage excellence, give North American whiskey and RTD producers a unique opportunity for international recognition from the competition known as the ‘Olympics of the drinks industry.’

Led by Dawn Davies, Master of Wine and head buyer with the United Kingdom distribution company Speciality Drinks and retailer The Whisky Exchange, a panel of spirits experts from America and the U.K. evaluate entries based on in-depth knowledge of the North American whiskey and RTD markets, their innovations and their most recent developments.

In addition to Davies, other judges included for the North American juncture of the prestigious competition are:

• Bridget Albert, Senior Director, External Communications and CSR, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits
• Ryan Chetiyawardana, drinks industry veteran, creator and host of “Mr. Lyan’s Taste Trips” television show
• Frank Dobbins III, freelance writer, Uproxx and Drinkhacker
• Bill Lumsden, director of distilling, whisky creation and whisky stocks, Glenmorangie Company
• Millie Milliken, freelance drinks and hospitality writer
• Ryan Mills, founder, Amber and Ash Consulting, @thatoneduderyan
• Reece Sims, owner, SIP Spirits Consulting, shortlisted for the 2025 IWSC’s Emerging Talent in Spirits Communications Award

“The IWSC is the oldest, largest and most influential international wine and spirits competition and was the first to bring panels of international experts to judge in situ,” says IWSC Chief Executive Officer Christelle Guibert. “We offer much more than medals, and pride ourselves on the support we provide to both categories and entrants during and after the competition. We are delighted to return to Kentucky in 2025.”

Elevate Your Brand and Open New Doors 
Kentucky is one of just seven global locations where the IWSC replicates its London competition via its global judging initiatives. As in London, the scene in Kentucky combines judging sessions with activities that showcase the people, places, and spirits unique to Kentucky’s rich whiskey culture.

By entering the IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging, producers get unparalleled recognition from key industry decision-makers, including master sommeliers and distillers, masters of wine and senior buyers. Judges from the IWSC shape market trends and foster global reach. Entrants connect with other experts, producers and consumers to foster collaboration in the beverage industry. Winners receive post-competition support and promotion via year-round global media campaigns, international trade fair presence and tastings. Award-winning whiskeys are showcased at the U.K.’s leading consumer event, The World Whisky Experience.

The heart of the IWSC’s reputation is its unparalleled judging process. Every sample is evaluated double-blind, with no judge assessing more than 65 products per day, ensuring fresh and focused decision-making. Judging is conducted in a controlled environment, with discussions among panel members helping to refine and validate the final scores.

“The IWSC judging process is really strict, and it needs to be because you’ve got real experts within the industry here,” Davies says. “From distillers to retailers to bartenders, everyone looks at the product from a slightly different angle. It’s about collaboration and having the best of the business judging the drinks.”

Single Malt Surge 
Founded in 1969, the London-based IWSC evaluates more than 12,000 entries annually from 90-plus countries. After the IWSC’s first appearance in Kentucky last year, Davies said in Forbes the event opens doors for U.S. whiskey producers and encourages the production of premium American whiskey. “We are really seeing customers step outside their comfort zones and look to other areas of the world for better deals than are being afforded by ever-rising Scotch whisky prices,” Davies says. “We have witnessed a surge in American single malts and bourbon entries since the launch of our judging event in Kentucky.”

Entrants in the IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging event will be eligible for Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Outstanding medals. Top-scoring products advance to the prestigious Trophy Judging round, where the best of the best are recognized. Top-performing producers are shortlisted for the highly coveted producer trophies and invited to complete a short questionnaire for the Judging Committee to review. Winners are revealed at the IWSC Awards Celebration in November.

How to Enter: Visit the IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging page. Entry deadlines are April 10 for Canadian Whiskies and April 25 for U.S.Whiskies and RTD’s. The award winners will be announced in early June.

About the International Wine & Spirits Competition
Since 1969, the IWSC has set the global standard for beverage excellence. Known as the “Olympics of the drinks industry,” the IWSC evaluates more than 12,000 entries annually from 90-plus countries. Judges are key decision-makers in the industry including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, Master Distillers and Senior Buyers. These experts assess wines, spirits and alternative drinks using a rigorous panel process that ensures fair evaluation. The IWSC stands out for its expert judging, consistent attention, comprehensive categories and global recognition. For producers, its offers benchmarking, recognition and business connections. For consumers, IWSC medals guide excellence in a wide selection of drinks. As part of The Conversion Group, the IWSC mission is to use competition as a catalyst for community and connection across all levels within the industry.

About the International Wine & Spirits Competition Global Judging
Since 2022, the IWSC has held in situ Global Judging events, an initiative introduced by CEO Christelle Guibert. The IWSC is proud to be the first international drinks competition to institute a series such as this. Until today wine and spirits have been judged in Italy, Austria, Georgia, Turkey, Argentina, Australia, the United States, South Africa and China. The competition is committed to the initiative due to the opportunities it gives all producers in a region to take part, no matter what their size is, and allows for the drinks entered to be judged in context by judges who are up to date with the region and its most recent developments.