DIAGEO SPECIAL RELEASES OFFERS

Diageo’s annual Special Releases gives whisky lovers the chance to explore rare, limited-edition single malts-from icons like Talisker, Oban, and Lagavulin to lesser-known favourites such as Glendullan and Teaninich.

For one week only, we’re offering standout deals on past editions: £70 off Oban 11 Year Old Rum Finish from 2023, £130 off a cask-strength Mortlach from 2022, and the Talisker 2012 8 Year Old at cask strength for just £45-half its original price.

These offers span nine limited-edition, collectible single malts and end Sunday 24 August. Secure your bottle before they’re gone.

 SHOP NOW 

“Frankfort Rising” Available August 14, Goal of Raising $10K

FRANKFORT, KY (Aug 2025) – In early April of this year, the lower Ohio Valley experienced multiple rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms, resulting in widespread flash flooding in Central Kentucky.  In Frankfort, Kentucky’s state capital, the Kentucky River crested at near-record levels, impacting nearly everyone in the community.  Fortunately, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery was spared any flood damage, but its owners and team members remain deeply affected nonetheless.

In an effort to help local Franklin County residents in the flood recovery process, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery has created a limited-edition bourbon called “Frankfort Rising,” with $30 from the sale of each bottle going towards the Franklin County Community Fund to assist families affected by the April floods.

“Seeing the devastation of the floodwaters here in our new hometown was just heartbreaking, and we wanted to do something to help,” said Susanna Westerfield, director of consumer experience. “Through our partnership with the Franklin County Community Fund, we hope to raise at least $10,000 to help our local friends and neighbors recover from their horrific losses.”

Frankfort Rising Bourbon is a five-year-old, 112 proof bourbon finished with oak staves which will be released to the public at an event at the Distillery on Aug. 14. Like all J. Mattingly 1845 whiskies, this bourbon has undergone its trademarked double-staved process, adding additional charred oak staves to each barrel at just the right moment in its aging cycle to coax out extra flavor.  Tasting notes describe this bourbon as having a graham cracker note on the palate, joined by toasted oak and a gentle spice from the rye.  It has a medium to long finish with lingering baking spices, vanilla, and a nutty warmth, leaving a satisfying impression.

Frankfort Rising Bourbon will be available on-site at the Distillery in Frankfort starting at 4 p.m. on August. 14.  The public is invited to attend the event, which will run from 4-6 p.m. Complimentary snacks and tastings of Frankfort Rising will be available to those aged 21 years and over.  The suggested retail price of Frankfort Rising is $120 per 750 mL, with $30 from each sale donated to the Franklin County Community Fund.

About J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery

The Mattingly family has been synonymous with distilling in Kentucky for more than two centuries, having a hand in the development of at least nine separate distilleries in the Commonwealth, and with connections to some of the most illustrious names in the distilling industry, including George Garvin Brown, the Willetts and the Samuels.

It all started in 1845, with John Graves Mattingly’s first distillery in Marion County, Kentucky, Registered Distillery #2.  Many historians today believe his distillery was the first registered distillery in Kentucky.

            In 2010, Jeff Mattingly took up the family mantle and started his own craft bourbon business.  Today, Jeff’s son Cameron continues the legacy into the latest generation for J. Mattingly Distillery 1845 in Frankfort, Kentucky, serving as Vice President of Production.  J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery continues to innovate, with their proprietary double-staving process and custom bourbon blending experience unparalleled in the spirits industry, available on-site in Frankfort or online at https://jmattingly1845.com/build-a-bottle/

For more information about J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery visit www.JMattingly1845.com.

ARDGOWAN DISTILLERY BEGINS

OFFERING WHISKY TOURS

Inverkip-based single malt producer Ardgowan invites the public behind the scenes on tours of its recently completed site.

The independent company, which opened and filled its first cask in June 2025, is now taking bookings for tours starting on Tuesday 12th August 2025.

Running twice per day at 10:30 and 14:00 from Tuesday to Saturday, the experiences will last 90 minutes and include a guided journey through the distillery and a warehouse, plus a tutored tasting for three malt whiskies from the distillery’s portfolio.

With a strong emphasis on sustainability, and a number of unusual elements within their processes, an Ardgowan tour promises to uncover many unique stories and insights.

The distillery’s on-site shop will be open from 12th August at 10:00-17:00, Tuesday to Saturday, stocking Ardgowan’s Clydebuilt range of whisky.

A Distillery Exclusive Clydebuilt 2012 Pedro Ximénez Hogshead Single Cask Single Malt expression is also available for £85.

Heading up the distillery’s shop and tours is experienced Visitor Centre Manager Barbara Campbell, whose passion and rich heritage comes from being the fifth generation in her family to work in whisky.

Campbell entered the industry in 1990 as Visitor Centre Manager at Glen Ord Distillery, involved in the development of a new 5 star visitor experience, before becoming the first female Diageo Brand Ambassador.

Remarking on this significant step for Ardgowan, Campbell shares:

“When I decided to talk to Ardgowan about joining the team, my intention was to inspire a new generation of whisky drinkers, enthusiasts like me and witness whisky production move in an innovative new way.

“It was quite simply a case of ‘what’s not to love’ when you see what Ardgowan have committed to with the wonderful, sustainable new distillery, alongside their commitment to being world-class and introducing the first new cask size for many years – ‘the Infinity Cask’ – intended for a luxurious maturation to look forward to in the future.

“Like many distilleries of the past, the Visitor Centre will evolve over time as we have an ambitious vision for the future and a wonderful heritage that we will leave for those who will follow. I am excited to have the opportunity to welcome visitors to Ardgowan and hope to see many soon.”

From Tuesday 12th August, the distillery shop will be open from 10:00-17:00, Tuesday to Saturday, and 90 minute tours will run on those days at 10:30 and 14:00. Click here to book.

ABOUT ARDGOWAN:

Nestled in the undulating Ardgowan Estate in Inverkip, we are on a mission to revive the golden age of Scotch whisky. We are led by Roland Grain, a whisky connoisseur coming from IT who built up ties in the Scotch whisky industry over the last 15 years. His journey now culminates in the creation of Ardgowan Distillery, where every decision has been made with quality and sustainability at the forefront. From our architecturally stunning distillery to our unique wood policy, every detail is designed to deliver full, flavoursome and robust spirit. At the heart of it all are our signature Infinity Casks: symbols of our long-term commitment to producing exceptional whisky.

#CraftedWithPurpose

While we await our own Single Malt coming of age, the Clydebuilt brand provides a home for our independent bottlings. Discover more here.

Further information on the distillery and company can be found at ardgowandistillery.com

Suntory Global Spirits showcases authentic Japanese Whisky at the Financial Times Weekend Festival in Washington, D.C.

As global interest in Japanese Whisky continues to rise, we take pride in pioneering efforts to enhance transparency regarding what defines authentic Japanese Whisky and safeguarding the category’s reputation worldwide. Since establishing Japan’s first malt whisky distillery at Yamazaki in 1923, our relentless pursuit of quality and perfection have led to our Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki whiskies bringing global attention and prestige to Japanese Whisky.

The Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers’ Association (JSLMA) established a formal definition for Japanese Whisky in 2021, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s commitment to authenticity. We support their dedication to strengthen regulations by advocating for these “Standards for Labeling Japanese Whisky” to be legally binding and plan to roll out their new Japanese Whisky logo on our House of Suntory products early next year.

This initiative aims to clarify labeling standards concerning the manufacturing process and quality of Japanese Whisky. To qualify as authentic, the whiskies must use Japanese water, be aged in Japan in wooden casks for a minimum of three years, and bottling must take place in Japan. Learn more on the standards here.

On May 10, we had the opportunity to showcase our incredible House of Suntory Japanese Whisky at the Financial Times Weekend Festival in Washington, D.C. We hosted two engaging tasting sessions featuring Toki Japanese Whisky, Hibiki Japanese Harmony and Yamazaki 12 Year Old. House of Suntory Global Advocacy Manager James Bowker led the tastings and shared compelling stories about Suntory’s rich history as the founding house of Japanese Whisky.

Our President of The House of Suntory Masaki ‘Mory’ Morimoto then spoke with Angela Mackay, Managing Director Asia Pacific and Global Publisher of FT Live, to discuss how the company is driving business growth in key markets and leveraging our dedication to sustainable production practices like water conservation to meet our ambition to become the World’s Most Admired Premium Spirits Company. He also spoke about Suntory’s family legacy as a distinct marker of our heritage and monozukuri craftsmanship, with the recent appointment of Nobuhiro Torii — the great-grandson of Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii — as President of Suntory Holdings.

Looking ahead, we believe that through collaboration with the JSLMA and our commitment to delivering the highest quality products, the legacy of Japanese Whisky will not only endure but flourish on the global stage.

THIS ARTICLE APPEARS WELL AFTER THE ORIGINAL PUBLICATION DATE AND IS PUBLISHED HERE AS A MATTER OF INTEREST.

Breakfast by Hielander

Our famous real Full Scottish Breakfast by the Hielander Scotch restaurant from Alkmaar will be served in the Breakfast room from:

• Saturday: 08:30 – 10:30
• Sunday: 08:30 – 10:30

Don’t feel like a Scottish breakfast? No worries, we also have ‘continental’ breakfast available and of course you can enjoy coffee, tea, milk or orange juice and toast as well during these opening hours.

TICKETS

It’s been a brilliant few weeks for whisky education across the globe and we’re proud to see so many of our international educators sharing the EWA approach in their corners of the world.

In Dubai, we were delighted to deliver our flagship Diploma in Single Malt Whisky to an enthusiastic group of candidates at Barrels & Beyond. Huge thanks to the ever-passionate Bharat Rathore and his team for being great hosts.

Over in Austin, Texas, The Whisk(e)y Marketing School‘s Daniel Whittington welcomed two groups to the legendary Wizard Academy for the Certificate in Irish Whiskey and Certificate in Sensory Appreciation.

Meanwhile in Türkiye, Yiğit Akdemir of Uzkeba made history by hosting the country’s first in-person Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey – a huge milestone for whisky education in the region. Yiğit was the first educator to come on board as an Approved Course Provider. He has now delivered more than 50 Certificate courses and has certified more than 450 candidates which is a huge achievement.

Back in Scotland, we’re looking ahead to our next in-person Diploma in Single Malt Whisky, happening at the Port of Leith Distillery on 15 & 16 September 2025. With a few spaces still available, it’s a great opportunity to gain a globally recognised qualification in an exceptional setting right in the heart of Edinburgh.

Book your place at Port of Leith »

UPCOMING WHISKY SHOWS

Over the coming months, you’ll be able to find the Sales Team showcasing our drams at the following whisky shows.

August:
Kilkerran Shop Pour, Bonnie ‘n’ Wild, Edinburgh (UK)
Whisky Fringe, Edinburgh (UK)
Wee Gantry Tasting, Milngavie (UK)
Springbank Shop Pour, Green Welly, Crianlarich (UK)
Wee Gantry Tasting, Stirling (UK)

September:
Salon Dugas, Paris (France)
Whisky Messe Austria, Innsbruck (Austria)

October:
Starmore Boss Drinks Festival, Sheffield (UK)
M&P Pavlina Festival, Warsaw (Poland)
Whisky Show Budapest, Budapest (Hungary)
Wee Dram Festival, Bakewell (UK)
Swiss Whisky Festival, Baden (Switzerland)
Aberdeen Whisky Shop 15th Anniversary, Aberdeen (UK)
Dornoch Whisky Festival, Dornoch (UK)

November:
Northern Whisky Festival, Carlisle (UK)
Oslo Whisky Show, Oslo (Norway)
Glasgow Whisky Festival, Glasgow (UK)
Spirits in the Sky, Brussels (Belgium)
Springbank Whisky Cruise, Cologne (Germany)
Dumfries Whisky Festival, Dumfries (UK)

December:
Kendal Whisky Festival, Kendal (UK)

9 Bolgam Street, Campbeltown, Argyll, PA28 6HZ

The Isle of Raasay Draam Den

Did you know that Raasay is also kindly sponsoring our Gathering area this year? The beating heart of Maltstock will trelaxedly be called The Isle of Raasay Draam Den this year!

Buy your Maltstock ticket NOW!

Harrison Ford entertainingly reveals Glenmorangie as Official Whisky of Formula 1®

— “Nice”, says actor in witty verdict on whisky’s pioneering partnership —

Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky today becomes the Official Whisky of Formula 1® – the world’s most prestigious motor-racing competition. Marking the union of two icons dedicated to taking their crafts to new heights and steeped in heritage, this landmark alliance is part of a decade-long collaboration forged by Glenmorangie’s parent company LVMH and Formula 1®. Glenmorangie’s partnership is revealed by another icon – Harrison Ford – star of the whisky’s brand campaign, in an entertaining short film infused with his trademark wit. Meanwhile, Glenmorangie will celebrate the collaboration trackside this weekend, at the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS BRITISH GRAND PRIX 2025, by sharing a Harrison Ford-inspired photo-moment with racegoers.

For more than 180 years, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators have been relentlessly imaginative in their pursuit of excellence. They distil their more elegant spirit in Scotland’s tallest stills on their mission to continually bring new flavours and possibilities to whisky, making Glenmorangie the world’s most highly awarded Highland single malt. Formula 1®, which this year celebrates 75 years as the pinnacle of motor racing, is Glenmorangie’s kindred spirit. Devoted to setting new standards in performance, and with an equally proud heritage, Formula 1® is a sport based in innovation and relentless progress.

Ford, who plays himself in Glenmorangie’s humorous brand campaign Once Upon a Time in Scotland, marks the partnership in a new short film. And, with the same amusing understatement he uses for Glenmorangie’s whisky, Ford blesses the collaboration in a word: “Nice”.

Glenmorangie, which strongly advocates only alcohol-free driving, will captivate racegoers with experiences and serves celebrating the partners’ shared commitment to excellence, throughout the 2025 Formula 1® season. Fittingly, the partnership will be marked with a special activation at the Formula 1® FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS BRITISH GRAND PRIX 2025 at Silverstone, from July 4, 2025. As the site of the first official Formula 1 World Championship in 1950, Silverstone holds a special place in F1 heritage. There, fans will be invited to enjoy an exclusive Glenmorangie experience showcasing Glenmorangie cocktails and the exclusive Eagle Speedster Jaguar E-Type used by Harrison Ford in the whisky’s brand film. Racegoers will be invited to recreate a moment from the film by taking a seat in this classic car, revered for its craftsmanship.

Caspar MacRae, President and CEO of Glenmorangie, said: “I am thrilled to set in motion Glenmorangie’s landmark partnership with Formula 1 – the pinnacle of motor racing. We share with F1 a great pride in our heritage and an unstoppable desire to reach new heights of excellence. We look forward to spectacular performances and imaginative serves and hope our collaboration will inspire and excite racegoers throughout Formula 1’s 75th anniversary year – and beyond.”

Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1, said: “As part of our 10-year deal with LVMH, we are delighted to welcome Glenmorangie from the Moët Hennessy Maisons collection as the Official Whisky of Formula 1. We have both been mastering our craft for many years, and we share a commitment to refinement and perfection delivered over time. With our mutual respect for tradition, it is absolutely fitting that we are launching our collaboration at the Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone – the circuit that hosted our first race 75 years ago – and from there around the world for many years to come.” 

https://www.glenmorangie.com/

Follow Glenmorangie on:

Instagram and Facebook: @Glenmorangie

For exclusive access to new releases, news and events, join Glenmorangie’s community at https://www.glenmorangie.com/members

THE ORIGINAL

Creamy with vanilla and a rush of citrus, The Original is Glenmorangie’s source code – the single malt where all its whisky-making adventures begin. First released by Glenmorangie’s founders more than 180 years ago, the original Glenmorangie was known for its mellow tones and delicacy of flavour. All these years later, The Original remains at the heart of everything Glenmorangie does.

To give The Original its go-anywhere finesse, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators craft its spirit in Scotland’s tallest stills. Then they age it 12 years in bourbon casks where it absorbs all manner of delectable flavours. The result is a whisky which welcomes you with luscious layers of orange and honey, vanilla and bursts of peach. A smooth single malt, swirling with a kaleidoscope of taste. 

TASTING NOTES

Glenmorangie The Original is bottled at 40% ABV

Colour: Bright gold

Aroma: Citrus and ripening peaches are balanced by vanilla softness.

Taste: Vanilla emerges, then gives way to a burst of flowery fruitiness. 

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to create single malt whiskies as elegant as they are inviting. They have been honing their craft for 180 years. They distil a delicate and fruity spirit in Scotland’s tallest stills to allow for more taste and aroma. Then they age it in the world’s finest casks. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this pioneering team are on a mission to elevate Glenmorangie’s classics and bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

In 2025, Glenmorangie unveiled a new brand campaign, ‘Once Upon a Time in Scotland’, fronted by Harrison Ford. Taking the form of 12 episodes, the series explores Glenmorangie’s authentic truths, from its stunning Highland surroundings to the real people who create its complex and elegant whiskies. 

About Formula 1®:

Formula 1® racing began in 1950 and is the world’s most prestigious motor racing competition, as well as the world’s most popular annual sporting series. Formula One World Championship Limited is part of Formula 1® and holds the exclusive commercial rights to the FIA Formula One World ChampionshipTM. Formula 1® is a subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NASDAQ: FWONA, FWONK, LLYVA, LLVYK) attributed to the Formula One Group tracking stock. The F1 logo, F1 FORMULA 1 logo, FORMULA 1, F1, FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, GRAND PRIX, PADDOCK CLUB and related marks are trademarks of Formula One Licensing BV, a Formula 1 company. All rights reserved. 

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption. The Company endorses only alcohol-free driving.