Hidden Barn Bourbon’s “23B” Whiskey Wins Best Small Batch Bourbon, Best of Class at Top Shelf Awards Gala

SPARTA, KY (Oct. 9, 2024) –Hidden Barn Bourbon’s Series 1, Batch 23B has won Best of Class in the Small Batch Bourbon Up to 5 Years category at the Top Shelf Awards Gala, held Oct. 4, 2024.  The Top Shelf Awards are run by The Tasting Alliance, under which prestigious awards such as the San Francisco World Spirits Competition are held.

Hidden Barn Bourbon Batch 23B was distilled at Neeley Family Distillery and blended by Jackie Zykan. Batch 23B is a blend of 20 barrels aged five years old using Neeley’s flagship mashbill of 70 percent corn, 20 percent rye and 10 percent malted barley.  The judges described 23B as “a perfectly balanced bourbon” and awarded it a score of 98 points at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, held earlier in 2024.  Finalists were voted on again to choose Best in Class, and Hidden Barn 23B took the top spot, beating out four other competitors.

Master Distiller Royce Neeley and Hidden Barn Partner Nate Winegar were on hand to receive the award.  “The small batch bourbon category is very crowded, especially in the 5 years and under age range.  To have our 23B win Best of Class over all the other entrants is such an honor and a testament to Jackie (Zykan’s) blending talent,” said Royce Neeley.

Like all Neeley Family Distillery distillates, this bourbon was double pot distilled after fermenting with wild-crafted Appalachian yeast, a practice of the Neeley Family dating back generations.  Batch 23B was bottled at cask strength at 110.1 proof with only sediment filtration.

Suggested retail pricing for the Hidden Barn Series 1, 23B is $74.99. It is available at Neeley Family Distillery gift shop, online and at select retail stores in Kentucky, Indiana, Georgia, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

About Hidden Barn Bourbon

Hidden Barn’s name harkens back to the local communities who painted their barns black in solidarity with distillers during Prohibition.  This sense of community is continued today through the passion for quality whiskey and camaraderie shared by its three partners, Jackie Zykan, Royce Neeley and Nate Winegar.  Together, the three friends bring their own strengths – a superior palate, distilling prowess, and a powerhouse connector to form Hidden Barn Bourbon.  Previous Hidden Barn Series have earned Double Golds at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023 and 2024 and Best Small Batch, 1st Place at the 2023 New Orleans Bourbon Festival.  Hidden Barn Bourbon is owned by Neeley Family Distillery.   The brand is available online and in select states. For more information visit hiddenbarnwhiskey.com

About The Tasting Alliance

The Tasting Alliance Competitions are considered the most influential in the spirits industry and its award programs include the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and the Singapore World Spirits Competition.  Each entry is judged double blind by a panel of spirits experts.    The medals are a testament to the hard work of the spirits industry’s distillers and producers and are a universally recognized indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

The World’s Favourite Whisky Glass Sponsors Bloody Scotland Crime Writing Festival Awards For The Fifth Year

Giant Glencairn Glass trophy is presented to winning author

For the fifth year, the Scottish family glassware company, Glencairn Crystal, has sponsored The McIlvanney Prize for the Scottish Crime Book of the Year and the Bloody Scotland Debut Crime Novel of the Year, with its famous Glencairn Glass for whisky.

The winners were announced at the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival which took place over the weekend from 13th – 15^th September in Stirling. This year’s winner of The McIlvanney Prize is Chris Brookmyre with The Cracked Mirror and the Debut Prize went to Allan Gaw for The Silent House of Sleep.

The winner of The McIlvanney Prize, Chris Brookmyre, was presented with a giant Glencairn Glass trophy.  Kirsty Nicholson, Design and Marketing Manager at Glencairn Crystal, said:

‘A massive congratulations to Chris Brookmyre for winning the McIlvanney Prize and to Allan Gaw for winning the Debut Prize.  It is a privilege to play some small part in celebrating such talented authors – The Cracked Mirror by Chris is a truly gripping novel, and Allan was the runner up in our Glencairn Glass short story competition last year. As a Scottish family company it is an honour for us to support these prestigious annual awards with the world’s favourite whisky glass, the Glencairn Glass.’

Both of the prestigious literary prizes are awarded as part of the annual Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival which takes place every September. Based in Stirling, Bloody Scotland has brought hundreds of crime writers – new and established – to the stage along with enthusiastic festival attendees since 2012, with exciting events covering a range of criminal subjects from fictional forensics and psychological thrillers to tartan noir and cosy crime.

The Glencairn Glass for whisky was officially launched in 2001 and millions glasses are now sold each year across the world.

For further details visit: www.bloodyscotland.com and www.whiskyglass.com

Image caption: Chris Brookmyre, the winner of this year’s McIlvanney Prize, was presented with a giant Glencairn Glass trophy at this year’s Bloody Scotland Festival (13^th – 15^th September)

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.”

Have you booked your place on our blending experience yet? This experience, conducted by our team trained directly by Isabella Wemyss, allows you to create a bespoke whisky blend using selected single malts, emulating Isabella’s techniques. We will be hosting this event at Kingsbarns Distillery. Head to the button below to secure your spots – we can’t wait to see you there! Don’t worry -if you can’t make this event, we’ll be releasing more dates soon!

BOOK YOUR SPACE

Limited 50% Discount Tickets & New Whisky Brands at The World Whisky Experience

We’re excited to bring you some fantastic news for The World Whisky Experience, happening at Christ Church Spitalfields on 15th & 16th November. Not only have several incredible new whisky brands signed up to exhibit, but we’re also offering a limited number of 50% discounted tickets – just for The Whisky Lounge members.

Use code TWLWHISKY50 at checkout to claim your discount. Be quick though, this offer is only available while stocks last.

New Exhibitors Joining the Lineup:

• Four Roses
  A true legend in bourbon, Four Roses is renowned for its distinctive smoothness and rich flavour. Don’t miss out on tasting their premium whiskey range.
• Curraghamore Whiskey
  From the heart of Ireland, Curraghamore is a standout Irish whiskey, known for its exceptional craftsmanship and historical legacy.
• Waterford Distillery
  Famous for their innovative approach to whisky-making, Waterford focuses on terroir and the unique qualities of barley grown in specific locations. Their single malts are truly one-of-a-kind.
• Scapegrace
  Hailing from New Zealand, Scapegrace is already celebrated for their award-winning gin, and now they’re making waves in the whisky world. Discover their fresh take on whisky at the show!
• Maisy McCloughlin’s Grand Irish Whiskey
  A new entry to the Irish whiskey scene, Maisy McCloughlin’s Grand Irish Whiskey combines tradition with a modern twist, offering bold and unique flavours that are sure to delight.

Over 200 Whiskies to Explore

With these exciting new exhibitors, you’ll now have access to a collection of over 200 whiskies from around the world. Whether you prefer smooth Irish drams, bold bourbons, or innovative malts, The World Whisky Experience promises something for every whisky lover.

Masterclasses, Talks & Guided Tours

Join industry educators, including Eddie Ludlow and Kristiane Sherry, for insightful masterclasses, talks, and guided tours around the event. You’ll have the opportunity to deepen your whisky knowledge and discover new favourites.

Claim Your 50% Discounted Tickets Now!

A limited number of 50% discounted tickets are available using code TWLWHISKY50 at checkout. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of the most exclusive whisky events in the UK at half the price!

Book your tickets now

The details

Date: Friday 15 November & Saturday 16 November

Time: Various time slots, 1-8pm

Location: Christ Church Spitalfields, Commercial Street, London, E1 6LY

Format: Walkaround tasting, masterclasses and guided tours

Tickets start at £65 without discount

Follow us on social media for the latest news and updates:

• Facebook: Club Oenologique
• Instagram: @cluboenologique
• X: @ClubOenologique

For queries about this event, please email info@cluboenologique.com

CLICK FOR MORE INFO &  TICKETS

Club Oenologique is a premium lifestyle publication for curious and discerning wine and spirits lovers. Renowned for inspiring stories and trusted expertise, we connect people to the joys of the world, through the lens of wine, spirits, and other interesting drinks.

Finalists Announced
in the 6th Annual
Scottish Whisky Awards

We’re excited to share the news that the 6th annual Scottish Whisky Awards has revealed its finalists! This year, 40 distilleries and 164 exceptional Scotch whiskies have made the cut after a rigorous judging process. The competition, which featured a comprehensive blind tasting of over 1,200 whisky samples, showcased some of the best craftsmanship in the industry.

The results highlight the finalists across 11 taste categories and 6 business categories, solidifying the Scottish Whisky Awards as the premier event for whisky excellence in Scotland.

Read More

2024 Finalists

Join the celebrations for the 6th Annual Scottish Whisky Awards on Thursday 28th November 2024 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central. Book your Scottish Whisky Awards tickets below to celebrate the very best of Scotch Whisky.

Book Your Tickets

Why Attend a Master Class at WhiskyFest?

WhiskyFest is a whirlwind! There are so many fabulous whiskies to taste and, seemingly, so little time! We really think it’s worth your while to consider attending a Master Class. They are a fun way to boost your knowledge on a specific brand and taste some exceptional whiskies. Master Classes are included with the price of a ticket and seating is on a first come basis.

This year, we are thrilled to welcome speakers from such brands as Bruichladdich, Heaven Hill, Middle West Spirits, The Glenturret, Komoro Distillery, and Compass Box, just to name a few. Visit our website to see which Master Classes will be held in each city, and for the most up to date information.

Still need a ticket? Don’t delay—buy yours today!

PRESENTING: GLENGLASSAGH
THE SERPENTINE COLLECTION!

After slumbering for 20 years, the Glenglassaugh Distillery discovered a collection of rare casks in their coastal warehouses, which were meticulously selected by Master Blender Rachel Barrie to create The Serpentine Coastal Cask Collection.

A First for the UK, The Whisky Shop is delighted to present the full collection to our customers.  Stocks are extremely limited, so act now to secure your treasured expression.

Explore New Releases >

Glenglassaugh 48 Year Old The Serpentine #1863

Aged 48 years, and mellowed by the hands of time in Aleatico Red Wine Barrique casks, this 46.1% abv bottlings has a nose of enticing blueberry, peach and tamarind, a palate of meringue and gently salted pistachio cream, and a finishing touch of passionfruit and sea salt.

£7505.00
SHOP NOW ❯

£10635.00
SHOP NOW ❯

Free Next Day Delivery for 12 Months For just £14.95 you can enjoy free next day delivery on all your orders for a whole year! Geographic restrictions apply, see full T&Cs. Find out more ❯

MALTSTOCK 2024

We’ve had a relaxed anniversary Maltstock!

Maltstock 2024 was a blast and the dust of our relaxed morning walk and little get-together has now long settled. So has the dust from the afterparty we had with our crew to celebrate 15years of Maltstock! A big ‘Thank you!’ to all our guests and sponsors for celebrating our 15th anniversary with us!

So many relaxed memories were made, new friend found and friendships renewed! And all of that within the relaxed atmosphere of Maltstock and while tasting great whiskies!

We are looking back at our 15th edition with gratitude and a big, big smile and we  hope to meet you again at Maltstock 2025, or sometime earlier at one of the many events we attend ourselves!

Annette, Bob, Klaas, Stan and Teun & our super relaxed crew!

We threw a bit of a relaxed afterparty for our crew this year. 15 years of Maltstock would not have been possible without the wonderful people in the picture above! Thanks guys!

Extended Early bird offer

As a last gesture for our 15th anniversary we run our early bird offer for an extra couple of days this year! It’s on up and until the 31st of October 2024.

Use the couponcode ‘EB25’ to get €25 off on every ticket you purchase for Maltstock 2024.

Click here to go directly to our shop.

Hope to see you in 2025!

Where Will You Be On October 26th?

On October 26th, WhiskyFest Hollywood, FL is the place to be! You will experience world-class whiskies, a few tequilas, gin, and cocktails, paired with delicious buffets. We recommend that you sit back, relax, and enjoy one (or more!) of the four Master Classes presented by:

Abi Clephane, Global Ambassador, Bruichladdich

Jodie Fileatreau, Artisanal Distiller, Heaven Hill Distillery

Ryan Lang, Founder, Head Distiller & CEO, Middle West Spirits

DeNiro Fisher, Diplomat, Maker’s Mark

Our whisky list is updated frequently, and we’ll be adding more details about the Master Classes, so be sure to check our website often for the most up to date information.

Still need tickets? Don’t delay – buy yours today!