Happy 4th of July to our friends in the United States of America!

Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Celebrates 25th Anniversary and Ushers in Adventurous New Era of Bourbon Tourism

Federal, State, and Local Officials Join Celebration of Industry’s Impact Across Kentucky Through its Thriving Global Tourist Attraction

FRANKFORT, KY.— In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour is getting a bold new look, a sleek new digital experience for visitors to build their own amber adventure, and a reimagined future by combining the original excursion with its Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®.

Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, Congressman Andy Barr, co-chair of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus, and Kentucky Sen. David Yates of Louisville unveiled the newly reimagined Kentucky Bourbon Trail® before 200 Bourbon luminaries at the Frazier History Museum along historic Whiskey Row in Louisville.

The new-look Bourbon Trail™ experience will showcase 46 of the Commonwealth’s finest distilleries, giving visitors more options to plan their trip and fully focus their attention on the laid-back hospitality, local culture and cuisine, scenic hidden gems and natural wonders on their journey.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association created the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® pilgrimage in 1999 to educate visitors on the art and science behind making America’s only native spirit.  It was America’s first spirits tour and has since welcomed more than 18 million visitors from all 50 states and dozens of countries.

“We knew we had something special, but we never could have dreamed it would evolve from a simple industrial tour of distilleries into an international bucket list experience filled with rare and behind-the-scenes adventures,” Gregory said.

Following rapid growth and innovation by distillers, the KDA created the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® in 2012 to showcase smaller distilleries. Its 28 craft distilleries will now join the 18 members of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour, forming one statewide Bourbon Trail™ experience.

“All Kentucky distilleries – big and small have invested hundreds of millions of dollars into their tourism experiences, resulting in record-breaking economic development, jobs, tax dollars, restaurants, hotels, and more that build off of Bourbon’s popularity.

“It’s a lucrative path for Bourbon to give back to local communities.”

Elected Officials Toast the Past and Cheer the Future

Congressman Barr’s Congressional Bourbon Caucus is a bipartisan group of members that are dedicated to strengthening the Bourbon industry and educating other Representatives on legislative and regulatory issues that impact it.

“As we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, we honor the tradition, craftsmanship, and economic vitality that Bourbon brings to our Commonwealth,” said Rep. Barr, who is from Lexington, one of the KBT’s official Gateway communities.

“This milestone underscores our rich heritage and the global recognition of Kentucky as the true home of Bourbon. Cheers to another 25 years of excellence and innovation in one of our homegrown signature industries!”

Rep. Morgan McGarvey, co-chair of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus, was scheduled to participate in the event but had an unexpected emergency. Sen. Yates, the chamber’s Minority Whip and former President of the Louisville Metro Council, stepped in to discuss the KBT’s local and state impact.

“It’s been amazing to see how the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Bourbonism has revitalized tourism in Louisville, especially on our historic Whiskey Row,” Sen. Yates said. “Bourbon is unique to our Commonwealth and important to its future.  I’m proud to work alongside legislators on both sides of the aisle and each level of government to protect and elevate its importance in Kentucky.”

To celebrate the 25th anniversary and all that is to come, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® received special recognition from the federal and state government. U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell’s tribute in the Congressional Record honored the success of the Kentucky landmark.

 “I want to thank all those involved for their stewardship of Kentucky’s heritage and their work to build our State’s vibrant Bourbon industry,” McConnell said. “As the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® celebrates its silver jubilee, I’d like to extend my best wishes to its dedicated team and all the hard-working Kentuckians who have contributed to the enduring popularity and legacy of Bourbon whiskey.”

Additionally, Governor Andy Beshear proclaimed June 20, 2024, as “Bourbon Trail™ Day in the Commonwealth.” Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman delivered the proclamation and offered a toast to the KBT’s past and future.

“For years, Kentucky’s signature spirit has spurred tourism and economic development helping build our communities,” she said. “With billions in Bourbon investments underway and a bright new future for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour, the world will continue to know that the Commonwealth of Kentucky is the undisputed home of Bourbon.”

A Global Bucket-List Future for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Adventure

To plan for the future of the behemoth tourist attraction, the KDA engaged IQS Research to personally interview thousands of KBT® visitors over the last year. The findings clearly proved that the Bourbon Trail™ is elevating Kentucky tourism with an affluent demographic featuring:

• 76% of visitors come from outside of Kentucky;
• Visitors are coming in packs and staying in the region for 3 to 5 days;
• Guests typically spend between $600 and $1,400 on dining, entertainment, lodging, and transportation.
• More than 60% have incomes above $100,000;
• 60% of visitors are male, 36% female, 4% non-binary;
• 12% identified as a racial minority and 7% identified as LGBTQIA+;
• 91% discovered a new product or Bourbon brand during their trip; and
• 97% were highly satisfied with their distillery experience, and 96% would recommend the KBT® to their family and friends.

Following a nationwide search for a marketing partner to help formulate the Bourbon Trail’s future, the KDA began working with Nashville-based agency Lewis.

Utilizing the IQS data and the KDA’s biennial economic impact report, the Lewis team held in-depth interviews with leadership and frontline employees at Kentucky Bourbon Trail® attractions and conducted further in-depth research in key feeder markets to collect potential visitors’ impressions.

The impressive result is an all-new brand identity that is modern, adventurous, and reflective of the new and elevated offerings at distilleries. The new logo embraces the rich colors and textures of the Commonwealth’s Bourbon legacy and features typography that’s symbolic of iconic trailhead signs, evoking a keen sense of adventure.

Recognizing the Trail™ experience can no longer be completed in a long weekend, the reimagined Kentucky Bourbon Trail® will shift away from incentivizing the desire to quickly finish the journey to instead slowing down, savoring the adventure and exploring the possibilities.

Visitors will begin to see the changes throughout the summer, including:

• A fresh new look that conveys a sense of discovery, elevated adventure and attainable luxury;
• A combined Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® into one Bourbon Trail™ program;
• An all-new digital experience to help guests explore and prepare for their trip like never before;
• Ability to Build Your Own Bourbon Trail®, allowing visitors to imagine and explore a wide range of possible itineraries before they ever arrive in Kentucky. #BYOBT

“Our guides on the frontline of the Bourbon Trail™ know there is an experience that’s perfect for each and every visitor, and the reimagined Kentucky Bourbon Trail® will be even easier to explore and discover,” said Jes Pendergrass, Chair of the KDA Board of Directors and General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer at Heaven Hill.

“Just as every Bourbon is a unique expression, each distillery brings its own personality to the visitor experience, and the Bourbon Trail™ has more offerings than ever before. We encourage our visitors to take their time, sip and savor each moment, and come back often to relax and enjoy our laid-back Kentucky Bourbon culture.”

Katie Peninger, Vice President of Account Service at Lewis, said, “What we learned is that Bourbon tourists know what they want, why they’re here, and what their priorities are. With #BYOBT, the visitor decides what’s important, and the website presents them with the distilleries, hotels and restaurants that match their preferences.”

Visitors can follow Kentucky Bourbon Trail® on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date and be the first to know when the new digital experiences are ready for use. For more information, go to www.kybourbontrail.com.

Oran Blended Scotch Whisky Wins Silver Medals at

International Spirits Challenge

Blend No. 1 and Blend No. 2 Both Take Home Silvers

NEW YORK (June 4, 2024) – Oran Blended Scotch Whisky, introduced by The Perfect Fifth in late 2023, has won silver medals at the International Spirits Challenge for its Blend No. 1 and Blend No. 2 bottlings.

Whisky expert Jim Murray blended both Scotches for The Perfect Fifth and remarks, “There is a temptation to disregard blended Scotch in this time of single malt, yet the blend of grain whisky and malt is a creation which offers myriad possibilities.  The objective in the creation of Oran is to offer delicate complexity and finely tuned balance, which I believe we achieved.”

Both releases are 50-50-50 blends, 50 percent single malt Scotch Whisky, 50 percent single grain Scotch Whisky, and 50 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). Both blends are limited releases, containing only 465 bottles each.

Murray designed Oran to be an “old school” blend recognizable to whisky lovers of the heyday of blended whisky some 100 years ago.  Oran’s grain and malt components are created separately but ultimately combined as the perfect complement to one another.

A total of 11 different casks were used to make both blends. Some of the casks were split between both blends but with differing ratios. Blend No. 1 is composed exclusively of Ex-Bourbon casks while Blend No. 2 distinguishes itself with the addition of a sherried cask component.

Oran Blend No. 1 and Blend No. 2 are available in limited quantities at retailers in New York, New Jersey and California. It is also available online at www.theperfectfifth.com.  Suggested retail pricing is $189 per 700 mL.

The International Spirits Challenge is the premiere event for promoting outstanding quality spirits from more than 70 countries.  The competition is founded on a rigorous and independent judging process, which encourages the high caliber of spirits entered each year.

About The Perfect Fifth

The Perfect Fifth was created in 2019 by Karl Schoen, who was inspired by watching his family members toast milestones with Scotch Whisky as he grew up.  As Karl began his own exploration into the world of Scotch Whisky, he enjoyed finding stellar single cask bottlings and sharing them with others.  This led to the formation of The Perfect Fifth, where Karl and his brother Ben source the best quality whisky from all over Scotland.  Together they travel throughout Scotland, sampling cask after cask until they find those worthy to be selected for The Perfect Fifth. Few casks make the cut, which is why The Perfect Fifth releases are limited editions.  Like the musical interval, The Perfect Fifth releases consist of multiple layers, each one broad and deep, which when combined, make a beautiful assembly meant to be shared with family and friends.

TIMESPIRIT DINING EXPERIENCE AT THE MACALLAN ESTATE

We are delighted to share the next chapter in our gastronomic journey, in collaboration with three Michelin starred restaurant El Celler de Can Roca.

United by an insatiable curiosity, quest for knowledge, and dedication to innovation, we have collaborated to create TimeSpirit, a new permanent dining experience at The Macallan Estate.

​Inspired by our long-standing partnership of twelve years, TimeSpirit is a culinary expression of our collective playful spirit, creativity and respect for nature. The exceptional tasting menu is a culinary exploration of our story as we celebrate 200 Years Young.​

Booking is now open for dining from 1st August.

LEARN MORE AND BOOK

Clermont Steep – Suntory Global Spirits’ first foray into the American Single Malt category, this whiskey focuses on a single grain – 100% malted barley. ABV: 47% | SRP: $60

The Single Malt Sidecar

2 oz Clermont Steep American Single Malt

1 oz Orange Liqueur

.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

Lemon peel, for garnish

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

SAVE ON 130+ WHISKIES
THIS MONTH

Dive into our special offers and find the perfect bottle to celebrate the whisky lover in your life. Our diverse collection of whiskies from around the globe has something for every taste, from the rich, smoky notes of Islay to the elegant blends of Japan and the complex fruit character of Kentucky bourbon. Whether you’re seeking a timeless classic or a hidden gem, we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Click below to discover our specials and make your celebrations unforgettable.

 SHOP WHISKY OFFERS 

WhiskyFest in Hollywood, Florida is October 26, But You Can Book Your Room Now

The room block for WhiskyFest™ Hollywood, FL is now open at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. For a stress-free evening, plan to stay at the Hard Rock with our special room block rate. The rate is good through September 24th or until the block sells out. For information and to book your stay, click here. For more information on our fall WhiskyFest events and to order your tickets, visit our website.

SUMMER 2024: HIGHLY RATED WHISKIES $100 & UNDER

Every issue of Whisky Advocate is committed to helping you grow your whisky appreciation knowledge. Choose a print, digital, or gift subscription now.

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THE MACALLAN X EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
OPENING EVENT: WHERE TO BEGIN

We are pleased to announce our partnership with Edinburgh International Festival as the Principal Partner for their Opening Event. The Opening Event: Where to Begin draws upon our combined commitment to creativity and excellence that lies within our shared Scottish identity.

THE DETAILS

VENUE
George Heriot’s, Edinburgh

DATES
2-4th August 2024

COST
£15.00 per person

Blending immersive installation, performance, spectacular video projection and captivating storytelling, this is where to begin your August adventure in the heart of Edinburgh.

LEARN MORE AND BOOK

THE PEAT PROJECT™: WASHINGTON PEAT INFUSED WITH SUGAR KELP

Macaloney’s Distillery, June 25th, 6PM Inaugural Whisky Launch Event

Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Cascadia Seaweed Unite to Craft a Unique Whisky, Merging the Terroir of Vancouver Island with the Merroir of Sustainable Seaweed Cultivation.

This marks the inaugural release of the world’s first-ever sugar-kelp infused peat-smoked whisky. To mark the occasion, Macaloney’s are hosting an historic launch event at their distillery in Victoria, Vancouver Island.

The event will take guests behind the scenes, for a first-hand look at how the project came into existence. With access to the largest industrial peat smoker outside of Scotland & famed Forsythe Pot Stills, all followed by a tasting presentation of four of their distinguished single malts, including the ‘Worlds Best’ Sugar-kelp new make.

Tickets, retailing at $49.99, are available from their website or by email at info@macaloneydistillers.com.

Tickets can also be purchased directly from their Visitor Centre.

THE PEAT PROJECT™: WASHINGTON PEAT INFUSED WITH SUGAR KELP (PORTUGUESE RE-CHARRED RED WINE BARRIQUE)

The newmake spirit, from which this whisky was matured, has already garnered global acclaim by winning ‘World’s Best’ in blind tastings by industry-experienced judges at the prestigious World Whisky Awards in London, UK. This accolade underscores the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that Macaloney’s is known for.

The limited-edition whisky can be purchased direct from the distillery and is $109.99 per bottle or from the website HERE .

The innovative infusion of sugar-kelp seaweed, chosen for its fresh maritime aromas and sweet smoke, is sustainably grown and harvested by First Nations in pristine Barkley Sound off the west coast of Vancouver Island.

Dr. Graeme Macaloney, revived traditional peat- smoking methods by studying under experts in his ancestral home of Islay, Scotland. The peat used in this process is sourced from Washington State, reflecting a unique Canada-USA collaboration.

This inaugural release is matured in Dr. Jim Swan’s Portuguese red wine Shave-Toast-Rechar barriques, adding layers of red berry, caramel-toffee sweetness, and deep oak notes to the whisky’s creamy-velvety mouth-feel, juicy malted barley, and tropical fruit profile. The peat and sugar-kelp infusion introduces bonfire, burning heather, sweet smokiness, and pronounced maritime notes, finishing with a hint of salt.

The launch of this sugar-kelp infused peated whisky also marks the first extension of Macaloney’s exploration of The Peat Project: Whisky enthusiasts will now have the opportunity to compare this innovative expression with existing Peat Project whiskies, setting the stage for future comparisons with Scottish-Islay peat and Vancouver Island peat.

EUROS 2024! 

The wait is over! Join us at Whiski Bar to catch every exhilarating moment live on our big projector and screen! Grab your friends and get in early for a good table to enjoy the thrilling matches while indulging in our delicious drinks and food! Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love the atmosphere of watching the game with your friends, Whiski Bar is the place to be!

With our huge projector and a lively atmosphere, you wont miss a moment of the action as you enjoy our extensive selection of drinks such as Innis & Gunn, Tennents, Cocktails and over 300 whiskies to choose from! Indulge in our delectable all-day menu, featuring our popular Haggis tower, burgers and Rib-eye steak! The excitement doesn’t stop at the final whistle. Stick around for our live music starting at 10PM!  We’ve got everything you need for an unforgettable Euro 2024 experience.

Whiski Bar  & Restaurant
119 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SG
www.whiskibar.co.uk