Bladnoch Distillery announces partnership with Wigtown Book Festival

Bladnoch, Scotland’s oldest privately-owned Scotch whisky distillery has announced a partnership with the 27^th annual Wigtown Book Festival.

Running from 26 September – 5 October 2025, Wigtown Book Festival is a ten-day literary celebration in Scotland’s National Book Town, which is also home to the 208-year-old Bladnoch Distillery. Founded in 1999, Wigtown Book Festival is one of the UK’s most prominent literary showcases, with more than 200 events including music, theatre, food, visual arts and a prestigious cast of authors.

As part of the distillery’s partnership with Wigtown Book Festival, Bladnoch will sponsor the event’s team of more than 100 volunteers at the heart of the festival’s success, ensuring the unsung heroes behind the festival receive the support, training and recognition they deserve.

This collaboration unites two organisations rooted in resilience and community regeneration, strengthens community ties, supports cultural tourism, and showcases how grassroots dedication and enterprise can work hand in hand to transform a rural economy.

Rescued from closure in 2015 by Australian entrepreneur David Prior, Bladnoch Distillery is a major local employer and a hub for cultural events and whisky tourism in Dumfries & Galloway. This resilience and commitment to regeneration is at the heart of all the distillery does, including supporting the bold Galloway spirit of Wigtown Book Festival’s dedicated team of volunteers.

Wigtown Book Festival was founded to revitalise Galloway during a period of economic hardship and industrial decline. Today, it has grown into a nationally recognised literary and cultural event, powered by a dedicated team of local volunteers whose efforts attract more than 11,000 visitors annually, boosting the local economy and fostering pride in the community.

As part of its partnership with the festival, Bladnoch Distillery will host an exclusive storytelling event to celebrate the distillery and the region’s bold Galloway spirit. Taking place at the distillery at 7:30pm on Thursday 2 October and hosted by Scottish storyteller, author and travel influencer behind @scotlands_stories, Graeme Johncock, Bold Spirit: Tales of Galloway will be a unique evening celebrating Galloway’s distinctive identity and sense of mischief.

The 27^th annual Wigtown Book Festival will also mark the release of Loch Maberry: Stories of Bladnoch, Chapter 2 on Thursday 2 October, the second chapter in a limited-edition series celebrating and selected by individuals who have a deep affinity with Bladnoch Distillery’s exceptional whiskies. The new single malt will be unveiled as part of the storytelling event, providing guests with the chance to taste the expression alongside Bladnoch master distiller Dr Nick Savage and the character who inspired its creation.

This will be the first opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to sample and purchase Loch Maberry Chapter 2, which will be available exclusively at Bladnoch Distillery and through Bladnoch’s online shop from this date.

Dr Nick Savage, Master Distiller at Bladnoch Distillery, said: “We’re proud to be working with the 27^th annual Wigtown Book Festival to support the event’s team of dedicated volunteers. Together, we have forged a meaningful partnership rooted in community regeneration and cultural enrichment.

“At Bladnoch, our commitment to crafting our bold Galloway spirit is at the heart of all that we do. Bold Galloway spirit is exactly what the festival’s volunteers bring – courage, warmth and a passion that fuels Wigtown Book Festival year after year.”

Adrian Turpin, Wigtown Book Festival’s artistic director, said: “Bladnoch Distillery and Wigtown Book Festival have each played a central role in the regeneration of Wigtown over many years, which makes this a very special partnership.

“While, sadly, we can’t actually bottle the bold Galloway spirit of our volunteers, Bladnoch Distillery’s generosity will enable us to better support them and acknowledge the irreplaceable contribution they make to the success of the festival.”

Dating back to 1817, Bladnoch Distillery is one of the oldest single malt Scotch whisky producers in the world and is enjoying a bold and powerful revival. For more information about Bladnoch Distillery, please visit www.bladnoch.com.

For more information about Wigtown Book Festival, please visit www.wigtownbookfestival.com.

About Bladnoch Distillery

Bladnoch Distillery was established in 1817, making it the oldest privately owned Scotch whisky distillery in the world. As the southernmost distillery in Scotland, Bladnoch is commonly referred to as the ‘Queen of the Lowlands.’

Hand-crafted using malt from British growers and the pristine water from the River Bladnoch which flows alongside the distillery, Bladnoch single malts are non-chill filtered to ensure the truest flavours shine through.

This legacy brand has been revived in recent years by Master Distiller, Dr Nick Savage, formerly of The Macallan, and owner David Prior, who purchased Bladnoch Distillery in 2015 and is the first Australian businessman to own a Scotch whisky distillery.

The team at Bladnoch is truly passionate about the preservation of the environment and the local community’s generational involvement in this iconic distillery.

About Wigtown Book Festival and Scotland’s National Book Town

Founded in 1999, the annual Wigtown Book Festival is one of the UK’s best-loved literary gatherings featuring more than 200 events, including music, theatre, food and visual arts.

The 10-day autumn festival takes place in Scotland’s National Book Town and was born out of a social and economic regeneration plan to help revive the fortunes of the Dumfries & Galloway market town.  This year’s festival takes place from 26 September to 5 October. Speakers participating include Reeta Chakrabarti, John Suchet, Kate Summerscale, Robin Ince and Helen Lederer.

EXPLORE OUR NEWEST WHISKIES

Even by our high standards, September has already been filled with exciting new whiskies, with plenty more to come this month. You’ll find an excellent dram in the Glen Grant Exploration No.1, aged in bourbon barrels and finished in rum casks. Or choose Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old Cask Strength, showing powerful sherried depth. Bruichladdich has also unveiled Octomore 16 Series, the latest edition of its famously super-peated Islay whisky. These bottlings and more are ready to be discovered.

 SHOP NOW 

THE VAN WINKLE FAMILY UNVEILS 2025 COLLECTION WITH A RARE 25 YEAR OLD BOTTLE AVAILABLE AT AUCTION

 One of the fall’s most highly-anticipated whiskey releases arrives with the return of the coveted Van Winkle Collection, including the chance to secure a piece of bourbon history

FRANKFORT, Ky (September 10, 2025) – Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly announce the 2025 release of the coveted Van Winkle Whiskey Collection. Returning to shelves this September, the annual offering is a centerpiece for collectors and connoisseurs alike, showcasing the family’s renowned wheated bourbon and rye whiskey recipes across six celebrated expressions: Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old, Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Old, Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old, and Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year Old. Additionally, in honor of this year’s release, one rare bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old – recently rediscovered at the Distillery – will be included in Legacy de Forge’s National Bourbon Heritage Month Auction starting September 10, 2025

The annual release continues to embody what makes this family of whiskeys a hallmark in the American Whiskey category: exceptional taste, legendary craftsmanship, and a legacy that resonates across generations.

“As always, each release represents years of quiet work, careful aging and a deep respect for the legacy we carry forward,” said Preston Van Winkle, 4^th Generation, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “We’ve taken great care to ensure the quality of this year’s release lives up to the Van Winkle name. We’re proud to share this whiskey with those who appreciate the craft, patience and tradition that go into every bottle.”

In celebration of the 2025 Van Winkle Collection release and National Bourbon Heritage Month, Legacy de Forge, a new global platform to improve access to Sazerac’s most coveted spirits, will present an exclusive series of rare whiskey auctions this September. Leading the offerings is Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old, the oldest and rarest expression ever released under the iconic name, paired with a private tasting with Julian Van Winkle – and a story as rare as the whiskey inside.

Originally filled into its hand-engraved Glencairn crystal decanter in 2017, Bottle #706 was safely tucked away at Buffalo Trace Distillery, untouched for nearly a decade. As one of the final bottles from the original 710 produced, it emerges as more than a rare collectible: a once-hidden treasure made available for enjoyment by today’s enthusiasts. Beyond its rarity, this archival bottle carries a provenance and a story that elevate it into the realm of legend, offering the opportunity to experience a true piece of bourbon history.

Legacy de Forge’s September Bourbon Heritage Month Auction will feature eight curated lots in total, offering enthusiasts direct access to distinguished bottlings including O.F.C 2006, the newly-released Colonel E.H. Taylor Distiller’s Council and a Stagg Single Barrel pick. Bidding opens at 10:00 a.m. ET on September 10, 2025, and will close at 10:00 a.m. ET on September 24, 2025. For more information, please visit https://legacydeforge.com/release/bourbon-heritage-month-2025.

The 2025 Van Winkle Collection will be made available to stores, bars and restaurants across the United States in limited quantities and at varying retail prices. The suggested retail prices for the limited-edition Van Winkle collection bottles are as follows (local taxes apply):

• Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old – $149.99

This season’s 10YR ORVW bourbon balances classic sweetness with smoky sophistication. On the nose, aromas of vanilla, caramel, pecan, and seasoned oak meet warm tobacco and charred wood. The palate is smooth and rich with wheat, cherry, bold oak, and a hint of spice, leading to a long, smoky finish layered with oak, dark vanilla, and lingering warmth.

• Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12 Year Old – $169.99

This unique batch brings a bolder, woodier edge to a bourbon known for its bright fruit and delicate spice. On the nose, aromas of oak, dried mango, cocoa, and spiced peach mingle with cherry and vanilla. The palate offers honey, tobacco, and dark fruit, evolving into stone fruit and cocoa. A dry, balanced finish lingers with oak, cherry, and gentle spice.

• Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old – $229.99

This seasonal batch builds on the soft, spiced elegance of the original with a richer, fruit-forward complexity. The nose welcomes you with roasted chestnut, vanilla, and subtle spice that is deepened by cherry, stone fruit, and warming oak. On the palate, layers of cocoa, white pepper, and vanilla meet a bold infusion of cherry and ripe stone fruits, balanced by oak and cedar. A long, warm finish lingers with caramel, spice, and dry oak.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15 Year Old – $239.99

This limited batch amplifies the 15YO signature sweetness with added depth. The nose is captivating with aromas of brown sugar, caramel corn, and vanilla mingle with wood and a hint of cherry. The palate is rich with leather, oak, and dark fruit, smoothed by brown sugar and lifted by cherry brightness. A long, dry finish leaves lingering spice, oak tannins, and a warming touch of fruit and sugar.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20 Year Old– $359.99

This special batch brings depth to a bourbon known for its intensity and elegance. The nose is vibrant with citrus zest and dried fruit joined by lush notes of plum and cherry. On the palate, smooth citrus and vanilla meet juicy stone fruit and hints of sherry, creating a beautifully balanced sip. The finish is long, elegant, and fruit-kissed leaving behind whispers of plum, cherry, and warm spice.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23 Year Old – $499.99

This batch turns up the intensity while staying true to the heart of the Pappy Van Winkle. The nose is bold and inviting leading with rich caramel and cream, joined by oak, leather, and a hit of ripe cherry. The palate is full and flavorful, with vanilla, honey, and maple leading the way, with a burst of cherry and a warming heat. The finish is long, oaky, and fruit-laced leaving behind notes of spice, sweetness, and the satisfying heat of a stronger pour.

“Those who follow this release year after year know it’s not just about whiskey, but about what it represents,” said Julian P. Van Winkle III, President, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “This whiskey collection is a reflection of our family’s legacy and a tribute to the generations who came before us. The legacy, combined with anticipation, the stories shared over a pour, the appreciation for extended aging – that is what makes each release so special.”

The Van Winkle family reminds fans that neither they nor Buffalo Trace Distillery control the prices individual retailers charge for the expressions. The family also strongly recommends those interested in the Van Winkle Collection to purchase through a licensed retailer. Whiskey enthusiasts increase their risks of alcohol scams by purchasing from secondary markets and online sellers including Craigslist, eBay, and social media groups. Additionally, many alcohol scams take place overseas. In some cases, consuming alcohol that is not purchased from a licensed retailer can lead to bodily harm and even casualties.

Whiskey buyers who believe they have been scammed should not drink out of their bottle. They should also file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, contact their State Attorney General’s office, and contact their credit card company about its fraud protection policies.

About Van Winkle Bourbon

The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery carries a proud four-generation legacy. The Van Winkle family’s roots in the bourbon industry trace back to the late 1800s with Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr., who began his career as a traveling salesman for the W.L. Weller and Sons wholesale house in Louisville. In time, Pappy and his colleague, fellow salesman Alex Farnsley, purchased the wholesale house and joined forces with A. Ph. Stitzel, purchasing his distillery. Together, the three merged their ventures, creating the renowned Stitzel-Weller Distillery after Prohibition.

In May of 1935 at the age of 61, Pappy opened the newly completed Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville. Its prominent brands were W.L. Weller, Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and Cabin Still.  Pappy had a heavy influence on the operations there until his death at the age of 91. His son, Julian, Jr. took over operations until he was forced by stockholders to sell the distillery in 1972. The rights to all of their brands were sold to Norton Simon, Inc. Later, United Distillers, who eventually ended up with the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, sold off all of the original labels around 1999.

After selling the distillery, Julian Jr. resurrected a pre-Prohibition label, the only one to which the Van Winkles kept the rights, called Old Rip Van Winkle. He used whiskey stocks from the old distillery to supply his brand. Julian Jr.’s son, Julian, III took over in 1981 when Julian, Jr. passed away. Julian III has continued with the Van Winkle tradition of producing high-quality wheated bourbon. His son, Preston, joined the company in 2001 and the Van Winkles look to continue that tradition for generations to come.

In 2002, the Van Winkle family partnered with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, reuniting the Van Winkle and Weller bourbons under one roof. The collaboration was a natural fit, as Buffalo Trace was already producing the wheated mash bill used in Weller bourbon. Today, all Van Winkle whiskey is crafted at Buffalo Trace Distillery, produced with the same uncompromising standards the family has upheld for generations. Learn more about the Van Winkle family of bourbons at www.oldripvanwinkle.com.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery    

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its William Larue Weller and Stagg were named Best of Show at the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition and its Traveller Whiskey is the Most Awarded Super Premium Whiskey Release of 2024. Buffalo Trace Distillery has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Laphroaig The Wall Collection 39 Year Old Rope

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 ❯

2012 Port Charlotte 10 Year Old “Dramfool’s Jim McEwan Signature Collection 7.2″ First Fill Bourbon Barrel Cask #2554 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Previously $370) $258.10 View

Jim McEwan

Aromas – Opens on a beautiful combination of peat smoked barley with tantalising hints of lemon & honey then waves of heather in bloom drift by. Little notes of juniper and pine mingle beautifully with the spiciness of bourbon residue and sweetness of malt extract. It’s Islay at its best, in the early summer with the warm winds from the Atlantic Ocean caressing the barley fields and depositing the salty moisture on the land that give the barley its unique flavour. Palate – The sweetness of malt extract is in harmony with the smokiness from the peat and also the spicy residue from bourbon-soaked staves, it evolves slowly creating the flavour profile that makes this spirit unique. The most important element of this spirit is that it is distilled by Islanders who simply walk in the footsteps of their fore-fathers; no computers, no chemists, no BS, just passion pride and patience.

This release was distilled on July 18th, 2012 after spending its entire 10-year life maturing in cask #2554, a first-fill Bourbon barrel from the Jack Daniels distillery. It was bottled in February 2023 without chillfiltration and no added color, at a natural cask strength of 60.6%. Only 232 bottles were produced. Tasting notes from Jim McEwan: “Aromas – Opens on a beautiful combination of peat smoked barley with tantalising hints of lemon & honey, then waves of heather in bloom drift by. Little notes of juniper and pine mingle beautifully with the spiciness of bourbon residue and sweetness of malt extract. It’s Islay at its best, in the early summer with the warm winds from the Atlantic Ocean caressing the barley fields and depositing the salty moisture on the land that give the barley its unique flavour. Palate – The sweetness of malt extract is in harmony with the smokiness from the peat and also the spicy residue from bourbon-soaked staves, it evolves slowly creating the flavour profile that makes this spirit unique. The most important element of this spirit is that it is distilled by Islanders who simply walk in the footsteps of their forefathers; no computers, no chemists, no BS, just passion, pride and patience.”

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

Discover The Hearach Decade Edition

We’re proud to announce the forthcoming release of The Hearach Decade Edition. This new expression not only celebrates a decade of distilling, it’s also the first whisky from the Isle of Harris Distillery made with peat hand-cut from our wild and rugged landscape.

This very limited release is an invitation to savour a peated whisky that’s rooted in the tradition, craft, and the slow rhythm of the Outer Hebrides. And with every sip, it tells the story of an island that values community and connection, rewarding those who take time to appreciate its gentle depth.

This spirit, distilled in 2018, is a celebration of ten years’ work and a toast to all of those who have brought it to life.

The Hearach Decade Edition will be available in the UK on Friday 12th September at 10am, priced at £75 from our online store and distillery shop in Tarbert.

DISCOVER THE DECADE EDITION

Caisteal Chamuis Blended Malt 12 Year Old

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 ❯

2010 Caol Ila 14 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Hogsheads Cask Strength Single Refill Hogshead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Pre-Arrival) $99.99 View

2009 Mortlach 16 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Cask Strength Refill Hogshead Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Pre-Arrival) $109.99 View

2007 Bruichladdich 18 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Cask Strength Refill Hogshead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) (Pre-Arrival) $225.00 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

Town Branch®️ Just Doubled Down!

The 7th Member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®️ Just Released This Dynamic Duo of

Allocated Annual Release Whiskeys, Blended-to-Order

LEXINGTON, Ky— Town Branch Distillery, the 7^th member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and the heart of Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.—just doubled down by releasing not just one of its anticipated allocated annual release whiskeys, but two custom, blended-to-order whiskeys.

Discover The Rye and Explore The Malt

They say two heads are better than one, good things come in pairs, and that sometimes it takes two to tango—and Town Branch is proving just that with this year’s release of Town Branch® Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and Town Branch® 7-Year Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey. With the invitation to Discover the Rye and Explore the Malt, these expressions showcase the distillery’s move to a blend-to-order philosophy, resulting in more distinctive, limited releases designed to heighten the consumer experience.

Town Branch® Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey has long been a sleeping giant for the distillery, earning multiple prestigious awards over the years—including recognition from Forbes as one of the Best Rye Whiskeys—before being allocated in 2022 to preserve valuable blending stocks. Alongside it, Town Branch® 7-Year Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey stands as a true steward of the emerging American Single Malt category. Distilled since 2008 on Town Branch’s double pot stills—originally fitted into the brewery while the distillery was still under construction to gain a head start on aging—it proudly showcases its Kentucky pedigree, 7-year age statement, and proprietary upcycled cooperage, offering whiskey drinkers a respected gateway into a category on the rise.

Building on past production innovations—including refined blending processes, broader age ranges, and enhanced quality control measures—Town Branch continues to elevate its portfolio with whiskeys that balance tradition and innovation. “Don’t just make something, make something great,” says Robert Krass, Managing Director at Town Branch Distillery. “The team is under strict instruction not to stop until they love it—for example, our straight rye whiskey alone took over 15 micro-blends before we got it right, but we got it.”

At a suggested retail price under $50, these two expressions give whiskey enthusiasts the chance to explore distinctive categories without the premium price tag often tied to special releases. In a market where comparable whiskeys command much higher costs, Town Branch is intentionally passing value directly to the consumer, making discovery more accessible while maintaining its dedication to craftsmanship.

For whiskey drinkers and bartenders alike, the message is clear: whether enjoyed neat, mixed into a cocktail, or as part of a deeper exploration into emerging whiskey categories, now is the time to branch out.

Brand Highlights:

Town Branch®️ Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey – 100 Proof (SRP $49.99/750ml)

• This 100-proof small batch straight rye whiskey focuses on tempering youthful, charismatic barrels with rich and mature barrels for balance, creating a harmony of flavors for each individual annual blend and release. Previously recognized by Forbes as one of the Best Rye Whiskeys, it continues to stand out for its exceptional character.
• Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• Mash Bill: 90% Rye / 5% Corn / 5% Malted Barley
• Cooperage: New American White Oak, #4 Char Level
• Age: Blended; 4-years to 9-years age range; oldest barrel 3278/16H07 (9-years+)
• ABV: 50% / 100 Proof
• Estimated Availability: Annual Release in August; est. 475 cases for 2025 release
• Tasting Notes:
  • Appearance: Deep Golden Amber
  • Aroma: Sweet Cocoa, Honey, Oak, Cherry, Dried Fruits, Ripe Berries, Pecan Pie, Cinnamon and leather
  • Palate: Smooth velvety mouthfeel with candy apple, fresh citrus, toffee, oak, allspice, dry pepper and prunes
  • Finish: Lacey and leggy with very gentle hints of spearmint simple syrup

Town Branch®️ 7-Year Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey – 87 Proof (SRP $49.99/750ml)

• Made from 100% malted barley and aged for a minimum of 7 years in upcycled Town Branch Bourbon/Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale barrels, Town Branch Distillery boasts having the oldest Kentucky Single Malt stocks in the world and offers exceptional craftsmanship that has garnered high praise receiving several medals and accolades including named Best Small Batch Single Malt by World Whiskies Awards.
• Classification: American Single Malt Whiskey / Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey
• Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
• Cooperage: 3^rd Use American White Oak (Town Branch Bourbon, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale)
• Age: Single Malt; 7-years to 10-years age range; oldest barrel 1444/14H18 (10-years+)
• ABV: 43.5% / 87 Proof
• Estimated Availability: Annual Release in August; est. 487 cases for 2025 release
• Tasting Notes:
  • Appearance: Light Golden Honey
  • Aroma: Ripe Green Apple, Citrus, Almond, Honey, Cinnamon and stewed pears
  • Palate: Oak, Walnut, Bread Crust, Slight Saltiness, Stewed Apples, Apricots, Vanilla, Molasses and Honey
  • Finish: Velvety soft finish, marked by oak, dried fruit, and nutmeg

About Town Branch Distillery:

Located in Lexington, Kentucky, Town Branch Distillery is notable as the first new distillery to open in the city since Prohibition. It is part of Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., the only brewery and distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®️. The distillery produces several acclaimed spirits, including Town Branch Bourbon, Town Branch True Cask Bourbon, Town Branch Overproof Whiskey, Town Branch Rye, Town Branch Malt, and Bluegrass Sundown, a Bourbon-infused coffee liqueur. Town Branch upcycles every used barrel to craft a variety of whiskeys and barrel-aged beers, such as Lexington’s flagship Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale. This process ensures each barrel’s legacy continues within our diverse product line. For more details, visit www.lexingtonbrewingco.com, or join the conversation Facebook or Instagram.

About the Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.:

Located in Lexington, Kentucky, Lexington Brewing Co. was originally established in 1890 and revitalized in 1999 by the late Pearse Lyons and his son Mark Lyons, evolving into Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. with the addition of Town Branch Distillery. Pearse Lyons was a pioneering Irish entrepreneur and scientist with a master’s degree in brewing and a Ph.D. in yeast fermentation. He also founded Alltech, a global leader in animal health and nutrition. Today, both Alltech and Lexington Brewing & Distilling are led by his son, Mark Lyons, who represents the seventh generation of the Lyons family in the brewing, distilling, and cooperage industry. Lexington Brewing & Distilling is renowned for its Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale® and Town Branch Distillery, which is a proud member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. Committed to sustainability, every emptied barrel is upcycled from the distillery to the brewery to create exceptional beer and spirits. For more information, visit www.lexingtonbrewingco.com, or join the conversation Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

About Kentucky®️ Barrel-Aged Beers:

Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., the only brewery and distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®️, specializes in the art of barrel-aging beer. As one of the largest barrel-aged beer brands globally, Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. leverages its access to freshly decanted Kentucky Bourbon barrels to craft a unique style of beer. Offerings include the renowned Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale®, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Imperial Milk Stout, Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Kentucky Pumpkin Barrel Ale, and a selection of Kentucky® Barrel-Aged Seasonal and Specialty releases. Upcycling its own bourbon barrels enhances the quality of its barrel-aged beers with a distinct character that sets them apart from other breweries in America. For more information, visit www.lexingtonbrewingco.com, or join the conversation Facebook or Instagram.

About Alltech:

Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons and now led by his son Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech is a global leader in agriculture, committed to providing smarter and more sustainable solutions. With over 40 years of scientific research backing its work, Alltech offers a diverse range of products and services designed to enhance the health and performance of plants and animals. This, in turn, leads to improved nutrition, reduced environmental impact, and advanced innovation in the field. Alltech’s portfolio includes specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed, and biologicals, all underpinned by a strong scientific foundation and a commitment to adaptability. As a private, family-owned company, Alltech emphasizes quick responses to customer needs and fosters a unique, entrepreneurial culture. Headquartered near Lexington, Kentucky, Alltech operates in over 120 countries with five bioscience centers and more than 80 manufacturing facilities worldwide. Their mission, encapsulated in their purpose of “Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™,” focuses on providing nutrition for all, revitalizing local economies, and replenishing the planet’s natural resources. For more information, visit www.alltech.com, or join the conversation on Facebook and LinkedIn.

2014 Edradour 10 Year Old “Signatory Vintage” 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry Butt No. 256 Cask Strength Single Barrel Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) (Elsewhere $135) $79.99 View

David Othenin-Girard
K&L Buyer
Review Date: 08/2025

This outstanding barrel of Edradour is one of the few full cask-strength releases from the distillery available in the U.S. market. There’s no doubt that Signatory Vintage is being highly selective when putting their name on the best casks from the tiny distillery they own. This particular barrel, selected by Andrew Symington for the U.S., is an incredible deal—comparable bottlings often sell for $40 to $50 more—making this one of the best values for a dense, sherried malt anywhere. The color is deep brown sherry (1.9). On the nose, it’s immediately intense, with dark chocolate, French roast, stewed fruit, menthol, camphor, kishibori shoyu, licorice root, salted plums, and pine resin. The palate is bold and structured, with deep European oak character that doesn’t overwhelm the dense Edradour malt. Instead, the spirit holds its ground, pushing back with savory richness and balance. Even without dilution, the whisky is impressively composed, but a splash of water draws out added sweetness without sacrificing its earthy core. Now notes of raisin, sweet fudge brownie, dense herbs, and a punch of orange oil emerge. It’s thick, rich, and shows just how much power this little distillery can deliver.

Edradour Distillery, once known as the smallest in Scotland, remains a favorite among collectors. Its bold spirit thrives in dense, dark sherry, and Signatory Vintage consistently selects the very best casks. Why does this respected independent bottler have access to such exceptional barrels from this charming Highland distillery? It’s simple. Signatory purchased Edradour and its small stock back in 2002 from Pernod Ricard. Since then, they have invested millions into refurbishing the historic site and began building an identical replica of the original stills next door in 2016 to expand production while preserving character. This single barrel was filled in June 2014 at the original Edradour facility and bottled in November 2024 at full cask strength, with no water or coloring added. Drawn from a freshly emptied Oloroso sherry butt of outstanding quality, it delivers a rich and powerful profile. Bottled at 59.5% ABV, this is a truly remarkable whisky at a nearly unbelievable price.

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