Maker’s Mark Whisky Partners with Actor Lucien Laviscount, Calling Brits to Mark Moments that Matter with an Old-Fashioned Cocktail

To celebrate the collaboration, Maker’s Mark has partnered with Hawksmoor to offer its signature Old Fashioned cocktail in the lead up to Father’s Day  

London, 3rd June 2026 – Today, Maker’s Mark Whisky has announced a collaboration with British actor Lucien Laviscount for a new short film encouraging Brits to be uncompromising in moments that matter. Filmed at the new Hawksmoor in St Pancras in London, the short film sees Lucien reflect on the small everyday shortcuts that people take, before raising a signature Maker’s Mark Old Fashioned cocktail to recognise moments that deserve more intention.

“There’s something special about going to a great bar, being with good company and taking a moment to enjoy it properly,” Lucien Laviscount said. “We compromise on little things all day, so when you do get that moment to stop, you want it to feel like it’s all worth it. For me, a Maker’s Mark Old Fashioned is exactly that: simple ingredients, done properly, with real character.”

Inspired by Maker’s Mark’s Perfectly Unreasonable campaign, which celebrates the extraordinary lengths Maker’s Mark goes to in pursuit of uncompromisingly delicious bourbon, the short film will premiere today on Lucien’s Instagram @its_lucien.

“Our family legacy is simple: we don’t compromise on the details. My grandparents set that standard seventy years ago, and we still honor it today by rotating our barrels by hand, aging our whisky strictly to taste, and hand-dipping every single bottle in that red wax,” said Rob Samuels, managing director for Maker’s Mark and eighth-generation whisky maker. “Lucien really understands that mindset. He values things done the right way, without shortcuts—whether that’s making time for the people who matter most or taking the care to craft a proper Maker’s Mark Old Fashioned.”

The collaboration arrives as UK consumers become more selective about nights out but continue to prioritise quality, with 20% spending more per month on eating and drinking out compared to 2024, driven in part by a desire to celebrate and treat themselves.

To complement the collaboration with Lucien Laviscount, Maker’s Mark has partnered with Hawksmoor, one of the UK’s most celebrated cocktail and restaurant destinations, to offer a custom summer-style Old Fashioned cocktail with Maker’s Mark, white cacao, peach and a lemon twist across their eleven London, Liverpool, Manchester and Edinburgh restaurants throughout June.

Alternatively, mark the moment at home with a Maker’s Mark Old Fashioned following Lucien’s video here.

Ingredients: 
50ml Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon 
5ml Sugar Syrup  
2 Dashes Angostura® Bitters 
Orange peel twist, to garnish and a large block-cube of ice

Method: 
Add 50ml of Maker’s Mark to a mixing glass with ice, followed by two dashes of bitters and a touch of sugar syrup. Stir until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Finish with an orange peel twist.

You can purchase Maker’s Mark at Amazon, The Whisky Exchange and Tesco, RRP £35.00. To join the Maker’s Mark Ambassadors community and receive exclusive access, product releases and other benefits, visit makersmark.com/ambassadors.

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

WE MAKE OUR BOURBON CAREFULLY. PLEASE ENJOY IT THAT WAY.

About Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark® is the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon driven by a vision for better flavour and a better world. In 1953, founders Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr. broke from tradition—burning the family’s 170-year-old recipe to create a bold, balanced bourbon made with soft red winter wheat for signature sweetness and creaminess. From the start, the Samuels went to remarkable lengths to craft uncompromisingly delicious bourbon, a perfectly unreasonable spirit that endures today. Every bottle is still hand-dipped in red wax, every barrel rotated by hand, and every decision guided by the brand’s higher purpose.

Staying true to its founders’ vision, Maker’s Mark has expanded its portfolio with award-winning, super-premium expressions, including Maker’s Mark 46, Cask Strength, and Cellar Aged, as well as Private Selection, the brand’s custom barrel program. In 2025, the distillery debuted Star Hill Farm Whisky, its first-ever wheat whisky. Award-winning and the first to earn Estate Whiskey certification, Star Hill Farm Whisky inspired the Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance, a bold commitment to advance regenerative farming beyond its business, inviting farms, bars and restaurants to join the movement.

Maker’s Mark is proud to be both a B Corp and Regenified Certified company – milestones driven by the sustainability leadership at Star Hill Farm, home of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which strives to be the most endearing, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible homeplace in the world.

About Suntory Global Spirits

As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails. A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.

HISTORIC JAPANESE WHISKY AUCTION TARGETS NEW RECORDS WITH KARUIZAWA 1960 AND YAMAZAKI 55 YEAR OLD

The world’s most iconic and sought-after Japanese whiskies will take centre stage in an exclusive auction this June, celebrating the very best of Japanese whisky.

Whisky Auctioneer, the world-leading online whisky auction platform, is set to make history with an exclusive Japanese whisky auction running from 12–22 June 2026. The company will aim to set new category records following the exceptional £43,000 result for a 1st Edition Hanyu Card bottling sold via Whisky Auctioneer in March 2026, underlining continued global demand for rare Japanese whisky.

Alongside exceptionally rare lots including Yamazaki 55 Year Old –  the world’s oldest Japanese whisky –  headlining the sale is the Karuizawa 1960 “The Poet” (Cask #5627), an extraordinary single cask distilled at the now-closed Karuizawa Distillery and bottled in 2013 at 52 years of age. The release has since achieved near-mythical status among collectors.

The bottle is offered with exceptional provenance, having remained under direct custodianship of its original creator, Marcin Miller, who co-founded the independent bottling company Number One Drinks with David Croll in 2006.

Miller is a widely respected figure in the whisky industry, formerly publisher of Whisky Magazine, a Keeper of the Quaich and also co-founder of The Kyoto Distillery, Japan’s first artisan gin distillery. Through Number One Drinks Company, he played a key role in acquiring and releasing remaining stocks from the closed Karuizawa Distillery, helping to establish its global collector status.

Marcin Miller, co-founder of Number One Drinks, commented:

“Karuizawa has been a deeply significant part of my professional life for many years, and ‘The Poet’ represents something truly special within that journey. From the early days of Number One Drinks, there was a real sense that we were engaging with something extraordinary in these remaining casks and beginning to understand just how important they would become to whisky enthusiasts around the world.

“This particular bottling remains one of the most remarkable examples from that era, from the quality of the liquid to the attention to detail in the breathtakingly beautiful design.”

All 41 bottles of the Karuizawa 1960 Cask #5627 are entirely unique; in-place of traditional numbering, each is individually named and distinguished by a hand-selected netsuke, a traditional Japanese miniature carved sculpture, suspended from its neck.

Dave Broom, Award-winning author and Japanese whisky expert, said:

“Amazingly, after the emotional task of transferring the last remaining Karuizawa from the distillery to their temporary home at Chichibu had been completed, a final tranche of casks materialised. These had been ring-fenced as being potential bottlings for the distillery’s visitor centre, but as that was now closed enquiries were made as to whether this mysterious clutch could also be added to the purchase.

“It was only after the deal was agreed that it was discovered how remarkable this package was, containing as it did, cask #5627, a 250l sherry hogshead. Time had reduced its volume to no more than 41 bottles worth of liquid, though the alcohol remained sprightly at 51.8%, a precious reminder of the early days of the distillery.”

The auction as a whole charts the evolution of Japanese whisky, from the foundational influence of pioneers such as Suntory and Nikka, through the enduring allure of closed distilleries including Karuizawa Distillery and Hanyu Distillery, to the category’s dynamic revival and new generation of distillers, notably Chichibu Distillery.

Joe Wilson, Head Curator and Spirits Specialist at Whisky Auctioneer, said:

“We’re excited to bring together some of the most important Japanese whiskies ever offered at auction, reflecting both the depth and continued strength of this category as we continue to see strong global demand for genuinely rare Japanese whisky.

Headlining the auction is the Karuizawa 1960 ‘The Poet’. What makes this opportunity particularly remarkable is the direct line of custodianship through Marcin Miller. It represents exceptional direct provenance for a bottle of this significance and that level of traceability is incredibly rare in today’s market.”

“The Poet” will appear alongside a host of remarkable lots in the auction. Highlights include:

• Yamazaki 55 Year Old; the world’s oldest Japanese whisky.
• Karuizawa 1998 Harland Miller; a unique collaboration featuring a hand-painted label by internationally renowned British artist Harland Miller. All proceeds from this lot, including Whisky Auctioneer’s buyer’s commission, will be donated to Migrate Art.
• Ichiro’s Malt Hanyu Card Bottlings; one of the most famous and collectible Japanese whisky series of all time, including rare 1st Edition releases from 2005 such as the Jack of Clubs.

To register for the auction, Kisetsu: The Seasons of Japanese Whisky, click here.

About Whisky Auctioneer

Whisky Auctioneer is the leading global platform for buying and selling whisky and spirits at auction. Founded in 2013 by whisky enthusiast Iain McClune, the company has grown into a trusted destination for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, with offices in Scotland, London and Utrecht.

Whisky Auctioneer’s monthly online auctions feature one of the most extensive selections of rare and collectible spirits available, spanning Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey and world whiskies including iconic American and Japanese releases. The platform is designed to make the secondary market more accessible, connecting buyers and sellers across the globe.

In 2021, Whisky Auctioneer made auction history during the sale of The Perfect Collection, when a bottle of The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare 60 Year Old achieved a £1 million hammer price – the first bottle of whisky to reach that figure in an online-only auction.

Whisky Auctioneer Japanese Auction bottle highlights:

Karuizawa 1960 The Poet; The Karuizawa 1960 (Cask #5627) is widely regarded as one of the rarest and most significant Japanese whiskies ever released. Distilled in 1960 and bottled in 2013 at 52 years old, it has achieved near-mythical status among collectors.

Only 41 bottles were produced from a single sherry cask. Each bottle is entirely unique – rather than being numbered, every bottle is named and distinguished by its own hand-selected netsuke (a traditional Japanese miniature carved sculpture).

The presentation extends its story beyond the liquid itself. Designed by Scottish-founded creative agency Contagious, the packaging reflects the connection between Scotch tradition and the distinctive style of Karuizawa Distillery. Labels crafted from handmade washi paper feature on each bottle, one hand-pressed and hot metal branded in Scotland, the other finished with fine art calligraphy in Japan, symbolising the fusion of cultures behind the spirit. The presentation is completed with handcrafted wooden cases inspired by traditional Japanese puzzle boxes, incorporating wood from the original cask.

Tasting notes by Dave Broom can be provided on request.

Karuizawa 1998 Harland Miller; A one-of-a-kind collaboration between fine art and fine whisky. This is a charity lot with funds raised, including Whisky Auctioneer’s buyer’s commission, being donated to Migrate Art.

Filled on 23 December 1998, Cask #2347 was privately owned by Marcin Miller, who has donated the only ten bottles ever to be released at natural cask strength (61.8% ABV) to the Migrate Art project. Each bottle features a unique hand-painted artwork by internationally acclaimed artist Harland Miller. Created exclusively for this exceptional series, these one-of-a-kind labels were conceived to raise funds for the pioneering arts charity Migrate Art. Proceeds from the sale of all ten bottles will directly support Migrate Art’s work with some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Yamazaki 55 Year Old; The oldest Japanese whisky. Originally released in 2020, it’s a blend of 1960 and 1964 vintage Yamazaki matured in Mizunara and white oak casks. 100 bottles were first released in 2020 exclusive in the Japanese market via a lottery system and a second ‘final’ batch of 100 bottles was released in 2021 to global markets. With just 200 bottles ever produced, it has not appeared at auction at Whisky Auctioneer for over two years.

Ichiro’s Malt Card Series – ‘1st Card bottlings’; Undoubtedly one of the most famous and collectible Japanese whisky series of all time. The full Hanyu Card Series collection boasts a total of 58 releases – 52 playing cards, two jokers, and a second batch of follow up releases for four of the cards: Ace of Spades, Queen of Hearts, King of Diamonds, and Jack of Clubs.

Released in 2005, four of the bottlings in particular were released in very small quantities, followed up with a second release due to its acclaim. These original ‘1st Card bottlings’ are extremely rare and Whisky Auctioneer will offer examples of these including the Jack of Clubs 1st Edition. The most recent example sold via Whisky Auctioneer in March achieved an exceptional hammer price of £43,000, marking the first time since 2019 that these card bottlings have appeared at auction.

About Karuizawa Distillery:

Karuizawa, one of Japan’s smallest distilleries, is a legendary name in Japanese whisky, having achieved near-mythical status among collectors following its closure in 2000. Established in 1955, the distillery was founded to produce traditional-style whisky using imported Scottish ingredients for its owner, Mercian, primarily serving the domestic Japanese market. Its rare stocks include vintages dating back to 1960, among the oldest in its inventory.

Production ceased in 2000 after Mercian’s acquisition by Kirin, whose strategic focus leaned toward wine rather than whisky. The original distillery was dismantled in 2016. However, the Karuizawa legacy has since been revived, with a new distillery constructed approximately seven miles away in the town of Karuizawa, where production resumed in 2023.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Visit:  www.whiskyauctioneer.com

SCOTLAND’S FIRST WORLD CUP IN 28 YEARS INSPIRES 11-BOTTLE WHISKY RELEASE

Falkland, Fife, Scotland – June 2026; Scotland’s return to the FIFA World Cup has inspired one of the country’s most unique whisky releases, with Saltire Rare Malt unveiling just 11 bottles of a 24-Year-Old Ben Nevis Single Malt Scotch Whisky distilled in 1998 – the last year the national team graced football’s biggest stage.

Priced at £350 each, the specially designed collection, titled “Ooooohhh, Yes Sir, I can Boogie!”, has been released online in a run of just 11 bottles, paying tribute to Scotland’s starting XI as the nation prepares for its long-awaited World Cup return.

Matured for 24 years in a refill bourbon hogshead, the rare Ben Nevis single malt is one of Saltire Rare Malt’s most exclusive releases to date. Available from 14th June, the bottling brings together Scotland’s rich whisky heritage and a memorable chapter in the nation’s football history.

Commenting on the release, Saltire Rare Malt Co-Founder & Director Keith Rennie said: “Scotland’s return to the World Cup is a moment worth celebrating and we’re delighted to mark it with a truly unique bottling. At Saltire Rare Malt, whisky is all about stories, and opportunities like this don’t come around very often. To release a whisky distilled in 1998 – the last time Scotland reached the World Cup – feels incredibly special. 

“It’s a celebration of Scotland, a celebration of whisky and a celebration of a moment supporters have waited a generation to see. Whether it’s kept as a collector’s item or opened to toast Scotland’s return to football’s biggest stage, we hope it becomes part of a memory that lasts for years to come.” 

Saltire Rare Malt are bottlers of a unique range of limited-run single malt whiskies. The independent bottling company was born from a longstanding partnership between friends and founders Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie – the pair have collected fine and rare single malts for more than three decades.

Launching just days before Father’s Day, the release is expected to prove popular with whisky and football fans alike as well as those looking for a truly memorable gift. Whether destined for a collector’s cabinet, gifted to a lifelong Scotland fan or opened as Scotland kicks off its World Cup campaign, the bottling offers a rare opportunity to raise a dram to one of the most anticipated moments in modern Scottish football history.

Founded in Falkland, Fife, Saltire Rare Malt specialises in rare and limited-run Scotch whiskies sourced from some of Scotland’s most revered distilleries. The company has built a growing reputation for highly curated single cask releases and historically significant bottlings, with whisky lovers and collectors purchasing releases across the UK and internationally.

Working in collaboration with internationally acclaimed whisky experts Hans and Becky Offringa – known globally as ‘The Whisky Couple’ – Saltire Rare Malt carefully curates a collection of rare, limited-edition Scotch whiskies for enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

The Saltire Rare Malt World Cup Release is available exclusively online at: www.saltireraremalt.com

About Saltire Rare Malt Whisky

Saltire Rare Malt are bottlers of a unique range of limited-run single malt whiskies. The independent bottling company was born from a longstanding partnership between friends & founders Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie – the pair have collected fine and rare single malts over three decades. A shared passion for the ‘water of life’ led to the creation of Saltire Rare Malt – a global vehicle to share their outstanding collection of Single Malt Whiskies.

W: https://www.saltireraremalt.com/

London Distillery Company pushes its spirit into new territory with the launch of New Forms

London Distillery Company (LDC) is proud to announce the upcoming launch of New Forms – an ambitious new series of single cask, single malt whiskies that explore the versatility and evolution of the distillery’s original spirit through the use of cask finishes never previously employed by the original distillery.

Launching on 12th June 2026, the initial releases in the New Forms series comprises three cask strength, single cask releases: Ex-Bourbon Cask, Fino Sherry Cask, and Moscatel Sherry Cask. Each whisky has been finished in first-fill casks selected to push LDC’s distinctive, heritage grain-led spirit character in bold and unexpected new directions, whilst remaining unmistakably rooted in the distillery’s DNA.

The New Forms series reflects the revived company’s ongoing exploration of its inherited stocks and its commitment to reimagining London whisky through thoughtful maturation and creative cask selection.

The sherry casks for the project were sourced from renowned Spanish cooperage Tonelería JL Rodríguez, with whom the LDC Whisky Maker Matt McKay has worked closely with in previous whisky projects. The selected casks have allowed the distillery’s barley-forward character to evolve in dramatically different ways across each expression – from the richness and sweetness of moscatel, to the saline precision of fino, and the amplified distillate clarity delivered by fresh ex-bourbon oak.

All three whiskies are bottled at natural cask strength, with natural colour and no chill filtration.

The presentation of the series reflects the concept at the heart of the project. Each whisky is housed within an individual gift carton featuring artwork designed to align with the others, forming a complete image when placed side-by-side. However, the cartons can also be arranged in any order – a visual representation of the shared spirit character that connects all three whiskies, despite their dramatically different maturation journeys.

The launch continues LDC’s renewed momentum following the company’s revival in early 2025 and further reinforces its position as one of the most innovative new voices within the modern English whisky category.

Speaking of the launch, Managing Director & Whisky Maker Matt McKay said: “New Forms is the most creatively exciting project we’ve undertaken since reviving The London Distillery Company. The original LDC spirit has always possessed a distinctive character – rich, expressive, and deeply barley-driven – but what continues to fascinate me is just how adaptable it becomes when matched with the right cask – where thoughtful maturation and a genuine synergy between wood and spirit can unlock entirely new dimensions of character. This series gave us the opportunity to push our spirit into completely new territories. Each cask has shaped the whisky in a dramatically different way, revealing unexpected layers of texture, flavour, and complexity, whilst still retaining the unmistakable DNA of the original distillery at its core. That tension between familiarity and transformation sits at the heart of New Forms.”

The New Forms series will launch on 12th June 2026 with an RRP of £75 per bottle or £200 for the complete three-bottle launch collection. The whiskies will be available directly from www.londondistillery.co.uk and through selected specialist retailers. 

London Distillery Company: New Forms

Available from www.londondistillery.co.uk and select retailers from Friday 12th June 2026

New Forms: Ex-Bourbon Cask
Finished for 12 months in first-fill ex-bourbon cask #11190
60.7% ABV | 222 bottles

Nose: Honey on buttered toast, ripe banana, sweet lemon zest and tropical juice with a touch of pineapple, vanilla blossoms and red peppercorns, subtle tart ripe nectarine, toasted grains.

Palate: A sweet and rounded profile with buttery caramel, toasted oak, sweet and warming cinnamon, bitter lemon zest and deep, rich char.

Finish: Lingering notes of oak and char, melted butter on toast, subtle fresh banana and tart green apple.

New Forms: Fino Sherry Cask
Finished for 8 months in first-fill Fino Sherry Hogshead #9001
61.4% ABV | 347 bottles

Nose: Candied lemon peel, fleshy golden plum, ripe nectarine, peach blossom, dewy rose petals, grape leaves, toasted porridge, brown butter, sweet baking spices, a hint of coconut oil, damp oak.

Palate: Bright citrus peel, tropical juice and warming spices, white pepper, clove, a hint of ground coffee, toasted oak, and a touch of saline.

Finish: A well-browned peach loaf, with lingering stone fruit, citrus oil, dusty oak and toasted baking spices. 

New Forms: Moscatel Sherry Cask
Finished for 8 months in first-fill Moscatel Sherry Hogshead #9008
61.6% ABV | 345 bottles

Nose: Caramelised orange peel, tart lemon, brown butter poached peaches, cooked apples with icing sugar, sauternes and dusty oak.

Palate: A rich, oily brown butter note, bright citrus and tart peach and nectarine, orange blossom, burnt toffee, cinnamon and a fiery touch of ginger.

Finish: Nutty toasted oak – almond and walnut skin, lingering bitter citrus peel and warming spices, with a breath of poached nectarine.

About The London Distillery Company

The London Distillery Company was established in 2011 as London’s first new whisky distillery for over a century. Trailblazing the revival of the capital’s distilling heritage, the company crafts exceptional spirits that reflect both tradition and modernity.

Committed to using only the finest ingredients and time-honoured methods, every bottle produced by The London Distillery Company expresses a dedication to craftmanship, blending expertise and a relentless pursuit of character and flavour.

www.londondistillery.co.uk/

Glencairn announces next-generation leadership team

to accelerate innovation and growth

Left to right: Glencairn’s next generation board of directors Aileen Logan, Jason Kennedy, Kirsty Nicholson, Scott Davidson, Robyn Macdonald and James Crilly

The award-winning, Scottish glassware company, Glencairn, has announced a series of strategic director-level appointments as it strengthens its leadership team to support its next generation of innovation, development and global growth as a premium glassware brand. Over the past two years, Glencairn has expanded into more than 80 additional countries, with its products now reaching customers in over 140 markets worldwide.

Glencairn has expanded its leadership team with three dynamic industry figures bringing extensive experience across the drinks and packaging sectors. The transition also signals the retirement of founder Raymond Davidson, who established the family company in 1981, and is widely respected for having played a pivotal role in building Glencairn Crystal into an internationally recognised name in the drinks industry.

Kirsty Nicholson, already one of the whisky industry’s most renowned creative women, has been promoted to director level having been with the company for 12 years and previously serving as Marketing and Design Manager. Kirsty has been nominated for various awards – she led the marketing team to win Marketing Campaign of the Year at the 2025 China-Scotland Business Awards and is also a finalist in this year’s Women in Packaging Excellence Awards. In her new role, Kirsty will continue to lead and inspire the marketing team as the brand evolves into its next chapter of global growth.

Robyn Macdonald has been appointed to the board bringing fresh expertise and creative leadership to Glencairn’s internationally renowned design capabilities. With more than a decade of experience in the packaging industry, she will play a key role in driving the company’s continued pioneering product innovation and will work closely with Glencairn’s global partners and clients to bring ambitious creative visions to life.

Having built more than 20 years of experience within the drinks industry, Aileen Logan has formally joined the leadership team after several years with the business. In her new role, she will play a key part in supporting Glencairn’s continued growth, with a focus on strengthening people, culture, and operational excellence across the organisation. She will also help shape the company’s future as it continues to evolve internationally.

The wider leadership team remains in place, with Jason Kennedy continuing to lead the sales team and James Crilly focusing on purchasing and procurement. Scott Davidson has been appointed as Managing Director, taking over the role from his brother Paul Davidson, who now becomes Chairman. 

Founded 45 years ago, Glencairn has grown from a small family business into an internationally recognised brand in premium glassware. It is known for its unrivalled craftsmanship serving the global whisky and spirits industry in the creation of bespoke decanters – often for the world’s rarest and most exclusive spirits. The company is also renowned for the iconic Glencairn Glass which is the world’s official glass for whisky, with over 50 million glasses being sold since it was launched 25 yeas ago.

In recent years, Glencairn has significantly expanded its product portfolio through a series of industry-leading innovations. A proud sponsor of the whisky industry’s prestigious Distillers One of One Auction, the company crafted the luxury decanters for more than a quarter of the one-of-a-kind lots featured in last year’s auction.

Scott Davidson, Glencairn Crystal Managing Director said: “These changes mark an exciting new chapter for Glencairn as we continue to evolve and position the business for the future whilst building on the family legacy that has shaped the company for more than four decades.

With our strong new leadership team in place, we are well positioned to guide the business through its next generation of growth – driving continued creativity, pioneering innovation and international expansion yet at the same time maintaining the craftsmanship, quality and customer focus that have defined Glencairn since the very beginning.”

The company’s continued success has also been recognised through a number of major recent awards. Last year, Glencairn received The King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation as well as the Manufacturing Innovation Award at the Insider Made in Scotland Awards. The company was named a finalist for the prestigious Exporter of the Year Award at the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards 2025.

For more information about Glencairn, visit www.glencairn.com

THE BORDERS DISTILLERY SETS NEW STANDARD FOR CASK TRANSPARENCY

Hawick-based distillery aims to rebuild trust in whisky investment and cask ownership with new Cask 1837 platform

The Borders Distillery has launched a first-of-its-kind app to give whisky cask owners unprecedented access to every stage of their spirit’s journey, from filling to bottling.

The new transparency initiative is centred on a digital app that allows cask owners to track the full lifecycle of their whisky in response to growing consumer concern around whisky investment and cask ownership practices.

The platform – 1837 – provides customers with detailed, ongoing insight into their cask’s progress – from filling and maturation through to sampling, re-racking and eventual bottling.

The initiative comes amid increased scrutiny of the cask investment market, where transparency and consumer trust have become vital. By offering real-time insight and personal engagement, The Borders Distillery is setting a new benchmark for openness in Scotch whisky.

The Borders Distillery’s 1837 Private Cask programme allows whisky enthusiasts to own part  of a limited number of individually numbered casks – each filled with award winning new‑make Borders spirit and matured under bond at the distillery in Hawick. Owners choose their fill date and cask type from a range of options carefully selected to complement the distillery’s fresh orchard fruit‑character new spirit.

Nathan Cahoon, Chief Operating Officer at The Borders Distillery said:

“Cask ownership shouldn’t be mysterious. It should be something people can follow, learn from, and enjoy along the way. For many, buying a cask can feel like putting it in a cupboard and waiting years to hear anything. With our 1837 Casks, owners stay connected with their whisky and feel part of the journey, not just observers.

“This is an exciting time for The Borders Distillery – with our first single malt almost ready, we’re proud to be bringing whisky back to the region for the first time in nearly 200 years and showing the world what the Borders can do.”

The investment into the new digital platform is just the latest of a string of digital initiatives from the Hawick distiller. Late last year, The Borders Distillery invested in Bottle ERP technology to track whisky production from field to glass.

At the forefront of the spirits industry’s digital revolution, the transformation comes at a pivotal time for The Borders Distillery. Established in Hawick in 2018, the distillery has brought the craft of Scotch whisky making back to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837 and is currently gearing up to launch its first single malt Scotch, which is imminent.

Click here for more information on The Borders Distillery’s Cask 1837 Programme.

For more information on The Borders Distillery, visit www.thebordersdistillery.com.

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The Borders Distillery:

Nestled in the heart of the historic and picturesque town of Hawick, The Borders Distillery is bringing the craft of Scotch Whisky making back to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837. By using its surroundings and talented people as its muse, the distillery aims to capture the spirit and heritage of the region by producing high quality spirits since its opening in 2018.

Knob Creek Brings Father’s Day Legacy to Life with Huckberry and NYC Pop-Up

Father’s Day has always been part of Knob Creek’s DNA – rooted in a multi-generational bond between fathers and sons. This year, in light of the recently released Blender’s Edition 01, Knob Creek is giving you a reason to pour one with dad.

To take the guesswork out of gifting, Knob Creek has teamed up with men’s lifestyle brand Huckberry to launch a co-branded tote, dropping on 6/10 with a guarantee to deliver by the holiday, with a custom pocket designed to fit a bottle of Knob Creek. The collab also includes a lineup of Huckberry gifts, hand-selected and Knob Creek-approved, perfect for any kind of dad available to shop ahead of Father’s Day on Huckberry.com.

And, it all comes to life in person on June 11 and 12 at ‘The Art of Bourbon’ Father’s Day Shop styled by Huckberry in NYC –  a free, 21+ takeover of Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal, open 11am–8pm both days. Guests can expect tastings of Blender’s Edition 01 and Knob Creek 9 Year Old, Old Fashioned pours to enjoy with dad, the shoppable Huckberry items, and a Father’s Day memento to gift or keep.

Grasmere Distillery to begin malting to craft the first 100% Cumbrian Whisky

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Grasmere Distillery is preparing to take a significant step forward in its journey to create a truly local whisky. From autumn 2026, the distillery will begin small-scale malting on site, marking the start of its ambition to produce the first whisky made entirely from Cumbrian ingredients.

Working closely with Jonathan Bainbridge of Thistlewood Farm, Cumbria, co-founder and head distiller Paul Abbott has planted the distillery’s first crop of barley, due for harvest in August 2026. The initial yield of eight tonnes will enable the team to produce malt not only for brewing but also to begin experimenting with whisky production, including varying levels of peat influence to develop a distinctive house style.

This milestone represents more than just an expansion in production. The long-term vision is to collaborate with growers across Cumbria to create a series of individual whiskies, each reflecting the unique terroir of the county’s six distinct regions, a true expression of place in every bottle.

To support this next phase, the distillery has invested approximately £10,000 in new equipment, including a stainless-steel immersion tank, a mash tun with heat jacket control, and augers for handling malt. In collaboration with a local blacksmith, the team has also built a bespoke kiln, enabling them to complete the traditional malting process on site.

Malting involves three key stages: steeping, where barley is soaked to initiate germination; germination, where enzymes develop to convert starch into fermentable sugars; and kilning, where growth is halted by drying the grain with hot air. During kilning, peat smoke can be introduced to impart the distinctive smoky character found in certain whiskies. Once dried to around 5% moisture, the malt can be safely stored and later used in distillation.

Each harvest will allow the production of up to four barrels of whisky, with the first releases expected after a minimum six-year maturation period in 2032. In the meantime, consumers can expect to see malt-forward beers produced from the distillery’s own barley available later in 2026.

Farmer Jonathan Bainbridge, who farms at Thistlewood Farm just south of Carlisle, will be growing Laureate barley for Grasmere Distillery. A third-generation farmer with over 35 years’ experience, Jonathan’s family has owned Thistlewood for 25 years, producing barley, wheat and oats with consistently strong results. This will be their first time growing Laureate, a spring barley known for high yields and approved for both brewing and malt distilling. The crop, drilled earlier this spring, is expected to be ready for harvest in late August or early September 2026.

Jonathan Bainbridge commented: “South of Carlisle, we’ve got some good fertile soil and good-sized fields for producing crops. It’s an ideal place to trial this. We grow barley, wheat, and oats, but this is our first time growing Laureate barley in particular. It’s something people grow for the market for distilling, and it has all the attributes you need to make the whisky taste good, so it’ll be interesting to see how it does – here’s to the first bottle.’’

A short video chat between Paul and Jonathan can be viewed here

Since 2021, Paul and co-founder Beth Abbott have transformed two modest barns on the shores of Grasmere into one of the UK’s smallest and most characterful distilleries. Following the launch of their gin and vodka range in 2022, revenues have been reinvested to expand production and lay the foundations for their single malt whisky programme.

From the outset, the philosophy has been clear: to prioritise flavour over scale. By distilling from full-flavoured beer rather than neutral spirit, the team can explore a wider range of grains, yeast strains, and cask techniques than typically seen in larger operations. Their approach is further enhanced through a Solera maturation system using charred oak casks, creating depth and consistency across their spirits.

Paul Abbott, co-founder and head distiller, commented: “Malting Cumbrian-grown barley here in Grasmere is a huge step towards creating something genuinely rooted in this place. We’re working on a very small scale, which gives us the freedom to focus on quality and individuality. Every batch will be different, shaped by the barley, the water, and the conditions of that particular harvest.

By using Cumbrian water and locally grown barley, we’re aiming to produce a whisky that truly reflects the landscape it comes from. It won’t be about volume; it’ll be about character, small-batch, hands-on, and unmistakably Cumbrian. That’s what makes it exciting.”

For more information about Grasmere Distillery, please visit: www.grasmeredistillery.com

12 January 2026: The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has announced the appointment of Rita Greenwood, Chief Investment Officer at William Grant & Sons, as the new Chair of the SWA Council.

The Chair, appointed for a two-year term, leads the Association’s Council of 16 representatives from member companies, which plays a central role in shaping the strategic direction and policy priorities of the Scotch whisky industry.

Rita has been a member of the William Grant & Sons Executive Board since 2017, with 23 years’ experience within the Scotch whisky industry.

William Grant & Sons succeeds Chivas Brothers as Chair of the SWA Council. Rita becomes the 24th Chair, and first female Chair in the Association’s 114-year history.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Scotch whisky sector, as the industry navigates global trade pressures, tariff uncertainty, regulatory change, and the accelerating transition to a more sustainable operating model.

Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the SWA, welcomed the appointment, saying: “Rita’s expertise in commercial excellence and strategy will be crucial as we navigate a challenging period for the Scotch whisky industry.

“Scotch whisky is being significantly impacted by multiple headwinds both here at home and in our global markets, but the industry is focused on overcoming these challenges and delivering long-term sustainable growth.

“The work of the SWA Council is vitally important to ensure Scotch whisky is best placed to make the most of future opportunities. Rita’s experience, passion, and deep understanding of the Scotch whisky sector will help to drive forward the important work before us, ensuring the industry reaches 2030 in a position of strength. We very much look forward to working with her.”

Rita Greenwood said: “I am proud to take on the role of Chair at such an important moment for the Scotch whisky industry. The SWA is vital in representing our collective interests, in championing the sector as we face immediate challenges and unlocking long-term growth opportunities.

“Scotch whisky has a remarkable global reputation and makes a significant economic contribution, but members face a challenging global market at present, so, it is more important than ever that we continue to raise its profile.

“I am committed to ensuring a sustainable future for Scotch whisky and am looking forward to working with Council colleagues and the SWA team to help ensure the industry continues to thrive in the years ahead.”

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THE BORDERS DISTILLERY APPOINTS GIANCARLO BIANCHI AS MANAGING DIRECTOR

Hawick distillery strengthens leadership team to drive next phase of growth and international expansion

The Borders Distillery has announced the appointment of Giancarlo Bianchi as its new Managing Director,  marking an important new chapter for the Scotch whisky producer, as it continues to scale its domestic and international presence.

Giancarlo brings more than 15 years of commercial and strategic leadership experience within premium spirits SMEs. Most recently at Penderyn Distillery in Wales, he progressed from operational and technical management into senior commercial leadership, developed international growth strategies, opened new export markets, and delivered sustained revenue expansion.

Giancarlo will take up his position with effect from 1 st April 2026.

Commenting on his appointment, Giancarlo said:

“It’s a privilege to be joining The Borders Distillery at such an exciting time in its journey. The business already has strong foundations, from production capability to brand authenticity, and there’s significant potential for growth both in the UK and internationally. I’m looking forward to working with the team to build on that platform, strengthen our presence in key markets and drive the brand in a sustainable way, ensuring that whisky production becomes a landmark industry in this ancient and historic region.”

His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for The Borders Distillery; established in Hawick in 2018, the distillery has brought the craft of Scotch whisky making back to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837 and is currently gearing up to launch its first single malt Scotch.

Harvinder Hungin, Chairman at The Borders Distillery, added:

“Giancarlo’s combination of operational and commercial understanding together with international distribution makes him ideally placed to lead the next phase of our development. His proven ability to transform production led operations and grow branded sales aligns perfectly with our ambitions.” 

For more information on The Borders Distillery, visit www.thebordersdistillery.com

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About The Borders Distillery:

Located in Hawick in the Scottish Borders and opened in March 2018, The Borders Distillery revived Scotch Whisky distilling in an ancient and historic region, where Scotch Whisky was last made in 1837. Hawick is renowned for its world class tweed and cashmere industries. Using locally grown barley, mineral rich water and a dedicated team of young, local talent, The Borders Distillery has been quietly laying down stocks with a view to launching its Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

The Borders Distillery Limited, Commercial Rd, Hawick, Scotland. TD9 7AQ