BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES THIRD EDITION OF ITS PROHIBITION COLLECTION
Drawing inspiration from historic documents preserved in the Distillery’s archives, the latest release continues to uncover stories from nearly a century ago that inspired the whiskeys crafted for this year’s Collection

FRANKFORT, KY – Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly unveils the third edition of its Prohibition Collection, an annual limited-edition set of five bottles commemorating the whiskeys legally produced and sold at the Distillery while the 18^th Amendment was in effect. This year’s collection honors five historic brands bottled under President Albert B. Blanton’s leadership at George T. Stagg Distillery, as Buffalo Trace was known during the Prohibition era, including: Henry Watterson, Kentucky River, John G. Carlisle, Walter B. Duffy and Cove Spring.

Spanning from 1920 to 1933, Prohibition marked one of the most contentious periods in American whiskey history following the ratification of the 18th Amendment, which banned the production, sale and transportation of alcohol across the United States. While most distilleries were forced to shut down, six were granted licenses by the U.S. Government to legally bottle medicinal whiskey for sale with a prescription. This includes the George T. Stagg Distillery, known today as Buffalo Trace Distillery.

Historic documents preserved within the Distillery’s archives uncovered stories that inspired the five whiskeys featured in this year’s Collection. Each expression draws influence from the original branding and packaging of these long-forgotten labels, bringing another chapter of Prohibition-era whiskey history back to life.

• Henry Watterson was a U.S. Congressman and a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, known for his anti-Prohibition views. Because of his public support for distilleries and their products, Watterson’s likeness was used for a whiskey brand that was distributed by several companies, including the George T. Stagg Distillery. Today’s iteration – bottled uncut and unfiltered at 140.6 proof – is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey bursting with rye spice, citrus peel and fresh green herbs. The palate is powerful and structured, revealing zesty citrus, cedarwood and herbaceous notes of thyme and mint, finishing long, dry and energetic.
• Kentucky River pays tribute to the former Kentucky River Distillery, previously known as Carlisle Distillery and later rebranded under Albert Blanton’s leadership to honor the river’s vital role in transporting goods, people and materials. Under Blanton’s leadership, the distillery tripled in size during this period of remarkable growth. Today’s expression is a 100 proof blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys. On the nose this whiskey offers aromas of honeyed grain, vanilla and caramelized sugar. Rounded and balanced, the palate showcases baked apple and gentle oak, finishing smooth and polished with warm pastry notes.
• John G. Carlisle, a prominent U.S. Congressman and one of the key architects behind the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, played a pivotal role in shaping the future of American whiskey. A steadfast ally of Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr., Carlisle shared Taylor’s vision for elevating quality and consumer trust in the spirits industry. Their strong bond inspired Taylor to construct the Carlisle Distillery adjacent to the O.F.C. Distillery, expanding production capacity while honoring the man whose legislative leadership helped establish one of the most important standards in American whiskey history. This 100 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey presents classic bourbon structure, layering rye-driven spice over toasted nuts and caramelized grain. It features bright orchard fruit and subtle tropical notes balanced by vanilla, oak and warm baking spices. The finish is dry and with lingering spice, light nuttiness and a restrained sweetness.
• Following George T. Stagg’s death in 1893, Walter B. Duffy became sole owner of the O.F.C. Distillery and helped usher in its next chapter. Operating from New York, Duffy placed his trust in Albert B. Blanton to oversee the Distillery’s operations, ultimately appointing him president in 1921. That decision would prove historic, as Blanton’s leadership helped shape the Distillery’s legacy and secure its place in American whiskey history. A blend of 10- and 14-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbons bottled at 107 proof, today’s tribute opens with notes of graham cracker, toasted corn and oak, layered with dried fig, raisin and date. Rich sweetness, structured oak and subtle anise lead to a long, refined finish accented by dried fruit and gentle spice.
• Named for the spring that fueled the Distillery’s earliest growth, Cove Spring honors a vital piece of Buffalo Trace history. In 1804, a stone dam and overflow tower transformed the spring into a reservoir, supplying water to Leestown and the growing operation that would become O.F.C. Distillery. Today, remnants of the original structure remain in Cove Spring Park, connecting past and present. This uncut Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, crafted from a wheated recipe and bottled at 120.2 proof, offers aromas of red cherry, toasted coconut and oak. The palate is rich and fruit-forward, layered with sweet corn and spice, before giving way to a long, balanced finish marked by red fruit, toasted oak and lingering warmth.

“The Prohibition Collection gives us the opportunity to bring important chapters of our Distillery’s history back to life,” said Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “Each year, we uncover stories, brands and whiskey traditions that might otherwise have been lost to time. By reimagining these historic whiskeys, we honor the resilience, ingenuity and determination that carried this Distillery through one of the most challenging periods in American whiskey history and helped shape the legacy we continue today.”

Housed in a custom wooden display case featuring archival imagery from the Distillery’s history, the collection is designed as both a tribute and a time capsule. Each of the five 375ml bottles recreates the look and scale of its Prohibition-era predecessor, while the accompanying cartons include the distinctive prescription cut-out once used by physicians to authorize medicinal whiskey purchases. Together, these details offer an authentic glimpse into one of the most remarkable periods in American whiskey history.

The Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection #3 will be released in limited quantities through Sazerac’s United States distributor network, which will ship to select retailers, bars and restaurants starting in June 2026 at a suggested retail price of $999.99 (five 375ml bottles); state taxes will vary per market.

For more information, please visit www.buffalotracedistillery.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, Stagg, Eagle Rare 10, and Thomas H. Handy received Gold Awards at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition and its flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon received a Master Medal at the 2025 Global American Whiskey Masters. 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

Winner and runner-up announced in this year’s

Glencairn Glass Crime Short Story Competition

The Glencairn Glass, the official glass for whisky, has announced the winner and runner-up of its annual Crime Short Story Competition, held in partnership with the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival.

Following another year of outstanding entries from aspiring and established crime writers around the world, Kathy Schilbach – also writing under the name Kate Finnemore – has been named the overall winner for her dark and disturbing story, Making Friends. Ross Alexander was selected as runner-up for his compelling story, Life Wasted.

Kathy receives the £1,000 first prize and a guest appearance at the Bloody Scotland Festival in September. Ross receives £500, and both winning stories will be published on the Bloody Scotland and Glencairn Glass (whiskyglass.com) websites.

Produced by the award-winning Scottish family glassware company Glencairn Crystal, the Glencairn Glass has celebrated and supported the Bloody Scotland Crime Writing Festival since 2020 with its Glencairn Glass sponsorship of both the McIlvanney Prize for the Scottish Crime Book of the Year and the Bloody Scotland Debut Crime Novel of the Year awards. 

Winner: Making Friends by Kathy Schilbach

A disturbing tale about a mysterious and anxious woman who has a dark secret to keep.

Kathy Schilbach lived in France for over 30 years, where she taught English in a lycée in the small historic town of Chinon. She loves to read crime and historical novels and had always wanted to write. Retirement from teaching gave her the time and opportunity she needed – she now lives in West Sussex and under her pen name, Kate Finnemore, has had short stories and pocket novels published as well as achieving success in several writing competitions.

Kathy said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that my story has been chosen as the winner of the Glencairn Glass Crime Story Competition. Winning this prize in what is nowadays a difficult, crowded market has given me an amazing feeling of achievement. Thank you to everyone at Glencairn for running such a great competition. I had a certain real-life murderer in mind when I started to write. She was just a name from history though, a starting point in the process of writing.”

Runner-up:  Life Wasted by Ross Alexander

A gripping confession from an unlikely vigilante who took justice into his own hands to free a woman from her abusive, alcoholic husband. 

Ross Alexander is a Scottish author based in East Lothian who writes crime thriller novels and short stories. He has had several short stories published by Darkstroke Books and his short story ‘Deadly Night Shades’ featured in the first edition of the Tangled Web/Aspiring Fiction magazine, a publication specialising in Tartan Noir. He has also written a number of novels, including five in his DI Joanne Christie series, set in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Ross said: “I was thrilled to hear that I had been selected as the runner up in this year’s Glencairn Glass Crime Short Story Competition. To be recognised by a panel of judges made up of crime fiction enthusiasts is very humbling. The Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival is close to my heart, which makes this award so very special.”

Since its launch in 2021, the Glencairn Glass Crime Short Story Competition has attracted hundreds of entries from around the globe and has helped launch the careers of several emerging writers.

Among its success stories are Frances Crawford, winner in 2022/23, who has since signed a two-book deal with Penguin – her first novel was published earlier this year. Allan Gaw, runner-up in 2022/23, went on to win the 2024 Bloody Scotland Debut Novel Prize and secure a four-book publishing deal with Polygon.

For the first time, this year’s entries were judged by a panel comprising six of the UK’s leading crime book influencers alongside Kirsty Nicholson, Marketing Director at Glencairn Crystal. The criteria was that the protagonist must be from Scotland.

Kirsty Nicholson said: “Each year we are amazed by the quality and originality of the entries we receive, and 2026 was no exception. Kathy’s story stood out for its atmospheric storytelling and psychological tension, while Ross’s entry impressed the judges with its strong narrative voice and engaging execution. We are delighted to celebrate both writers and continue supporting emerging talent within the crime-writing community.”

Bloody Scotland Festival Director Bob McDevitt said: The standard of entries this year was exceptionally high, making the judging process both challenging and rewarding. Congratulations to Kathy and Ross on their well-deserved success, and thank you to everyone who entered and helped make this another fantastic year for the competition.”

The winning stories can be read online at whiskyglass.com and the Bloody Scotland website.

For further information about Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival please contact fiona@brownleedonald.com

*2026 Judges:

Kevin Woolard: Book blogger and owner of The First Eleven Minutes, an award-winning Bookstagram account.

Mary Picken: Book blogger and crime fiction critic at Live and Deadly.

Noelle Holten:  Award-winning blogger at Crime Book Junkie and crime-writer.

Sharon Bairden:  Scottish author and book blogger at Chapter In My Life with a focus on Scottish crime fiction.

Lynsey Adams: Crime noir fiction blogger at There’s Been a Murder, as well as Reading Between the Lines Book PR.

Suze Clarke-Morris: Book blogger at Suze Reviews with a focus on crime fiction.

About the Glencairn Glass:

The Glencairn Glass, produced by the Scottish family company Glencairn Crystal, is recognised as the world’s official whisky glass. This year the glass celebrates its 25^th birthday and the company now sell over 5 million glasses across international markets each year, with over 50 million glasses sold in total to date. The competition winner and runner up will also receive a set of six bespoke engraved Glencairn Glasses.

About Bloody Scotland:

Bloody Scotland is Scotland’s International Crime Writing Festival, providing a showcase for the best crime writing from Scotland and the world, unique in that it was set up by a group of Scottish crime writers – Lin Anderson, Alex Gray, Craig Robertson and Gordon Brown – in 2012. Full information at bloodyscotland.com

The Bloody Scotland Prize for Scottish Crime Writing first awarded in 2012 was renamed The McIlvanney Prize in 2016. The Bloody Scotland Debut Prize was launched in 2019.

SCOTCH WHISKY BOTTLER BUILDS WORLD-CLASS TEAM FOR NEXT PHASE OF GROWTH

Saltire Rare Malt invests in its biggest international expansion to date as global demand for its rare Scotch whiskies continues to grow.

FALKLAND, FIFE – July 2026: Just over two years since launching, Saltire Rare Malt has unveiled its largest investment in people to date, appointing five respected whisky professionals across North America and Asia Pacific as the award-winning independent Scotch whisky bottler accelerates its global ambitions.

Joining Saltire Rare Malt are Gary Clark as National Sales Manager – USA, Jared Card and George B. Summer as Brand Ambassadors for the Mid-Atlantic and New York respectively, Laura Sol as Business Development Manager and Kotaro Kurihara as Product Marketing Specialist for Asia Pacific.

Since launching in 2024, Saltire Rare Malt’s carefully curated bottlings have reached collectors and trade partners throughout Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa, reinforcing its growing reputation as one of Scotland’s most exciting independent Scotch whisky bottlers.

Founded in Falkland, Fife – the birthplace of Scotch whisky more than 530 years ago – Saltire Rare Malt was born from the longstanding friendship of Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie and a shared ambition to take exceptional Scotch whisky from the heart of Scotland to spirits lovers across the globe.

Working alongside internationally acclaimed whisky experts Hans and Becky Offringa, known globally as The Whisky Couple, the business has built a reputation for exceptional single cask and limited-edition bottlings that celebrate rarity, heritage and craftsmanship.

Gary

Appointed as National Sales Manager – USA, Gary Clark brings almost four decades of experience across hospitality, wholesale distribution and premium spirits. Born in Edinburgh and raised in Texas, he is an internationally recognised whisky educator, holds multiple WSET qualifications and is the author of respected publications on Japanese whisky and American whiskey.

Jared

Greg

Across the United States, Jared Card and George B. Summer contribute more than 45 years of combined experience spanning supplier, distributor, retail and hospitality. Jared is widely respected for his engaging whisky education and trade tastings throughout the Mid-Atlantic, while George, founder of Guided by the Spirits, has successfully developed premium spirits brands through trade education, distributor partnerships and luxury consumer experiences.

Laura

Completing the appointments, Laura Sol brings extensive expertise in brand strategy, business development and commercial partnerships, while Kotaro Kurihara, fluent in English and Japanese, will support sales and marketing activity across Japan, China, Taiwan and South Korea, helping develop one of Saltire Rare Malt’s most important international markets.

Keith Rennie, Co-Founder of Saltire Rare Malt, said: “From day one, our ambition has been to build an international Scotch whisky company while staying true to Scotland’s whisky heritage. Just over two years on, we’re proud to see our bottlings enjoyed by collectors around the world, but we believe the best is still to come.”

“Gary, Jared, George, Laura and Kotaro each bring exceptional knowledge, experience and relationships to Saltire Rare Malt. This investment gives us the platform to accelerate our global ambitions, strengthen partnerships and take our whiskies to even more whisky lovers, collectors and trade partners around the world.”

From its home in Falkland, Saltire Rare Malt is combining Scotland’s whisky heritage with global ambition to build one of the country’s most exciting independent Scotch whisky businesses.

The Saltire Rare Malt Collection is available 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.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY ANNOUNCES “CAMP BUFFALO TRACE”, NEW SUMMER EXPERIENCE FEATURING BOURBON EDUCATION AND OVERNIGHT LUXURY CAMPING

This immersive summer experience brings bourbon heritage to life through hands-on activities, guided discoveries, and rare overnight stays on the historic Distillery grounds

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 2026) – This summer, Buffalo Trace Distillery is transforming its historic Frankfort campus into the ultimate summer destination for bourbon lovers with the debut of Camp Buffalo Trace, a new immersive experience for guests 21 and older. Blending nostalgic summer camp-inspired activities with hands-on bourbon education, Camp Buffalo Trace features a full-day of interactive programming, culminating in a rare opportunity for select guests to extend their adventure with an overnight stay in luxury camping accommodations on-site.

Camp Buffalo Trace reimagines classic summer camp activities through the lens of America’s native spirit, offering four hands-on experiences that combine craftsmanship, competition, and discovery.

1. Whiskey Woodcraft Workshop – Guests will craft a custom muddler from authentic barrel staves while learning firsthand about the role white oak plays in bourbon making.
2. Bung Driving Relay – Guests put their skills to the test in a cooperage-inspired, fast-paced competition that brings a traditional barrel-preparation technique to life.
3. Blind Tasting & Buffalo Trace Trivia – Guests challenge their sensory skills and bourbon knowledge through this blind tasting and team trivia competition highlighting Buffalo Trace history.
4. Single Barrel Challenge – Guests sample three barrels of the same bourbon at different ages and attempt to identify each one while exploring how time, warehouse placement and maturation influence a whiskey’s final character.

Select Camp Buffalo Trace participants will also receive an overnight luxury camping experience at Buffalo Trace Distillery inside air-conditioned canvas tents featuring premium indoor and outdoor furnishings, fully stocked mini fridge with water and Freddie’s Old-Fashioned Sodas, plush robes and slippers and more.

“At Buffalo Trace Distillery, we’re always looking for new ways to create memorable moments for our guests, and Camp Buffalo Trace offers an opportunity to celebrate the fun and connection that make summer so special,” said Tyler Adams, General Manager at Buffalo Trace Distillery. “By bringing together interactive activities, bourbon education and overnight camping accommodations, we’ve created a one-of-a-kind program designed to help guests make lasting memories at the Distillery. We look forward to welcoming guests to Camp Buffalo Trace!”

Camp Buffalo Trace will take place on August 29 and September 5, with attendance available exclusively through an online sweepstakes. Those interested can select between two experiences: day camp only OR day camp + overnight luxury camping. 90 winners, each receiving a guest pass, will be randomly selected for the day camp experience across both dates. 10 winners, each receiving a guest pass, will be randomly selected for the day camp + overnight luxury camping experience across both dates.

The overnight luxury camping experience will be hosted on Distillery grounds immediately following the day camp experience. Entrants who select the day camp + overnight luxury camping option will remain eligible to win the day experience even if they are not selected for the overnight stay. In total, the Distillery will welcome 200 guests for Camp Buffalo Trace.

Camp Buffalo Trace is part of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s expanded lineup of seasonal programming designed to offer guests new ways to experience the Distillery. From the annual Great Buffalo Chase Fun Run on July 4 and the Backyard Sessions Summer Concert Series to Biscuits & Bourbon, celebrations surrounding the launch of the new Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Lemonade Canned Cocktail, and the recently introduced National Historic Landmark Tour, the Distillery continues to create memorable experiences that bring its rich history, craftsmanship and hospitality to life.

The Camp Buffalo Trace Sweepstakes begins July 14, 2026, at 12:00 pm (noon) ET and ends July 21, 2026, at 11:59 am ET. No purchase is necessary to enter. To enter, or to learn more about the official rules, please visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com/camp.

For more information about Buffalo Trace Distillery’s entire lineup of summer experiences, please visit https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/bourbon-backyard.

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, Stagg, Eagle Rare 10, and Thomas H. Handy received Gold Awards at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition and its flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon received a Master Medal at the 2025 Global American Whiskey Masters. 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. To download images from Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit  www.buffalotracedistillery.com/media-kit.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Purchasing a product will not improve your chances of

winning. Must be legal resident of (50) U.S. or D.C., age 21 or older. Registration begins at 12:00p ET

7/14/2026 and ends at 11:59a ET 7/21/2026. To enter, and for complete official rules including eligibility, scan the QR code or directly visit www.BuffaloTraceDistillery.com/camp. Selected winners must claim their camp experience within 3-days of being contacted by following the provided instructions to RSVP. No travel or travel reimbursement is provided for any prize award winner. Odds of winning based upon number of eligible entries received. No alcoholic beverage is part of any prize award. Void wherever prohibited or restricted by law. SPONSOR: Sazerac Company, Inc., Louisville, KY.

THE ARDARA DISTILLERY WINS TWO MAJOR INTERNATIONAL AWARDS

~Donegal distillery recognised at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition~

The Ardara Distillery, in county Donegal, has claimed two major international accolades at two of the world’s most respected spirits’ competitions. The victories confirm the distillery’s standing as one of Ireland’s most distinctive producers and mark a significant moment for Sliabh Liag Distillers, the company behind The Ardara Distillery.

Founded by James and Moira Doherty, Ardara produces heavily peated, triple distilled, all-grain-in whiskey, a style almost lost to Ireland for over a century. The distillery is rooted in Donegal’s illicit distilling past and committed to reclaiming the county’s distinctive whiskey heritage.

The Ardara Distillery was named Best Irish Craft Distillery at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition, while Ardara Single Malt Cask Strength won a Double Gold medal at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition, one of the most prestigious spirits awards in the world and widely regarded as a benchmark for quality across the global industry.

James Doherty, Co-Founder, The Ardara Distillery said: “San Francisco is arguably the toughest room in the world of spirits to be judged in. To come away with a Double Gold medal for our first Ardara single malt release is powerful, and a strong signal that grain-in, heavily peated Irish whiskey has a serious place on the international stage. We make whiskey the way it was made in Donegal a century ago. It’s not a style everyone expected the market to embrace, but awards like this tell us otherwise.” 

Adding to this, Moira Doherty, Co-Founder, Ardara Distillery said: “Ardara’s mission has always been singular: to remain true to Donegal above all else. It is wonderful to see that recognised in Japan, a market that takes its whiskey seriously. To be named Best Irish Craft Distillery there, making the kind of whiskey we make, means the world is genuinely ready for what Donegal has to offer. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us on this journey, our dedicated team, our local community, our partners, and all those who have chosen to share and enjoy our spirits. Awards like this are never achieved alone, and we see it as encouragement to continue striving for excellence while staying true to where we come from.” 

Behind the distillery’s striking glass façade on the Show Field in Ardara town, three copper stills from Forsyths of Scotland produce a whiskey that is uncompromising in character; smoky, textured, and unmistakably from Donegal, Ireland. Ardara is the only distillery on the island of Ireland dedicated to peated whiskey using the all-grain-in method, a rare approach that honours traditional Donegal distilling while extracting maximum character from the malt. See www.ardaradistillery.com for more details.

About Ardara Distillery

The Ardara Distillery is home to Sliabh Liag Distillers, located on the Show Field in the coastal town of Ardara, overlooking Loughrosmore Bay on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The distillery produces Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey alongside The Legendary Silkie Irish Whiskey, An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin, and Frank Carr’s Irish Poitín, with distribution across 40 markets worldwide

Guided tours of the distillery run daily, taking visitors through Donegal’s illicit distilling history, the modern copper stills at work today, and the story of how these traditions are being carried forward. See www.ardaradistillery.com

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL® VISITATION HOLDS STRONG AT 2.7 MILLION HOSTED IN 2025

FRANKFORT, KY.— The world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience welcomed 2.7 million visitors in 2025, holding steady with the previous year’s record-breaking total and reinforcing Bourbon’s status as one of Kentucky’s most resilient and reliable tourism drivers.

In a year when many tourism destinations across the country experienced declining attendance amid economic uncertainty and shifting travel patterns, the Bourbon Trail™ program maintained its momentum — a powerful sign of the enduring appeal of America’s only original spirit.

“Holding strong at 2.7 million visitors is a tremendous win in today’s tourism climate,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. “While other destinations are seeing pullbacks, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure continues to demonstrate its strength, stability, and global appeal.

“That consistency speaks volumes about the quality of our experiences and the passion of our distillers.”

To learn more about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience, visit www.kybourbontrail.com.

Visitors from all 50 states, more than 20 countries and six continents traveled to the Commonwealth in 2025 to explore the rich history, craftsmanship, hospitality and culture behind Kentucky Bourbon. About 80 percent of all visitors are from outside Kentucky.

Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Tennessee continue to lead domestic visitation, while visitor patterns are shifting – most notably with a sharp increase in travelers from New York in 2025, alongside significant growth from Florida, Texas, North Carolina, and Wisconsin.

As travel trends shift nationwide, Kentucky Bourbon tourism remains a popular, steady force — attracting an affluent, younger-skewing demographic, with 62% of visitors reporting household incomes above $100,000, and 95% saying they highly approve of their distillery experience.

On average, guests stay three to five days and groups spend between $600 and $1,400 per trip on lodging, dining, entertainment, and transportation, delivering a powerful economic impact to communities across the Commonwealth.

For those planning a visit, booking ahead remains strongly encouraged. On average, guests reserve their experiences approximately 22 days in advance, helping distilleries manage demand and ensure a high-quality visitor experience.

Now featuring nearly 70 participating distillery destinations stretching from Northern Kentucky to Western Kentucky — and more on the way — the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® program welcomed 11 new destinations in 2025, further expanding opportunities for visitors to slow down, explore beyond the bottle, and discover the vibrant small towns and urban hubs that make each destination unique.

“Our distillers continue to innovate and elevate the visitor experience,” Gregory said. “From immersive tastings and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to world-class restaurants and accommodations in our Bourbon communities, there’s never been more to see and do.”

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience has welcomed more than 20 million visits since its founding by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association in 1999, evolving from a handful of distilleries into one of the Commonwealth’s premier tourism engines.

Visitors can now “Build Your Own Bourbon Trail®” itinerary through a streamlined planning experience at kybourbontrail.com. As the KBT® program continues to evolve and enhance the visitor experience, this interactive trip builder tool is a key feature – designed to inspire travel across the Bourbon Trail™ regions and make it easier than ever for visitors to customize, share, and fully experience all that Bourbon has to offer.

“The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® has proven it’s not just a one-time experience — it’s an adventure that visitors return to again and again,” Gregory said. “In challenging tourism years, holding steady is growth. We’re proud to continue welcoming millions from around the world to experience Kentucky craftsmanship and hospitality — responsibly, of course.”

Data for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience is collected by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association through self-reported visitation from participating member distilleries and is compiled, prepared and analyzed by IQS Research of Louisville, Kentucky.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon®. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft. Kentucky Bourbon is a $10.6 billion economic engine generating nearly 24,000 jobs. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

Glencadam Distillery welcomes new manager following launch of multi-million pound visitor centre

Glencadam Distillery has appointed Will Stafford as its new Distillery Manager, marking the next phase in its growth following the distillery’s 200th anniversary celebrations.

Will brings extensive hands‑on distilling experience to the East Highlands site, with over 14 years in the Irish and Scottish spirits industry, and more than nine in distillery operations. Will joins Glencadam from Hinch Distillery, where he served as the inaugural Distillery Manager and Head Distiller from 2021 to 2026, having played a central role in designing, building and commissioning the distillery, as well as implementing and managing a major capacity increase.

Prior to this, he held senior distilling roles at Copeland Distillery and The Boatyard Distillery, contributing to the development and commissioning of three whiskey-producing sites in Ireland.

His appointment at Glencadam comes at a time of continued investment in the brand’s future, following the successful launch of its new state‑of‑the‑art visitor centre in Brechin late last year, which has already welcomed guests from around the world to explore 200 years of the distillery’s story, craft and character.

Will’s career spans every stage of whisky production, from raw material sourcing and distillation through to maturation and site logistics. Having worked across both highly automated and fully manual distilleries, Will has a rare breadth of operational understanding and appreciation for traditional production methods.

Will Stafford, Glencadam Distillery Manager, said: “I’ve been fortunate to help design, build and commission several distilleries, but Glencadam’s heritage, its commitment to traditional craft and the consistency of its spirit make it truly special. Having worked across both automated and manual distilleries, the chance to return to a completely manual plant with such history and character was something I couldn’t pass up.

“My focus will be on protecting the character and quality that has defined Glencadam for two centuries, while supporting the team as the distillery continues to evolve in its next chapter.”

Founded in 1825, Glencadam is one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries, renowned for its unwavering commitment to traditional production methods that have remained unchanged for two centuries. Will’s arrival reinforces the distillery’s focus on quality and heritage as it looks ahead to the next 200 years.

To find out more about Glencadam Distillery and to book tours and tasting experiences at the new visitor centre, visit www.GlencadamWhisky.com or follow on social @GlencadamWhisky.

Glencadam Distillery

Established in 1825, Glencadam Distillery is steeped in history, heritage and tradition, handcrafting single malt Scotch whisky in a process that’s remained unchanged for over 200 years. In 2021, Glencadam Distillery re-installed a working internal waterwheel, modelled on the original which was used to power the distillery back in in 1825.

One of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, Glencadam was mothballed for several years before it was purchased and re-opened by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003.

Today, Glencadam’s multi-award-winning range includes American Oak Reserve, Reserva Andalucía, the 10-Year-Old, 13-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, 18-Year-Old and 25-Year-Old expressions, as well as a series of special cask finishes.

Visit www.glencadamwhisky.com to find out more.

Glencadam Distillery Visitor Centre

Glencadam’s state-of-the-art visitor centre opened its doors in November, inviting visitors to explore two centuries of craftsmanship with an intimate look behind the scenes of this storied distillery.

Guests can enjoy guided tours, tutored tastings and an interactive exhibition, tracing Glencadam’s journey from its 1825 origins to its place among Scotland’s most celebrated single malts today. The new brand home also features a whisky lounge, café, retail shop and function suite, blending tradition with modern hospitality to attract more visitors to Brechin and the surrounding area.

To find out more and book a tour, visit: https://www.glencadamwhisky.com/pages/visitor-centre

Lancaster Spirits Co. Ventures into Peated Single Malt Whisky with an Experimental 2026 Series

Lancaster Spirits Co. is thrilled to announce another landmark step in its journey as a distillery: the launch of a limited experimental peated single malt whisky programme, marking the first time the distillery has ventured into the world of smoky, phenolic spirit.

Still in its early years and with its first aged single malt not expected to reach the market until 2027 at the earliest, Lancaster Spirits Co is already looking to the future. The distillery will embark on a four-week peated whisky trial in 2026, producing an exclusive series of peated spirits at varying levels of peat influence, a bold move that demonstrates the ambition and forward-thinking approach at the heart of the Lancaster Spirits Co story. The programme is designed to explore the full spectrum of smoke-driven flavour and expand the distillery’s creative range before its first whisky even reaches the shelf.

Peated malt is measured in parts per million (PPM), a unit that quantifies the level of phenol, or smoke flavour, present in the barley following the peat-smoking process. For this trial, Lancaster Spirits Co will work with peated malt sourced from Crisp Maltings, starting at 50 PPM, producing a spirit with a notably robust and characterful smoky profile.

Over the course of the four-week trial, the distillery will fill five first-fill bourbon barrels per week, yielding a total of just 20 barrels of peated single malt for 2026. Each 200-litre bourbon barrel will be filled at 63.5% ABV, consistent with Lancaster Spirits Co’s existing unpeated spirit, and will be laid down for a minimum of three years before it can be legally considered single malt whisky. The new-make spirit will not be released for bottling at this stage.

Should the trial prove successful, the distillery intends to introduce peated production as an annual fixture, potentially extending to a four or six-week run in future years.

The move into peated spirit is driven by a desire to push the boundaries of what Lancaster Spirits Co can offer its customers and the wider whisky community. Not only that, but the move also widens the spectrum of flavour profiles available to the distillery’s master blender, Max McFarlane, enabling him to experiment with a wide variety of aromas, textures and tastes when creating future expressions.

By introducing peated spirit into the distillery’s inventory, Lancaster Spirits Co gains an entirely new dimension of character to work with, from subtle earthy and smoky notes to richer, more intense peat influences. This added versatility provides greater creative freedom in both blending and maturation, allowing the team to craft more complex and distinctive whiskies that appeal to a broader range of whisky drinkers.

It also opens the door to innovative cask combinations and limited-edition releases, giving the distillery further opportunities to showcase its craftsmanship while continuing to evolve its house style. Ultimately, the introduction of peated spirit strengthens Lancaster Spirits Co’s ability to create unique, flavour-led whiskies that stand out in an increasingly diverse and competitive market.

“This is a genuinely exciting milestone for us as a distillery. Producing a peated spirit opens up a whole new world of flavour, allowing us to create a wider spectrum of depth and character within our single malt range. We’ve been careful and deliberate in our approach, which is why we’re starting with an experimental series rather than diving headfirst into full-scale production. We want to do this properly, learn from each barrel, and ultimately create something we, and our customers, are truly proud of.” Chris Pateman, Commercial Manager, Lancaster Spirits Co.

A small allocation of the 20 barrels will be made available for purchase, with casks priced at £4,200 each, consistent with the distillery’s existing first-fill bourbon barrel offering. Interest has already been significant: several casks have been pre-sold ahead of this announcement, and availability is expected to be limited.

Those interested in securing one of the remaining casks are encouraged to get in touch with the distillery directly as soon as possible.

Lancaster Spirits Co is an independent distillery based in Lancaster, England, dedicated to producing high-quality single malt spirit with a focus on craft, character, and transparency. The distillery’s unpeated single malt has built a loyal following, and the 2026 peated trial represents an exciting new chapter in its ongoing story.

To secure a cask, explore Lancaster Spirits Co’s spirits, or book a distillery tour, visit lancasterspirits.co.uk

Independent bottler Whisky 1901 reveals new whisky range:

“The Ledger Series”

Independent bottler Whisky 1901 today announces the launch of its new whisky range: The Ledger Series – a collection of carefully chosen casks that celebrate the provenance, individuality and flavour of some of Scotland’s most acclaimed distilleries.

Founded as a modern independent bottler with a classic, luxury ethos, Whisky 1901 is dedicated to sourcing exceptional casks from highly respected distilleries, presenting each whisky in a way that honours its distillery heritage, story and character.

The first release in The Ledger Series, a Miltonduff Aged 18 Years, was bottled at the end of 2025, with an additional five expressions bottled in April 2026, joining it to offer an exceptional variety within the Series this month.

The Ledger Series takes its name from the tradition of record-keeping, giving a nod to the importance of documenting and showcasing each cask’s journey. Every release in the series is selected for its distinct profile and sense of place, offering whisky enthusiasts and collectors a curated snapshot of flavour, maturation and distillery ‘house style’. All of the bottlings carry age statements, currently ranging from 11 to 21 years.

The debut release, Miltonduff Aged 18 Years, set the tone for the range, bringing notable depth, richness and balance. It is followed by five further bottlings under The Ledger Series:

• Dailuaine Aged 12 Years
• Tamnavulin Aged 13 Years
• Ardmore Aged 12 Years
• Glen Garioch Aged 11 Years
• Invergordon Aged 21 Years

In addition to The Ledger Series, Whisky 1901 previously released its first bottling in 2024 of The Collection: a luxury annual release of an extremely rare cask carefully chosen by Matt Chambers, Whisky 1901’s Master of Whisky. Just two casks have been released under The Collection to date: *multi award-winning Edition One: Glenburgie Aged 35 Years (Best Single Cask Single Malt: Speyside, at The World Whisky Awards 2025) and Edition Two: Jura Aged 25 Years – setting the tone for future ultra-premium bottlings, available in very limited quantities.

Matt Chambers, Master of Whisky at Whisky 1901, commented: “The Ledger Series gives us the opportunity to focus entirely on the cask and the liquid’s personality. With the range, we’ve handpicked every whisky not just for its age, but for how it expresses its own distillery character. From the richness and depth of the Miltonduff Aged 18 Years to the vibrancy and structure found in the Ardmore Aged 12 Years, each cask tells its own story. Our aim has been to ensure that every bottling is balanced, distinctive and genuinely compelling in the glass. And because each cask bottling is different, once that cask has gone, it’s gone – offering a little piece of each distillery and cask history.”

Aaron Damiano Sparkes, CEO of Whisky 1901, said: “Whisky 1901 was founded to shine a light on exceptional casks, alongside the people and stories behind them. As a niche independent bottler, we believe in giving whisky lovers a careful selection of drams to enjoy, alongside genuine transparency,  letting each whisky speak for itself. Our new collection represents the beginning of that journey, and we’re proud to introduce whiskies that reflect the heritage and character of each distillery we’ve selected from.”

The Miltonduff Aged 18 Years was launched in March 2025, with the remaining expressions from The Ledger Series now available in limited quantities through specialist retailers and partners including Master of Malt and directly at  Whisky 1901 RRPs range from £125 – £160.

The Collection releases are available via registering to purchase at www.whisky1901.co.uk/the-collection.  Edition One: Glenburgie Aged 35 Years RRP: £1,325. The Collection Edition Two: Jura Aged 25 Years RRP: £500.

Whisky 1901 plans to continue expanding both ranges with future releases that explore a diverse range of distilleries, cask types and flavour profiles, building a portfolio that appeals to both seasoned collectors and curious enthusiasts.

Explore more about the new Whisky 1901 independent bottlings at www.whisky1901.co.uk

*Award-winning Edition One: Glenburgie Aged 35 Years has previously won Gold at The Luxury Masters 2024 (Spirits Business), Silver at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Bronze at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). It was most recently award was Best Single Cask Single Malt in the Speyside category at The World Whisky Awards 2025. 

About Whisky 1901:

Whisky 1901 was originally founded as a cask investment business, giving the team extensive experience in sourcing, evaluating and managing high-quality Scotch whisky casks. This foundation naturally led to the creation of its independent bottling arm, allowing the company to explore and bottle its own casks in collaboration with some of Scotland’s finest distilleries.

This evolution provides Whisky 1901 with exceptional access to rare and high-quality casks, underpinning its commitment to releasing distinctive and characterful whiskies.

The Whisky 1901 brand is now the dedicated independent bottling business with the investment business rebranding as The 1901 Group.

The company will release between five and ten casks per year under The Ledger Series, alongside just one cask per year under its ultra-premium range, The Collection.

Whisky 1901 has already received industry recognition, with its whiskies earning awards at leading international spirits competitions, reinforcing its position as an emerging name in the independent bottling category.