Douglas Laing & Co. Return with Winter Favourites: Scallywag and Big Peat Limited Editions

As the colder months draw in and Whisky lovers seek something rich and warming, Douglas Laing & Co. proudly introduce two much-anticipated seasonal releases: Scallywag Winter Edition and Big Peat Winter Edition. These annual expressions of two of the company’s flagship brands invite consumers to embrace winter in all its bold, indulgent and flavourful glory.

Scallywag Winter Edition: A Luxurious Seasonal Indulgence

Returning for its annual appearance, Scallywag Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky Winter Edition showcases a rich and decadent profile, this year finished in exceptional Cognac Casks sourced from the famed French region. Bottled at Natural Cask Strength (54.2% ABV), this limited release delivers a deeply layered and indulgent dram, perfectly suited to the season.

Tasting Notes:
Nose: Rich waves of stewed orchard fruits, honey’d Malt and soft vanilla, wrapped in gentle spice.
Palate: Decadently layered – caramelised sugars, dark chocolate and ripe berries glide into warming oak and festive spice.
Finish: Long and luxurious, with a soft, spiced sweetness that lingers beautifully.

Scott Morrison, Senior Brand Manager, comments:
“Scallywag’s Winter Edition is all about indulgence and warmth. This Cognac cask finish brings an elegant depth to the spirit, layering rich fruit, chocolate and spice in a way that feels perfectly at home during the colder months.”

Big Peat Winter Edition: Smoke Meets Sun-Kissed Sweetness

Meanwhile, Big Peat Islay Malt Scotch Whisky returns with a bold winter expression, this year finished in Red Wine Casks sourced from sunnier climates. Aged for 10 years, including the final 16 months in hand-selected French red wine casks, and bottled at 48% ABV, this limited-edition balances Big Peat’s unmistakable Islay smokiness with a warming, fruit-forward sweetness.

Tasting Notes:
Nose: Warming, earthy and smoke-led, with black forest fruits, vanilla and butterscotch.
Palate: Fruit-driven with layers of toffee, dark chocolate and a subtle nuttiness.
Finish: Long, with home-baking spice and lingering dry peat smoke.

Cara Laing, Managing Director adds:
“Big Peat’s Winter Edition continues to explore the harmony between smoke and sweetness. The Red Wine cask finish enhances his rich, earthy character with a vibrant fruitiness – creating a dram that feels both powerful and perfectly suited to winter.”

Both limited editions are crafted without colouring or chill-filtration, ensuring the Whiskies are presented as naturally as possible. Designed to appeal to Whisky connoisseurs, collectors and seasonal gift buyers alike, these releases capture the spirit of winter – whether through Scallywag’s luxurious sweetness or Big Peat’s smoky intensity.

With winter approaching, Douglas Laing invites Whisky lovers to embrace the season boldly – discovering two distinctive drams that offer warmth, character and a true sense of occasion.

Now available at select retailers and online with a suggested RRP of:

Scallywag Winter Edition: £60.00 / €69.00

Big Peat Winter Edition: £65.00 / €74.00

Website: www.douglaslaing.com

Maker’s Mark Goes Further for Flavor With its First-Ever Whisky Finished with Japanese Mizunara Oak Staves

Building on the brand’s pioneering wood finishing legacy, Maker’s Mark’s World Wood Collection launches ahead of Holiday 2026 exclusively in airports around the globe  

LORETTO, Ky., Maker’s Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced the World Wood Collection, a new Global Travel Retail-exclusive series celebrating the influence of exceptional oak from around the world. The inaugural release, Expedition 01, marks the first Maker’s Mark whisky to feature three oak finishes across three continents: Japanese Mizunara, French and American white oak staves.

The World Wood Collection represents the evolution of Maker’s Mark’s wood finishing philosophy, first introduced with Maker’s Mark 46, which demonstrated how oak staves could unlock new dimensions of flavor in bourbon while remaining true to the brand’s handmade heritage.  Maker’s Mark has long treated oak as a key ingredient—not simply a container for its whisky, and has invested in advancing both the art of wood finishing and the stewardship of American white oak at Star Hill Farm.

“At Maker’s Mark, we celebrate bourbon as an agricultural product and the universe of flavor that can be unlocked through nature—water, wheat, oak and time,” said Rob Samuels, managing director and eighth-generation whisky maker. “That belief has long guided our commitment to sustainable forestry and to protecting the future of American white oak. Through intentional wood finishing, The World Wood Collection explores exceptional oak from around the world to create a whisky that expands the boundaries of flavor while staying true to our craft.”

Expedition 01 brings together Japanese Mizunara, French and American white oak, with each whisky individually finished before being expertly blended into a single expression. The result is a complex, balanced whisky in which every oak contributes its own distinctive character.

• Japanese Mizunara oak contributes delicate floral notes and subtle umami complexity.

• American white oak delivers sweet vanilla notes, brightness and a rounded character.

• French oak introduces warm baking spice, caramel richness and an elegant, lingering finish.

“Expedition 01 represents the kind of premium, story-driven whisky experience that resonates with today’s global travelers,” said Vanessa Widmann, managing director for Global Travel Retail at Suntory Global Spirits. “With its exclusive availability in Global Travel Retail, distinctive oak-forward story and premium presentation, it offers travelers a rare opportunity to discover a truly unique expression from Maker’s Mark — one that celebrates craftsmanship, exploration and the influence of exceptional oak.”

Available exclusively through Global Travel Retail ahead of Holiday 2026, Expedition 01 is bottled at 1L and 47.5% ABV and presented in premium packaging inspired by the distinctive grain of each oak species, reinforcing the collection’s focus on craftsmanship and discovery.

The limited-edition expression will be available beginning today in New York (JFK), London (LHR), Istanbul (SAW), Perth (PER), and Bengaluru (BLR) through Avolta retail outlets for the suggested retail price of $84.99.

For more information, visit www.makersmark.com.

ABOUT MAKER’S MARK

Maker’s Mark® is the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon driven by a vision for better flavor 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. Named World’s Best Wheat Whisky 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.

Maker’s Mark is proud to be both B Corp and Regenified Certified – 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.

MEIKLE TÒIR UNVEILS THE TURBO 2026 EDITION

The limited-edition Speyside single malt will first be offered in small quantities through an online ballot, opening on 2nd November, before launching globally on 5th November 2026 at specialist retailers

Meikle Tòir is turning up the smoke this Bonfire Night with the release of The Turbo 2026 Edition, a highly sought-after, limited-edition 5-year-old peated single malt whisky from The GlenAllachie Distillery, launching on Thursday 5th November.

Made from start to finish at The GlenAllachie Distillery in the heart of Speyside, this peated single malt brand is led by whisky veteran Billy Walker. Drawing on over five decades of whisky-making expertise, Walker reimagined The GlenAllachie’s signature Speyside character with a distinctive peated edge, creating a whisky that has since cultivated a loyal following.

The Turbo 2026 Edition is the fourth instalment in this sought-after limited annual release. Since its first introduction in 2023, The Turbo has become a highly anticipated annual event for whisky fans, selling out almost immediately each time. It is the most heavily peated expression in the Meikle Tòir collection, with the 2026 edition dialled up to 71 parts per million (PPM) in the finished whisky, significantly higher than the more balanced peating of the core range and delivering a noticeably bolder, smokier and more powerful profile.

Its intense smoke comes from capturing the “heart of the heart” of the distillate, the cut with the highest phenol content. Peated production takes place for only six weeks of the year at The GlenAllachie Distillery, and the distillate for The Turbo is made in even smaller quantities, making each release all the more rare.

For 2026, The Turbo has further evolved from the 2025 edition, which combined five American virgin oak casks and four Oloroso hogsheads. This year’s edition marries American virgin oak with Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks.

After five years in cask, the whisky greets the nose with warmed honey, candied hazelnuts and molasses, with crystallised ginger, mocha and mānuka honey beneath. On the palate comes butterscotch, orange zest, honeycomb and plum syrup, finishing on dried red berries, cinnamon and salted caramel. A richly layered whisky with a powerful, full-bodied smoke, it is perfect for toasting Bonfire Night.

Commenting on the new release, Billy Walker, Master Distiller, said:

“The Turbo is, by nature, incredibly limited, so if you can get your hands on a bottle, it’s worth it. This year, I’m delighted to showcase The Turbo matured in some of my favourite casks: American virgin oak, Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry. Together they create a deeply intense profile which, alongside the strong smoke we know and love from previous expressions, makes this 2026 Edition a real standout. It’s a very moreish dram, packed full of sweet campfire smoke, spices and candied dark fruits.”

Billy Walker has fine-tuned every step of Meikle Tòir’s production. Highland mainland peat from St Fergus, Aberdeenshire, gives the barley an earthy, floral smoke, and a fermentation extended to 160 hours, almost three times the industry standard, creates a fruity, ester-rich distillate that is ideally primed for cask maturation.

The same care extends to the casks. With no expense spared, Walker and his team work with trusted partners around the world to source the finest premium first-fill casks, all in pursuit of peated perfection for whisky lovers.

Following high demand for previous releases, Meikle Tòir has introduced an online ballot for an extremely small quantity of The Turbo 2026 Edition. Whisky enthusiasts can enter through the website, meikletoir.com, between 10am GMT on 2nd November and 7pm GMT on 4th November for the chance to purchase a bottle from this limited allocation ahead of the official launch. The ballot is intended to give loyal fans a fair opportunity during the release, rather than offering bottles solely on a first-come, first-served basis. A separate, limited number of bottles will become increasingly available through select retailers worldwide from 5th November.

Bottled at 50% ABV, with natural colour and non-chill filtration, Meikle Tòir The Turbo 2026 Edition (RRP £62.99) will also be available at The GlenAllachie Distillery at 10am on 5th November 2026.

For ballot entry, stockists and more information, visit www.meikletoir.com.

Reforesting Appalachia: Suntory Group and Bosland Growth Join Forces to Elevate Hardwood Conservation

CLERMONT, Ky. – In a united effort to restore and support local hardwood forests and establish long-term partnerships for their conservation, Suntory Holdings and Suntory Global Spirits (Suntory Group) and Bosland Growth  are proud to announce a 20-year partnership focused on landowner engagement, site preparation and tree planting efforts on 400 acres of previously mined lands in Pennsylvania and West Virginia by Spring 2026. The planted trees will be native to the region, including white oak, ensuring healthy regeneration of this essential resource used in crafting barrels that age some of the world’s highest-quality whiskey like those from the Suntory portfolio which includes Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon.

The partnership will also help create new connections with global organizations, state and private nurseries, universities, government agencies, non-profits and industry partners to plant trees across the region to advance forest management initiatives. This collaboration will enhance the ecological function of these areas, expand wildlife habitats, increase carbon sequestration capacity and provide economic benefits to local communities for generations to come. Landowners will be engaged in stewardship and compensated for their active forest management of the restored area.

“By supporting site preparation and tree planting and committing to compensate landowners, Suntory Group will empower Bosland to fully fund these reforestation efforts and support landowners in maintaining their properties as working forests in perpetuity,” said Todd Appel, President and CEO of Bosland.

Suntory Group has a long-standing commitment to protecting and nurturing the natural environment through its sustainability initiatives.

“In order to offer our customers high-quality products and services, we recognize the importance of promoting sustainability throughout the entire supply chain,” stated Masaaki Fujiwara, Managing Executive Officer, Division COO of Supply Chain Division at Suntory Holdings. “This collective effort at Bosland’s reforestation sites underscores our dedication to responsible sourcing, forest regeneration and environmental preservation.”

“Sustainability and giving back to nature are core to our commitment to protecting the natural resources that contribute to our premium spirits brands,” stated Kim Marotta, Chief Environmental Sustainability Officer and Head of Enterprise Risk Management at Suntory Global Spirits. “In the last five years, we’ve successfully planted nearly 700 thousand trees in the Appalachian region. This partnership with Bosland continues these initiatives and will introduce new opportunities to plant native hardwood seedlings, including white oaks, for thriving forests.”

About Bosland Growth LLC
Founded in 2022, Bosland Growth is a reforestation carbon developer focused on restoration of formerly surface mined lands in Appalachia.  Bosland Growth is controlled by Bosland Group, a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation.

About Suntory Holdings
As a global leader in the beverage industry, Suntory Group aims to inspire the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Sustained by the gifts of nature and water, the Group offers a uniquely diverse portfolio of products, from award-winning Japanese whiskies Yamazaki and Hibiki, iconic American whiskies Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, canned ready-to-drink -196 (minus one-nine-six), The Premium Malt’s beer, Japanese wine Tomi, and the world-famous Château Lagrange. Its brand collection also includes non-alcoholic favorites Orangina, Lucozade, Oasis, BOSS coffee, Suntory Tennensui water, TEA+ Oolong Tea, and V energy drink, as well as popular health and wellness product Sesamin EX.

Founded as a family-owned business in 1899 in Osaka, Japan, Suntory Group has grown into a global company operating throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania, with an annual revenue (excluding excise taxes) of $20.3 billion in 2024. Its 41,357 employees worldwide draw upon the unique blend of Japanese artisanship and global tastes to explore new product categories and markets.

For more information, visit www.suntory.com.

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™ (minus one-nine-six) 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. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com

THIS ARTICLE APPEARS HERE WELL AFTER THE ORIGINAL PUBLICATION DATE AS A MATTER OF INTEREST

SCOTTISH WHISKY ENTREPRENEURS PARTNER WITH LUXURY TRAVEL SPECIALISTS

Edinburgh, Award-winning Edinburgh whisky business Tailored Spirits Co. has partnered with Cadogan Private Travel to elevate the whisky experience by providing private travellers coveted access to Scotland and its closely guarded areas of the whisky industry.

The partnership will see private clients offered experiences that go far beyond the traditional distillery visit, from exclusive access to bonded whisky warehouses and sampling a dram direct from the cask, to commissioning private bottles and immersive itineraries combining whisky with private castle stays and helicopter journeys across the Highlands.

The partnership reflects growing demand for luxury travel experiences that are not simply exclusive, but genuinely personal and difficult to replicate. By combining Cadogan’s highly curated luxury travel with Tailored Spirits Co.’s expertise and network across Scotland’s whisky industry, clients will be able to experience Scotch whisky at a deeper and more personal level.

For both businesses, the collaboration offers a new way to showcase Scotland, where luxury is defined not simply by comfort, but by authenticity, access and the opportunity to create something entirely personal.

Adam Harding, Co-Founder of Tailored Spirits Co., said: “Cadogan Private Travel understands that truly exceptional experiences come from deeply understanding clients and tailoring every detail to create truly one-of-a-kind memories. That aligns perfectly with how we approach whisky.

“Scotland itself is one of our greatest assets. Bringing people here and giving them access to the people, places and whisky they wouldn’t be able to experience allows us to showcase the country and its whisky industry in a truly intimate way.”

Founded in Edinburgh, Tailored Spirits Co. specialises in helping clients manage, mature, brand and bottle privately owned single-cask spirits, alongside commissioning whisky projects and limited-edition collections.

The company was recently named Scotland’s Overall StartUp of the Year 2026 and was also recognised at the Stelios Foundation UK Young Entrepreneur Awards 2026, following a period of rapid growth for the business.

Cadogan Private Travel has extensive expertise in ultra-luxury private travel, creating individually tailored journeys and providing its clients with access to the inaccessible, from private estates and exclusive events to experiences around the world.

Peter Anderson, Founder of Cadogan Private Travel said: “The partnership with Tailored spirits brings together exceptional experience-led travel with bespoke focus on spirits which is an excellent match. Curating high-end spirit purchasing is much more than just selecting a favourite liquid; it has become a truly immersive experience.

“Visiting the distilleries in Scotland is now a luxury experience, where every moment is curated and every whim is catered for. Cadogan Private Travel is proud to partner with Tailored Spirits who share so many of our values of attention to detail, providing the very best customer experience and a real passion for everything Scotland has to offer.”

Through the new partnership, the two businesses will work together to build whisky experiences around individual travellers, drawing on Tailored Spirits Co.’s relationships across Scotland to create unforgettable moments.

Find out everything about Tailored Spirits here: https://www.tailoredspirits.co.uk/ 

About Tailored Spirits Co.

Experts in spirits, specialising in whisky supply, creating exceptional brands and bottlings. Tailored Spirits Co. is an Edinburgh-based, global-serving company who guide clients through the complexities of spirits bottling projects and ensure their dreams are achieved.

W: https://www.tailoredspirits.co.uk/
I: @tailoredspiritsco
F: @tailoredspiritsco
L: @tailoredspiritsco

FIFE WHISKY BOTTLER NAMED RISING STAR IN TAIWAN

Saltire Rare Malt celebrates international recognition in one of the world’s most influential Scotch whisky markets

Falkland, Fife;  October 2026 – Fife-based independent Scotch whisky bottler Saltire Rare Malt is celebrating another international success after being named a Rising Star Brand at Taiwan’s Golden Whisky Awards, as the Scottish business continues to make its mark on the global whisky stage.

Organised by Want Want China Times Media Group, one of Taiwan’s leading media organisations, the awards are now in their fourth year, recognising brands and businesses across the country’s thriving drinks industry.

The accolade marks another exciting milestone for Saltire Rare Malt, which is building its presence in the Taiwanese market alongside its official importer and distributor, FeelGood Inc.

Adding to the brand’s growing profile in the region, Saltire Rare Malt was recently showcased at a dedicated whisky tasting in Taipei, hosted by Steven Lin, one of Taiwan’s most prominent and influential whisky authorities, in partnership with FeelGood Inc.

A Master of the Quaich, one of Scotch whisky’s highest honours, Steven is a respected whisky educator and author, with the tasting providing a valuable opportunity to introduce Saltire Rare Malt to new audiences in Taiwan.

Founded in 2024 by friends and whisky enthusiasts Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie, Saltire Rare Malt work to curate an exceptional collection of rare single cask and limited-edition Scotch whiskies.

From its home in the historic Fife village of Falkland, the independent bottler has rapidly expanded its international reach, with its whiskies now enjoyed by enthusiasts across Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa.

Keith Rennie, Co-Founder of Saltire Rare Malt, said: “It’s fantastic to see Saltire recognised in Taiwan, an important market for Scotch whisky and one where we’re continuing to build some brilliant relationships.

“We’re a small independent business from Fife with big international ambitions, so to see our whiskies gaining recognition and reaching new audiences on the other side of the world is incredibly exciting. It’s a brilliant moment for everyone involved in Saltire.”

The award adds to a growing list of achievements for Saltire Rare Malt, which was crowned Newcomer of the Year at the 2025 Scottish Whisky Awards and has since secured six finalist spots across four categories at the 2026 awards, including Independent Bottler of the Year and Excellence in Branding.

The Saltire Rare Malt Collection is available to buy online on their website 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 worked together for three decades, before moving into the whisky world to collect fine and rare single malts. 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.

The founders felt that 2024 would be a good year to launch the very first bottlings of Saltire Rare Malt, 530 years after the birth of Scotch Whisky – in the beautiful, historic town of Falkland. Among Saltire Rare Malt’s meticulously curated collection are ‘well-known labels’, ‘rare gems’ and casks from ‘lost distilleries’ with Single Malt Scotch Whisky releases that are ‘never rushed or hurried — they’re bottled when the right time arrives’.

W: www.saltireraremalt.com
I: www.instagram.com/saltireraremaltwhisky
F: www.facebook.com/people/Saltire-Rare-Malt-Whisky

About Falkland, Fife; The Birthplace of Scotch Whisky

Falkland is a beautiful Scottish market town in the Kingdom of Fife, built around the 12th century Falkland Palace. 1494 saw the first record of Scotch Whisky. King James IV, staying at the Palace, issuing the famous order: “8 bolls of malt to Friar John Cor, werewith to make the ‘water of life”. This can be considered the birth certificate of Scotch Whisky. Saltire Rare Malt is now situated in the market square opposite Falkland Palace. Over 530 years after the birth of Scotch whisky, its story has now come full circle.

Proof of filly’s excellence with every bottle

Ky Senator Bourbon’s Thoroughbred Legacy Series pays tribute to champion Nitrogen in its first release

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 2026) — When Kentucky Senator Bourbon sought to create a private-barrel Thoroughbred Legacy Series, the award-winning small-batch bourbon reached for the stars for the inaugural subject: D.J. Stable’s champion filly Nitrogen.

The 113-proof bourbon — selected and bottled by Potter Jane Distilling Company of Springfield, Ky., for Kentucky Senator Spirits — commemorates the multiple champion favored for the $2 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Distaff on Oct. 31 at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington.

“Nitrogen’s name says it all,” said Andre Regard, the prominent equine attorney who co-founded Kentucky Senator Spirits with then-Kentucky Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer. “Even in her early training, Hall of Famer Mark Casse said that the filly ‘breathes different air,’ hence her name. She’s the perfect horse to kick off our Thoroughbred Legacy Series, which toasts Kentucky’s two iconic industries: horses and bourbon. As we say on the label of Nitrogen bourbon, ‘This private single-barrel bourbon pays tribute to Nitrogen’s fearless spirit, exceptional balance and championship heart. Like the filly herself, it is bold, refined and unforgettable.’”

Off her Sept. 25 triumph in the Grade 2 Beldame at New York’s recreated Belmont Park, the 4-year-old Nitrogen has nine victories over seven tracks in 18 career starts, along with six seconds and three thirds for earnings exceeding $3 million while excelling on dirt, turf and in the mud.

Nitrogen’s victories include a stunning 12 3/4-length romp in the Grade 1 Ogden Phipps Stakes and last year’s dominant Alabama (G1) over Kentucky Oaks winner Good Cheer at Saratoga in her first start on dirt. Her runner-up performance in the prestigious Whitney Stakes (G1) only enhanced her reputation when second to reigning Horse of the Year Sovereignty while defeating winners of a Breeders’ Cup Classic, Dubai World Cup, the Jockey Club Gold Cup and two other millionaire older males.

“We may never have another horse like Nitrogen,” said Jon Green, D.J. Stable’s general manager who owns the high-end breeding and racing operation with his father, Len. “Having a Nitrogen Legacy Series bourbon is one way to continue to celebrate and toast her for years to come. When trying to breed a champion, pedigree match-ups are so important. The same is true with business relationships, and it’s been great working with Kentucky Senator Bourbon. We’re honored to have Nitrogen as the first Legacy release, and our family looks forward to sharing Nitrogen Bourbon and the spectacular bottles with friends, clients, industry charities and for life’s unexpected special occasions.”

Nitrogen is the overwhelming favorite to again be crowned a champion after her third season of racing, following Canada’s Sovereign Award for 2-year-old filly and North America’s Eclipse Award for last year’s top 3-year-old filly. She’ll have every opportunity to further grow her legacy as D.J. Stable, which also bred the daughter of Medaglia d’Oro, has announced she’ll race next year.

The Thoroughbred Legacy Series, whose individual bottles are not for sale to the public, provides a distinctive way for industry connections to honor their favorite horses, farms or any equine image of their choosing. The Legacy bourbons will be aged for a minimum of six years while distilled, aged and bottled in the Bluegrass State. Each Legacy release will be customized to make the bottles as unique as its honoree and Kentucky Senator Bourbon, including the subject’s bio on the back label. In the case of Nitrogen, the 113 proof is a shout-out to her highest career Beyer speed figure when the release was produced. Nitrogen’s picture is prominently displayed on the front of the bottle, with the D.J. Stable’s maroon silks with white diamonds included on the back.

“The Legacy Series is ideal for promoting a cherished horse or equine operation, creating one-of-a-kind gifts for family, friends, partners or clients, as well as a fun and effective way to promote the bottle subject,” said Thayer, now a horse-racing adviser and advocate who spearheaded transformative legislation for both the bourbon and horse industries during his 22 years in the Kentucky Legislature. “We guarantee that every private barrel will be distilled, aged and bottled with care and passion as we create a fitting tribute for a beloved horse or property.”

The Nitrogen Legacy Series features Kentucky Senator Bourbon selected and bottled by Potter Jane from one of the best aged barrels of Kentucky Senator Bourbon stock stored at the Springfield distillery. The Nitrogen release has been aged nine years, regarded as a sweet spot for maturity and oak influence.

Since its first release in 2021, Kentucky Senator Bourbon quickly earned the reputation for serving up great bourbon with a side of Kentucky history. Each Kentucky Senator release is named for a U.S. Senator from the Commonwealth, with the 2026 edition commemorating the late Jim Bunning, the only person elected to both baseball’s Hall of Fame and the U.S. Senate. Bottled at the classic 107 proof, Kentucky Senator Bourbon is at least six years old, the length of a U.S. Senate term, with many releases clocking in with higher aging statements.

The 2025 release honoring Kentucky’s U.S. Senator John Brown (elected 1792) was awarded a Double Gold Medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, one of the most prestigious and influential spirits competitions in the world. The accolade solidified Kentucky Senator Bourbon’s reputation for crafting exceptional small-batch whiskey that stands out in today’s competitive spirits landscape.

The Kentucky Senator brand was originally distilled and bottled by Crigler & Crigler in Covington, Ky., then by Double Springs Distillers Inc. in Bardstown. The brand revival of the vintage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is led by Regard and Thayer, who bring their unique backgrounds in bourbon to the management team. Regard is a descendant of bourbon legend Basil Hayden, and Thayer is a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame.

More information on Kentucky Senator Bourbon and its principals Regard and Thayer at KySenatorBourbon.com.

About Kentucky Senator Bourbon

Kentucky Senator Bourbon is an award-winning small-batch Bourbon brand committed to crafting exceptional spirits with a side of American history. Each limited-edition release is named after a U.S. Senator and represents a blend of tradition, character and U.S. heritage; it is distilled and aged in Kentucky for at least six years (the same length as a U.S. senate term), but often longer.Founded by Andre Regard and Damon Thayer, Kentucky Senator Bourbon revives a historic brand once produced by Crigler and Crigler in Covington and later Double Springs Distillers in Bardstown. The brand launched its first revival release in 2021 and has since become known for producing richly aged, 107-proof Bourbon expressions that connect past and present.Awards & Recognition

• Kentucky Senator Bourbon’s inaugural release, the Alben W. Barkley Release, was highlighted in Forbes’ Online Magazine 
• Fred Minnick, a noted Bourbon author, ranked Kentucky Senator Bourbon in his Top 100 Whiskeys of 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2025
• Kentucky Senator Bourbon has won multiple Gold ASCOT Awards for taste and a Double Platinum ASCOT Award for marketing and brand design
• Kentucky Senator Bourbon recently won its first Double Gold medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its 2024 John Brown release
• The Jim Bunning Release earned a Double Gold Medal and 96 points at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the highest distinction the competition confers, awarded only when every judge on the panel votes Gold
• The John Edwards Release earned a Silver Medal at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Double Platinum Award at the 2026 ASCOT Awards, reserved for spirits scoring between 95 and 100 points on a blind 100-point scale

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New Lewes Whisky Festival to Showcase More Than 100 Whiskies in February 2027

New festival from Summerton Whisky Club will bring independent bottlers, distillers and importers together in East Sussex

A new whisky festival is set to launch in Lewes, East Sussex, in February 2027, bringing more than 100 whiskies from independent bottlers, distillers and importers together for a one-day event at the Corn Exchange, Lewes Town Hall.

Lewes Whisky Festival, created by the team behind UK whisky subscription Summerton Whisky Club, will take place on Saturday 13 February 2027, with two tasting sessions running from 12pm to 3.30pm and 4.30pm to 8pm. The festival will feature whisky from Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, the US, India and beyond, reflecting the increasingly international nature of the whisky category.

Confirmed exhibitors include independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, alongside Old Pulteney, WhistlePig, Heaven Hill, Boann, Isle of Raasay, The English Distillery and In the Welsh Wind. Kakira Distillery, from Uganda, will also participate with a rum pour.

A different approach to whisky festivals

The festival has been designed around an open tasting format, with visitors able to sample whisky from every participating exhibitor without purchasing additional tasting tokens.

A £49.95 ticket includes a festival glass, programme and unlimited tastings throughout the session. The organisers are deliberately positioning the event as accessible to both experienced whisky enthusiasts and consumers who are newer to the category.

Dan Humphrey, founder of Lewes Whisky Festival and Summerton Whisky Club, said:

“I wanted to create a festival where the focus is on discovering whisky and talking to the people behind it.

“There are plenty of very good whisky events aimed at the serious enthusiast. We wanted to create something that retains the quality and depth of whisky but feels much less intimidating to someone who might be coming to their first festival. You don’t need to know your single malt from your blended malt before you arrive. You just need to enjoy whisky and be curious.”

There will be no additional charges for tastings once visitors are inside the festival, with exhibitors able to engage directly with consumers throughout each session.

A broadening whisky landscape

The initial exhibitor line-up brings together established whisky brands, independent bottlers and producers from a range of whisky-producing countries. The inclusion of English and Welsh whisky alongside Scotch, Irish, American and international producers is intended to reflect the increasingly diverse whisky category and give consumers the opportunity to explore different production traditions and styles in a single event.

Further exhibitors are expected to be announced during the autumn.

From whisky subscription to live events

Lewes Whisky Festival is the latest development from Summerton Whisky Club, the UK whisky subscription and community founded by Dan Humphrey. Summerton sends Members a full bottle of whisky every two months, combining whisky discovery with editorial content and community.

Summerton began when Dan wanted to buy his Dad a whisky subscription as a Christmas present and subsequently developed the concept into a national whisky subscription business.

The festival represents a further expansion into live events, in addition to the Summerton Whisky Festival held annually in St Albans, bringing the company’s focus on whisky discovery and accessibility into a physical setting.

Dan said:

“Summerton has always been about getting people to discover whiskies they might not otherwise have tried. A festival is a natural extension of that. I wanted to create an event where people can spend several hours exploring whisky, talking to producers and bottlers, and finding something they genuinely enjoy.”

Why Lewes?

The festival will take place at the Corn Exchange at Lewes Town Hall, an established events venue in the East Sussex town.

Lewes was selected partly for its accessibility to a wider regional audience, with direct rail connections from Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Haywards Heath and London Victoria. The organisers are targeting whisky drinkers across Sussex and the wider South East, rather than solely the local Lewes market.

Dan shared:

“Lewes gives us an opportunity to create a genuinely regional whisky event. It’s an independent town with a strong food and drink culture, but it’s also remarkably accessible by rail from across Sussex and London. That gives us the opportunity to build an audience well beyond Lewes itself.”

A richness of whisky

The festival’s identity draws on its Sussex setting. Its emblem references the martlet, the footless swift depicted on the Sussex county arms, while the festival’s tagline — “A Richness of Whisky” — takes inspiration from the collective noun for a group of swifts.

The festival will have capacity for 480 visitors across the two sessions, with tickets priced at £49.95.

More information and tickets are available at leweswhiskyfestival.co.uk.

Event: Lewes Whisky Festival

Date: Saturday 13 February 2027

Venue: The Corn Exchange, Lewes Town Hall, Fisher Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2QS

Sessions: 12.00–15.30 and 16.30–20.00

Ticket price: £49.95 per session

Capacity: 480 visitors across the day

What is included: Festival glass, programme and unlimited tastings from participating exhibitors

Confirmed exhibitors include: Gordon & MacPhail, Old Pulteney, WhistlePig, Heaven Hill, Boann, The Whistler, Isle of Raasay, The English Distillery, Henstone, In the Welsh Wind and Kakira Distillery.

Organiser: Summerton Whisky Club

Website: leweswhiskyfestival.co.uk

Indri single malt Indian whisky unveils Diwali Collector’s Edition 2026 Ruby Port Cask

India’s premium single malt whisky, Indri has unveiled the Diwali Collector’s Edition 2026 Ruby Port Cask, the latest chapter in the limited annual release collection celebrating India’s vibrant spirit.

Produced in the village of Indri, Haryana, near the foothills of the Himalayas, the 2026 release captures the essence of Diwali through an artfully crafted whisky and striking presentation, with artwork inspired by India’s royal heritage as a symbol of light, culture and joy.

Indri master blender Surrinder Kumar crafted the collection in small batches from indigenous six-row Indian barley. Marking the fourth edition, the 2026 expression is matured in hand-selected Ruby Port casks from Portugal, prized for their rich, characterful and sweet wines.

Distilled in traditional copper pot stills, the single malt matures in Indri’s subtropical climate of northern India, where hot summers and cool winters shape a rich, distinctive spirit that sets it apart from distilleries in India’s tropical southern regions.

Bottled at a cask strength of 58.5% ABV, aromas of black cherries, wild berries and ripe plums give way to a silken palate of honeyed fruits and roasted nuts, enriched by hints of toffee, vanilla and figs, culminating in a long, fruity finish.

Surrinder Kumar, Master Blender for Indri, said: “The Diwali Collector’s Edition pushes the boundaries of Indian single malt, while staying true to what makes it distinctly Indri, and has been consistently recognised in international awards. This year’s Ruby Port Cask expression offers a new dimension, drawing on the depth and character of Portugal’s wine casks, shaped by the unique climate here at Indri. The 2026 release brings together whisky and artistry in a collector’s masterpiece celebrating heritage, craftsmanship and the spirit of modern India.”

The packaging features intricate artwork by Indian designer, Krsnaa Mehta. Drawing on India’s royal heritage and traditional miniature paintings, Krsnaa reimagines a captivating visual narrative through a rich palette of jewel tones, delicate florals and bold contrasts to depict the celebratory spirit of Diwali.

At its heart, the majestic Marwari horse – a symbol of royal heritage – and its foal move in graceful unison, portraying nobility, legacy and continuity, mirroring the layered character of the whisky itself. Rooted in the storytelling tradition of miniature art, where the grandest stories unfold within the smallest frames, every motif and detail is intentional.

Since the first edition launched in 2023, the Indri Diwali Collector’s Edition has won 29 awards across the globe. Key highlights include the 2023 Peated PX Sherry Cask edition achieving Best in Show Double Gold at the Whiskies of the World Awards 2023, while the 2025 Marsala Cask release was named Best World Whisky at the Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards 2025, with a score of 99.1 points out of 100, and received a Gold medal at The Design & Packaging Masters 2025 for its presentation.

The 2026 Ruby Port Cask edition is already making waves internationally, having received six awards to date including Gold at the World Whisky Masters and the New York World Spirits Competition.

The release is available in the UK from selected specialist whisky retailers including Master of Malt, The Whisky Shop and The Whisky Exchange. Limited to just 180 individually numbered bottles in the UK, it has an RRP of £200. For further information about Indri, visit https://www.indri.in/

Tasting Notes

Nose: An inviting bouquet of fresh black and red fruits, led by black cherries, blackberries and ripe plums. Layers of raisins, figs and dried fruits unfold beneath, complemented by notes of toffee and vanilla that lend a rich, lingering sweetness to the nose.

Palate: A burst of luscious fruit and honey greets the palate, evolving into rich notes and dried fruits, almonds and hazelnuts. Hints of cinnamon, sweet spice and oak lactones add depth and complexity, while nuances of figs and liquorice emerge gracefully, creating a beautifully layered experience.

Finish: Full-bodied and velvety, with rounded sweetness and a firm structure. Gentle oak lactones linger alongside rich full notes, culminating in a long, smooth and elegant finish.

About Indri

Indri single malt Indian whisky was launched in 2022 by Piccadily Agro Industries Limited (PAIL) aimed at catering to discerning consumers who appreciate quality and craftsmanship in spirits and became the ‘fastest growing single malt whisky brand’ in 2024

PAIL is a publicly listed company operating primarily in two strategic business segments: Distillery and Sugar and has a manufacturing facility located in Indri, Haryana.

PAIL has established itself as a key player in the alcoholic beverages industry, particularly renowned for its expertise in malt spirits. The company boasts a robust portfolio that includes premium expressions of Indri single malt whisky, blended malt whisky brands and Camikara, premium sugarcane juice aged rum.

www.indri.in / www.piccadily.com

The House of Suntory Unveils Hibiki® Japanese Harmony Limited-Edition Designed in Collaboration with Legendary Kimono House Chiso

New collectible release celebrates more than 470 years of Japanese artistry through a design inspired by traditional kimono craftsmanship

NEW YORK, NY Oct, 2026 – The House of Suntory, the Founding House of Japanese Whisky, today unveils Hibiki® Japanese Harmony 2026 Limited-Edition, Chiso Collaboration, a collectible release created with Chiso, one of the oldest and most revered Kyoto kimono houses founded in 1555. Bringing together two icons of Japanese artistry, the collaboration unites Hibiki’s renowned art of blending with Chiso’s nearly 470-year legacy of the kimono through a bespoke floral design inspired by Japan’s changing seasons.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony | 2026 Limited-Edition, Chiso Collaboration

The collectible Hibiki Japanese Harmony 2026 Limited-Edition features Hibiki’s iconic 24-faceted bottle, representing Japan’s 24 traditional micro-seasons, reimagined by Chiso, which has preserved the art of yuzen silk dyeing while continually evolving the craft through contemporary design and techniques.

The limited-edition bottle is adorned with vibrant jewel-toned floral motifs featuring tachibana, (evergreen citrus) symbolizing enduring prosperity; kiri (paulownia), representing good fortune and nobility; sakura (cherry blossoms), celebrating the beauty of the seasons and renewal; and ume (plum blossoms) and tsubaki (camellias), emblems of longevity and timeless vitality. Rich gold, crimson, emerald, indigo and soft blush accents transform the bottle into a collectible work of art, celebrating the shared pursuit of Japanese craftsmanship that has defined both houses for generations.

Following acclaimed partnerships with Japanese artists Eriko Horiki and Hiroshi Senju, the Chiso release continues Hibiki Whisky’s longstanding tradition of celebrating Japanese artistry through creative collaboration. The partnership is brought to life through a behind-the-scenes film, as well as a Chiso kimono installation at New York’s JFK Airport Terminal 1 timed to its opening.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony Blend & Tasting Notes

Hibiki Japanese Harmony is best enjoyed over a ‘Marugori’ hand-carved ice ball.

• Color: Amber

• Nose: Honey-like sweetness, candied orange peel, white chocolate

• Taste: Rose, lychee, hint of rosemary, mature woodiness, sandalwood

• Finish: Subtle, tender long finish, with hint of Mizunara (Japanese oak)

Availability and Pricing

Hibiki Japanese Harmony 2026 Limited-Edition, Chiso Collaboration is bottled at 43% ABV and will be available beginning October 1, 2026, across key global markets including the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Northern Europe, Australia, Singapore, China, Taiwan and South Korea, with a suggested retail price of $135–$150 USD, depending on market. For more information on Hibiki, please visit https://house.suntory.com/hibiki-whisky

About The House of Suntory  

Suntory is renowned as the founding house of Japanese Whisky, beginning with Shinjiro Torii’s creation of Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki in 1923 and carried forward by his son, Keizo Saji, founder of the Hakushu and Chita Distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation.

Today, The House of Suntory continues to craft award-winning spirits, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Chita®, Kakubin®, Hibiki®, and Suntory Whisky Toki™. All 100% distilled, matured, and bottled in Japan, in full compliance with the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) standards. The House of Suntory also includes Roku™ Japanese Gin, Haku™ Japanese Vodka, and Kanáde Japanese Liqueur, reflecting the same dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation that have defined Suntory for over a century.

In 2025, Yamazaki® made history at the International Spirits Challenge as the first brand to win Supreme Champion Spirit three years in a row, and in 2024, Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo was named Master Blender of the Year. Furthering this legacy of excellence, the Osaka Spirits & Liqueurs Craft Distillery, home to Roku Gin, Haku Vodka and Kanáde Japanese Liqueur was awarded the 2025 Liqueur Producer Trophy by the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). The House of Suntory will open the Osaka Craft Distillery to the public for the first time in 2026.

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 American whiskeys, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki® and Hibiki®; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequilas and Roku® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Bartender Created 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, and aims to 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. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com

About Chiso Kimono House

Founded in Kyoto in 1555, Chiso is one of Japan’s oldest family-run kimono houses and a leading example of Japanese artistry. Renowned for its mastery of Kyo-Yuzen, a hand-dyeing technique producing garments that resemble hand-painted works of art, Chiso creates meticulously crafted kimonos with precision and elegance.

While rooted in tradition, Chiso engages with contemporary culture through collaborations with artists, designers, and cultural institutions. Its Institute for Chiso Arts and Culture, flagship store, and creative subsidiary ensure the preservation and evolution of its craft.

In 2026, Chiso partners with the House of Suntory’s Hibiki whisky to create a monumental kimono installation and custom piece, uniting two legacies of Japanese artistry through a shared dedication to nature, time, and artistry.