Cask Trade Named Among UK’s Most Innovative New Businesses

Cask Trade listed in the prestigious Startups 100 Index

Startups 100 Index has previously identified brands including Monzo, Deliveroo and HelloFresh

Index finds the top 100 start-ups with the most growth potential for the year ahead

The UK’s longest running index of disruptive new start-ups, the Startups 100, has released its 2024 line-up and Cask Trade has made the list.

Run by the UK’s most established website for entrepreneurs, Startups.co.uk, the Startups 100 offers a showcase of new businesses that demonstrate innovation, solid financials, opportunity in their market, a great concept, and a strong customer base or following. The list has previously identified brands including Monzo, Deliveroo and HelloFresh.

Founded in 2018, Cask Trade is run by passionate spirits industry professionals. Built upon honesty and transparency, we created an open cask marketplace where the end goal of selling casks is as important as buying them. The foundation of this is a trusted relationship with collectors, investors, and independent bottlers within the industry. We are proud in our belief that by owning all the casks we sell, customers have 100% transactional guarantee.

In five years Cask trade has successfully grown to become a Sunday Times Top 100 Business in Britain for 2023. Offices in the UK and Hong Kong, alongside agents in Australia, Singapore, India, and the USA, allow us to cater for a diverse range of customer needs. As a result, we have sold approximately 9000 casks to over 1800 private customers and around 150 independent bottlers spanning six continents.

The casks we have sold cover 50 years’ worth of age statements from 1973 to 2023, with an astonishing 170 distilleries represented across the world of whisky and other spirits.

Managing Editor of Startups.co.uk, Richard Parris, comments: “The ingenuity and innovation of the brands featuring in our annual Startups 100 index never ceases to amaze, and this year is no exception. Despite the crises of the past couple of years, we’ve seen some incredible businesses from every corner of the UK in our rankings. They may be tackling different challenges to one another, but there’s a shared mood of opportunity and an optimism for the year ahead that’s invigorating to see as we begin 2024.”

Commenting on the achievement, Simon Aron, founder and CEO of Cask Trade says: “This is truly a pleasant and unexpected achievement to be 24 out of 100 start-ups, alongside so many fantastic companies. I’ve had the pleasure of turning my personal passion into a fast growing business, with success down to the hard work and dedication from co-directors and our fabulous team.”

About the Index:
The Startups 100, run by Startups.co.uk, showcases the top 100 new UK businesses based on five key areas of analysis: finance, external validation, size of opportunity, innovativeness of idea and strength of concept.

As well as celebrating the best small businesses in the UK, the list is also an opportunity to grow a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and business owners who support and advocate for each other.

Notes to editors:
To feature, all businesses in the index had to have launched in the last 5 years, be UK-based, and be privately owned (at the time of entering). The winners of the Startups 100 Index are chosen by a specialist panel of judges.

For the full list visit: https://startups.co.uk/startups-100/2024/list-in-full/

CHRIS STAPLETON AND BUFFALO TRACE MASTER DISTILLER HARLEN WHEATLEY UNVEIL TRAVELLER WHISKEY

A first-of-its-kind collaboration from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Traveller is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and a shared commitment to uncompromising quality

FRANKFORT, FRANKLIN COUNTY, KY (Jan. 8, 2024) – Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and musician Chris Stapleton today unveiled Traveller Whiskey, a new, premium blended whiskey that represents a first-of-its-kind collaboration of collective artistry. Proudly blended and bottled at the World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery under Wheatley’s expert supervision, Traveller is the result of countless hours of testing, tasting and dedication to craftsmanship that have produced powerful songs and world-class whiskeys.

Of the collaboration, Stapleton shared, “Partnering with Buffalo Trace Distillery and Harlen Wheatley feels like a bucket list scenario for me. Some things just make total sense – and this is definitely one of those things. Bottles from barrels that Harlen has cared for have been with us for every note we’ve ever recorded, backstage before shows and in all the moments we’ve celebrated along the way. I believe what we’ve achieved with Traveller Whiskey not only represents our shared history but also a common artistic vision and uncompromising standards of taste. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve made.”

Wheatley added: “When making art –  and we really do think that both Chris’ music and the whiskey we make at Buffalo Trace is art – you experiment, test, adjust, and don’t give up until you’ve got it right. That’s why we experimented with more than 50 blends before agreeing that Blend No. 40 would be it for Traveller.”

Bottled at 90 proof, Traveller Whiskey is characterized by notes of oak, sweet maple, tart currant and leather. Complex aromas of vanilla, aged fruit and buttery shortbread are rounded off by caramel and a touch of oak. The flavor profile also showcases a touch of sweetness, followed by spice, toasted nut and oak flavors, closing with a robust finish. Traveller is a completely unique combination of whiskeys hand-selected from The Sazerac Company’s award-winning distilleries.

“This is a whiskey for everyone, whether you’ve been enjoying all the variety in the category for years or are just now discovering it. Traveller stands up on its own as a smooth and sippable whiskey or works great in a cocktail, if that’s more your style,” said Wheatley. “But especially if you’ve tried whiskey before and been turned away by the burn – we think you’ll take one sip of this and think to yourself, “OK, now this I can do.”

Born in Lexington, KY, just down the road from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Stapleton’s relationship with Buffalo Trace matured while he recorded his first studio album, Traveller. It was during those recording sessions that he was first introduced to E.H. Taylor, one of the Distillery’s other whiskey offerings, which soon became a staple on his home bar. Since then, Buffalo Trace has collaborated with Chris and Morgane Stapleton’s charitable fund, Outlaw State of Kind, for multiple fundraising initiatives.

Traveller Whiskey has been widely released to retailers, bars and restaurants nationwide as of January 1, 2024 at a suggested retail price of $39.99 (local taxes and fees will vary).

To learn more, visit www.travellerwhiskey.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 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 and is a National Historic Landmark as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 40 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskeys. Buffalo Trace Distillery also 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.

About Chris Stapleton

Kentucky-born Chris Stapleton is an 8x Grammy, 15x CMA and 10x ACM Award-winner and one of the country’s most respected and beloved musicians. In the midst of yet another triumphant year, Stapleton is nominated for three awards at the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards: Best Country Solo Performance (“White Horse”), Best Country Song (“White Horse”) and Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“We Don’t Fight Anymore” with Carly Pearce). The nominations follow Stapleton’s new album, Higher, which was recently released to overwhelming critical acclaim. Produced by Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton and Chris Stapleton and recorded at Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A, the record has landed on several “Best of 2023” lists so far including Billboard, Esquire, Los Angeles Times, Vulture and Rolling Stone, who praises, “dazzling…the best evidence yet for the way one man’s voice has become synonymous with the very idea of a musical genre.” Additionally, The New Yorker declares, “Stapleton is the rare country star with both traditional bona fides and broad commercial appeal. He has an outlaw soul and a pop star’s capacity for inescapable hooks,” while GQ proclaims, “In an age rife with division, he’s maybe the only thing Americans all agree on.” Known for his electric live performances, Stapleton will continue his “All-American Road Show” tour this year and will also join George Strait for select stadium shows this summer with special guests Little Big Town. In addition to his work as a musician, Stapleton and his wife, Morgane, are also founders of the Outlaw State of Kind charitable fund, which supports a variety of causes that are close to their heart.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Welcomes Heaven’s Door Distillery
as Newest Craft Member

Bourbon Distillery From Bob Dylan Sure To Be A Hit

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Heaven’s Door Distillery in Henry County as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Heaven’s Door is a collection of handcrafted Bourbon and American whiskeys co-created in 2018 with the legendary Bob Dylan, one of the greatest singer-songwriters ever. The picturesque distillery, located in Pleasureville, plans to open to the public in Spring of 2024.

The unique bespoke iron gates showcased on bottles of Heaven’s Door were created by Dylan at his metalworking shop, Black Buffalo Ironworks. The fascinating gates are made of found objects collected from farms and scrap yards across America.

“Heaven’s Door is proud to join the KDA and collaborate among the best distillers in the world,” said Emily McGee, the distillery’s Director of Business Development. “We look forward to gaining the knowledge, exposure and experience that the KDA offers its members.”

KDA President Eric Gregory said Heaven’s Door will be an immediate tourism draw thanks to its association with Dylan and its remarkable natural beauty over 160 acres of rolling hills.

“It has been exciting to watch this project quietly unfold over the last few years,” Gregory said. “Pairing Bob Dylan’s artistic genius with Kentucky’s iconic spirit makes for a can’t miss experience that will bring tourists and fans from across the world to the birthplace of Bourbon.”

Gregory also thanked Henry County officials for welcoming and working with the distillery, which will create more than 50 jobs, source grains from local farms, and help drive economic growth and other tourism opportunities.

Led by noted Master Distiller Ken Pierce, the distillery will features two separate stillhouses, each in its own towering western horse barn, a visitor’s center with tasting rooms and lounges overlooking Six Mile Creek, an 18th-century grist mill, two 18th-century cabins and a Moravian barn, all of which have been painstakingly restored.

Heaven’s Door is dedicated to sustainable practices, utilizing an underground aquifer to access Kentucky’s pure limestone water for its distilling and geothermal heating and cooling of its buildings. It also supplies protein-rich stillage as feed for cattle on surrounding farms.

Additionally, Heaven’s Door was just recognized as one of only five distilleries in Kentucky to be the first to earn an EPA ENERGY STAR RATING. This means they use less energy and contribute to less greenhouse emissions than traditional distilleries.

Its brands include Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Revelation Double Barrel Whiskey, Refuge Straight Rye Whiskey, Revival Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Decade Series Limited Release Whiskey and Bootleg Series Limited Release Whiskey.

Learn more at https://www.heavensdoor.com.

Heaven’s Door Distillery joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year. The KDA now has more than 60 member distilleries, the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition. Heaven’s Door is a collection of handcrafted Bourbon and American whiskeys co-created in 2018 with the legendary Bob Dylan, one of the greatest singer-songwriters ever. The picturesque distillery, located in Pleasureville, plans to open to the public in Spring of 2024.

Learn more at www.kybourbon.com.

Gregory said, “As a longtime fan of Bob Dylan’s songs, poetry and art – and now his whiskey – I am excited and honored to welcome Heaven’s Door to our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 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 landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. 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.

Two Heaven Hill Brands Facilities Recognized as EPA’s First-Ever ENERGY STAR Certified Distilleries

Heaven Hill’s historic Bernheim Distillery and Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery honored with distinction for superior energy performance.

BARDSTOWN, Ky (November 20, 2023) – Heaven Hill Brands is excited to announce two company facilities received the EPA’s first-ever ENERGY STAR certification for distilleries in recognition of superior energy efficiency and performance. According to the EPA, distilleries which earn the ENERGY STAR use significantly less energy and contribute fewer greenhouse gas emissions than their peers. The company’s historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Ky. has been the lifeblood of Heaven Hill’s whiskey operations since it was acquired in 1999. Also receiving recognition is the company’s Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery in Buda, Texas.

“Heaven Hill has always strived to be a good steward of the natural resources used to create our products,” said Rachel Nally, Heaven Hill Brands Director of Environment & Sustainability. “Cultivating sustainable and thriving communities is important for our employees, our partners, and our neighbors. Heaven Hill’s energy efficiency programs improve community resilience by reducing emissions and lessening the load on the area’s energy infrastructure. We are honored to receive this certification from the EPA as it recognizes our commitment to innovation in utilizing energy and responsibly using all the natural resources that support our business.”

Distilleries recognized by the EPA earned a score of 75 or higher using the ENERGY STAR’s Energy Performance Indicator (EPI) which facilities can use to benchmark their performance on a scale of 1-100.  Heaven Hill has implemented a variety of projects over recent years, including completion of multiple boiler efficiency and insulation projects to reduce energy needs, replacement of light fixtures with more efficient LED bulbs, and tree plantings around its facilities in order to reach goals identified in the company’s larger environmental and sustainability strategy. Put into place in 2021, the strategy focuses on reaching the following significant milestones by 2030:

• Drive toward zero carbon emissions by reducing carbon emissions from operations by 30%
• Use water more efficiently by improving water use efficiency by 15%
• Reduce waste by eliminating 10% of waste generated by operations, reducing virgin plastic in bottles by 50%, and working towards zero waste visitor experiences
• Conserve the ecosystems that support the business by sponsoring planting of 5,000 trees of substantial size in local communities, supporting sustainable white oak supply, and supporting sustainable agriculture

Over the course of the next decade, both corporate and branded initiatives will continue to be announced to support these goals as the long-term vision takes shape. To learn more about Heaven Hill’s environmental sustainability efforts, visit this link.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (http://www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the newly-acquired Samson & Surrey portfolio.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association

Welcomes Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company as Newest Craft Member

Veteran-Owned Company Relies on Core Values and Local Bourbon Heritage to Create Jobs and Expand Tourism

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company in Anderson County is the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company was founded by veteran Greg Keeley, who said he relies on two things as he and his wife, Katie, grow their business: their core Navy values and Anderson County’s Bourbon heritage.

“Our team is a wonderful collaboration of experienced industry hands and others with a love of Bourbon and extraordinary skills,” Greg Keeley said. “As we grow, our commitment is to ensure 50% of our crew are those who have served, first responders and nursing professionals.”

Born in Australia, Greg Keeley is a retired service-disabled Navy Combat Veteran who was commissioned in both the U.S. Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, serving in combat roles in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pacific and Middle East area operations. Katie Keeley is a reserve officer.

He said LBC is certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Combat Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, the only distillery in the U.S. so accredited.

Located at 1319 Versailles Road in Lawrenceburg, the new LBC campus includes a distillery, tasting room, gift shop, tours, private barrel room, private cask selections and a Bourbon and cocktail bar.

KDA President Eric Gregory thanked the Keeleys for their service to our country and said, “LBC is more than just Bourbon. They have a mission to serve others and because of that mission, they are going to make a difference for so many Kentuckians.”

“When people like the team at LBC decide to join our Kentucky Bourbon family, they instantly see that the desire to serve and help is reciprocal. Our industry stands strong because we never stop helping each other. We’re proud and honored to welcome them to the KDA.”

Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company produces several Kentucky Bourbon and Rye whiskies, including One Cask Bourbon, Very Small Batch Bourbon, One Cask Rye, Ten X Ten Rye, High Wheat Rye, Empirical Series and Bourbon Cream.

Learn more at https://lawrenceburgbourbon.com.

Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year. The KDA now has more than 60 member distilleries, the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition.

“I am astonished everyday by the generosity of folks in the Bourbon industry,” Greg Keeley said.

“It has made a tremendous impact on how we operate. One piece of advice that was proffered over and over – join the KDA. The team at LBC have already benefited from heeding that recommendation.”

 Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 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 landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. 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.

 Spiritory launches world’s first Live-marketplace App for Whisky Enthusiasts and Collectors.

− Spiritory, the first live marketplace for Whisky, allows users to discover, manage, buy, and sell on any device. Whether smartphone, tablet, or desktop.

− The app version brings the innovative simplicity and transparency of the Spiritory website to the app, fulfilling one of the biggest customer requests.

− The website has been completely revamped with a new design and a variety of new functions and inspiration options.

Munich: Spiritory is expanding its offering: customers can now discover, manage, buy, and sell the worlds sought-after whiskies and spirits via the app. Spiritory is fulfilling one of its customers’ greatest wishes and bringing its simple and transparent platform to all devices. Also Spiritory.com gets and extensive update, including many new functions and an overhauled design.

“Spiritory is the first marketplace to launch with a focus on easy-trading, time savings and real-time market prices and has inspired thousands of users in Germany already,” Janis Wilczura, co-founder of Spiritory says. “We are now expanding our offering and showing how easy whisky-trading can be, from the palm of your hands. We are giving even more collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to manage their collection and buy and sell within seconds.”

Over 20,000 whiskies and spirits can be traded on Spiritory and by using a unique stock-market-like model, whisky trading is now easier than ever before. Another new feature are notifications, which allows users to keep up to date at any time. While there wasn’t much to discover on the previous website, the app and new website now offers countless opportunities to get inspired or inspire others. Registering is made easy, as users only need an e-mail address.

Discover the world of whisky at any time and from any device. The Spiritory app is now available for iOS in the App Store or for Android in the Google Play Store.

The Kentucky State of Bourbon: Steady Growth, Record Taxes

Distillers See Stable Growth Yet Face Record Production Costs & Highest-Ever Barrel Tax Burden As Inflation Roars

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that the number of newly filled barrels of Bourbon in Kentucky continued a steady growth of 3% last year, but distillers are now paying four times as much in barrel taxes than they have aging barrels.

Despite a new milestone of 12.6 million barrels of aging Bourbon, companies remain held back by historically high production costs from inflation that caused barrel taxes to skyrocket to more than $50 million this year, a record 30% increase over the previous year.

With double-digit cost increases in Bourbon inputs like grain, cooperage and labor, barrel taxes have more than doubled in the last five years, soaring 122%. Since 2010, barrel taxes have thundered 316% and continue to escalate at a rapid and untenable pace.

Bourbon industry leaders and advocates are emphasizing that this year’s unprecedented barrel valuation of $6.7 billion and resulting barrel taxes are the exact reason the compromise House Bill 5 was so important in the legislative session.

“Last session, Kentucky’s family of distillers argued that disaster was coming for the home-grown industry if elected officials didn’t do something to reign in the ever-growing discriminatory barrel tax,” said KDA President Eric Gregory.

“Thankfully, the Governor and our champions in the General Assembly saw where this was headed and found a sensible compromise to fix the barrel tax while protecting schools and local communities,” he said.

“This year’s barrel report – and the resulting massive barrel tax liability – prove their work was necessary and sets the Bourbon industry on a path to sustainability in Kentucky instead of across our border.”

The bipartisan House Bill 5 compromise signed into law earlier this year phases out the barrel tax over 20 years while protecting funds for schools, fire departments and EMS districts, and gives local governments plenty of time to plan and diversify their tax base.

“Everyone recognized the astonishing tax liability distillers are facing is unsustainable and would be for any business,” said Ashli Watts, President and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. “Without our signature industries like Bourbon, Kentucky will lose.”

“We applaud our elected officials in Frankfort who have embarked on a winning strategy to set Kentucky up for the future. From record economic development to tax reform to rethinking how we retain businesses and employees, they are doing the hard work – including last year’s bipartisan House Bill 5 compromise – to strengthen Kentucky for generations to come.”

The new numbers are based on inventories reported as of Jan. 1, 2023, submitted to the Kentucky Department of Revenue for tax purposes and includes all distilling companies in Kentucky, the vast majority of which are KDA member distilleries.

Total new production increased slightly to 2.7 million barrels, the fifth year in a row that distillers have filled more than 2 million. Total inventory, when counting Bourbon and other spirits like brandy, was 13.3 million barrels, also a record. Total barrel taxes were $50.2 million.

“Bourbon is a manufacturing powerhouse every state would love to recruit,” said Frank Jemley, President and CEO of the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. “We were losing that competition as distillers faced massive increases in the barrel tax, unique to Kentucky, year after year.

“This year’s numbers are more of the same – steady production growth met with an immense barrel tax liability. But now, with a plan in place to phase out the tax, distillers are looking far into the future right here in Kentucky rather than elsewhere.

“That means more jobs and investment for our Commonwealth, and we’re grateful to the leaders in Frankfort who got it done,” added Jemley.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 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 landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. 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

(L-R: Edward Odim, George McNeil, Becca Smith)

ACEO APPOINTS INAUGURAL CEO TO SPEARHEAD GROWTH

Aceo Limited, a leading  independent whisky bottler and provider of cask whisky management services, has announced a new chapter in its journey, with a major new appointment. Founder and Managing Director, Edward Odim, is transitioning to Chairman, paving the way for one of Scotland’s leading luxury brand directors, George McNeil, to become its inaugural Chief Executive Officer.

Headquartered in Edinburgh, for 25 years Aceo has been steadily building its business centred around cask whisky services as well as its own spirit brands which includes flagship Murray McDavid range of premium Scotch whisky. The company has several whisky maturation warehouses in Speyside, including 40,000 casks at Royal Brackla Distillery. Aceo is also reviving the historic Dallas Dhu Distillery in Speyside, with plans to return whisky production to the site and develop a state-of-the-art visitor attraction that honours its Victorian heritage.

Edward Odim, who has been at the helm of Aceo since its inception, has been instrumental in establishing the company’s reputation for whisky and its strong spirit brands, said:

“I am very pleased to welcome George McNeil as our new CEO. His proven track record in Scottish luxury brands and sales will help steer Aceo into an ambitious future, turbocharging a new era of growth focusing on premiumisation of our brands. With George as CEO, this is the perfect time for me to step into the Chairman role, focusing on strategic oversight and leading our Dallas Dhu Distillery project, whilst George helps to drive forward our brands and their sales.”

George McNeil brings innovative leadership skills and a wealth of luxury brand experience to his new role. For the last 17 years, he has been the Managing Director of the Retail Division at world -renowned heritage cashmere brand Johnstons of Elgin. In this role as part of the Senior Management Team, he helped double turnover to £100m with luxury retail flagship store openings in locations from London to Edinburgh.  George also chaired the internal Sustainability Group, which supported the delivery of Johnstons of Elgin becoming a B Corp. His passion for whisky showcased in his recent role as the Chairman of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, positions him perfectly to lead Aceo in the next chapter of its history.

Commenting on his new role, Mr McNeil said:

“After 17 wonderful years at world-renowned luxury Speyside textiles company Johnstons of Elgin, I am looking forward to this next chapter where I can combine my experience of retail, sustainable Scottish luxury and importantly, whisky, to build on Aceo’s record and develop the premiumisation and global reach of their expansive portfolio alongside their team. I can’t think of a better way to start 2025.”

ABOUT ACEO

Aceo Limited has been in the Scotch whisky industry for 25 years and has built its own successful spirit brands which are sold around the world – including the award-winning and well-established Murray McDavid whisky. Aceo provides a wide range of B2B services including bottling, label design, cask storage and management, logistics and exports. Aceo has its HQ near Edinburgh but also has strong and longstanding ties with Scotland’s whisky production capital, Speyside. In addition to its whisky maturation warehouses at Kinloss, Coleburn and Royal Brackla (together holding approximately 70,000 casks), Aceo has a Craft Bottling Hall at Dandaleith near Craigellachie.  Aceo is reviving the historic Dallas Dhu Distillery in Speyside, originally built in 1898 and closed since 1983, with plans to return whisky production to the site and develop a state-of-the-art visitor attraction that honours its Victorian heritage.

Aceo is transforming the historic Old Bank in Forres, Moray, into a vibrant whisky hub featuring a bar, restaurant, whisky shop and tasting rooms. Other assets in Speyside include; Dallas Dhu House in Forres, Parkmore Distillery Manager’s House in Dufftown, an old stone-ruined Bothy in the Glenrinnes hills and Tide’s Edge Cottage and Beach Huts in Findhorn.

• Aceo also owns  The Murray McDavid Boat a 60ft traditional ex-pilot wooden boat on the River Clyde in Glasgow which hosts whisky tastings and events
• Click here for more information about Murray McDavid and ULTRA: Masterpieces of Time launch video here.
• Click here for more information on Dallas Dhu Distillery Project

For more information on Aceo Limited visit https://www.aceo.co.uk

Aceo Spirits: X, Facebook, LinkedIn Instagram,

Murray McDavid: X, Facebook, LinkedIn Instagram.

Elijah Craig Returning as ‘Official Bourbon’ of 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy to feature signature cocktails and engaging consumer activations.

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Elijah Craig Bourbon is proud to return as the “Official Bourbon” of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. One of the fastest growing spirits in the U.S., Elijah Craig has gained a loyal following for its award-winning family of Bourbons and American Whiskeys. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has been designated a PGA TOUR Signature Event in 2024. The result is a reimagined tournament and an unbeatable fan experience, with a central focus on the top players from the TOUR competing at Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill.

As the Official Bourbon partner, Elijah Craig will activate on the Triangle Plaza in the heart of Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of two Monterey Peninsula golf courses making up the tournament grounds. At the Triangle’s “Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy,” spectators can taste the distinctive warm spice & smooth flavor of Elijah Craig Small Batch, enjoy hand-crafted signature cocktails, and engage in photo opportunities after signing their name on an interactive signature wall. Throughout the course at general concessions, fans can also find Elijah Craig featured in the Elijah Craig Signature Old Fashioned. Offsite, consumers in the area will find displays and engagement opportunities at retail and bar locations promoting Elijah Craig’s exclusive sponsorship. Elijah Craig will further support the partnership with an investment in digital advertising and across social media channels.

“Team Elijah Craig embodies the striver mindset of those endeavoring to achieve greatness and master their craft whether that is in the boardroom or the golf course,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director. “Players participating in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament are the best in their field and we look forward to celebrating their greatness at this PGA TOUR Signature Event.”

One of the most exciting events on the PGA TOUR, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is contested annually in front of thousands of spectators and millions of television viewers and features a mix of professional golfers and amateurs. The tournament and host organization, the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, is proud to share that the Foundation donated nearly $18 million to over 200 nonprofits in the Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties during their last fiscal year.

Monterey Peninsula Foundation CEO and Tournament Director, Steve John, added “We’re thrilled Elijah Craig is returning to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Fans and spectators will once again be able to enjoy watching the best names in golf with the best name in Bourbon. We’re grateful for the Elijah Craig partnership and will cheers to another successful year together this week at venues throughout the course.”

With golf consumers twice as likely to drink Bourbon compared to the average consumer, the Elijah Craig Bourbon partnership with AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am offers a strong fit for the brand as it continues to cement its name in the world of golf through the 19^th Hole Campaign. The campaign extends the fan experience beyond the course including premium media placements in golf publications, digital and social media, consumer contests, and in-store displays rounding out the 360-degree program. The brand also is proud to be named Official Bourbon of the PGA of America, PGA Championship, Women’s KPMG PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup as well as “The Official Bourbon” of PGA TOUR Pro Golfer Max Homa and Sports Broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner.  

ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Elijah Craig Bourbon bears the name of the Reverend Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” who established his distillery in 1789 on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in modern-day Georgetown, Kentucky. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Today, Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of more than $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

Kentucky Distillers’ Association

Welcomes Buzzard’s Roost

as Newest Craft Member

Micro Distillery Brings A Mix of Tradition and Innovation to Louisville’s Booming Bourbon Community

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) today announced Buzzard’s Roost Spirits as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Buzzard’s Roost Spirits, established by co-founders Judith Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner, as a contract distilled brand now is also a micro distillery nestled on Whisky Row in downtown Louisville.

“Building our business on the esteemed Whiskey Row in Louisville was a dream come true for us and we are so excited to now be able to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association,” said co-founder, Judith Hollis Jones.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of fellow distillers. That’s what is so special about this work, the Bourbon community and the impact we can have on the wider community when we attract tourism and grow our business.”

Jones and Brauner, both native Kentuckians and Bourbon lovers, met doing barrel picks for independent ventures – Brauner’s Bourbon’s Bistro and Judy’s consultancy focused on client gifts.

Jason had been steeped in the bourbon community for almost 20 years ,with a culinary background, had returned to Kentucky and was looking for an entrepreneurial venture. Together they decided it was time to step into building a bourbon brand.

“We researched all aspects of the industry for a little more than two years to ensure we could start with knowledge,” said Jones.

“We have grown our brand by acquisition of aged whiskey from MGP and others and are preparing for the future with new make produced by Bardstown Bourbon Company and Green River Distillery.”

“From the beginning, the makers at Buzzard’s Roost embraced the traditions that make Kentucky Bourbon such a powerhouse. Working alongside other distillers, they found a new way to share the spirit we love so much,” said Eric Gregory, President of KDA.

“When new members join, we help them explore the future, and I am confident Buzzard’s Roost will be a part of Louisville’s Bourbon community for years to come, bringing new jobs and tourism to the state’s largest city.”

Buzzards Roost joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year.

The KDA now has more than 60 member distilleries, the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition.

Buzzard’s Roost produces Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Strength Bourbon, Buzzard’s Roost Toasted American Oak Bourbon, Buzzard’s Roost Char # 1 Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon for private selection, RYE, Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Strength Rye, Buzzard’s Roost Toasted Barrel Rye and Buzzard’s Roost Char #1 Rye.

Learn more at https://www.buzzardsroostwhiskey.com

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 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 landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. 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.