WELCOME, WHISKY CURIOUS

February 27, 2023 – CaskStrength Media/WhiskyCast launches a new mobile social app designed for whisky enthusiasts to enjoy undiluted, cask-strength conversation about all things whisky.

“The app gives whisky lovers a unique social media community dedicated to their love for the “water of life,” said Mark Gillespie, the host and executive producer of WhiskyCast, the award-winning podcast series now in its 18th year.

The app is available now for download on mobile devices in both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. It has already been downloaded by users in 14 different countries, and its launch was announced on WhiskyCast Podcast Episode 993: Club Whisky today.

“Our goal is to change the conversation with this app,” said Christina Philburn, Managing Director of CaskStrength Media. “To commemorate the 1000th episode, we wanted more than an one-time event. We wanted to bring the whisky community together in a collaborative and inclusive way which facilitates conversation.”

In addition to a dynamic discussion feed, whisky enthusiasts will be able to stay informed with the latest whisky news, bottle releases, and analysis while learning about the spirit. The app features multimedia content to expand members’ expertise, including each new episode of WhiskyCast Podcast and WhiskyCast videos. Members will be able to participate in live stream broadcasts on location and in-studio with whisky-makers and industry pros from within the app.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive. We worked with whisky industry professionals, consumers, and media to set policies which govern both conduct and content. It sounds like a small thing, but those community-driven standards make the community sustainable,” said Philburn. “Too often, both brands and consumers equate a ‘like’ to knowledge and follower totals to influence. We think there’s a broader conversation to have with whisky enthusiasts, and that’s what we’ve done for 18 years. Now, we’re building a bigger table.”

WhiskyCast is proud to be trusted and well-respected by both whisky brands and consumers. Recent WhiskyCast awards include: 2023 Spirits Communicator of the Year, International Wine & Spirits Competition; 2021 Whisky Communicator of the Year, Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky Awards; 2020 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award for Best Online Video/Broadcast/Podcast.

For more information, please email Christina Philburn, christina@caskmedia.com

New Lost Lantern Single Cask Collection Highlights the

Evolution of Innovation in American Whiskey

WEYBRIDGE, Vt., February 21, 2022—Lost Lantern, an independent bottler of American whiskey, is pleased to announce the release of their ninth single cask collection since launching in 2020.

The Spring 2023 cohort features four limited-edition single casks—all aged at least 7 years–from three distilleries: Westland Distillery in Washington, Watershed Distillery in Ohio, and Corbin Cash Distillery in California. It is Lost Lantern’s first 2023 release and its first since being named the 2023 Independent Bottler of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Awards America in February.

The new collection demonstrates just how much the world of American whiskey has transformed in recent years. “Distilleries that began experimenting and exploring new ideas a decade or more ago have now proven that those ideas work,” said Lost Lantern founders Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski. “Once, Pacific Northwest single malt, estate-grown rye whiskey, and thriving urban distilleries were just intriguing ideas with a lot of potential. But today, they have become realities, thanks to years of dedicated effort and commitment on the part of the country’s most innovative distilleries. The Spring 2023 Collection is emblematic of the growing maturity of innovation in the American whiskey world.”

The Spring 2023 Single Cask Collection will be available for sale beginning March 1st on LostLanternWhiskey.com, Seelbachs.com, and at select retailers in California and Alberta, Canada. As always, all offerings are released with full transparency, bottled at cask strength, are non-chill-filtered and have natural color.

• Westland Distillery American Single Malt 7 Years Old (215 btls): SRP, $130
• Westland Distillery American Single Malt Finished in a Red Wine Cask 8 Years Old (185 btls): SRP, $140
• Watershed Distillery Ohio Straight Bourbon Whiskey 7 Years Old (65 btls): SRP, $120
• Corbin Cash California Straight Rye Whiskey 7 Years Old (217 btls): SRP, $120

Single casks are an essential piece of the Lost Lantern model, inspired by the long tradition of independent bottlers in Scotland. Since its debut in October 2020, Lost Lantern has released 40 one-of-a-kind single casks from 20 of the finest distilleries in the United States: Santa Fe Spirits (NM), Cedar Ridge (IA), New York Distilling Company (NY), Ironroot Republic (TX), Whiskey Del Bac (AZ), Balcones (TX), Watershed (OH), Boulder Spirits (CO), Spirit Works (CA), St. George Spirits (CA), McCarthy’s (OR), Smooth Ambler (WV), Starlight (IN), Westward (OR), Frey Ranch Distillery (NV), Dad’s Hat (PA), Copperworks Distilling (WA), Breuckelen Distilling (NY), Westland Distillery (WA), and Corbin Cash (CA).

ABOUT LOST LANTERN’S SPRING 2023 SINGLE CASK COLLECTION

Lost Lantern’s single casks show that the best whiskey reflects where it’s made, how it’s made, and who made it, and demonstrate that compelling whiskey comes from across the United States.

2023 Single Cask #1: Westland Distillery American Single Malt 7 Years Old

(215 btls | 105.7 Proof): SRP, $130

Washington-based Westland is a transformative voice in American single malt and a champion behind the emerging terroir of the Pacific Northwest. This release, Lost Lantern’s first from Westland, was distilled from the distillery’s signature 5-malt recipe. Aged for 7 years in a new oak cask, this whiskey is fresh, creamy, warm, and malty, with balanced notes of grain and oak and flavors of rich vanilla and caramel creams.

2023 Single Cask #2: Westland Distillery American Single Malt Finished in a Red Wine Cask 8 Years Old

(185 btls | 107.68 Proof): SRP, $140

Lost Lantern’s second cask from Westland shows a different side of the distillery. Like the first, it is made from Westland’s signature 5-malt recipe. It was aged for 5 years in new oak and then finished for 3 years in a Washington Cabernet Sauvignon wine cask. The finish amplifies the fruity, spicy flavors of the whiskey. Soft and rounded with a lot of spice, it has flavors of black raspberry, soft oak, apple cider donuts, and black cherry ice cream.

2023 Single Cask #3: Watershed Distillery Ohio Straight Bourbon Whiskey 7 Years Old

(65 btls | 132.2 Proof): SRP, $120

Founded in 2010, Watershed is one of the most sought-after and beloved distilleries in the Midwest, thanks to its meticulous production methods, commitment to local ingredients, and innovations with grain. In 2021, Lost Lantern released a 5-year-old five-grain bourbon from Watershed. This cask is its sibling. While the first was bottled right away, Lost Lantern continued to age this one in Vermont. After two years of humid summers and long, cold winters, this is a different whiskey than it was before: even deeper and more nuanced, yet still recognizably Watershed. It has a rich, full oak flavor, with notes of baking spice, vanilla sweetness, and fresh oatmeal raisin cookies. This is the oldest straight bourbon whiskey Lost Lantern has ever released, and one of the only 7-year-old releases to date from Watershed.

2023 Single Cask #4: Corbin Cash California Straight Rye Whiskey 7 Years Old

(217 btls | 128.72 Proof): SRP, $120

The Souza family has been growing sweet potatoes in California’s Central Valley for over 100 years, and they’ve been growing rye for just as long as a cover crop. In 2007, David Souza opened Corbin Cash Distillery, named for his son, and began distilling that rye. Their grain to-glass whiskies reflect the bounty and warmth of one of the world’s great agricultural regions. This release was distilled from 100% estate-grown Merced rye and was aged for 7 years in a heavily charred new oak barrel in the heat of the Central Valley, making this a rye from an uncommonly hot climate. The result is a welcoming and powerful whiskey. It is fresh and minty, with notes of sweet chocolate, delicate oak, and wintergreen. This is Lost Lantern’s oldest rye whiskey to date.

ABOUT LOST LANTERN

Founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is an independent bottler of American whiskey. In 2023, they were named Independent Bottler of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Awards America. The company seeks out the most unique and exciting whiskies being made across the country and releases them as single casks and blends, always with a deep commitment to transparency. Currently, the portfolio consists of American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1, an award-winning blend of American single malt whiskey made in collaboration with six U.S. distilleries, and 40 single casks (10 of which are available now). Lost Lantern debuts new hand-selected whiskies throughout the year and announces one-off limited releases from time-to-time. Subscribe to Lost Lantern’s newsletter to learn about new offerings as they become available. Lost Lantern Whiskey is available for purchase at LostLanternWhiskey.com, at Seelbachs.com, and at select retailers in California and Alberta, Canada.

Engage with Lost Lantern Whiskey on the following channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lostlanternwhiskey

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lostlanternwhiskey

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/LostLanternDram

CHIVAS BROTHERS HY ORGANIC NET SALES +23% AS PORTFOLIO ELEVATION AND PREMIUMISATION STRATEGY CONTINUES TO TAKE EFFECT

Chivas Brothers, the Pernod Ricard business dedicated entirely to Scotch whisky, today announced its half-year (HY23; July 2022 – December 2022) performance with organic net sales up +23% compared to HY22.

This strong performance is due to its strategic focus on portfolio elevation and premiumisation – two-thirds of the +23% growth is driven by price/mix — along with the strength of its global footprint. Its key strategic brands Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet each experienced double-digit growth.

Chivas Brothers’ extensive and balanced global footprint has enabled this growth, with emerging and mature markets growing at +24% and +22% respectively, and expansion across all key regions. Consistent with recent years, performance in Asian and Latin American markets continues to be exceptional, with Korea, Japan and Taiwan up +59%, +53% and +37% respectively, while Brazil, Colombia and Mexico saw increases of +40%, +30% and +21%. In European markets, Spain rose +17% and Poland +7%, and separately North America +6%.

This heightened demand also supports its continued investment in the elevation of the Prestige portfolio (+28%). Specifically, Ballantine’s Prestige range grew +81% owing to increased demand across Asian markets and Global Travel Retail (GTR), while The Glenlivet’s top-line performance was driven by its Prestige expressions.

Chivas Brothers’ Chairman and CEO, Jean-Etienne Gourgues, commented:

“These positive results reflect the impact of our long-term portfolio elevation and premiumisation strategy. It’s a testament to the resilience of Scotch, its bright future and our continued drive to open up the category to new audiences.”

Performance across strategic brands

Chivas Regal

The continued popularity of Chivas 12 and 18, the brand’s emerging and mature market growth balance as well as the release of innovations such as Chivas Extra 13 have contributed to the positive brand performance of +34%.

Ballantine’s

As a result of the very strong pricing and premiumisation strategy, Ballantine’s global sales rose +17%, which was drawn from innovations such as Ballantine’s 7 and American Barrel 10 Year Old, as well as the growth of its Prestige portfolio.

Royal Salute

The globalisation of Royal Salute and its continued diversification has led to increased enthusiasm for the brand, resulting in a +37% sales growth. Key product drivers were the hero 21YO collection, alongside market and channel exclusives. Notably, Royal Salute grew within the key regions of Asia +39% and Americas +38%.

The Glenlivet

The Glenlivet continued to increase its value share with +12% global growth as a result of value strategy and pricing, coupled with the healthy performance of the Prestige range. Asia was its #1 growth contributor by region, with rest of world also accelerating.

Meet The Maker: Phil Cleaver Sits Down With Mark Littler 

Professor Phil Cleaver gives insight into the creation of the Macallan Eight Decades of Sir Peter Blake in an exclusive interview with whisky broker and market analyst, Mark Littler. 

The Macallan Eight Decades of Sir Peter Blake is a piece of art as much as it is a whisky release. Containing one miniature for each decade of Sir Peter Blake’s life at the time of release, the miniature Macallans have vintages ranging from the 1930s until the 2000s. Some of the miniatures contain whisky from The Macallan Fine & Rare Selection.

This legendary artwork is highly sought after by both whisky collectors and art connoisseurs alike due to its association with Sir Peter Blake, a commanding figure in the British pop art scene who worked on iconic pieces such as the cover for The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. 

However, it may surprise you that the idea was not initially conceived to celebrate Sir Blake’s 80th birthday, but that his birthday coincided with the production of the set. And so, Peter Blake, David Holmes, Phil Cleaver, and a whole host of expert typographers, woodworkers, and Macallan whisky makers worked as a team to create one of the most impressive whisky bottlings ever made: a whisky release that is also a Peter Blake original artwork.

This is just one of the interesting revelations about the creation of this piece of art that you can expect from Mark Littler’s new YouTube series.

Whisky broker and whisky market analyst, Mark Littler, sits down with Phil Cleaver, an award-winning designer who played an integral role in creating the Macallan Eight Decades of Sir Peter Blake.

Episode 1 of Meet The Maker is now live on YouTube.

About Mark Littler Limited

Mark Littler is an independent whisky broker, market analyst and consultant with over a decade of experience in the industry. Each week he publishes new videos on his YouTube channel about topics such as cask investment fraud (and how to avoid it), the history of distilleries and bottles, debunking whisky investment myths and much more. For more information visit www.marklittler.com

If you are interested in the Macallan Eight Decades of Sir Peter Blake or would like to chat with one of the team about our services, please get in touch.

Email: whisky@marklittler.com

Telephone: 01260 218 718

The Macallan Distil Your World New York Single Cask Edition Achieves $250,000 at Sotheby’s Auction

Proceeds from the auction to benefit ChaShaMa, a non-profit arts organization based in New York City

On February 10th in Sotheby’s first whisky & whiskey online sale of the year in New York, a specialty lot comprising of an exclusive, limited edition version of The Macallan’s recent release of Distil Your World New York achieved $250,000.

This auction offered collectors the only, rare opportunity to acquire one of two bottles created of Distil Your World New York Single Cask Edition, as the second bottle will be kept in The Macallan archive.

The extraordinary multi-component lot included the Distil Your World New York Single Cask Edition bottle housed in a striking blue presentation box featuring an engraved aerial map of New York, a booklet about the bottle and Distil Your World New York series that is signed by the talent featured in the Distil Your World New York documentary that aired with the release of the original bottle, and a dining experience at El Celler de Can Roca for the lucky collector and three guests.

Proceeds of this sale will benefit ChaShaMa, a non-profit arts organization based in New York City that nurtures artists by transforming unused real estate into affordable work and presentation spaces. Support from The Macallan will benefit small businesses, underserved NYC communities, and the arts in NYC.

Geoff Kirk, Channel Director Secondary Market at The Macallan remarked “We are delighted to continue our long association of partnering with Sotheby’s to present very special releases that raise funds for charitable organizations around the world. The Macallan has a longstanding history celebrating artistry and supporting the arts and we are proud that the funds from this very special release, which pays homage to one of the world’s most iconic cities, will benefit New York City artists through the ChaShaMa charity.”

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Head of Whisky & Spirits, North American and EMEA, said: “Today’s auction marked an exciting start to the year with an exceptional result that nearly tripled the pre-sale estimate for the limited edition release. We are proud to have seen a depth of bidding around the world to benefit New York City artists through the ChaShaMa charity.”

An exceptionally rare and special whisky, this Distil Your World New York Single Cask Edition has been created to take consumers on a sensorial journey through one of the world’s most iconic cities. It is a single cask whisky from a European Oak Sherry Puncheon from 2002 that delivers a quintessential New York flavor note of chocolate covered peanuts, along with a new taste of sweet candy and a hint of cherry blossom. A rare chocolate flavor which has been uncovered from a single cask, each sip takes taste buds and imagination on a journey of discovery, bringing the unique character of the city to life.

Please visit Sothebys.com for the full post-sale results

About The Macallan 

Founded in 1824 on a plateau above the River Spey in north-east Scotland, The Macallan is renowned globally for its incomparable craftsmanship, creativity and innovation with each bottle of single malt whisky revealing its unique mastery of wood and spirit.

Social and environmental sustainability is at the heart of The Macallan, and as part of its commitment to establishing a positive legacy it revealed its award-winning new Distillery in 2018. Designed by internationally acclaimed architects, the building takes inspiration from the surrounding ancient Scottish hills and is located on The Macallan’s beautiful 485-acre Estate. To this day, the single greatest influence on The Macallan’s sought after portfolio of single malts is its sherry seasoned oak casks from which its whiskies derive their distinctive flavours, aromas and natural colour.

Crafted without compromise. Please savour The Macallan responsibly.

About Sotheby’s

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

Sotheby’s Wine’s annual worldwide auction sales of wine and spirits achieved a record total of $150 million in 2022, a 14% increase from 2021. Sotheby’s currently holds the world records for any whisky collection ever sold at auction, any private wine collection ever sold at auction, the most valuable bottle of wine ever sold at auction and the most valuable bottle of spirits ever sold at auction, in addition to the highest ever total for a charity wine auction.

About ChaShaMa

Chashama is a nonprofit organization that transforms unused real estate into spaces for artists, small businesses, and community-centric art classes. Since 1995, Chashama has provided 30,000 artists with space to create, rehearse, and present their work. By transforming unused space, Chashama creates a more equitable, vibrant future for local artists, the neighborhood, and the property owners. Learn more at www.chashama.org.

Jack Daniel’s Launches Season 5 of Around the Barrel Podcast 

Official podcast of Jack Daniel’s enters fifth season with behind-the-scenes conversations with whiskey makers in Lynchburg and friends from the world of whiskey

Lynchburg, Tennessee (February 21, 2023) – Jack Daniel’s today announced the launch of Season 5 of “Around the Barrel,” a podcast featuring in-depth conversations between host Lucas Hendrickson and special guests from the world of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey.

Around the Barrel was first introduced in 2018 to give listeners a behind-the-scenes look into the lives and stories of the people who make the world’s best selling whiskey. Season 5 includes episodes with Master Distiller Chris Fletcher, Assistant Distiller Lexie Phillips and husband Josh Phillips, Jack Daniel Historian Nelson Eddy, whiskey YouTuber Matt Porter of ADHD Whiskey and more.

“Jack Daniel’s is a brand with over 155 years of history and no shortage of stories to tell. With Around the Barrel, we can dive deeper into our storytelling in a format that allows listeners to tune in when and where they want,” said Jamie Butler, Vice President, Global Brand Director for Jack Daniel’s. “The podcast has become one of our best ways to share details on new products, what’s coming down the road and what’s going on at the Jack Daniel Distillery. In short, we bring Lynchburg to our friends all around the world, and we can’t thank them enough for listening in, engaging with us and being part of our special podcast family.”

Season 5 of Around the Barrel with Jack Daniel’s, along with the show’s entire catalog, is available on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible, Google Podcast, and other on-demand audio platforms. For more information and to listen, visit jackdaniels.com/en-us/podcast.

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.

Please Drink Responsibly.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Tour Attendance

Tops 2 Million For First Time Ever

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experiences eclipsed two million in total attendance last year for the first time in its history, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced today.

The 2,135,555 total visits easily shattered its previous record of 1.7 million stops in 2019, a 38% increase. In the last 10 years, the amber adventure has skyrocketed by a phenomenal 370% in attendance.

The KDA created the KBT® in 1999 to give visitors an intimate, educational look behind the state’s most historic distilleries. Total attendance through its 18 participating distilleries last year was 1,397,268.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® launched in 2012 as the first excursion in the country to showcase smaller distilleries. Now featuring 24 distilleries, its total attendance last year was 738,287.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear congratulated the KDA and members of the state’s signature Bourbon and distilling industry on their focus and success.

“It’s incredible to see attendance for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® reach an all-time high in 2022, the same year this signature industry saw record-breaking investments and job growth,” Gov. Beshear said.

“The success of Kentucky’s Bourbon industry isn’t slowing down any time soon, and I am grateful to KDA, the distilleries, our tourism partners and all the amazing Kentuckians who work hard to make this industry so special.”

KDA President Eric Gregory said KBT® and KBTCT experiences are an integral part of local and state tourism efforts. Research shows Bourbon tourists trend younger, spend between $400 and $1,200 on their trip, travel in large groups and stay longer than the average visitor to Kentucky.

More than 70% of visitors are from outside Kentucky, he said, and nearly half have household incomes over $100,000. “This is a home run demographic for local communities, generating valuable revenue and tax dollars while boosting a hospitality industry that’s still recovering from the COVID pandemic.”

Secretary Mike Berry of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet said, “Bourbon is a key driver for tourism in Kentucky, drawing visitors from around the world to our Commonwealth. In a post-pandemic environment, travelers are thirsty for our native spirit and all the exciting opportunities tourism has to offer.

“We celebrate this good news and look forward to welcoming even more guests to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tours.”

Founded in 1880, the KDA is the voice for Bourbon and spirits issues. Its diverse membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are building the next generation of America’s only native spirit.

KBT® members are Bardstown Bourbon Co., Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience and Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown; James B. Beam Distilling Co., Clermont; Wilderness Trail Distillery, Danville; Four Roses and Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg; and Cox’s Creek; Angel’s Envy Distillery, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, Michter’s at Fort Nelson, Old Forester Distilling Co., Stitzel-Weller Distillery, Louisville; Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., Lexington; Maker’s Mark Distillery, Loretto; Green River Distilling Co., Owensboro; Bulleit Distilling Co., Shelbyville; and Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles;

KBTCT™ members are Preservation Distillery and Willett Distillery in Bardstown; Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Crestwood; Boone County Distilling Co., Florence; Whiskey Thief Distilling and Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort; Dueling Grounds Distillery, Franklin; The Bard Distillery in Graham; Casey Jones Distillery, Hopkinsville; Limestone Branch Distillery, Lebanon; Barrel House Distilling Co., Bluegrass Distillers and James E. Pepper Distillery in Lexington; Copper & Kings and Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., Louisville; Second Sight Spirits, Ludlow; The Old Pogue Distillery, Maysville; Log Still Distillery, New Haven; New Riff Distillery, Newport; Hartfield & Co., Paris; MB Roland Distillery, Pembroke; Boundary Oak Distillery, Radcliff; Jeptha Creed Distillery, Shelbyville; and Neeley Family Distillery, Sparta.

Mandy Ryan, Director of the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experiences, said the tremendous growth can be challenging. Most distilleries now require reservations, so booking experiences in advance is crucial.

The KDA recently launched a social media campaign encouraging people to “Book Now, Bourbon Later” due to the rise in Bourbon tourism and a growing demand for authentic, curated and rare experiences,

“We are thrilled to welcome visitors from all over the world to experience our rich history and Southern hospitality,” she said. “But please plan ahead so you can slow down and savor our Bourbon culture and everything Kentucky has to offer. Like we say – the proof is here.”

Bourbon is one of Kentucky’s most treasured industries, a booming $9 billion economic and tourism powerhouse sustaining more than 22,500 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1.23 billion each year, and paying over $285 million in local and state taxes and $1.8 billion in federal alcohol taxes.

A key export, the iconic industry is currently in the middle of a $5.2 billion building boom, from innovative new tourism experiences to expanded production facilities, bottling centers and aging warehouses, all to meet the growing global thirst for Kentucky Bourbon.

Bourbon production has soared more than 475% since the turn of the century.

Kentucky now boasts more than 11.4 million barrels of Bourbon aging in warehouses across the Bluegrass, the most in its revered distilling history. Distillers filled more than 2.6 million barrels last year alone, the fourth year in a row that production topped the 2 million mark.

Visit www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com to learn more.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is a 501(c)(6) non-profit trade association that passionately unites, promotes, protects and elevates the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 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. 

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™, KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME®, ORDER OF THE WRIT®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TALES®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL WELCOME CENTER®, URBAN BOURBON TRAIL® and THE PROOF IS HERE® are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. 

Please enjoy Bourbon like a true Kentuckian – Responsibly

Elijah Craig Partners with Sports Broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner, Adding to Team Elijah Craig

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Elijah Craig Bourbon today announced a new multi-year partnership with sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner. A native Pennsylvanian and whiskey-lover, Amanda’s success both in media and the golf world will now be supported by Elijah Craig as the “Official Bourbon of Amanda Balionis Renner.” Amanda joins Team Elijah Craig alongside PGA Tour Pro Max Homa.

“As a sports broadcaster I’m lucky to cover golf tournaments all over the country and world. One of my favorite things about the game is who I get to enjoy it with—including close friends like Max Homa,” said Amanda. “Our hang outs just got a lot better now that I’m Team Elijah Craig’s newest golf brand ambassador. Max has me beat on the course, but as an avid whiskey fan, I’ve got the edge when it comes to mixing with award-winning Bourbon. I’m looking forward to enjoying Elijah Craig with Max at the 19th Hole and raising a glass with golf fans everywhere!”

Team Elijah Craig embodies the striver mindset, endeavoring to achieve greatness and master their craft. Best known for her work as a sports broadcaster, Amanda conducts interviews on-course with many of the PGA Tour’s biggest stars at high-profile golf tournaments each season. Elijah Craig fans will experience Amanda’s engagement for themselves through integrated marketing campaigns, social media collaboration, and public appearances.

“Amanda Balionis Renner knows that just like fine Bourbon, success doesn’t come overnight. Her grit and determination to achieve her goals make the perfect addition to the Elijah Craig team,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director. “We look forward to celebrating golf’s most historic moments with Amanda and a glass of Elijah Craig.”

The Elijah Craig team and 19th Hole campaign extend the fan experience beyond the course. The annual campaign includes 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 “The Official Bourbon” of PGA Tour Pro Golfer Max Homa and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

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 over $300,000 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.”

RARE DALMORE-50 YEAR OLD-1926 LEADS BONHAMS EDINBURGH WHISKY SALE

Dalmore-50 year old-1926. Estimate: £13,000-18,000

Edinburgh – A bottle of the rare Dalmore-50 year old-1926 in a ceramic decanter and its original wooden presentation case leads Bonhams online-only Fine Whisky & Spirits Sale which runs from Monday 20 February – Wednesday 1 March 2023. It is estimated at £13,000-18,000.

Other highlights of the sale include:

·  A bottle of Mortlach-60 year old-1938. Distilled shortly before the outbreak of World War II and bottled in 1999, this is one of a release limited to 100 bottles. It comes in a crystal decanter and a copper presentation case designed and created by the distillery’s coppersmiths, Forsyth’s of Rothes. Estimate: £12,000-15,000

·  A bottle of The Macallan Fine & Rare-30 year old-1973, bottled in 2003. One of 534 bottles drawn from cask no. 6098, it is estimated at £12,000-14,000.

• A bottle of Macallan-Glenlivet-22 year old. Liqueur Scotch Whisky, 100% Scotch Malt. Bottled by Row & Company Distillers Ltd. Imported by British American Importation Co. Ltd. 4/5 Quart. Single malt, 86 Proof. One of the earliest bottles ever to be released by The Macallan Distillery, it was imported for the US market by the British American Importation Co. Ltd, who at the time were sole importers of The Macallan. Released in the 1940s, and at 22 years of age, this bottle contains spirit distilled by The Macallan during the 1920s – a similar vintage to the legendary Macallan 1926. Estimate: £5,000-6,000. 

• A bottle of Springbank Local Barley-24 year old-1966, bottled in 1990. Estimate: £7,000-9,000. 

• A bottle of The Macallan-1950. Estimate: £5,000-6,000.

• A bottle of The Macallan Anniversary Malt-25 year old-1958/59, bottled in 1985. Estimate: £4,800-5,200. 

Georgia Porteous, Bonhams whisky specialist in Edinburgh, said, “For our first sale of the year we have assembled a wide choice of whiskies at all price ranges. It is led by the very special and much sought-after Dalmore-50 year old-1926, but we are also offering many bottles at entry-level estimates aimed at new collectors.”

Sale: Fine Whisky & SpiritsLocation: Online-only on bonhams.comDate: Monday 20 February – Wednesday 1 March 2023

NOTES

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and collectables, collectors’ cars and a luxury division, which includes jewellery, designer fashion, watches, wine, and whisky. In 2021 and 2022, Bonhams made a number of important acquisitions which form the wider Bonhams network. These include: Bukowskis, Bruun Rasmussen, Bonhams Skinner, Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr and The Market by Bonhams.

There are 14 salerooms around the globe: UK: New Bond Street, London; Knightsbridge, London; Edinburgh. US: New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Marlborough. Hong Kong: Admiralty. France: Avenue Hoche, Paris; Rue de la Paix, Paris. Belgium: Brussels; Denmark: Copenhagen. Sweden: Stockholm and Australia: Sydney.

With a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 22 countries, Bonhams offers advice and valuation services in 60+ specialist areas.

In 2022, Bonhams held a number of important auctions and offered landmark single-owner collections, including the white glove sales of Sir Michael Caine: The Personal Collection, Sir Terence Conran: The Contents of Barton Court, Personal Property of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and The Robert & Jean-Pierre Rousset Collection of Asian Art: A Century of Collecting. Other notable single-owner sales included Style and Substance: The Collection of George and Charlotte Shultz and The Claude de Marteau Collection.

Top lots for 2022 included a 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder (Sold for US$4,185,000), a pair of blue and white octagonal candlesticks (Sold for HK$30,453,00/ US$3,911,913), La femme en rouge au fond bleu by Chaïm Soutine (Sold for £1,842,300/ US$2,236,940), and a rare emerald and diamond Cartier bracelet (Sold for US$3,240,375).

More information and highlights can be found HERE

For a full list of forthcoming auctions, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com

The Bonhams Network

Bukowskis

Established in 1870, Bukowskis offers fine art and collectables from its saleroom in Stockholm as well as online. In 2021, it sold 11 of the 15 most valuable artworks in the Swedish market – achieving the highest price for a Swedish artwork ever sold at auction – while their innovative digital presence attracts more than one million users every month.

Bruun Rasmussen

From its Copenhagen saleroom and online, Bruun Rasmussen sells more than 75,000 lots each year across categories from furniture, paintings and modern design to silver, wine and collector’s items such as books, arms and armour, stamps and coins.

Bonhams Skinner

Renowned New England auction house Bonhams Skinner holds some 80 auctions a year in 20 collecting categories – including Americana, fine art, collectables and wine, and ranging from fine violins to contemporary paintings – at its salerooms in Boston and Marlborough, Massachusetts, as well as on its highly effective digital platform for online sales.

Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr

Established in 1973, Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr is famous throughout the auction world for its high-profile single-owner sales. With salerooms in Paris and Brussels, it holds auctions in more than a dozen categories, including fine art, haute couture, Asian art, collectable cars, jewellery, watches and more.

The Market by Bonhams

The Market by Bonhams is the record-setting and fastest-growing online marketplace for classic and collectable cars auctions in the UK, Europe and the United States. Combining traditional auction practices with an innovative, exciting digital platform, they offer a five-star service, no buyer’s fees and the lowest seller’s commission in the industry.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY DEDICATES NEW STILLHOUSE AND UNVEILS EXPANDED TOURS

New Still will Double Whiskey Production and be part of Hard Hat Tour

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Feb. 9, 2023) – Whiskey making will be at an all-time high at Buffalo Trace Distillery now that its new still house has officially been commissioned.  The new still stands 40 feet tall and can produce 60,000 gallons a day.  It is a duplicate of Buffalo Trace’s existing still, allowing the Distillery to double production on fan favorites such as Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Weller, Blanton’s, E.H. Taylor Jr., and the rest of the whiskies in its portfolio.

“We are really looking forward to starting up our new still so we can make more bourbon whiskey for our fans,” said Harlen Wheatley, master distiller.  “The new stillhouse is adjacent to the existing stillhouse.  We put a lot of work into matching our existing still to ensure the whiskey we produce remains consistent.  We will be in full production with both stills in the coming days.”

Fans will be able to see the new stillhouse up close when they take Buffalo Trace’s new Hard Hat tour, expanded with a new tour route and new sites.  The Hard Hat tour has always been a “must see” when visiting Buffalo Trace, but due to the Distillery’s on-going construction of the still house and other key elements of the tour, it has been unavailable since 2019.  Now guests will not only get to see the new still house, but some of Buffalo Trace’s other additions as part of its $1.2 billion expansion, including its new awe-inspiring cookers, which span three floors at 22 feet tall, peek inside the Distillery’s 93,000 gallon fermenters, and explore the new dry house, which can produce 12,000 pounds of dried grain per hour. The new Hard Hat tour will last approximately 90 minutes and includes a tasting after the tour. There is no charge for the tour or tasting.

Buffalo Trace’s Trace Tour, long the stalwart of bourbon tour offerings, has also been expanded, and will include more insight into the bourbon process and production through a mix of technology and new tour stops in the barrel filling and dumping areas.  The Trace Tour and Hard Hat Tour join Buffalo Trace’s Old Taylor Tour.  All tours and tastings are complimentary and start and end in Buffalo Trace’s Visitor Center, which was expanded in 2020 and now encompasses 33,000 square feet total, which has come in handy as Buffalo Trace welcomed 470,507 guests in 2022 to its Distillery!

“We are so excited to welcome new and repeat guests to come see our new stillhouse and experience our new tour offerings, said Tyler Adams, general manager, homeplace.  “The major expansion projects are now complete, so we have lots of new areas visitors can see on both our Hard Hat Tour and our expanded Trace Tour.  Plus, we’re really looking forward to having more bourbon for our thirsty fans in a few years, now that we’re doubling production.”

Guests who would like to visit Buffalo Trace are encouraged to visit its FAQ page on its website to learn about its product offerings for tasting and purchasing, recommendations on tour companies, and other tips and tricks.  Tour reservations are recommended and can be made here. Reservations for each of the tours, including the newly expanded Trace and Hard Hat Tours, are currently being accepted through March.  Visitors interested in any tour should join the waitlist on the reservation site if they do not see availability.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, 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 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 35 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 2^nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022.   Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.