Hard Truth’s Maple Bourbon Cream 

‘Neat’ Treats for Fall & Holiday Seasons

Nashville, IN – The folks at Hard Truth Distilling Co. have the perfect flavors to sip for the fall and holiday seasons. Its Maple Bourbon Cream invokes maple candy, toasted pecan, sweet cream and oak notes to those seeking a delicious drink while warming up next to a fire.

While the test of a great spirit is how it tastes on its own—and that’s where Hard Truth’s Maple Bourbon Cream really delivers—the fall and holiday seasons spark some delicious and creative cocktail recipes for both brands.

Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream

“I know mixologists, professional and amateur alike, will have fun with Maple Bourbon Cream,” says Bryan Smith, Hard Truth Distilling Co. Master Distiller. “But I encourage everyone to start out drinking it neat or over ice to really understand and appreciate it because there is a lot going on in that bottle.”

Smith said his team spent many months finding the perfect balance points and complexity among Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream’s elements — the bold depth of the straight bourbon whiskey, the richness of natural, fresh dairy cream, and the familiar, sweet indulgence of pure maple syrup.

Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream’s aroma and taste profile sound like something off a dessert menu (for adults, of course). Take a sip and taste a beautifully complex combination of luscious cream, sweet maple, bold bourbon, brown sugar, marshmallow, and pecan—with a finish that is rich and creamy with notes of toffee and nougat, plus warm bourbon and maple.

Smith said his team’s own personal tastes were not the only factor that drove the development of Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream. Research indicated that, since 2021, food trends have been leaning heavily toward comfort and simplicity. Givaudan, a Swiss multinational manufacturer of flavors, reported in their proprietary Mood & Emotions research that consumers associate maple with the emotion of happiness. 

Product Details

Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream is bottled at 30 proof with a 15% ABV. It is available in 750 mL bottles with a suggested retail price of $29.99.

For more information on where to purchase Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream or any other Hard Truth product, visit: hardtruthdistilling.com/spirit-finder.

Visit hardtruth.com for the complete Hard Truth experience.

About Hard Truth Distilling Co. 

Headquartered in Nashville, Indiana, Hard Truth Distilling Co. produces more than 20 premium spirits, including critically acclaimed Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey and top-selling Hard Truth Cinnamon Vodka, Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum, and Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum Cream. Hard Truth’s spirits are distributed throughout Indiana and in Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Texas, Michigan, and Missouri with several more states coming on board in 2022.

Founded in 2015, Hard Truth Distilling Co. quickly outgrew its original production facility, and, by 2017, construction had begun on its current facility, an 18,000-square-foot distillery equipped with a state-of-the-art Vendome Copper & Brass distilling system. Hard Truth’s destination campus spans 325 wooded acres in Brown County, Indiana — an artists’ colony and tourist destination known for its natural beauty. 

HARD TRUTH MAPLE BOURBON CREAM RECIPES

HARD TRUTH PUMPKIN MAPLE MARTINI

INGREDIENTS:
3 oz. Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream; 3 bar spoons of pumpkin pie filling
1 Tbsp. Granulated sugar
1⁄2 Tbsp. Cinnamon
1⁄4 Tbsp. Pumpkin pie spice

CRAFT:

Mix cinnamon, sugar and pumpkin pie spice together, then use the mixture to rim a coupe glass. Set aside.

Add Maple Bourbon Cream and pumpkin pie filling to bar shaker, then top with ice. Cover, and shake to chill.

Single strain into prepared glass, then sprinkle a pinch of the spice mixture over the top of the drink to garnish.

HARD TRUTH MAPLE BOURBON BALL MARTINI

INGREDIENTS:
4 oz. Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream; 2 bar spoons chocolate syrup; chocolate syrup drizzle

CRAFT:

Drizzle inside of a coupe glass with chocolate syrup. Set aside.

Add Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream and chocolate syrup to ice-filled bar shaker. Cover, and shake to chill.

Strain into prepared coupe glass and serve.

HARD TRUTH MAPLE BOURBON HOT CHOCOLATE

INGREDIENTS:
2 oz. Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream 6 oz. Hot chocolate
Your favorite hot chocolate toppings

CRAFT:

Add Hard Truth Maple Bourbon Cream and hot chocolate to your favorite mug.

Top as desired with whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate syrup, mini marshmallows and serve.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES ITS

2022 ANTIQUE COLLECTION WHISKEYS,

INCLUDING STAGG

 George T. Stagg Returns to the Lineup and Showing Up Strong at 138.7 proof!  

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Oct. 26, 2022) Fans of extra aged and uncut, unfiltered whiskies will be excited to see Buffalo Trace Distillery is releasing its full lineup of Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) this fall, including perennial favorite George T. Stagg.

Last year, Buffalo Trace opted not to release its uncut, unfiltered 15-year-old George T. Stagg Bourbon because it did not meet the Distillery’s standards for the Stagg brand.  This year, the team is happy to report that the 2007 Stagg barrels showed up with their classic Stagg presence, full of maturity, balance, and flavor, with a hefty proof at 138.7, its highest proof since 2016.

The five ensemble members of the Antique Collection are George T. Stagg Bourbon, William Larue Weller Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon and Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old Whiskey. These whiskies utilize three distinct mash bills, or recipes, from Buffalo Trace Distillery: rye mash bill #1, wheat mash bill and straight rye mash bill.  Aged and proofed at the pinnacle of their taste profile set by the distilling and lab team experts at Buffalo Trace, this collection is sold separately and only available once a year.  Bottles should be available at retail starting early to mid-November.  Suggested retail pricing is $99 each, state taxes will vary per market.  Here are details of each expression in the collection:

George T. Stagg Bourbon

Created in 2002 at the request of a fan for a well-aged and barrel strength whiskey, George T. Stagg bourbon is well respected amongst bourbon connoisseurs and spirit judges. This year’s offering was distilled in the spring of 2007, making it 15 years and 5 months old at bottling.  The proof is 138.7, the highest proof for this whiskey in the past six years.  This year’s barrels were aged in warehouse K.  Tasting notes for this bourbon call out toasted pecan and chocolate sauce on the nose, a rich blend of baking spice, vanilla and cherry pie on the palate, and a robust finish of black coffee, molasses and oak.

William Larue Weller Bourbon

The Antique Collection’s uncut, unfiltered, wheated recipe bourbon is William Larue Weller. The previous release of this wheated bourbon was honored with a Double Gold medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.  The 2022 release was distilled in the spring of 2010 and barrels were aged in warehouses C, K and N.  This bourbon registers at 124.7 proof.  A nose of toasted coconut, butterscotch and caramel, followed by a touch of mint, dark cherry and molasses on the palate and a full-bodied finish with hints of leather, nutmeg, toffee and vanilla can be found in this year’s offering.

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey

Thomas H. Handy is the uncut and unfiltered straight rye whiskey. Last year’s release earned 97 points and was named in the top 100 spirits by judges at the 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.  This year’s Handy was distilled in the spring of 2016; aged in warehouses I, L and M and weighs in at a hearty 130.9 proof, the highest proof for this whiskey since 2012.  The flavor profile includes a nose with floral notes, anise, marmalade and meringue, followed by a palate with baking spice, a burst of orange peel and subtle dark chocolate, and a long finish of cinnamon, praline and candied orange.

Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon

This 101-proof whiskey was distilled in the spring of 2005 and barrels were aged in warehouses H, K and L.  The 2021 Eagle Rare release was honored with the Chairman’s Trophy at the 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.  This bourbon has a nose with a hint of tobacco, chocolate covered cherries and a touch of oak, followed by caramel, vanilla bean, dark chocolate and oak on the palate and a full-bodied finish with baking spice, vanilla and butterscotch.

Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old Whiskey

Previous releases of Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old were named in the top three finest whiskeys in the world by the “Whisky Bible.”  This 2022 straight rye whiskey release has a nose of orange peel, lemon zest and molasses, a palate with a bold blend of black pepper, coriander seeds and maple syrup, and a well-rounded finish with mint, tobacco leaf and oak.  The barrels for this whiskey were filled in the spring of 2003 and 2004 and rested in warehouses K, M and P.  It is bottled at 90 proof.  

About The Antique Collection

The Antique Collection was introduced more than two decades ago and is comprised of five whiskeys released each year in the fall: George T. Stagg, William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old and Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has been humbled by the numerous awards bestowed on the collection from such notable publications as Whisky Advocate Magazine, Spirit Journal, and “The Whisky Bible.”  For more information on the Antique Collection visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/antique-collection.

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 Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2018 and its William Larue Weller and Thomas H. Handy Sazerac were named 2^nd and 3^rd finest whiskeys in the world for 2020.  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.

BENROMACH ADDS LIMITED EDITION TRIPLE DISTILLED EXPRESSION TO ITS CONTRASTS RANGE 

Benromach Distillery in Speyside has launched a new small batch single malt, ‘Benromach Triple Distilled’, into its ‘Contrasts’ range.

This limited-edition expression was created in a style which is deliberately different in character to its signature 10-Year-Old single malt. For this unique release, the spirit has been triple distilled, passing through the wash still and then twice through the spirit still, giving a lighter and fruiter style of spirit that complements its maturation in first-fill bourbon barrels.

Bottled at 46% ABV, the non chill-filtered whisky has a long, medium-bodied finish with citrus zest and a hint of soft smoke.

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, said: “We triple-distilled a small batch of this spirit in 2011 and after a little more than a decade, we are ready to share it. Benromach Triple Distilled retains our customary, subtle smokiness but the extra distillation, combined with a bourbon cask delivers a slightly sweeter single malt with tropical fruit notes such as pineapple, banana and coconut.

“And, like all of our whiskies, our small team of distillers created this expression by hand to produce a malt with genuine character.”

Benromach Contrasts: Triple Distilled is priced at £49.99. Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties.

For more information, please visit: www.benromach.com

Tasting Notes: 

Benromach Contrasts: Triple Distilled is a limited release which has been matured in first-fill bourbon barrels – 46% ABV.

• • Colour: Pale gold
  • Aromas: Vibrant tropical fruits, malt biscuit, vanilla pod and toasted oak
  • Palate: Ripe banana, poached pear, green apple and sweet honey
  • Finish: Medium-bodied and long, with citrus zest and a hint of soft smoke
  • Maturation: First-fill bourbon barrels
  • RRP: £49.99

About Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A five-star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

THE MACALLAN REVEALS A NEW EDITION OF THE HARMONY COLLECTION CELEBRATING THE WORLD OF COFFEE 

The Macallan has unveiled the new expressions that form the second edition of The Harmony Collection, a limited annual release series driven by the brand’s inherent curiosity and its innovative and creative mindset.

A collection exploring The Macallan’s future packaging journey, each release features distinctive packaging that incorporates organic by-products and gives them new life.

The new single malt whiskies – The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired by Intense Arabica for domestic markets and Smooth Arabica for global travel retail – celebrate the world of coffee and have been inspired by the Ethiopian Arabica coffee bean. Their hybrid packaging was created using repurposed and recycled materials including discarded coffee bean husks.

The Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner has created the intensely flavoured whiskies to pair with coffee. He immersed himself in the art of coffee by hosting a masterclass with world renowned coffee experts at The Macallan Estate. He explored the journey from field to cup, uncovering the unique process and distinct flavour profiles at each stage.

Among the coffee masters who shared their knowledge with Steven were Ethiopian coffee grower Kenean Asefa Dukamo, whose family works with the Arabica variety showcased by the whiskies; Scottish coffee roaster Lisa Lawson, a pioneer of speciality coffee in Scotland acclaimed for her roasting techniques; and award-winning American barista Andrea Allen, renowned for creating incredible coffee experiences. UK-based coffee artist Dhan Tamang crafted a range of coffee art, sharing his knowledge on the art of the perfect coffee serve and sensory perceptions, while leading coffee historian Professor Jonathan Morris provided an insight into the roots of coffee and how it has become the global phenomenon it is today.

Drawing inspiration from the Arabica coffee bean from Ethiopia, renowned as the birthplace of coffee, Steven selected a combination of American and European oak casks to achieve the distinctive notes offered by the single malts. Inspired by Intense Arabica is reminiscent of a sweet yet strong espresso coffee and has a higher ABV of 44%, while Smooth Arabica conveys the flavours of a gently spiced and soft americano which come through at an ABV of 40%. Both can be paired with coffee to provide a new way to savour The Macallan.

Steven Bremner, Whisky Maker, The Macallan, said: “Exploring the world of coffee with our masters in the industry, who shared their knowledge, creativity, and love for their art, was both an education and an inspiration. There are many parallels between the approach to creating incomparable whisky and coffee. Each requires unique skills and craftsmanship to achieve depth and complexity of taste and both worlds aim to deliver an extraordinary consumption experience.

“To create the coffee-inspired second edition of The Harmony Collection, I sought out intense notes in The Macallan’s traditional sherry seasoned European oak casks that would offer the rich and satisfying elements of coffee, with the influence of sherry seasoned American oak casks adding sweeter and softer vanilla notes for a balanced and rounded experience.

“Each expression has been paired with two different variations of Ethiopian coffee, which accentuate the unique tasting notes within the whisky when enjoyed side by side, creating a new sensorial experience of The Macallan.” 

The expressions are presented in a presentation box, which incorporates repurposed coffee bean husks, a by-product in the coffee-making process. Paper expert Michele Posocco from Italian paper mill Favini worked with The Macallan to create the innovative packaging. The rich red pantone colour on the Inspired by Intense Arabica pack reflects the coffee fruit, while the vibrant green on the Smooth Arabica pack represents the unroasted coffee bean.

The Harmony Collection commenced with the release of Rich Cacao last year, followed by Fine Cacao earlier this year, which both incorporated discarded husks from cacao pods in their packaging and offered chocolate flavour profiles.

The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired by Intense Arabica and Smooth Arabica have an RRSP of US$185 / £140 / €165. Inspired by Intense Arabica will be available at The Macallan Estate Bar, The Macallan Online Boutique and in premium retailers, bars and restaurants around the world from October 2022. Smooth Arabica will be available in The Macallan Airport Boutiques, key airports around the world and China Hainan Island duty free shops from November 2022.

For further information visit https://www.themacallan.com

Whisky Maker’s Notes:

The Macallan Harmony Collection Inspired by Intense Arabica

ABV: 44%.

Colour: Crema.

Aroma: Tiramisu, cappuccino, gingerbread, raisins, almonds, sweet oak and vanilla.

Palate: Espresso, dark chocolate, raisin, tiramisu, blackberry, vanilla, Brazil nut and sweet oak.

Finish: Long, dark roast coffee, balanced and sweet.  

The Macallan Harmony Collection Smooth Arabica

ABV: 40%

Colour: Toffee.

Aroma: Ground coffee, hazelnuts, sweet raisin, dark cherry, toffee, vanilla and sweet oak.

Palate: Americano, raisins, cherries, soft spices, walnut, vanilla and oak.

Finish: Lingering coffee bean turning sweet and creamy.

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.

Gleneagles announces next release in spirited partnership with Glenturret

Gleneagles, the renowned hotel and country estate alongside its Perthshire neighbour, The Glenturret, are embarking on the next phase of an exciting partnership with the release of their second exclusive single malt.

The 2022 Limited Release of 750 hand-numbered bottles represents the second of five editions of Gleneagles’ own whisky, a continued commitment from the two iconic Scottish brands to share the warm spirit and hospitality of the idyllic Perthshire region through a rich tasting experience.

Crafted in partnership with The Glenturret’s Whisky Maker Bob Dalgarno, new tasting notes distinguish this exceptional 11-year-old single malt with flavours reminiscent of classic sticky toffee pudding, warm caramel and vanilla ice-cream, complimented by summer blackberries and green apple. A finish of soft oak, wood spices and dried fruit lingers on the palate for a perfect nightcap.

Following the overwhelming success of the original single malt, the 2022 release is now available to purchase from Gleneagles’ own whisky boutique, The Still Room, with each 70cl bottle retailing at £105. Enjoy at home on a cold winter’s night or keep as a collector’s item alongside its 2021 companion. A limited number of bottles will be available to enjoy by the dram in Gleneagles’ own American Bar and Century Bar, too. To celebrate the launch of the latest bottling, guests who purchase a bottle will also be offered a complimentary tour of The Glenturret Distillery.

Daniel Baernreuther, General Manager at Gleneagles, said: “We’re so proud to continue our partnership with The Glenturret to create a new limited-edition whisky alongside Scotland’s Oldest Working Distillery, and add the 2022 edition as the sequel in a portfolio that serves as an homage to the countryside we share.

“The warm reception to our first collaboration has allowed us to take the 2022 edition to new levels, developing a spirit that encapsulates the warmth, luxury, and comfort we hope to create for each guest that walks through our doors.”

John Laurie, Managing Director of The Glenturret said: “This project with Gleneagles has been a wonderful opportunity to lean into our shared heritage in Perthshire and continue refining the experience that a dram of 11-year Gleneagles x The Glenturret creates through this exciting five-year partnership.”

For more information, visit our website or contract reservations at reservations@gleneagles.com or 0800 704 705.

Instagram: @thegleneagleshotel / Twitter: @gleneagleshotel / Facebook: @gleneagleshotel

#LoveGlen 

For further information please contact Catriona Quinn, gleneagles@mucklemedia.co.uk

About Gleneagles 

Since opening its doors in June 1924, Gleneagles has been one of Scotland’s most iconic hotels and sporting estates. Set beneath the Ochil Hills, in the heart of Perthshire, it has been the must-go destination for travellers for nearly a century. Beginning its life in the glamorous age of travel when guests arrived in great style at Gleneagles’ very own train station, the 850-acre estate epitomises the natural beauty for which Scotland is famed. With its Glorious Playground of country pursuits and activities, the hotel is reclaiming its position on the social calendar. Now under new owner Ennismore, Gleneagles has enlisted the skills and expertise of some of the UK’s most acclaimed designers including David Collins Studio, Timorous Beasties, Macaulay Sinclair, Goddard Littlefair and Ennismore’s own in-house design studio – to create designs and spaces that celebrate the hotel’s rich, glamorous heritage.

Gleneagles is part of Ennismore, a creative hospitality company rooted in culture and community, with a global portfolio of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart.

www.ennismore.com

About The Glenturret 

Crafted at Scotland’s Oldest Working Distillery since 1763 entirely by hand in exclusive small batches, The Glenturret single malt is defined by its outstanding quality and exquisite taste. Located in the ‘Hosh’, Crieff, surrounded by the beautiful Perthshire countryside, The Glenturret offers daily distillery tours, whisky flights at the Lalique Bar, a dedicated retail store including an exclusive Lalique Boutique, and The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant, the distillery’s Michelin Star unique dining experience.

www.theglenturret.com

Instagram @theglenturretwhisky

Wyoming Whiskey Releases 1872 Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Heaven Hill names Matt Blevins Chief Marketing Officer

Blevins brings 20+ years of global industry experience and leadership

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (September 29, 2022) – Heaven Hill today announced the appointment of Matt Blevins as Chief Marketing Officer. Effective October 24, Blevins will assume the role previously held by now Co-President Kate Latts. A 20-year global spirits industry leader, Blevins’ demonstrated expertise in business growth, brand marketing, and team development will continue to elevate Heaven Hill’s strategic growth plan and diverse, award-winning portfolio of brands.

Blevins is a proven marketing leader in the industry, guiding global, historic brands to achieve distinct positioning, creative innovation, and long-term value growth. With almost 20 years on the Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey portfolio, Blevins’ experience growing an inspiring portfolio of brands includes leading the brand as it became the most valuable global spirits trademark in 2021. With a people-first leadership style, Blevins delivers both demonstrated business results and thoughtful team development.

“Matt’s passion and dedication to his teams, as well as his brands, is evident throughout his successful career. He leads by example and grows teams who deliver consistent results,” said Kate Latts, Heaven Hill Co-President. “We are excited to continue to build our strong, innovative leadership team by adding Matt’s unique skill set to further our accelerated growth. I’m excited to work collaboratively with Matt to continue the enduring legacy of our brands.”

Before joining Brown-Forman in 2005, Blevins held business analyst roles across numerous retail and consumer package goods brands. After serving in senior roles across the Jack Daniel’s brand, Blevins most recently served as Vice President, Global Brand Director Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. He oversaw many aspects of global brand marketing from positioning, packaging, pricing, and promotion. By leading external agencies and a significant global community of marketers, Blevins created impact and influence across key areas to drive long-term success.

“I could not be more excited to join Heaven Hill at this important phase in the company’s growth journey. Heaven Hill’s portfolio of brands offers a wide range of consumer connections across beverage alcohol occasions with authentic stories, quality products, and family ownership that is invested in the long term,” said Blevins. “The Heaven Hill team is clearly passionate about their business and brands, and I look forward to partnering with them on all the exciting initiatives in the near and long term.”

Blevins resides in Louisville, Ky. with his wife Catherine and two children. He has a B.S. in Economics from Centre College where he was a Division III athlete on their basketball team and now serves on the President’s Alumni Council. Blevins also has a Masters of Applied Economics from University of Cincinnati. Blevins is passionate about many nonprofit causes in the community including Fund for the Arts, Urban League, and Kentucky Cancer Link.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (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.

Loch Lomond Whiskies Unveils Rare 54 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Limited to just 55 bottles globally and inspired by the hills and stills of Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond Whiskies has unveiled a rare 54 Year Old single malt whisky, inspired by the surrounding landscape and the distillery’s unique straight neck pot stills. 

One of the rarest Loch Lomond Whiskies single malts to be released, just 55 bottles of this limited edition have been produced.

Inspired by the iconic national park where the distillery is located, Loch Lomond 54 Year Old is presented in a striking hand-made Glencairn Crystal 30% lead crystal decanter, a unique and premium version of the distiller’s recently refreshed bottle design.

The decanter, which features a heavy plinth style base, is hand engraved with satin gold infill and features a gold satin aged effect metal coin bearing the Loch Lomond Whiskies stag logo.

Loch Lomond 54 Year Old is housed in a multi-layered oak box, hand-crafted to represent the contours of the area around the single malt’s namesake loch.

The tactility of place is highlighted through the exterior packaging design, providing context and a sense of scale to this diverse geological area.

Distilled in 1967, just one year after the distillery’s iconic straight neck stills began production in 1966, Loch Lomond 54 Year Old has been expertly crafted from unpeated malted barley and collected at high strength.

As the only distillery in Scotland to use straight-neck pot stills, Loch Lomond Whiskies is truly unique in its craftsmanship, using innovative techniques to explore flavour in a distinctive way.

These stills are important as they provide Loch Lomond Whiskies with the creative freedom to explore flavour, allowing the character of the whisky to be carefully shaped at the point of distillation, creating a lighter spirit with a distinctive fruit flavour.

The oldest single malt to have been released by the distillery to date, Loch Lomond 54 Year Old was originally matured in a refill American Oak hogshead before being recasked into a refill European oak sherry hogshead in 1994.

The gentle maturation over 54 years has created a whisky of refined richness and exceptional character that embodies the elegance and quality of the Loch Lomond Whiskies distillation process.

Notes of crème caramel, fresh vanilla pods, melted brown sugar and toasted oak, orange peel and marmalade on the nose, give way to vibrant fruit, tart pineapple and lemon citrus with a honey and dried fruit sweetness on the palate, creating a smooth, silk-like mouthfeel. The finish is sublime and complements the flavour, with long, mouth-watering green fruit and floral notes, kiwi and elderflower followed by waves of warming oak spice, aniseed and cinnamon.

Non chill-filtered and natural in colour just as nature intended, Loch Lomond 54 Year Old has been nurtured by each Master Blender over the decades and passed into the careful custodianship of Michael Henry.

Loch Lomond Whiskies Master Blender, Michael Henry said:

“We are honoured to take our name from the most famous of all Scotland’s lochs. Loch Lomond is a very special part of the world, spectacularly marking the boundary between the lowlands and the highlands of Scotland.

“From the wild peaks of the magnificent Ben Lomond to the rocky coastline and sprawling glens close to the distillery, the location epitomises everything that Scotland stands for and has inspired many poets, writers, musicians, and artists for generations. Today, its beauty has been the guiding influence of our whisky and is reflected on the beautiful presentation box in which it is housed.

“It is a real privilege to work with a whisky so rare. Our 54 Year Old single malt whisky had been maturing for more than 40 years before I joined as Master Blender in 2007.

“It takes a very special cask of whisky to make it to 54 years old, and the expectations are high when working with liquid as special and scarce as this. It was a huge undertaking and came with great responsibility. Selecting and perfecting this single malt was a true honour, and we’re proud to announce its release – ready to be enjoyed as a rare piece of distilling history.

“Although steeped in tradition, innovation sits at the very heart of our approach to whisky making. We believe this is the best way to create great whisky of unwavering quality.”

Loch Lomond 54 Year Old is bottled at 41.1% ABV and has a RRSP of £24,000 and is available globally. Production has been limited to 55 bottles, making it one of the rarest high age statement whiskies to be released by Loch Lomond Whiskies.

Loch Lomond Distillery can trace its roots back to the Littlemill distillery, which was established in 1772 and is the oldest licensed distillery in the world. Its current malt and grain distilleries, in Alexandria, Dunbartonshire, close to the banks of Loch Lomond, were commissioned in 1964 with first distillation in 1966.

For further information visit www.lochlomondwhiskies.com.

Tasting notes 

Nose: Elegant and sublime. Crème caramel, fresh vanilla pods, melted brown sugar and toasted oak, orange peel and marmalade.

Palate: Silk-like mouthfeel. Vibrant fruit, tart pineapple and lemon citrus with a honey sweetness, dried fruits, sultanas and raisins.

Finish: Long with mouth-watering green fruit and floral notes, kiwi and elderflower, then waves of warming oak spice, aniseed and cinnamon. 

About Loch Lomond Group

• Loch Lomond Group is an independent distiller based in Alexandria and is home to several award-winning brands that are sold in more than 125 countries worldwide.
• Loch Lomond Distillery has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814.
• Images and interviews with key staff from the Group are available upon request.
• For further details, please visit: lochlomondgroup.com.

About Loch Lomond Whiskies

• Loch Lomond Distillery has one of the oldest heritages in the industry. It was founded by American, Duncan Thomas, the owner of the Littlemill Distillery which was licensed in 1772. In the 1930s Duncan Thomas was at the forefront of innovation within the Scotch whisky industry and his innovative philosophy is ingrained into everything that is done at Loch Lomond to this day.
• In 1814, the original site of the Loch Lomond Distillery was established near Tarbet, towards the north-west end of Loch Lomond; an area which has been at the heart of the whisky industry for centuries. With at least nine distilleries around the loch lost over the years, Loch Lomond Distillers has maintained a proud local tradition into the 21^st
• The multi award winning Loch Lomond Whiskies range includes the Loch Lomond 12 Year Old which has been awarded the Platinum Award in 2020, one of only 7 single malts to be awarded this honour at the San Francisco World Spirits Challenge 2020. Other expressions in the range are the single malts Loch Lomond Original; Loch Lomond Classic; Loch Lomond 18 Year Old; Loch Lomond 50 Year Old; the Loch Lomond Island’s Collection which includes the Inchmurrin and Inchmoan ranges as well as the deluxe blend Loch Lomond Signature and Loch Lomond Single Grain.
• Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12 Year Old has been awarded Best Highland Single Malt 12 Years and Under at the 2018 World Whiskies Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco 2020 Awards.
• Loch Lomond Whiskies was recently also awarded the following medals at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition:

• PLATINUM: Loch Lomond 12 Year Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL – Inchmurrin 12 Year Old
• GOLD MEDAL – Inchmoan 12 Year Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL – Loch Lomond 18 Year Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL: Loch Lomond 10 Year Old

About Glencairn Crystal 

The award winning Glencairn Crystal Studio has been at the cutting edge of high quality decanter and glassware design, innovation, and creativity for four decades.

Regarded internationally as one of the finest crystal decanter and glassware manufacturers, the family run Scottish company has hand crafted prestigious decanters often for the rarest and most luxurious spirits ever released.

The team of experienced craftspeople at Glencairn Crystal, some of whom have over 30 years’ experience in working with crystal, are world experts in pioneering glassware design techniques and unrivalled in their decoration craftsmanship.

The company also produces The Glencairn Glass, the world’s favourite whisky glass, with over 5 million glasses being sold every year in every corner of the globe.

Heaven Hill Distillery Launches first Rye Whiskey of the Square 6 Series

Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey is the second Evan Williams Bourbon Experience craft product of its series and a new Rye mashbill from Heaven Hill Distillery

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 18, 2022) – Heaven Hill Distillery today announced the launch of Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey, the latest innovative product to come from the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. This is the second Square 6 product produced exclusively at the artisanal distillery located at 528 W Main Street in Louisville, just steps from the site of Williams’ original distillery founded in 1783.

The Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey mashbill consists of 63% Rye, 24% Corn, and 13% Malted Barley, a new recipe under the Heaven Hill portfolio. Artisanal Distiller Jodie Filiatreau distills one barrel of American Whiskey per day at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and is continually crafting innovative mashbills and tweaking the hand-crafted process for each new recipe. This exclusive Rye Whiskey differentiates itself from Heaven Hill’s traditional Rye Whiskey mashbill of 51% Rye, 35% Corn and 14% Malted Barley, which is why it is designated as a High-Rye Rye Whiskey. This is Heaven Hill’s first product to bear such a high Rye content and is bottled at 95 proof. With notes of black tea, sweet honey, fig and molasses on the nose, along with all spice, pepper, vanilla and cardamom on the palate, this Square 6 release truly stands out when tasted alongside the first Square 6 High-Rye Bourbon released in May 2021.

The limited release of Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey will be available in small quantities as a unique offering at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and available at select Kentucky retailers for a suggested retail price of $89.99. Advancing its series, the Square 6 Rye Whiskey is a product of Heaven Hill’s thirst for innovation and upholds its mission to cultivate the rich tradition and heritage of Kentucky’s native spirit.

“Square 6 High-Rye Rye Whiskey is a totally unique product, not only because of its high rye content, but also because of how it is hand-crafted on a copper pot still,” said Jodie Filiatreau, Artisanal Distiller at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. “We are excited for whiskey lovers to add this latest Square 6 release to their collections and for them to enjoy a new Heaven Hill mashbill.”

The continuation of the Evan Williams Square 6 series distilled in the one barrel per day, hand crafted, copper pot still facility is a testament to Heaven Hill’s commitment to quality, craft, innovation, and tradition. Square 6 pays homage to the original plot of land that housed Kentucky’s first commercial distillery, on part of which the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience sits. Since the building of the craft distillery, Heaven Hill has been patiently waiting as the barrels quietly age to maturation. During this aging process, a team of master tasters samples each recipe at various stages until that specific mashbill has been deemed to have achieved a taste profile worthy of bottling. The initial release of the series in May 2021 also featured a new mashbill for Heaven Hill, a High Rye Bourbon consisting of 52% corn, 35% rye and 13% malted barley.

 ABOUT THE EVAN WILLIAMS BOURBON EXPERIENCE: The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience® (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams, Kentucky’s first commercial distiller, through an immersive visitor’s center experience which brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit. An official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, the facility offers guests a historical glimpse back in time to see Evan Williams’ original distillery through high definition video recreations of the Louisville wharf and Main Street in the late 18th Century, plus recreations of Whiskey Row building facades along Main Street from the 1890’s through the present. Meanwhile, visitors learn the essential differences between distilling during Evan Williams’ era and Heaven Hill’s modern Bernheim Distillery operations.