SMOKEHEAD WHISKY TWISTS TRADITION ON INTERNATIONAL STOUT DAY WITH NEW EXPRESSION 

STILL PACKS A PEATY PUNCH: SMOKEHEAD UNLEASHES BOLD & UNEXPECTED FLAVOUR COMBINATION WITH RELEASE OF TWISTED STOUT,

JUST IN TIME FOR INTERNATIONAL STOUT DAY ON 4^TH NOVEMBER 

Smokehead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, one of the fastest growing single malts in the UK and globally, is once again twisting tradition with their latest release, Twisted Stout – available for International Stout Day on 4^th November.

The brand-new limited-edition expression has been part finished in stout casks, priced at RRP £49.99 and with an ABV of 43%, it is only available to purchase exclusively from www.smokehead.com

Intertwined with the intense smack-in-the-tastebuds smoke you’d expect from Smokehead, the creamy, malty stout flavour adds unfamiliar notes of rich chocolate and treacle toffee, vanilla ice cream, roasted nuts, and toasted biscuits.

Wrapped up in a striking new pack design, the ever-courageous brand’s new and innovative release is available to buy now only from www.smokehead.com

Commenting on the launch Iain Weir, Smokehead Brand Director said “Our unique  and disruptive Smokehead thinking has led to some convention challenging, trail blazing, rule breaking whiskies over the years that don’t follow the usual traditions and rituals.

“We’ve clearly struck a chord with those who do things their way, live life on their own bold terms, and pick a whisky that’s as disinterested in the status quo as they are. Twisted Stout is as far away from a standard single malt as the combination of tastes, aromas and flavours inside the bottle.

“So, while all our releases come with an original twist, our latest might just be our most twisted yet. Which is just how we like things.”

SMOKEHEAD TWISTED STOUT TASTING NOTES:

THE FIRST IMPRESSION

The usual island intensity of Smokehead comes cloaked in sweet aromas of chocolate and treacle toffee. Maritime air meets a decent pint on the shore. Unexpected. Unusual. And unsettling for the senses.

THE FULL-ON FLAVOUR

You’re past the point of no return now. Hot and soothing at the same time. Salty smoke weaves its way around dry roasted nuts, toasted marshmallow, vanilla ice-cream and… is that someone putting a pot of fresh coffee on?

THE FINALE

New flavours unlocked. Old favourites reunited, wood smoke and spices. Malty, toasted biscuits. Zingy citrus. Dark and delicious. A fitting sign-off from the twisted lovechild of whisky and beer.

Smokehead also grabbed the headlines recently with the launch of the first-ever pre-mixed single malt in a ready to drink can serve. Kick-starting the brand-new ready to drink range with two eye-popping serves: ‘Smokehead mixed with Cola’ and ‘Smokehead mixed with Ginger and Lime’, both available to buy online via Amazon, Smokehead.com and other UK selected retailers.

The Smokehead core range (see below) is also available globally via online and instore.

CORE SMOKEHEAD EXPRESSIONS:

SMOKEHEAD

Smokehead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the original expression, an intensely rich yet subtly sweet dram. With immense smoke and notes of sea salt and spice, this is a vigorous whisky that stands out from the crowd.

HIGH VOLTAGE

If Smokehead is an assault on your senses, then High Voltage is an all-out attack. The breath-taking intensity of the peat and smoke is a red light for the faint of heart.

RUM REBEL 

The rich, smoky, salty Islay whisky rebel is finished in spicy, sweet Caribbean rum casks creating culture colliding carnage and a melding of mouth-watering tastes.

SHERRY BOMB

Smokehead Sherry Bomb is a peaty Islay single malt that has well and truly earned its name. Blasted by rich, sweet and spicy Spanish sherry casks, it had emerged as a fiery, explosive, heavy hitting dram that has even turned our skull red.

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About Smokehead:

• Smokehead is an Islay Single Malt Whisky and has been given a bold new look by Ian Macleod Distillers.
• Smokehead has been labelled the wild one of Single Malt Whisky.
• Award-winning premium Scotch whisky that has an attitude-led positioning and smoky sweet taste. 

About Ian Macleod Distillers:

• Established in 1933, Ian Macleod Distillers is one of Scotland’s leading independent, family-owned distillers, blenders and bottlers.
• Ian Macleod Distillers is the world’s 10th largest Scotch Whisky company, producing and selling over 15 million bottles of spirits every year.

Ian Macleod Distillers has built up an enviable portfolio of premium quality spirits and is proud brand proprietor of Glengoyne, Tamdhu, Rosebank and Smokehead Scotch whiskies and Edinburgh Gin to name but a few

Coming down the track – Bimber Distillery reveals Release No.2 from The Spirit of the Underground Collection

London’s Bimber Distillery today announced the upcoming launch of the second release of ‘The Spirit of the Underground’ Collection, produced in conjunction with Transport for London.

The Collection, which will feature a total of 44 individual releases over a three-year period, features a selection of iconic single malt whiskies that celebrate the heritage and diversity of the distillery’s home city. With striking individual designs, each bottle presents a different Tube station on the London Underground network – the oldest underground passenger railway service in the world.

Following the rapid sale of the inaugural Collection releases, Release No.2 showcases four new stations: Chancery Lane, London Bridge, Paddington and Victoria – each again featuring stunning iconography that presents unique pieces of London’s history, and adorned with striking labels and packaging design that observes the significance of each station’s location.

Drawn from some of the distillery’s oldest stock laid down in 2016, the four new expressions include madeira, port, PX sherry and ex-rye casks, bottled at full cask strength and without chill filtration. Each displays its own highly individual character – demonstrating both the growing diversity of single malt styles produced by Bimber, as well as the extraordinary versatility of the London-produced spirit.

Release No.2 of The Spirit of the Underground Collection will be available directly from Bimber’s Spirit of the Underground website in November via weighted ballot, and with an RRP of £125 per bottle.

Speaking of the launch of The Spirit of the Underground Release No.2, Bimber spokesperson Matt McKay said: “Following a terrific reception earlier this year to the first four releases from The Spirit of the Underground, we’re thrilled to unveil the next stations that will be joining the Collection. For this second collaborative release with Transport for London we have selected four distinctive and exceptional casks from amongst our very finest. Each typifies our hand-crafted approach to whisky making, whilst at the same time offering an ever-broadening selection of flavour experiences with which to celebrate the history and diversity of our home – London.”

All the expressions in The Spirit of the Underground Collection were crafted to Bimber’s exacting standards. The spirit was produced from the distillery’s single farm barley and malted on a dedicated floor at Warminster Maltings before being fermented for seven days in bespoke, on-site constructed American oak washbacks. Distillation took place in Bimber’s customised stills which possess an increased copper surface area, which results in a rich fruit-forward, layered spirit.

The Spirit of the Underground Collection – Release No2

The Spirit of the Underground – Chancery Lane

Ex-Madeira Cask – Ref 107/1
Nose: Toasted almonds and orange peels join rich toffee, resinous oak and piquant cinnamon and nutmeg spicing.
Palate: An oily arrival of charred peaches and orange liqueurs sits alongside butterscotch and plump dates whilst robust spicing provides an invigorating lift.
Finish: Lingering with chocolate orange and spiced berries.
298 bottles
70cl
57.8% ABV

The Spirit of the Underground – London Bridge

Ex-Port Cask – Ref 35
Nose: Jammy red and black berries together with suede leather, teacakes and toasted brioche.
Palate: Berry preserves, plums and prunes are livened with gingerbread and cinnamon-dusted chocolate bonbons.
Finish: Sustained sweet berry fruits with persistent ginger spicing.
305 bottles
70cl
58.7% ABV

The Spirit of the Underground – Paddington

Ex-PX Sherry Cask – Ref 20
Nose: Chocolate and nougat are given a fruit-packed lift from glace cherries, whilst sticky toffee pudding is dusted in cinnamon powder.
Palate: Velvety on the arrival and offering deep and alluring reduced fruits alongside chocolate torte, fresh coffee beans and leather.
Finish: Sweet sherried fruits together with ginger and cinnamon.
314 bottles
70cl
58.9% ABV

The Spirit of the Underground – Victoria

Ex-Rye Cask – Ref 233
Nose: Spiced malt loaf and pickles are joined by split vanilla pods, crunchy toffee and confectioner’s custard.
Palate: Sliced green apple and dried mango slices alongside vanilla cream and cashew nuts. A backbone of spiced oak together with cracked black pepper, all spice and star anise.
Finish: Dry earthy spicing with toffee and fading tropical fruits.
271 bottles
70cl
58.2% ABV

About Bimber
Bimber Distillery produces world-class single malt whisky, handcrafted with passion in West London. As a leading distiller of English whisky, we combine generations of rich distilling heritage with the finest quality ingredients to create the ultimate craft whisky experience.

About Transport for London
Transport for London (TfL) is the integrated transport authority responsible for delivering Mayor of London Sadiq Khan’s strategy and commitments on transport. It runs the day-to-day operation of the Capital’s public transport network, including London Underground, London Overground, Docklands Light Railway, London Buses and TfL Rail services, as well as managing London’s main roads. TfL does all it can to support the millions of journeys that are made every day and keep the city moving, working and growing. TfL reinvests all income generated through fares and commercial revenue to run and improve services and is committed to reducing costs. The licensing deal for this product was delivered through TSBA Group, TfL’s brand licensing partner.

M&H DISTILLERY RELEASES NEW “APEX DEAD SEA” WHISKY MATURED IN THE LOWEST PLACE ON EARTH

 Tel Aviv – November 2, 2021: M&H Distillery, Israel’s first whisky distillery, announces the official release in the UK of the “APEX Dead Sea” whisky, the eighth installment in the distillery’s signature core line of forward-thinking whiskies.

The APEX Dead Sea is the first result of M&H Distillery’’s research and development program, which spotlights Israel’s distinct terroir and environment by experimenting with different climates for cask maturation while staying faithful to Scottish whisky traditions and legacy. Pushing the sector’s traditional boundaries, M&H Distillery takes advantage of Israel’s five unique climate zones defined by Dr. Jim Swan, M&H Distillery’s late consultant, as the “Climate Playground” with the Dead Sea, Upper Galilee, Jerusalem mountains, the Negev desert, and the Mediterranean coast.

The Dead Sea experiment began in October 2018, when M&H Distillery placed 20 ex-bourbon, ex-red wine, and ex-STR casks on the rooftop of a hotel at approximately 1,387-feet (423 meters) below sea level. The casks matured in the Dead Sea for an entire year before being returned to the Tel Aviv warehouse and bottled in July 2021. The final result is a one-of-a-kind whisky that captures the Dead Sea’s distinct characteristics, including low annual precipitation, an arid and dry desert climate that can reach 122° fahrenheit in the summer and a salt content 9.6 times that of the ocean, resulting in “angel’s share” of up to 25% per year, compared to only 2% in Scotland.

Tomer Goren, M&H Distillery’s head distiller, explains, “Due to the evident rapid wood effect and maturation in this very hot and intense climate, we had to inspect the casks more frequently and thoroughly. Understanding the impact of the desert climate on the cask was a fascinating experiment and study project. I look forward to continuing our geographical experiments, with the Sea of Galilee and the Jerusalem Mountains coming up next.”

 Bottled at 56.2. % ABV, the APEX Dead Sea has a sweet nose with notes of French vanilla and chocolate, hints of cigar box, and a refreshing hint of spearmint, with a pleasant oakiness in the background. The taste starts with black tea leaves then builds with a robust surge of warm spices like cinnamon and coriander seeds, dark chocolate powder, and a pinch of crushed white pepper. The finish is long and pleasant, with candied ginger and cloves mingling with roasted herbs and coarse sea salt in a bouquet.

The APEX Dead Sea edition has already garnered several major awards, including Double Gold in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021, Grand Gold in the Frankfurt International Trophy 2021 and Gold in the International Spirits Challenge 2021.

The first batch of the APEX Dead Sea is limited to 4,892 bottles and is available in select countries including France, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Netherlands, Taiwan and Germany.

For more information on M&H Distillery, please visit www.mhdistillery.com.

The APEX Dead Sea is available in select stores and online retailers such as The Whisky Exchange.

About M&H Distillery: M&H Distillery (Milk & Honey), established in 2012  by entrepreneur and investor Gal Kalkstein, is Israel’s first whisky distillery and produces high-quality distillates in Tel Aviv. All raw materials, equipment, casks and processes were selected to ensure that the final product – whether white distillates or aged whisky – meets the highest quality standards. M&H Distillery received guidance and advice from Dr. Jim Swan, a world-renowned master distiller. All the products of the distillery are kosher.

Whiskey fans rejoice! Clonakilty Distillery launch new Galley Head expression as Whiskey sales expected to surge again for 2022

 Pent-up demand on international export market means Irish distillery stocking up for Christmas

Today, Thursday October 28^th marks a big day for Whiskey enthusiasts all across Ireland as Clonakilty Distillery launch their brand-new Single Malt whiskey which is the latest addition to their award-winning range of spirits.

The Galley Head expression represents a new departure for the Distillery as the brand sought to create a high-quality whiskey that was accessible in terms of price but still retained the quality and finish that Clonakilty Distillery has become renowned for amongst whiskey connoisseurs.

Matured and finished at their Atlantic Ocean Warehouse, Galley Head Single Malt represents a marriage of a re-shaved, re-toasted wine cask and Bordeaux red wine casks. Customers old and new will be able to enjoy aromas of cocoa and rich fruits which has flavours of dark chocolate, red berries and liquorice with a long finish of oak spices.

Clonakilty Distillery have said they are hopeful that this new release will provide a foundation on which they can continue and develop to grow their brand, in addition to attracting a range of new customers seeking to broaden their whiskey horizons.

The production and launch is also in anticipation of a return to strong whiskey sales on the international market once again.

A recent report published by the Irish Whiskey Association (IWA) revealed that 96% of Irish whiskey sales have in the past been to markets outside of Ireland, and, pre-pandemic, exports were worth an estimated €890m across both the Republic and Northern Ireland.

The IWA report also stated 2020 sales for whiskey still exceeded expectations but suffered a decline largely due to a collapse of Irish whiskey sales in global travel retail as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With international travel markets slowly reopening, it is expected that both sales and demand will both also return to pre-2020 levels.

The Galley Head expression will be available to buy from off-licences and Supervalu and Centra stores across Ireland, as well as the Celtic Whiskey Shop, priced at RRP €39.50. At 40% ABV, the 700ml can also be purchased online at www.clonakiltydistillery.ie.

Galley Head whiskey can be enjoyed neat, over ice or in a high-end whiskey cocktail.

Paul Corbett, Head Distiller at Clonakilty Distillery had this to say about the new whiskey, “We decided on single malt to produce a full flavoured, barley forward whiskey. We finished this single malt in two cask types, a re-shaved, re-toasted wine cask and a freshly disgorged Bordeaux red wine casks”.

“The rejuvenated wood imparts a caramel sweetness and complex spice to the whiskey while the fresh wine casks add a fruitiness that complements the cereal character of the malt,” he added.

The whiskey derives its inspiration from the Galley Head Lighthouse, which stands guard over the barley fields at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The Lighthouse, which was built in 1875, rises an imposing 53m above the roaring Wild Atlantic Ocean, just outside Clonakilty town.

The lighthouse is situated across the bay and can be seen from the warehouse where Galley Head whiskey is matured, finished, and bottled.

To keep up to date with all things Clonakilty Distillery, check out Clonakilty Distillery on Twitter @clondistillery, on Facebook @clonakiltydistillery and on Instagram @clonakiltydistillery.

About Clonakilty Distillery

Clonakilty is Ireland’s maritime distillery located on the southwestern tip of Ireland. Founded by the Scully family in 2016, the distillery includes an award-winning visitor experience and gin school. The distillery grows their own barely and mature whiskey on the farm by the oceans edge.

About Galley Head Irish Whiskey 

The newest addition to the already impressive range, the Galley Head Single Malt Whiskey is to be released as a core expression. Produced for domestic and export markets. Clonakilty currently export to the UK, Germany, Austria, Belgium, The Netherlands, Japan, and Russia, as well as 15 US states and two Canadian provinces.

The distillery has matured and finished a contemporary and modern new spirit, which reaffirms the company’s commitment to innovation and grow into the whiskey market and attract some new customers to the business.

Inspired by the iconic Galley Head Lighthouse, the whiskey showcases aromas of cocoa and rich fruits which will lead to flavours of dark chocolate, red berries and liquorice with a long finish of oak spices and smooth dark chocolate.

Still In Cask, a brand new global platform, is set to revolutionise the way whisk(e)y can be sold to the consumer.

Still In Cask is a brand-new global platform that, for the first time, will give consumers around the globe the opportunity to buy shares in a cask of spirit directly from a distillery, from as little as £20.00 a cask share. The innovative business has been developed to democratise the ownership of cask spirits and assures consumer ownership using the Stellar Network’s public blockchain.

The Still In Cask model is the brainchild of Liam Hirt. He founded Psychopomp Microdistillery and Circumstance Distillery and was the architect of the first whisky offering using blockchain technology. Working with Liam are his three co-directors, Zak Hirt*, Danny Walker* and Illy Jaffar*.

Liam Hirt commented “Cask ownership is usually reserved for those that can afford an entire cask or those that can form a syndicate of like-minded individuals, meaning many enthusiasts are therefore excluded. Cask purchases are historically complex and investment focused making it even harder to get involved”

He continues “Whisk(e)y and cask aged spirits are continuing to enjoy global growth, from everyday drinking to collectables. The consumer profile is getting younger, and they are no longer perceived as a male preserve. Still In Cask democratises the ownership of cask spirits for both consumers and distilleries and brings the service to life with immersive brand experiences in the digital and real world.”

Kicking off this innovative start-up, which will go live to the public on 15th May 2021, are the following progressive distillers: NcNean, Circumstance Distillery, Cotswolds Distillery, Mackmyra and Connacht Distillery.

Still In Cask is an online platform for mobile or desktop. stillincask.com. It offers a free service to customers, but they also have the opportunity to join the Still In Cask Reserve Club. The free service allows customers to buy cask shares and receive regular updates on their casks. The Reserve Club is a subscription costing £5 a month that gives priority access to all new cask’s listings for two weeks before those casks become available to other members. The reserve club also gives a number of other member perks including, meet the distiller tastings and events, discussion forum and a newsletter. Once a cask has been bought, Still In Cask will provide key updates of the stages of the liquid in cask.

Still In Cask is a part family run venture. Zak Hirt Is Liam’s brother and has taken the reins on the software development for the business. He commented “Blockchain brings something to a business that a traditional database architecture couldn’t. It’s a progressive platform that is great for innovation, but the most important reason for us is that our accounts and ‘Cask Shares’ are independent from Still In Cask. Should Still In Cask cease operations the consumers would still be able to redeem their ‘Cask Shares’ with the distillery. Secondly, using a blockchain allows easy, secure transfer of ‘Cask Shares’ between consumers, making gifting for landmark occasions a simple affair.”

Liam Hirt concludes “Still in Cask is about being open, unpretentious, and warm, and it embodies the generous hospitality that are trademarks of Cask spirits.” Consumers can register their interest via the website stillincask.com

Notes 

*LIAM HIRT – following a career in medicine using machine learning and AI for his research he founded Psychopomp Microdistillery and Circumstance Distillery. Liam is the Architect of the first whisky offering on a blockchain.

*ZAK HIRT – a qualified management accountant with over 20 years’ experience in the financial sector. His professional roles have encompassed trading, risk management, accounting, and technology. He is the founder and developer of napkin.co.uk, an epos system for hospitality and online ordering.

*DANNY WALKER – has over 20 years’ experience across the drinks industry as an international award winning bartender, brand ambassador, product developer and distiller

*ILLY JAFFAR – is an award winning marketer having worked with some of the biggest global brands in spirits and entertainment. Passionate about creativity and innovation Illy is a NED/Trustee and also a Keeper of the Quaich

How the block chain works:

Still In Cask is built on a public blockchain. Consumers create an account on the blockchain through the Still In Cask platform. When a distillery offers a cask for sale through Still In Cask it is divided into ‘Cask Shares’ (equating to a bottle of cask strength spirit) on the blockchain. When a consumer buys a ‘Cask Share’ from the distillery, the Shares are automatically transferred to the consumer’s account. It may take many years, but when the spirit has finished maturing the Cask Share can be redeemed and the bottle containing your cask share is sent to you to enjoy.

anCnoc 2009 Vintage unveiled for global market

This special limited-edition expression proudly showcases the heritage and skill of Knockdhu’s small distillery team in creating a distinctive yet approachable whisky, with passion, tradition and craftsmanship distilled into every bright golden drop.anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky today (26^th October) celebrates the latest release from its acclaimed vintages collection with the unveiling of anCnoc 2009 Vintage.

A delicate spicy, woody nose combines with anCnoc’s classic honey and citrus notes, demonstrating the time that this beautiful malt has spent quietly maturing in a combination of first-fill Spanish oak butts and ex-bourbon American oak barrels. With each sip, drinkers can look forward to delicious flavours of rich spice, sweet green apple, dark chocolate and butterscotch, with a smooth finish.

Vintage 2009 comes with anCnoc’s stylish, contemporary packaging, with touches of electric blue added for the new expression. It is non-chill filtered with natural colour and is available from specialist retailers only – with the release perfectly timed for whisky drinkers looking for a new, beautifully crafted dram to enjoy or gift over the festive season.

anCnoc is crafted at Knockdhu Distillery in the small village of Knock, by Huntly in Aberdeenshire, where Distillery Manager Gordon Bruce and his long-standing team dedicate themselves to the traditional craft of making excellent whisky.

Gordon commented: ‘We’ve been waiting twelve years for this vintage and it has definitely been worth the wait. This is a dram that has all the light, fresh qualities of anCnoc that are so loved by our drinkers, but there’s also a rich spiciness and complexity from its time in the casks.

‘It’s always a joy to release a new whisky out into the world. I’m particularly proud that the character of this new vintage captures the way we do things at Knockdhu, and the traditions we hold dear, yet it still tastes like a very modern single malt.

anCnoc 2009 Vintage will be a real treat for whisky drinkers looking for something a little bit different to explore, or as a special addition to the Christmas list of anyone who appreciates a well-crafted single malt’.

anCnoc 2009 Vintage is bottled in 70cl at 46% ABV, non-chilled filtered and with natural colour. Only 1,320 cases are available for UK and global markets, sold through independent and specialist retailers and whisky shops from today, RRP £50.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Bright gold

Nose: Delicate spices of American oak with notes of citrus, green apple and sweet toffee. All wrapped up in anCnoc’s typical notes of honey and citrus.

Taste: Richly spice, sweet green apple, dark chocolate with a hint of butterscotch adding complexity.

Finish: A smooth, delicate finish.

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ABOUT ANCNOC

anCnoc is produced at Knockdhu Distillery, which sits in the shadow of the ‘Black Hill’ (Knockdhu in Gaelic) near Huntly in Aberdeenshire. It was established in 1894 by the pioneering John Morrison, after he spotted an abundance of the natural resources needed to make fine malt whisky in the area: pure spring water and plentiful supplies of peat and barley.

Today, Knockdhu is known as one of the smallest and most enchanting distilleries in the Scottish Highlands, producing a refreshingly modern single malt whisky with the most traditional skills and processes. The Black Hill continues to supply pure water for the whisky making process. The distillery’s two copper pot stills replicate the original 1894 design, their bulbous bases giving anCnoc its light, fresh, fruity flavour. Old fashioned worm tubs are used to condense the vaporised alcohol. And Distillery Manager Gordon Bruce, and his team – known as the ‘Men of Knock’ – make up one of the smallest workforces in any distillery (including two dogs!)

anCnoc’s first foray into peated whisky began back in 2014 with the launch of a new ‘Peaty’ range, inspired by the whiskies made early in Knockdhu’s history using local peated barley.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL BEVERAGE HOLDINGS

International Beverage Holdings Ltd is one of the drinks industry’s most dynamic global businesses.  Established in 2006 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thaibev, the company operates as its international business arm, specialising in the development of premium local spirits for the global market. Its success is built on a strong understanding of local cultures and markets within a worldwide business network. Based in Hong Kong with regional offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, the USA and UK, the company is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium brands in over 85 markets. These brands are built on character, craftsmanship and quality, led by a range of award-winning Scotch whiskies and an array of vibrant beers and spirits. These include:

• Single malt Scotch whiskies Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc and Speyburn
• Blended Scotch Hankey Bannister
• Caorunn, Scotland’s leading super premium gin
• Mekhong, ‘The Spirit of Thailand’ since 1941
• Chang Beer, Thailand’s iconic beer brand

Inver House Distillers is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Beverage Holdings Ltd, producing its  Scotch whiskies and gin at five distilleries around Scotland: Pulteney, Speyburn, Knockdhu, Balblair and Balmenach. Inver House is also highly active in the warehousing and blending of Scotch whisky, with warehousing for 500,000 barrels and state of the art blending and laboratory facilities at its headquarters in Airdrie. The business has won many prestigious accolades over the years, including the Icons of Whisky Distiller of the Year Award for Scotland (2017).

www.interbevgroup.com

THREE BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY BOURBONS NAMED BEST IN CLASS AT 2021 WHISKIES OF THE WORLD COMPETITION 

            FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Sept. 28, 2021) – Buffalo Trace Distillery spirits received 14 medals at the 2021 Whiskies of the World Competition (WoW), including three bourbons that were named Best in Class. W.L. Weller Antique 107 and W.L. Weller Full Proof were both Best in Class with Gold Outstanding Medals while Elmer T. Lee was Best in Class with a Gold Medal. Best in Class means the product was the judges’ favorite within its category.

Buffalo Trace bourbons receiving Gold Outstanding Medal

Judges’ panel unanimously agrees to extra recognition

• W.L. Weller Antique 107 Bourbon – Best in Class, Non-Age-Stated 90 to 110 Proof Bourbon
• W.L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon – Best in Class, Non-Age-Stated High Proof Bourbon
• Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Bourbon

Buffalo Trace bourbons receiving Gold Medal

An excellent product that is among the best, remarkable

• Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon – Best in Class, Non-Age-Stated Bourbon
• Buffalo Trace Bourbon
• Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Bourbon
• Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Bourbon
• Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Bourbon
• W. L. Weller Special Reserve Bourbon
• W.L. Weller Single Barrel Bourbon
• Stagg Jr. Bourbon

Buffalo Trace whiskies receiving Silver Outstanding Medal

A very good product with complexity that is better than most

• Col. E.H. Taylor Jr. Straight Rye Whiskey
• W.L. Weller CYPB

Buffalo trace bourbons receiving Silver Medal

A very good and recommended product that shows complexity.

• W. L. Weller 12 Year Old Bourbon

WoW is produced in conjunction with the long-running International Wine & Spirits Competition. This year’s judges consisted of industry experts including spirits evaluators, brand ambassadors, whisky retailers, bartenders and mixologists. Only 35% of entries received a Gold medal at this year’s competition.

Full results from the 2021 WoW Competition can be found at https://whiskiesoftheworld.com/2021-award-winners/.

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.

1792 SMALL BATCH AWARDED GOLD OUTSTANDING MEDAL

AT 2021 WHISKIES OF THE WORLD COMPETITION

Eight Distillery Bourbons Receive Medals 

            BARDSTOWN, Ky (Sept. 29, 2021) – 1792 Small Batch Bourbon was awarded a Gold Outstanding Medal at the 2021 Whiskies of the World Competition (WoW). Gold Outstanding means the judges’ panel unanimously agreed to extra recognition for the high-performing whiskey. This year’s judges included spirits evaluators, brand ambassadors, whisky retailers, bartenders and mixologists. A total of eight medals were given to Barton 1792 Distillery whiskies. Other winners include:

Gold Medals

An excellent product that is among the best, remarkable

• 1792 Single Barrel
• 1792 Aged 12 Years

Silver Outstanding Medals

A very good product with complexity that is better than most

• 1792 Bottled in Bond
• 1792 Full Proof

Silver Medals

A very good and recommended product that shows complexity.

• Thomas S. Moore Cabernet Sauvignon Finished
• Thomas S. Moore Chardonnay Finished
• Thomas S. Moore Port Finished

WoW is produced in conjunction with the long-running International Wine & Spirits Competition. For a full list of results, visit https://whiskiesoftheworld.com/2021-award-winners/.

About Barton 1792 Distillery

Barton 1792 Distillery is part of Barton Brands.  Barton Brands has facilities in Bardstown, Ky., Carson, Calif., and Baltimore, Md. Barton Brands is owned by the Sazerac Company, an American family-owned company based in New Orleans, La. Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operating Distillery in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Distillery is located on 196 acres and includes 28 warehouses, 22 other buildings, the Morton Spring and the Tom Moore Spring.  Distilling, aging and bottling fine Bourbon whiskey are hallmarks of the historic Barton 1792 Distillery. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is produced at Barton 1792 Distillery, and is named for the year Kentucky became a state. The Distillery has garnered a number of prestigious awards for its whiskies, including its 1792 Full Proof, which was named the World Whiskey of the Year for 2020.  To learn more visit www.1792bourbon.com.

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES AUGUSTA DISTILLERY AS NEWEST CRAFT MEMBER

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Augusta Distillery in Bracken County is the newest and 48th member of the nonprofit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

The Augusta Distillery sits on the limestone banks of the small Kentucky river town for which it is named. The city is widely known as the hometown of actor George Clooney and his famous family. The county dates to the 18th century and was named for explorer William Bracken, a contemporary of Daniel Boone.

Augusta Distillery’s historic 35,000-square-foot building, built in 1883, originally served as a carriage manufacturer. The distillery received its Class B distiller’s license in July and is currently under renovation at 207 Seminary Avenue, just blocks from its sister restaurant, the Beehive Augusta Tavern.

A full-service restaurant, event center, gift shop and tasting room is expected to open in fall 2022.

The company’s debut product is Buckner’s Single Barrel Bourbon, a limited 13-year-old cask strength release named for Revolutionary War hero Capt. Philip Buckner. Following his years of service in the Virginia Militia, Buckner was awarded 7,000 acres along the Ohio River that ultimately became the city of Augusta.

“Augusta Distillery is excited to be a part of the KDA, whose members represent most of the Bourbon produced in the world. Our hope is to bring the Bourbon expansion to our small historic Augusta community while showcasing our beautiful section of the Ohio river,” said Ryan Edwards, Head of Operations for Augusta Distillery.

KDA President Eric Gregory said Edwards and the Augusta team are developing an ambitious and impressive distilling and tourism campus that will be a “can’t miss” stop in Northern Kentucky and The B-Line experience.

“Augusta is one of the most charming towns in Kentucky, and its namesake distillery is building on the community’s deep roots and legacy of hospitality,” he said. “We proudly welcome them to our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

Learn more at www.augustakydistillery.com.

Augusta Distillery is the KDA’s 28th Craft-level member, aging less than 10,000 barrels a year. Augusta is now home to two KDA member distillers, with nearby B. Bird Distillery’s site that dates back to 1797 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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 the timeless craft.

Kentucky Bourbon is one of the Commonwealth’s most historic industries, a thriving $8.6 billion economic and tourism engine that generates more than 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1 billion each year, and accounts for over $300 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 $5.1 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.

Kentucky now boasts more than 10.3 million barrels of Bourbon aging in warehouses across the Bluegrass, the most in its revered distilling history. Distillers filled more than 2.4 million barrels last year alone, the third year in a row that production topped the two million mark.

Attendance at the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® distilleries has skyrocketed more than 300 percent in the last 10 years. Total attendance in 2019 was nearly two million, the most since KDA founded the tours in 1999 and 2012, respectively.

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

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

Kentucky Distillers Association | 100 Capital Ave, Frankfort, KY 40601

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES COAL PICK DISTILLERY AS CRAFT MEMBER

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Coal Pick Distillery in Muhlenberg County is the newest and 50th member of the nonprofit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Founded by Kevin and Carrie Lawrence in 2017, the distillery is situated on 2,700 scenic acres just outside an area once known as Paradise, Kentucky. The landscape features lakes, rolling hills and meadows with an array of indiginous wildlife.

The operation consists of production of Coal Pick’s own products as well as contract distilling and storage for private label clients. The new rickhouse uses steel framing and a pallet racking system with the capacity to store 2,300 barrels.

In the future, Coal Pick plans to be a destination for people to enjoy an extended experience complete with wildlife sight-seeing, fishing, and distilling education. Located at 1825 Log Creek Lane in Drakesboro, the distillery released its first Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon earlier this year.

Facility Manager Whitney Spence thanked the KDA family for the opportunity to join. “We look forward to meeting and working with everyone as we continue to produce products and advance our industry,” he said.

“I love making Bourbon and love that there are other companies that do as well. I am thankful that our industry has hard-working people like the fine folks on the KDA team fighting to help our industry grow and prosper.”

KDA President Eric Gregory said he has been following the distillery’s progress over the past few years and is thrilled to welcome them to the KDA as the milestone 50th member – the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition.

“Kevin, Whitney and the Coal Pick team are building a premium destination in Paradise, one of the most scenic and beautiful areas of Kentucky,” Gregory said. “We are impressed with their growth and vision, and proudly welcome them to our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

Learn more at www.coalpickdistillery.com

Coal Pick Distillery is the KDA’s 30th Craft-level member, aging less than 10,000 barrels a year. They join The Bard Distillery in Muhlenberg County in Western Kentucky as KDA members. Coal Pick also is now eligible to apply to join the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®.

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 the timeless craft.

Kentucky Bourbon is one of the Commonwealth’s most historic industries, a thriving $8.6 billion economic and tourism engine that generates more than 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1 billion each year, and accounts for over $300 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 $5.1 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 skyrocketed more than 430% since the turn of the century.

Kentucky now boasts more than 10.3 million barrels of Bourbon aging in warehouses across the Bluegrass, the most in its revered distilling history. Distillers filled more than 2.4 million barrels last year alone, the third year in a row that production topped the two million mark.

Attendance at the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® distilleries has skyrocketed more than 300 percent in the last 10 years. Total attendance in 2019 was nearly two million, the most since KDA founded the tours in 1999 and 2012, respectively.

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

For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Eric Gregory at eric@kybourbon.com.

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.