Tomatin unveils UK exclusive 2011 Pedro Ximénez sherry matured single cask for specialist whisky retailers

Highland distiller Tomatin has released a remarkable 2011 single cask whisky, matured in a first-fill Pedro Ximénez sherry butt and bottled exclusively for UK specialist whisky retailers.

Sherry has played a key part in Tomatin whisky for over 100 years with the distillery maturing its spirit in casks sourced from Jerez throughout its history, and the 2011 single cask expression offers whisky aficionados a unique chance to discover decades of experience in sherry maturation.

Carefully selected by Tomatin’s expert team, Cask No.37316 presents a 15-year-old whisky that has gently matured to develop a complex flavour profile. The brand’s quintessential soft, fruit-led spirit deepens with layers of dark chocolate and warm spice, creating an elegant balance of distillery character and rich sherried style.

The single malt opens with notes of candied orange peel, berry compote and honey and vanilla sweetness on the nose, while the fruity spirit develops on the palate with flavours of rich dark chocolate, sultanas and tarte tatin, with a long, lingering finish of baking spices.

Tomatin’s first-class wood policy sees the team continuously invest in high-quality casks from across the world, from the US to Jerez, ensuring quality and consistency across its range.

The Highland distillery is one of only four in Scotland to have an in-house cooperage, a key component in upholding its high standard wood practices. Tomatin’s cooper Allan Bartlett was recognised for his expertise in managing and maintaining the supply of the distillery’s cask stock at the Icons of Whisky Awards 2025, being named ‘Cooper of the Year’.

Jamie Muir, distillery manager at Tomatin, said: “Sherry casks are woven into the Tomatin story, and the flavours created in this whisky show exactly why we return to them time and time again. A first-fill Pedro Ximénez sherry butt is a bold cask to work with, and the lengthy maturation has drawn out real richness and depth in our spirit without masking the soft, fruit-led Highland character Tomatin is known for.  

“Our first-class wood policy means every cask is looked after with genuine care, and having our own cooperage on site led by Allan is a big part of that.” 

Gordon Hynd, UK sales director at Tomatin, said: “Specialist whisky retailers are where enthusiasts go to find something they won’t see anywhere else, and we wanted to give them a release that lives up to that. This single cask whisky has been created with their customers in mind, offering a limited Tomatin expression unlike anything else in our range. 

“Specialist wine and spirit retailers in the UK carry real expertise and a passion for choosing the right bottle for every customer. At Tomatin, we have built up trusted relationships with UK merchants over decades and value them enormously, so this 2011 single cask is our way of offering them something special.” 

Bottled at 58.8% ABV and limited to only 608 bottles, the Tomatin 2011 single cask release is presented in a premium 70cl bottle, encased in elegant dark green-hued packaging with subtle detailing nodding to the rolling hills of the distillery’s Highland setting. It has an RRP of £105 and will be available to consumers from 29 September 2026 in specialist whisky retailers throughout the UK.

For more information, visit https://tomatin.com.

Tomatin 2011 single cask tasting notes

Nose: Candied orange peel, berry compote, honey and vanilla sugar.

Palate: Rich dark chocolate, sultanas and tarte tatin.

Finish: Long, lingering finish with baking spices.

About Tomatin Distillery

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands, 16 miles south of Inverness, and is famous for its refined and elegant whiskies. The distillery has a proud heritage stretching back to the 15th century when illicit production was likely to be taking place, but it wasn’t until 1897 that the first formal distillery was established by John MacDougall as the Tomatin Spey Distillery Company.

In 2022, Tomatin was awarded ’Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ’Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). Later that year, it was recognised as ’Sustainable Distillery of the Year’ at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023, in recognition of its continued contribution to sustainability at the distillery.

In 2023, Tomatin took home seven awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, took home three. Tomatin’s 36 Year Old was crowned the ultimate winner at SFWSC for malts, being named ’Best in Show’, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world. 2024 saw Tomatin’s 18 Year Old secure Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the SFWSC, elevating it to Platinum status.

Tomatin has a first-class wood policy and a commitment to knowing the history of each cask that passes through its warehouses. It is one of only a handful of Scotch whisky distilleries to have its own cooperage on-site, with cooper Allan Bartlett being named ’Cooper of the Year’ at the 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards.

’To What Matters’ lies at the heart of the brand’s ethos and is a belief in savouring what is truly important.

Tomatin is owned by the Japanese company Takara Shuzo International: www.takara-intl.co.jp/en/

Aberargie Expressions to support Scotland’s young farmers with new barley series

Perthshire distillery will donate £1 from every bottle sold in the UK to the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs

Aberargie Distillery has launched Expressions – a new series of single malt whiskies celebrating the influence of barley, while supporting the next generation of Scotland’s farming community.

Aberargie Expressions Single Malt Whisky – Golden Promise and Laureate editions will both be available from specialist UK retailers from 15 September, following the sell-out success of the Perthshire distillery’s inaugural release in March 2026.

The new series comprises two single malts made separately from Golden Promise and Laureate barley, allowing whisky drinkers to explore the individual character of each variety for the first time.

Aberargie will donate £1 from every bottle of Aberargie Expressions sold in the UK to the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC), helping the organisation support young people across Scotland’s rural communities. The distillery’s donation will specifically help young farmers in the East region through social events and personal development.

The partnership has personal significance for Aberargie head of production Graeme McKeddie, a third-generation farmer whose family’s farming history dates back to the 1800s.

Graeme grew up on his family’s mixed arable and beef farm, spending much of his childhood alongside his parents in the tractor cab before taking the wheel himself as a teenager. Following his father’s death in 2022, Graeme now helps his mother run the farm, which primarily grows malting barley.

He said: “Like many people in the farming community, I was born into it. Farming is in my blood. My family has been on our farm since the 1950s, with a history of farming stretching back generations.

“Small-scale farming is hard work, and the rewards are never guaranteed. That is why supporting SAYFC and the young people who represent the future of Scottish farming feels particularly important to us.

“As both a farmer and a distiller, you develop a greater appreciation of what is in your glass. Behind every whisky are generations of knowledge, passion and hard graft – not only from the people who distil it, but from those who grow the barley.”

Aberargie Distillery sits on the Morrison family’s 300-acre farm near Perth and operates according to a field-to-bottle philosophy, using barley grown on its own land to create its single malt.

Its inaugural whisky combined spirit distilled from Golden Promise and Laureate barley. Aberargie Expressions now separates the two varieties, offering a closer look at the role this essential raw ingredient can play in a whisky’s final character.

Graeme added: “Farming and distilling are intrinsically linked at Aberargie. Understanding the farm is especially valuable when considering how the distillery contributes to its circular economy and regenerative farming practices.

“Expressions gives us the opportunity to place barley at the centre of the conversation and recognise the farming knowledge and work behind every bottle.”

Aberargie Expressions is available from specialist whisky retailers across the UK

Stay updated via https://aberargie.com and follow on social via @aberargie

ABERARGIE EXPRESSIONS TASTING NOTES

ABERARGIE GOLDEN PROMISE

Produced from 100% Golden Promise barley and matured in 68% first-fill Bourbon casks and 32% first-fill Sherry casks. The whisky is described as rich and full-bodied, with aromas and flavours of warm buttered pastry, stewed apples, brown sugar and gentle baking spices, followed by a lingering finish. Non-chill-filtered and bottled at 48.2% ABV.

ABERARGIE LAUREATE

Produced from 100% Laureate barley and matured in 32% first-fill Bourbon casks and 68% first-fill Sherry casks. The expression offers notes of candied orange peel and dried fruit, complemented by crisp orchard fruit and a lingering honeyed finish. Non-chill-filtered and bottled at 48.2% ABV.

Availability: Specialist whisky retailers worldwide
Early Access Registration: www.aberargie.com
Social: @aberargie on Facebook and Instagram

About Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers

Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers is an independent, family-owned company based in Perth, Scotland. Rebranded in 2020, MSWD represents five generations of Morrison whisky heritage under one name, with a focus on single malt production, brand development, blending and bottling. Its flagship brands include Aberargie, Old Perth, Mac-Talla, Càrn Mòr and Bruadar.

At the heart of MSWD’s operations is Aberargie Distillery, built on a family-owned farm near Perth. From the first fill in 2017, the distillery represents the Morrison family’s return to distilling after the 1994 sale of Morrison Bowmore to Suntory. The first release of Aberargie will launch in March 2026; this is the cornerstone of the business.

About: Golden Promise

Aberargie is one of the few distilleries in Scotland to operate a barley-to-bottle philosophy, using heritage Golden Promise barley grown on the fields in front of the distillery, as well as Laureate barley from the two other family farms.

This approach allows Aberargie to oversee the quality of raw materials from the outset. All barley varieties are grown to the family’s own standards, with full provenance, terroir and traceability embedded across the seed to spirit process.

Central to the distillery’s production philosophy is Golden Promise, the heritage barley variety once favoured by leading Scotch producers throughout the 1960s and 70s. Although lower-yielding than modern strains, Golden Promise is grown at Aberargie for its flavour benefits, producing a full-bodied, malty new-make spirit with notable oiliness and depth.

Morrison Family

Among Scotland’s longest-established whisky families, the Morrisons’ name is woven into the fabric of Scotch, with five generations working as grocers, brokers, blenders, bottlers, and distillers. From managing iconic distilleries to creating award-winning brands, their legacy is one of craftsmanship and tradition.

THE VAN WINKLE FAMILY ANNOUNCES THE 2026 RELEASE OF ITS ANNUAL WHISKEY COLLECTION

The highly anticipated release returns with six bourbon and rye whiskeys carrying forward generations of Van Winkle craftsmanship

 FRANKFORT, Ky (September 10, 2026) – Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery today announced that the 2026 Van Winkle Whiskey Collection is on its way, once again delivering one of American whiskey’s most sought-after and closely watched annual releases.

Produced in highly limited quantities, the collection represents four generations of Van Winkle whiskey-making tradition and decades of patience, with six aged expressions ranging from ten to twenty-three years. The 2026 collection includes Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10-Year-Old, Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12-Year-Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15-Year-Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20-Year-Old, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23-Year-Old, and Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13-Year-Old.

“Every year, we look forward to the opportunity to share these whiskeys with people who have followed our family’s story and appreciate the time and care behind each bottle,” said Preston Van Winkle, Vice-President and 4th Generation, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “There are no shortcuts when you’re talking about whiskey that has spent this many years aging. Our responsibility is to remain patient, protect the quality and carry forward the standards our family has valued for generations.”

While the six expressions return each year, every release offers something that can never be replicated again. Time and maturation leave a distinct imprint on each barrel, creating subtle variations in character from one release to the next. Each year, the Van Winkle family and Buffalo Trace Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley carefully select only the barrels that meet the exacting standards established for each expression, making every bottling a singular reflection of patience, craftmanship and an uncompromising commitment to quality.

The Van Winkle family’s legacy in American whiskey dates more than a century, beginning in the late 1800s when Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr. started his career with Louisville’s W.L. Weller & Sons before helping establish the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, which opened in 1935. His commitment to quality and carefully aged whiskey laid the foundation for the Van Winkle Collection, a celebrated family of bourbon and rye whiskeys that carries his name and enduring philosophy. In 2002, the Van Winkle family partnered with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, where that legacy continues today through the careful crafting and aging of each expression.

The 2026 Van Winkle Collection will be available in limited quantities to retailers, bars and restaurants across the United States via Sazerac’s distribution network at varying retail prices. The suggested retail prices for the 2026 collection are as follows (local fees/taxes apply):

• Old Rip Van Winkle Bourbon 10-Year-Old – $169.99

Vanilla and caramel unfold on the nose, complemented by rich pecan and seasoned oak. The palate is beautifully smooth and mellow, balancing robust wheat and ripe cherry against a deepening presence of oak. The finish is long and smoky, with lingering fruit and warm spice giving way to refined oak tannins.

• Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12-Year-Old – $199.99

Dried mango and spiced peach lend an elegant fruit character, with cocoa adding subtle depth. Honey unfolds across the palate alongside seasoned oak and tobacco, creating a rich interplay of sweetness and structure. The finish is beautifully balanced and dry, leaving a lingering trace of warmth.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15-Year-Old – $299.99

Rich and commanding, this 15-year-old bourbon balances the sweetness of caramel corn and vanilla with layers of leather, seasoned oak and complex fruit. Its depth builds across the palate before resolving into an exceptionally smooth finish, where warm spice meets lingering oak tannins.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20-Year-Old– $399.99

Two decades of maturation reveal themselves in a whiskey of exceptional depth, elegance, and presence. Intense yet remarkably smooth, the palate opens with vibrant citrus zest before unfolding into delicate sherry notes, dried fruit and vanilla, each layer emerging with measured complexity and beautifully composed balance. The finish is extraordinarily long and elegant, lingering with a richness and refinement that speaks to the patience behind every bottle.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23-Year-Old – $499.99

Twenty-three years of patience are expressed in remarkable depth, with ripe apple and cherry bringing brightness to layers of caramel, deeply developed oak and tobacco, all underscored by a subtle trace of chocolate. The palate is commanding and beautifully structured, allowing the pronounced wood character to take center stage while an elegant caramel sweetness provides richness and balance. Long after the sip, that sweetness endures with an exceptionally lingering finish defined by mature oak, rich caramel and unmistakable refinement.

• Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13-Year-Old – $299.99.

An elegant, softly spiced nose reveals chestnut, vanilla and fruit, unfolding with understated warmth. Cocoa and vanilla lend richness to the palate, accented by vibrant spice and a refined touch of white pepper. The finish is exceptionally long and complex, as caramel and lingering spice settle into beautifully dry oak.

“I’ve had the privilege of watching this collection become something that means a great deal not only to our family, but to people around the world,” said Julian P. Van Winkle III, President, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “For me, each bottle is a connection to the generations who came before us and to the patience, pride and traditions they passed down. Seeing that same appreciation carried forward by the people who seek out these whiskeys year after year is incredibly special to our family.”

The Van Winkle family reminds fans that neither they nor Buffalo Trace Distillery controls prices set by individual retailers and strongly recommends purchasing Van Winkle whiskeys only through licensed sellers. Purchases made through unlicensed secondary markets or online sellers may carry an increased risk of counterfeit products, fraud, and alcohol scams.

Consumers who believe they may have purchased a counterfeit bottle or been the victim of a scam should not consume the product. They are encouraged to report the incident to the Better Business Bureau and their State Attorney General’s office, and to contact their credit card provider regarding available fraud protection policies.

To learn more about the Van Winkle family of bourbons, visit www.oldripvanwinkle.com.

About Van Winkle Bourbon

The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery carries a proud four-generation legacy. The Van Winkle family’s roots in the bourbon industry trace back to the late 1800s with Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr., who began his career as a traveling salesman for the W.L. Weller and Sons wholesale house in Louisville. In time, Pappy and his colleague, fellow salesman Alex Farnsley, purchased the wholesale house and joined forces with A. Ph. Stitzel, purchasing his distillery. Together, the three merged their ventures, creating the renowned Stitzel-Weller Distillery after Prohibition.

In May of 1935 at the age of 61, Pappy opened the newly completed Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville. Its prominent brands were W.L. Weller, Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and Cabin Still.  Pappy had a heavy influence on the operations there until his death at the age of 91. His son, Julian, Jr. took over operations until he was forced by stockholders to sell the distillery in 1972. The rights to all of their brands were sold to Norton Simon, Inc. Later, United Distillers, who eventually ended up with the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, sold off all of the original labels around 1999.

After selling the distillery, Julian Jr. resurrected a pre-Prohibition label, the only one to which the Van Winkles kept the rights, called Old Rip Van Winkle. He used whiskey stocks from the old distillery to supply his brand. Julian Jr.’s son, Julian, III took over in 1981 when Julian, Jr. passed away. Julian III has continued with the Van Winkle tradition of producing high-quality wheated bourbon. His son, Preston, joined the company in 2001 and the Van Winkles look to continue that tradition for generations to come.

In 2002, the Van Winkle family partnered with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, reuniting the Van Winkle and Weller bourbons under one roof. The collaboration was a natural fit, as Buffalo Trace was already producing the wheated mash bill used in Weller bourbon. Today, all Van Winkle whiskey is crafted at Buffalo Trace Distillery, produced with the same uncompromising standards the family has upheld for generations. Learn more about the Van Winkle family of bourbons at www.oldripvanwinkle.com.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery    

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history 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. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its William Larue Weller, Stagg, Eagle Rare 10, and Thomas H. Handy received Gold Awards at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition and its flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon received a Master Medal at the 2025 Global American Whiskey Masters. Buffalo Trace Distillery has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Tomintoul Distillery captures the Spirit of the Cairngorms in new film celebrating longstanding partnership

Tomintoul Distillery has marked the fourth year of its partnership with the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team (CMRT) with the premiere of a new short film capturing the people, passion and sense of place that make the region so unique.

Produced by Tomintoul in partnership with the CMRT, Spirit of the Cairngorms brings together members of the Tomintoul team and CMRT volunteers to share their personal accounts of living and working in the area. Their stories reveal the common ground between two very different teams – from a deep respect for the landscape to a commitment to craftsmanship, community and looking after the place they call home.

The film offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the work of CMRT’s volunteers, alongside the people behind Tomintoul Whisky, exploring the shared experiences, values and camaraderie that unite the two organisations.

The film premiered at an intimate event at Tomintoul House earlier this week, where contributors, CMRT volunteers, local partners and community representatives came together for an evening of storytelling, whisky and a celebration of the longstanding partnership.

Robert Fleming, Master Distiller at Tomintoul Distillery, said: “Tomintoul is deeply rooted in the Cairngorms. The landscape shapes our whisky but it is the people who live, work and care for this incredible place who truly bring its spirit to life.

“As we enter our fourth year as the Official Spirit of the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team, we wanted to tell the story of what this partnership really means. Spirit of the Cairngorms brings those stories together, giving us an opportunity to introduce people to the remarkable individuals behind both organisations and the shared connection that has grown between us.

“CMRT volunteers put themselves in extraordinary situations to protect others and we’re incredibly proud to stand alongside them and share a little of their story through this film.”

Tomintoul’s ongoing support helps the CMRT maintain its equipment, training and operational readiness, supporting the volunteers as they respond to incidents across the region.

Willie Anderson, Deputy Team Leader at Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team, said: “Mountain rescue is ultimately about people – the people who volunteer, the people we go out to help and the communities that support us. This film gives people a chance to see another side of what we do but also to understand the strong connection we have with the landscape and the communities around us.

“Working with Tomintoul over the past three years has shown how much we have in common. We may have very different roles but there is a shared pride in the Cairngorms and a real sense of responsibility for looking after this place and the people who enjoy it. It has been fantastic to bring those stories together in Spirit of the Cairngorms.”

CMRT has around 40 highly trained volunteers who respond to callouts across the Northern Cairngorms, Ben Alder and the Monadhliath Mountains and relies heavily on donations and grants to support its vital work.

The partnership reflects Tomintoul Distillery’s longstanding connection to the Cairngorms and its commitment to supporting the community around it. Alongside its support for the CMRT, the distillery has built relationships with organisations and initiatives across the region, helping to protect and celebrate the landscape and communities that are central to the Tomintoul story.

Watch the Spirit of the Cairngorms trailer here: https://youtu.be/xn5n0yA0LFs and visit www.TomintoulWhisky.com to find out more.

Tomintoul Distillery

Tomintoul Distillery is nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, within the whisky producing region of Speyside. The distillery, established in 1965, is named after the nearby village of Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands of Scotland.

Tomintoul’s signature range includes the popular 10-Year-Old, 14-Year-Old and 16-Year-Old, as well as the multi-award-winning Cigar Malt and premium 21-Year-Old and 25-Year-Old.

About CMRT

Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team (CMRT) is a charity registered in Scotland, as part of the Independent Scottish Mountain Rescue (iSMR). CMRT are one of the busiest mountain rescue teams in Britain, responding to many accidents, injuries and avalanches throughout the year.

SCOTTISH PRIVATE-CLIENT WHISKY SPECIALIST WINS UK YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARD

Edinburgh-based bespoke whisky business recognised among the UK’s most exciting high-growth start-ups.

London, UK – March 27th 2026: Luxury private label Scotch whisky business Tailored Spirits Co. has been named a winner at the prestigious Stelios Foundation UK Young Entrepreneur Awards 2026, with Co-Founders Adam Harding and Carl Johnstone jointly securing a £50,000 prize in recognition of their shared leadership in building one of the UK’s most exciting emerging whisky businesses.

Founded in 2024 and based in Leith, Tailored Spirits Co. was awarded third prize by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of easyJet, as part of the annual awards recognising the UK’s most promising young entrepreneurs. The awards, which distributed £300,000 in total, celebrate founders driving growth, innovation, and job creation across the UK economy.

Tailored Spirits stood out among 61 applicants for its rapid growth, international reach, and distinctive positioning within the luxury whisky market. The business works with private clients, premium brands, and hospitality groups globally to source, design, and bottle bespoke single cask Scotch whiskies.

Since launch, the company has seen significant momentum, achieving £2.35m turnover in 2025 and doubling its team to support growing global demand. With projects spanning the United States, Europe, and Asia, Tailored Spirits is capitalising on increasing appetite for personalised, experience-led whisky.

Adam Harding, Co-Founder and Head of Spirits, Sales and Strategy, said: “To be recognised by one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurs at such an early stage in our journey is an incredibly proud moment. This endorsement strengthens our position globally and supports our ambition to grow the business further.”

“We’re seeing a shift in how people engage with whisky –  it’s no longer just about buying a bottle, but about creating something truly personal. This award will help us accelerate our plans, including key hires and further expansion.”

Carl Johnstone, Co-Founder (Commercial & Operations), added: “This recognition is a hugely proud moment for us as founders and reflects the progress we’ve made in a short space of time. The support from the Stelios Foundation will allow us to continue building the business, invest in our team, and expand our reach with clients globally.”

Rather than operating as a traditional independent bottler, Tailored Spirits positions itself as an experience-led whisky partner, guiding clients through the full journey – from cask selection and liquid style to brand design and final bottling.

The business has also announced plans for continued expansion in 2026, including team growth and a move to a new brand home in Edinburgh, alongside upcoming high-profile private client projects.

The Stelios Foundation awards recognise entrepreneurs aged 34 and under who are building high-growth UK businesses, with a minimum revenue threshold of £500,000. Winners are selected based on their potential to scale and create jobs within the UK economy.

Find out everything about Scotland’s most exciting bespoke whisky bottler here: https://www.tailoredspirits.co.uk/ 

About Tailored Spirits Co.

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

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Glen Moray extends ‘Official Whisky’ partnership with ISPS Handa Senior Open

Speyside single malt signs for three more years and toasts success of 2026 Championship at Gleneagles

Champion Jerry Kelly with Glen Moray’s Iain Allan and the winner’s bottle
Picture credit: Getty

After four days of sunshine, whisky sampling and a thrilling display of world class golf at Gleneagles last month, Glen Moray has today (17^th August) announced a three year extension of its partnership with the ISPS Handa Senior Open as the Championship’s ’s ‘Official Whisky’.

Celebrating the global appeal and shared Scottish roots of golf and whisky, the extended contract will take Glen Moray to Royal Porthcawl in 2027 and beyond, with plans to share the Speyside distillery’s beloved single malts with even more golf fans in the years ahead.

The ISPS Handa Senior Open is Europe’s only senior major, hosted each July at an iconic UK golf course. One of the sport’s most sought after senior titles, it attracts over 20,000 fans each year, offering a unique chance to see 144 of golf’s legendary players in action.

Since signing an initial three year deal starting at  Carnoustie in 2024, Glen Moray’s on-site tasting room, bottle shop and sampling programme have grown to become one of the Championship’s most popular attractions amongst spectators.

This year’s introduction of a deeper tasting and masterclass experience, led by the Elgin-based distiller’s Global Brand Ambassador Iain Allan and his team, proved a hit – with nearly 600 guests exploring Glen Moray’s smooth, fruity Speyside spirit in one of four complimentary whisky flights across the brand’s Explorer, Heritage, Xperience and Warehouse 1 ranges.

The Glen Moray Chipping Challenge was also back and busier than ever: three barrels, six balls and six shots at glory, attempted by a phenomenal1500 participants this year, all keen to take on the ultimate ‘golf meets whisky’ test!

All players at this year’s Championship were gifted a bottle of one of Glen Moray’s most recently launched expressions from the Xperience Range, Forbidden Fruit. In addition, there were drams and cocktails on offer in hospitality at Gleneagles Hotel and at the pre-event’s Pro-Am tournament.

After a brilliant four days of golfing action on King’s Course Gleneagles and an exhilarating final day of play, Iain Allan had the privilege of presenting a unique bottle of Glen Moray – a single cask #5286, distilled in 1994 and bottled in 2026 exclusively for the Championship – to this year’s popular winner, Jerry Kelly.

Stephen Watt, Commercial and Marketing Director at Glen Moray commented: ‘After three successful years of partnership with the ISPS Handa Senior Open, we are more convinced than ever that world class golf and whisky go hand in hand. Being part of this incredible Championship is a huge source of pride, and an opportunity for us to bring thousands of golf fans into the world of Glen Moray to explore our award-winning range of Speyside single malts. The enthusiasm and feedback we receive every year is overwhelmingly positive. And now, with three more years ahead of us, we look forward to planning more exciting activations and to playing our part in the ongoing success of the Championship.’ 

Edward Kitson, Championship Director of the ISPS Handa Senior Open, added: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Glen Moray for another three years. The ISPS HANDA Senior Open is where legends of the game test their skills on some of the finest courses in the UK and It’s only fitting that a legendary Scottish whisky continues to be there. 

“We look forward to working together to showcase their products to the thousands of fans at Royal Porthcawl next year and beyond.” 

www.glenmoray.com

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Glen Moray – Cask Explorer since 1897 

Crafted in the heart of Speyside since 1897, Glen Moray’s smooth, fruity single malt whisky embodies the classic Speyside style. It has been made on the banks of the River Lossie in Elgin for over 125 years using skills passed down through the generations and a process that includes double distillation in copper stills and careful ageing in traditional warehouses. The distillery’s craftsmen are experts in maturing and marrying many different types of casks, creating the array of flavours which inspire Glen Moray’s extensive range. Inclusive and inviting, Glen Moray is perfect for enjoying on its own and in cocktails, by whisky aficionados and new whisky fans alike.

About the ISPS HANDA Senior Open

Jerry Kelly held his nerve brilliantly down the stretch at The Gleneagles Hotel to claim a two-shot win at the 2026 ISPS HANDA Senior Open.

Kelly was a three-time winner on the PGA TOUR and Presidents Cup player in 2003 before entering the senior game, where he has 14 wins on the PGA TOUR Champions, including two Senior Players Championships and the Senior Open trophy.

Bernhard Langer became the first golfer in history to win The Senior Open four times with his victory in 2019 at Royal Lytham & St Annes – moving ahead of Gary Player and Tom Watson with whom he previously shared three wins. The German also broke his own record of Senior Major Championship victories – securing his 11th at Royal Lytham & St Annes and since adding a 12^th at the 2023 US Senior Open.

The Senior Open was introduced in 1987 at Turnberry in Ayrshire when Neil Coles, the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the European Tour group, won the inaugural title. This led, two years later, to the formal inception of what is now the Legends Tour. It has since been held at some of the United Kingdom’s most historic and renowned venues, including the Old Course at St Andrews, Royal County Down, Carnoustie, Royal Birkdale, Royal Portrush and Royal Lytham & St Annes.

CASK TRADE BOTTLING UNVEILS PERSONALISED BOTTLING SERVICES WITH GIFTING OPPORTUNITY FOR CHRISTMAS

Cask Trade has long supported cask bottlings for private clients and independent bottlers. However, with increasing demand for partial cask bottlings and smaller runs, Cask Trade Bottling has introduced a new ‘ready to bottle’ bespoke service, allowing clients to commission their own label for bottle runs starting from 30 bottles per order, without having to buy a full cask. To celebrate the new service, Cask Trade Bottling have launched a festive campaign which will deliver bespoke bottles of Speyside 2015 to clients, ready for gifting in December.

A Gift Worth Raising a Glass To

The new service invites clients to personalise a premium single malt Scotch whisky with either their own artwork or a considered written message – an opportunity to transform a fine bottle into a genuinely personal statement for loved ones and close friends, or into a distinctive branded gift for clients, colleagues and business partners. Each bottling draws from a single, identifiable cask: an 11-year-old single malt from a Speyside distillery, matured in a bourbon barrel, bottled at 46% ABV in a 700ml bottle, with tasting notes of honey, apple, floral honeysuckle, citrus, vanilla and toffee.

Founder and CEO of Cask Trade, Simon Aron, says: “Whisky has always been about more than the liquid in the glass – it’s about provenance, occasion and story. Whether it’s a private client marking a family celebration or a business wanting to put its own brand on a premium gift for its best clients, this service lets them create something no one else will ever own: a bottle carrying their own artwork or words, tied to a single cask.”

Two Ways to Personalise

Customers can choose between two personalisation options:

–    Personalised Artwork: Customers can bring their creative vision to life by supplying their own branding or artwork to be printed on the top front section of the label.
–    Personalised Message: Customers write their own greeting to be printed on Cask Trade’s pre-designed festive label template.

Perfect For Client Gifting and Corporate Branding

The Personalised Artwork option is equally suited to businesses seeking a distinctive, branded gift for the festive season. Companies can apply their own logo, corporate artwork or campaign design to the label, turning a single-cask Scotch whisky into a memorable and prestigious gift for clients, partners and colleagues – a more considered alternative to conventional corporate hampers.

The Personalised Message option offers a simpler route for businesses that wish to print a seasonal greeting from the company on Cask Trade’s festive template, ready to send across a wider client or staff list.

How It Works

The ordering process follows five simple steps:
1.    Select an option – choose between personalised artwork or a personalised message.
2.    Send personalisation – submit the chosen artwork or written message to the Cask Trade Bottling team.
3.    Confirm – sign off and lock in the final label design.
4.    Receive – bottles are delivered ahead of the festive period.
5.    Enjoy and gift – bottles are ready to give to clients, colleagues, friends or family.

Orders can be placed by emailing bottling@casktrade.com or calling +44 (0)20 3746 3030. For more information, visit the website.

Acquiring a Bottling

Bottles are priced at £50 each, or £300 per case of six, plus VAT, inclusive of delivery and standard label printing. As each release is drawn from a single cask, orders are supplied in full cases of six bottles only, with a minimum commission of 30 bottles (five cases) – a scale well suited both to private clients building a family collection and to businesses stocking a client gifting or corporate entertaining programme for the season.

Orders must be placed before September 25th to ensure delivery by December 4th 2026.

Beyond the Festive Season

While the service launches with a festive theme, Cask Trade Bottling has confirmed that the core commissioning service is not confined to Christmas. Ready to bottle whisky is now permanently available on the Cask Trade stocklist, allowing clients to select their preferred liquid and create a bespoke bottling without having to buy a full cask or wait decades for liquid maturation. This allows personalised bottling for any occasion beyond festive celebrations, such as significant birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and births, as well as for corporate occasions including product launches, staff recognition, client appreciation events and anniversaries of the business itself. The Cask Trade Bottling team supports at every stage from liquid selection, through to design support and final product delivery.

ABOUT CASK TRADE

Cask Trade was set up by Simon Aron in 2018, born from his personal experiences of buying casks as a passionate whisky collector for more than 20 years.
Having found cask ownership difficult to navigate with few reputable companies operating, he envisioned creating a marketplace that made buying and selling casks transparent, open, and honest.
Cask Trade has grown from strength to strength, building its success on several core values:
•    Stockists, not brokers – Cask Trade own all its stock, giving buyers a 100% transactional guarantee and the peace of mind that all casks have been through stringent quality checks.
•    Market-leading stock list – since 2018, Cask Trade has represented over 170 distilleries across the world of whisky, rum, Cognac and Armagnac.
•    End-to-end support – Cask Trade nurtures client relationships beyond the point of sale and offers full cask management, sampling, re-gauging, and multiple exit options when customers come to sell their cask.
•    Trust and transparency – The company’s casks are held in the best HMRC bonded warehouses, regularly visited and approved by Cask Trade whisky masters. All stock holdings have a complete paper trail.
•    Expert team – above all, the Cask Trade team are passionate about cask ownership and strive to help clients achieve their goals, whether they are looking to buy, sell or bottle their casks.
Alongside cask sale and ownership, Cask Trade offers other unique services which elevate client experience and cask exit when the time is right:

Cask Trade Warehouse

In 2025, Cask Trade opened its own bonded warehouse. The unit is situated in Speyside, Scotland, and has the capacity for up to 25,000 casks. Clients can now book onto open days to visit the warehouse, see where their cask is stored, and sample directly from their cask or taste an indicative sample in the custom-built tasting room.

Auction Your Cask 

Auction Your Cask is the world’s first dedicated online cask auction site. With four auctions a year, clients as well as the public can either submit a cask to sell or bid on other casks with 0% seller fees and an agreed reserve.

Recognition

Acknowledgement for the achievements of Cask Trade has been recognised by the FT1000 when the business was ranked as one of the fastest-growing companies in Europe; listed in The Sunday Times Hundred fastest-growing private companies in Britain and named among the UK’s most innovative new businesses’ by StartUps 100 Index. CEO and Founder Simon Aron and Director Colin Hampden-White have also been listed again in the Spear’s 500 Top Recommended Whisky Advisors 2025.

www.casktrade.com

Tenkyo Distillery to Release
“KAZE 921 FIRST EDITION 2026”
on the Founder’s Birthday

BANDAI, JAPAN – Tenkyo Distillery, located in Bandai, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan,is pleased to announce the release of KAZE 921 FIRST EDITION 2026, a limited-edition blended whisky, on Monday, 21 September 2026, a public holiday in Japan.

KAZE 921 will be released each year on 21 September, the birthday of Tenkyo Distillery’s founder, Shunsuke Koike. Even before Tenkyo Distillery was completed, Shunsuke had begun exploring the possibilities of maturation in the Aizu region of Japan.

He sourced new make spirit from three distilleries in Scotland and filled a total of 189 casks, using 58 different cask types. It was an exploration of how spirit, cask, climate and time could shape a whisky unique to this place.

Later, a small quantity was taken from each cask and incorporated into the KAZE Solera System. Among them, several casks that displayed particularly exceptional character were quietly set aside.

This year’s 921 is centred around two richly matured Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, one American oak and one European oak, selected from among these special casks and carefully married with the KAZE Solera System nurtured in Aizu.

Only 921 bottles have been produced. It is a blend that will never be repeated.

This release is also accompanied by the traditional craftsmanship passed down through generations in Aizu.

The label is made using Izugahara washi, a traditional craft of Aizu. Barley straw from Aizu-grown barley is incorporated into the paper, with each label individually finished using traditional letterpress printing. The top of each cork stopper is individually hand finished using an Aizu lacquerware technique known as ishime-nuri. The bottle is presented in a specially made luxury presentation box.

The release is limited to only 921 bottles and will go on sale from 21 September 2026 through the Tenkyo online shop and the Yukkura direct-sales shop at Tenkyo Distillery.

Product name: KAZE 921 FIRST EDITION 2026
Category: Blended Whisky
Volume: 700ml
Price: ¥25,000 excluding tax / ¥27,500 including tax
Alcohol by volume: 61.7%
Presentation: Natural colour, natural strength, non-chill filtered
Ingredients: Malt, grain
Distillation & Production: Distilled in Scotland, matured, blended and bottled in Aizu, Japan.
Country of origin of ingredients: United Kingdom (malt whisky, grain whisky)

TASTING NOTES

Colour: Amber
Nose: Maple syrup, spiced nuts and dark cherries wrapped in chocolate. Refreshing lemon peel and shiso nuances reminiscent of pepper bring balance.
Palate: Rich and full-bodied yet juicy. Candied dried fruits and maple-coated spiced nuts are followed by warming Sichuan pepper and citrus peel.
Finish: A long, lingering finish. Sweet maple syrup and peppery spice are layered with subtle cooling notes of mint and menthol.

About Tenkyo Distillery:

Tenkyo Distillery is a malt whisky distillery in Aizu, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, founded by the late Shunsuke Koike (1993–2022). Located at the western foothills of Mount Bandai and blessed with pure Ryugasawa spring water, the distillery began full-scale whisky production in 2024.

www.tenkyo.jp

About KAZE:

Before Tenkyo Distillery was completed, founder Shunsuke Koike began exploring the possibilities of whisky maturation in Aizu, sourcing new make spirit from Scotland and filling 189 casks across 58 different cask types. KAZE is a blended whisky, distilled in Scotland, matured, blended and bottled in Aizu, Japan. This pioneering work became the foundation of KAZE and reflects Shunsuke’s vision of building a bridge between Scotland and Japan through whisky.

At the heart of KAZE is the KAZE Solera System, which brings together the casks Shunsuke matured in Aizu, ensuring that every bottle of KAZE will contain whisky originally laid down by Shunsuke. KAZE Founder’s Reserve Legacy, the brand’s core expression, was first released in July 2025 and is drawn from this evolving Solera System. KAZE 921 sits alongside Founder’s Reserve Legacy as an annual limited release, created each year to mark Shunsuke’s birthday on 21 September.

2026 KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® INDUCTS NEW MEMBERS & LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT

LOUISVILLE, Ky.— The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® today welcomed its 24th class of inductees, celebrating their lasting contributions to Kentucky’s Bourbon industry and its worldwide legacy. A record number of more than 300 industry leaders, legends and luminaries gathered in Louisville to honor the newest members of the prestigious Hall of Fame.

Inductees include two pioneering scientists and distillers who helped shape modern Bourbon production, two Brown-Forman leaders who built Kentucky whiskey into a global powerhouse, a transformative industry advocate who helped usher in Bourbon’s modern era, a celebrated storyteller who brought Bourbon history to a worldwide audience, and a longtime legislator whose work helped modernize Kentucky’s alcohol laws and fuel the industry’s growth.

The exclusive annual event was held at The Marriott Louisville East before an audience of industry leaders and Bourbon enthusiasts, with a livestream extending the celebration to thousands of fans around the world. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear provided welcome remarks, and the ceremony was emceed by Susan Reigler, a renowned Bourbon authority, author, critic, judge and educator.

Founded in 2001 by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® recognizes individuals who have made a transformational impact on Bourbon’s stature, growth and awareness.

It is the highest honor given by the state’s $10.6 billion signature industry.

“I am proud to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association in helping celebrate these remarkable honorees and their contributions to Kentucky Bourbon and our Commonwealth,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “The Bourbon industry is essential to Kentucky as it supports good-paying jobs, our economy and our record-breaking tourism industry. These leaders are helping ensure that success continues for generations to come and we are grateful to them for all they do. Congratulations.”

“Kentucky Bourbon’s story has never been shaped by distillers alone. It has been built by innovators, entrepreneurs, advocates, storytellers and leaders who each found a way to move this industry forward,” said Gigi DaDan, Chair of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association Board of Directors and General Manager of Angel’s Envy. “This year’s inductees embody that spirit.

“Their accomplishments span generations and disciplines, but they share a common thread: a willingness to challenge the standards, invest in the future and help cement Kentucky’s place as the home of Bourbon for the world. We are honored to celebrate their achievements and the lasting impact they have made on our industry.”

This year’s inductees are, in alphabetical order:

·    Shane Baker, 55, Danville, Ky. and E. Patrick Heist, Ph.D., 53, Danville, Ky. Baker and Heist, co-founders of Ferm Solutions and Wilderness Trail Distillery, are widely recognized for blending science, innovation, and tradition to advance Kentucky Bourbon. Through expertise in engineering, microbiology, fermentation, and distillation, the duo helped modernize production practices while preserving craftsmanship. Their work with hundreds of distilleries worldwide and the success of Wilderness Trail have made them influential leaders shaping Bourbon’s future.

·    The late W.L. Lyons Brown Sr. and late George Garvin Brown II, Louisville, Ky. The grandsons of Brown-Forman founder George Garvin Brown played transformative roles in building Brown-Forman into the largest Kentucky-based distilling company following Prohibition. Under their leadership, Early Times became the world’s top-selling Kentucky Straight Bourbon, while the company expanded globally and strengthened iconic brands like Jack Daniel’s. Their leadership, innovation, and industry service left an enduring mark on Kentucky Bourbon and American whiskey.

·    Eric Gregory, 59, Midway, Ky. Under Gregory’s leadership, Kentucky Bourbon has experienced unprecedented growth, modernization, and global recognition. Since becoming President of the KDA in 2008, Gregory helped transform the industry through landmark legislative reforms, expansion of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour, and unifying distillers of all sizes under a shared vision. Today, Kentucky produces 95% of the world’s Bourbon, supports 24,000 jobs, generates more than $10.6 billion annually, and welcomes millions of Bourbon Trail™ visitors – achievements shaped significantly by Gregory’s passion, leadership and advocacy.

·    Fred Minnick, 47, Louisville, Ky. Since returning from military service in Iraq, Minnick has become one of Bourbon’s most influential modern storytellers and advocates. Through bestselling books, national media coverage, podcasts, live events, and philanthropy, Minnick helped elevate Bourbon into mainstream culture while preserving its history and craftsmanship. A respected author, journalist, and educator, he has shaped how consumers worldwide understand and appreciate Kentucky Bourbon and American whiskey.

·    John W. Schickel, 72, Union, Ky. Schickel dedicated 50 years to public service, including a distinguished tenure as Kentucky State Senator and longtime chairman of the Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee. Through landmark alcohol law reforms, Schickel helped modernize Kentucky’s regulatory landscape, strengthen the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience, support craft distilling, and expand tourism opportunities statewide. His leadership played a vital role in Bourbon’s growth as a major economic and cultural driver for Kentucky.

Note: Full biographies, submitted by the inductees, accompany this release in a separate file can be found here.

Inductees are selected each year by a blue-ribbon committee consisting of past recipients of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award, the Chair of the KDA Board of Directors, the Governor of the Order of the Writ – Spirit of Kentucky Bourbon Society, and an appointee by the KDA President.

Parker Beam recipients serving on the 2026 selection committee were Bill Samuels, Jr., Chairman Emeritus of Maker’s Mark; Max Shapira, Executive Chairman of Heaven Hill Brands; Ken Lewis, founder of New Riff Distilling; and Chris Morris, Master Distiller Emeritus at Brown-Forman Corp. and Treasurer of the KDA Board. Not present was Jimmy Russell, Master Distiller at Wild Turkey.

Other members of the 2026 selection committee were Gigi DaDan, General Manager of Angel’s Envy and D’USSE Cognac, and Chair of the KDA Board; Fred B. Noe III, James B. Beam 7th generation Master Distiller, who was appointed by Chris Morris, Governor of the Order of the Writ;  and Andrea Wilson, Michter’s Chief Operating Officer and Master of Maturation, who was appointed by Eric Gregory, KDA President.

Each year, the group carefully reviews applications submitted by KDA member distilleries through a comprehensive and confidential process, with no more than five inductee honors awarded annually in three categories of distinction: Industry, Roll of Honor and Lifetime Achievement.

The 2026 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® ceremony was presented by Buzick Construction, Inc.

The Hall of Fame Signature Toast was sponsored by The Kroger Company and Kroger Chris’ Picks.

The livestream of the induction ceremony was sponsored by the Bourbon Pursuit, the Official Podcast of Bourbon and co-hosted by Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil along with Chris Blandford, Adult Beverage Specialist for Kentucky, Southern Indiana, and Southern Illinois Kroger stores. It can be viewed on the Bourbon Pursuit YouTube page @BourbonPursuit.

Additional sponsors include American Whiskey Scholar, Bluegrass Bitters™, Elmwood Inn Fine Teas, Independent Stave Company, Kern’s Kitchen Derby Pie®, Louisville Distilling Co. | Angel’s Envy Distillery, Peggy Noe Stevens & Associates, Signarama Downtown, and Vendome Copper & Brass Works Inc.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association commissioned glassblowing artist Brook Forrest White, Jr. of Flame Run in Louisville to craft unique and contemporary awards that incorporate Bourbon-inspired motifs such as amber colors, oak, copper and water.

JoEl E. Ford, owner of Kentucky Cut Stone, located in Lancaster, was commissioned to craft the natural-cut limestone award bases.

“The Bourbon industry is essential to Kentucky as it supports good-paying jobs, our economy and our record-breaking tourism industry. These leaders are helping ensure that success continues for generations to come and we are grateful to them for all they do. Congratulations.”

— Governor

Andy Beshear

Glen Scotia unveils penultimate expression in Icons of Campbeltown series

Multi-award winning Campbeltown distillery, Glen Scotia, has revealed the fourth expression in its Icons of Campbeltown series, a five-part annual collection inspired by folklore tales of Scotland’s smallest whisky making region.

Glen Scotia Icons of Campbeltown Release No.4 is a limited-edition 12-year-old, unpeated single malt that pays homage to the Griffin, a legendary creature said to have been a guardian of Campbeltown’s harbour, whisky and bold character.

Campbeltown, once known as the whisky capital of the world in the Victorian era, is a town with mythical history carved into its streets. The Icons of Campbeltown series is inspired by the carvings of saints and beasts on Campbeltown’s 14th century market cross, which is shrouded in myth and lore.

Among the markings is a depiction of the Griffin – a half eagle, half lion. As the legend goes, the Griffin was a creature of strength, vigilance and protection which kept watch high above the harbour, guarding what Campbeltown valued most, its whisky.

Icons of Campbeltown Release No.4 was finished in the finest Vin Santo wine casks, bringing a rich honeyed sweetness layered with notes of dried apricot and sultana. Toasted almond and hazelnut add depth and warmth, while a gentle hint of cinnamon spice lingers on the palate. Underneath it all, Glen Scotia’s unmistakable coastal character soars through with the same quiet confidence the series has traced through each release so far.

Ashley Smith, master blender at Glen Scotia, said: “Our small town has so many exceptional stories to tell, and The Icons of Campbeltown series brings this incredible folklore to life.

“The Griffin stood watch over Campbeltown for hundreds of years, and that’s exactly how I think of our distillery team, as the guardians of Glen Scotia’s whisky. Every cask that leaves here has been shaped by people protecting a character that has come to be loved all over the world, through skill built up over generations.

“For this release, I wanted a cask that would truly complement that character, so we finished the whisky in Vin Santo casks. They’ve brought a honeyed sweetness and dried fruit, with toasted almond and warming cinnamon on the finish, with our distinctive coastal salt character anchoring it all.”

To mark the launch, Glen Scotia is offering the chance to win a trip to Campbeltown when purchasing Icons of Campbeltown Release No. 4 through its website*. During this once in a lifetime experience, the winner will meet the team, the guardians of Glen Scotia, explore the distillery, taste the whisky in the place that shaped it, and discover the people, craftsmanship and community spirit behind the town’s big Campbeltown character where it was born.

Icons of Campbeltown Release No.4 is bottled at batch strength, 53.8% ABV, non-chill filtered and natural in colour. It retails at £80 and is available now from Glen Scotia’s website and specialist retailers in the UK and globally.

Glen Scotia has continued to work with artist Joel Holtzman on the series’ artwork. Holtzman’s previous work includes projects for Disney, Marvel and Lucasfilm.

For more information on Icons of Campbeltown Release No.4 and the Meet the Guardians of Glen Scotia competition, visit www.glenscotia.com.

*Terms and conditions apply

Tasting notes:

Nose: Rich caramel, dried apricots in syrup, candied red apple.

Taste: Layers of baking spices – nutmeg and cinnamon, toasted hazelnut, dried apple skin, dark cocoa nib.

Finish: Orange bitters, zesty citrus peels, carmelised oak sugars, crème brûlée.

About Glen Scotia

Glen Scotia has been crafting single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832. The town is the smallest of Scotland’s five whisky-producing regions with a big reputation for once being the Victorian whisky capital of the world when it was home to over 30 distilleries.

Today, Glen Scotia is one of only three surviving distilleries in the coastal town, which has seen a resurgence in recent years. Producing peated and non-peated whiskies, the distillery still maintains much of its original design, including the stillroom and the dunnage warehouse dating from the 1830s. The distillery’s small team is on a mission to put Campbeltown back on the map for its distinctive character, found not only in its fruity, maritime and oily-textured single malts, but also in its traditional whisky-making methods using small stills to create big Campbeltown flavours.

Recognition of Glen Scotia’s style and craftsmanship continues to be acknowledged globally.

• In 2023, a single cask bottling, distilled in 2009 and aged for 13 years in a first-fill bourbon barrel, won Best Single Cask Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards.
• Later that year, Glen Scotia 25 Year Old earned a Platinum award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, given only to entries that have won Double Gold for three consecutive years.
• In 2024, Glen Scotia 25 Year Old and Glen Scotia Victoriana both won Platinum at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• In 2025, Glen Scotia Double Cask Rum Finish was named the best Campbeltown no-age-statement whisky, Glen Scotia 15 Year Old and Glen Scotia 25 Year Old won Platinum at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Glen Scotia Victoriana took gold at the same event.
• That same year, Glen Scotia 15 Year Old also won gold at the International World Spirits Competition.
• In 2026, the brand’s hero expression Glen Scotia 12 Year Old won Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Gold at the International Spirits Challenge.
• Also in 2026, the limited-edition Glen Scotia Campbeltown Malts Festival Release 2026 was named Taste Master in its category at the Spirits Business Scotch Whisky Masters.
• Glen Scotia 25 Year Old also added a further Platinum at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2026, its eighth consecutive year of recognition at the event.