Harrison Ford toasts to the craft behind Glenmorangie’s elegant new 25-year-old whisky

 — The Altus lifts Glenmorangie’s signature house style to new heights —

Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky today releases a decadent 25-year-old whisky which elevates the Distillery’s signature spirit character to new heights of elegance. Highly praised by Harrison Ford – one of the first to taste the whisky in Glenmorangie’s witty brand campaign – Glenmorangie The Altus 25 Years Old (Latin for “high”) embodies its creators’ tireless approach to excellence. Bottled from a marriage of whisky matured in classic bourbon casks and whisky finished in Madeira wine casks, this permanent addition to Glenmorangie’s core range abounds with sweet, fruity flavours, and butter-candy undertones.

For more than 180 years, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators have been endlessly imaginative on their quest to create exceptional single malts. None more so than Director of Whisky Creation and Master Distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden, whose favourite phrase is “What if…?”. Since he began his tenure at Glenmorangie in 1995, Dr Bill has constantly challenged his team to elevate their favourites and bring more flavours and possibilities to single malt – making Glenmorangie the world’s most highly awarded Highland single malt. The Altus’s ascent through the years encapsulates his vision and commitment.

Ford salutes the heritage and craft behind The Altus when given a sneak preview before its official release, in Glenmorangie’s playful brand campaign Once Upon a Time in Scotland. In episode 10 Teamwork, the actor is handed a mystery dram by Glenmorangie Senior Tour Guide, Emily Ross. Told only by Distillery Manager Ed Thom that this is “something very special”, Ford is clearly awe-struck by The Altus’s flavour. Nodding his approval, he says to the assembled team of Distillery workers: “You guys do good work.” With an air of reverence, he holds his glass aloft, adding: “Here’s to your creation. To the good people of Glenmorang-y. Cheers.” The dramatic tension is then humorously broken as Distillery worker Alan Duff Junior gently corrects Ford’s pronunciation: “It’s Glenmorangie.”

Just as Ford acknowledges, The Altus is a testament to Glenmorangie’s pursuit of excellence. It begins with the fruity spirit of Glenmorangie’s unusually tall stills, whose height allows more space for taste and aroma. That distillate’s delicacy is the result of meticulous changes conceived by Dr Bill, soon after he joined Glenmorangie almost 30 years ago. Then, inspired by the flavours which first drew him to Glenmorangie, he ages this elegant spirit in select bourbon barrels – the backbone of the Distillery’s house style. Among them, are Glenmorangie’s precious “designer” casks; hand-made from carefully chosen American oaks, heavily toasted and lightly charred to Dr Bill’s exact specifications to enhance the whisky’s creamy depths.

Patiently matured over decades, this whisky lusciously magnifies Glenmorangie’s trademark smooth, fruity character. Yet to elevate its flavour profile even further, Dr Bill marries this whisky with a sprinkling of Glenmorangie finished in Malmsey Madeira casks. This homage to Glenmorangie’s pioneering Madeira-finished whisky from 1995 – a world-first and a collector’s favourite to this day – guides a classic into The Altus’s decadent new realms of sweetness and spice. Aromas of carnation wind around orange blossom and honey, while tastes of mandarin, apples, pears and peach collide with gooseberry tartness, marzipan and ripe banana.

Dr Bill said: “The Altus’s 25-year journey is a true celebration of Glenmorangie’s acclaimed house style – presenting it at a new pinnacle of flavour. We were delighted that Harrison Ford became one of the first to taste the whisky in Once Upon A Time in Scotland – and are very glad it met with his approval!  Once our delicate spirit has been distilled in our iconic stills, this whisky has absorbed the creamy, fruity influence of our designer bourbon casks over the decades, before being combined with a sprinkling of Madeira-cask-finished Glenmorangie for more depth and fruitiness. The Altus elevates our Distillery’s signature notes of mandarin, peach and pear to new heights, combined with sweet butter-candy tones.”

Ed, who has been manager of the Distillery since 2019, pours Ford his first taste of The Altus in the campaign’s Teamwork episode. He said: “We were very excited to share The Altus with Harrison. This whisky is a perfect example of how bringing together the work of our distillers, blenders and warehouse teams can create something truly special. Harrison’s reaction to the whisky in the film is very genuine. After filming stopped, he shared his appreciation and praise for the craftmanship of the team who created it. He was very relaxed during breaks. He even told us a few jokes – which we promised to keep a secret if he didn’t tell anyone about The Altus before it was released!”

Emily Ross, Senior Tour Guide at Glenmorangie Distillery who hands Harrison the dram itself, reflected on her experience during the filming of the campaign: “The whole experience was unreal. I’ve always been a Harrison Ford fan, so I was excited to meet him. He was incredibly down-to-earth, humble, and genuine. It was a day I’ll never forget; a real moment in Glenmorangie’s history.”

Glenmorangie The Altus 25 Years Old completes a trio of flagship expressions in the Distillery’s core range, alongside Glenmorangie Original 12 Years Old and Glenmorangie Infinita 18 Years Old. It will be initially available in specialist retailers as well as from the Distillery Visitor Centre in Tain, and at glenmorangie.com RRP: £550.

To watch the full Teamwork episode, featuring Harrison Ford’s first taste of The Altus, visit www.glenmorangie.com/pages/harrison-ford

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TASTING NOTES 

Glenmorangie Altus 25 Years Old is bottled at 43% ABV

Colour: Deep amber.

Aroma:  A beautifully rich yet soft and aromatic bouquet greets you, with fragrant carnation, rose, orange blossom, honey and peach. This is underscored with hints of vanilla and almond, and a touch of nutty toffee, from the Madeira cask inclusion. Finally, you’ll uncover some classic Glenmorangie fruits, with peach and pear.

Taste: Silky and luscious, leading to a burst of sweet, fruity flavours. Mandarin, apples, pears and peaches, with a burst of tart gooseberry and hard, yellow plums. Then, gently sweet butter-candy notes, with soft oak-derived flavours – almond marzipan, icing sugar and ripe banana.

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to dream up delicious single malt whiskies. They’ve been honing their craft for 180 years. They create a delicate and fruity spirit in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow for more taste and aroma. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this pioneering crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

In 2025, Glenmorangie unveiled a new brand campaign, Once Upon a Time in Scotland, fronted by Harrison Ford. Taking the form of 12 episodes, the series explores Glenmorangie’s authentic truths, from its stunning Highland surroundings to the real people who create its complex and elegant whiskies.

About Glenmorangie’s whisky creators:

Glenmorangie’s Whisky Creation Team’s favourite phrase is “What if?”. And they are constantly challenging themselves to take whatever captures their imaginations and turn it into whisky – be that their memories of a favourite place (Glenmorangie A Tale of Tokyo), the beguiling aromas of freshly brewed coffee (Glenmorangie Signet) and more.

At the helm of the team is Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation. With a PhD in biochemistry and decades of experience, Dr Bill has all the skills needed to bring these ideas to life. Already, he has earned the admiration of his peers many times over. For instance, he has taken his place in the Icons of Whisky Hall of Fame. He has won the International Whisky Competition’s award for Master Distiller of the Year more times than anyone else. And he has been named Master Blender/Distiller of the Year by the International Spirits Challenge twice.

Working hand-in-hand with Dr Bill is Gillian Macdonald, The Glenmorangie Company’s Master Blender. Gillian combines art and science in her role, with her main responsibilities including the daily sensory analysis of the new-make spirit, core range recipes and the co-ordination of the Company’s sensory panel. Both Bill and Gillian manage the New Product Development pipeline for Glenmorangie which involves nosing hundreds of casks a year for final recipe selection. 

How Glenmorangie inspired Dr Bill’s career:

Dr Bill first tasted Glenmorangie Original in 1984, when he was studying for his PhD. He has described the taste of its signature whisky as a “eureka moment” that sparked his interest in whisky. “I learned I was drinking a glass of neat Glenmorangie 10 Year Old. And I remember it exactly all these years on, the creaminess and the fruitiness, tastes I still call upon in creating all Glenmorangie’s expressions even now.” Soon it was clear that his career would lie in whisky. He explains: “I felt a sense of destiny there and then.”

In 1995, he joined Glenmorangie as Distillery Manager. And, envisioning an even more delicate spirit, he altered the moment that spirit is taken from Distillery’s unusually tall stills, to magnify Glenmorangie’s fruity finesse. At that time, Glenmorangie’s designer cask programme was in its infancy – over time, Dr Bill’s influence would take it to new heights. The same year, with wood finishing in its infancy, Glenmorangie Madeira Wood Finish was released. Widely credited in the industry with putting wood finishing on the map, Dr Bill was inspired to experiment with an exotic array of cask types, opening up new tastes and beginning a new trend in world whisky. 

About Glenmorangie’s designer casks:

To create the perfect casks for its lighter spirit, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators handpick slow-growth American white oak trees from the Ozark Mountains, in Missouri. These oaks tend to grow on north-facing slopes, where there is less light, more shade, and less moisture in the soil. As a result, their wood has a particularly tight-grained structure, with higher concentrations of the naturally occurring compounds which bring the whisky silky, creamy textures and flavours of vanilla, coconut, almond and honey. The slow-growth trees which Glenmorangie selects have an abundance of early wood (formed from spring growth). Although late wood (grown in summer and autumn) typically makes up most of a tree, early wood is more porous. And so, it allows more contact between spirit and wood, bringing more wood flavours to the whisky. When cut into staves, the wood is air-seasoned for about two years. This breaks down the internal structure of the wood to release softer, sweeter flavours than the more bitter, astringent notes that can come with quicker kiln drying. The staves are then handcrafted into casks, heavily toasted and lightly charred to Dr Bill’s precise specifications, and filled with bourbon for at least four years, for seasoning. Only then, are the casks ready to make the journey to the Glenmorangie Distillery, where they bring a sweeter, richer, smoother, more rounded profile to the whisky. Glenmorangie began its search for the perfect wood in the mid-1980s, later developing its bespoke casks programme. These casks form the heart of the Distillery’s signature whisky Glenmorangie The Original and are used in the creation of other select whiskies.

About Glenmorangie Madeira Wood Finish:

In 1995, Glenmorangie released the world’s first whisky finished in Madeira casks – Glenmorangie Madeira Wood Finish. This whisky would go on to form the distillery’s first range of wood finishes – alongside the sherry and port wood finishes.

About Glenmorangie’s house style:

Glenmorangie is famed for its soft, house style, epitomised in its flagship whisky The Original. To create that award-winning single malt, the Distillery’s whisky creators take their elegant spirit and age it for 12 years in bourbon casks. The result is a luscious, creamy whisky, filled with notes of orange, peach and vanilla. Those elegant flavours are then elevated by time and skill in Glenmorangie Infinita 18 Years Old. That expression combines whisky aged in classic bourbon casks with Oloroso sherry casks for hints of figs, caramelised orange and flowers. Now, Glenmorangie’s hallmark flavours are magnified by age once more in Glenmorangie Altus 25 Years Old. Marrying classic bourbon casks with whisky finished in Madeira casks, this aged single malt takes the Distillery’s signature style to new heights.

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.

The Ardara Distillery Launches Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey

~ Donegal Whiskey Heritage Reclaimed ~

This August marks a historic moment in the revival of Irish whiskey as The Ardara Distillery, home of Sliabh Liag Distillers, proudly unveils Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey – a heavily peated, triple distilled, all grain-in whiskey that signals a bold revival of Donegal’s lost distilling tradition. Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey has already been awarded a Gold medal at the Irish Whiskey Masters 2025 in the Single Malt – Super-Premium category.

A true product of place, Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey is uncompromising in character. For over a century, regional distinctions in Irish whiskey have been lost, replaced by conformity. Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey breaks this trend, reawakening Donegal’s distinctive character. Made with malted barley peated to 55 ppm, distilled with the grain-in, and matured, sherry forward, in American Bourbon casks and Virgin oak, this Irish whiskey brings to life a style unseen for over a century. Rooted in tradition, yet confident and contemporary in execution, Ardara Single Malt Irish whiskey is both a declaration and a homecoming.

Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey represents the culmination of a dream held by founders James and Moira Doherty, who returned to their family roots to build The Ardara Distillery and revive the whiskey-making traditions that once defined the northwest of Ireland. From its base on the Show Field in the coastal town of Ardara, The Ardara Distillery stands as a striking emblem of renewal. Behind its glass façade, the three copper stills from Forsyths of Scotland are the beating heart of a process engineered to harness every note of smoky, earthy complexity.

“For too long, Irish whiskey has drifted towards a conformity with the familiar – sweet, smooth and easy,” says James Doherty, co-founder of The Ardara Distillery. “At Ardara, we’re answering a call that comes not from market trends, but from memory, from place, and from family. A century ago, my grandfather was an illicit distiller in Donegal and, while he is no longer with us, I know he’d recognise what we’re doing here – grain-in, heavily peated, triple distilled, just as it was in his time. Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a spirit that could only have come from one place – Donegal. This isn’t about nostalgia, it’s about revival: reclaiming the rich, sweet smoky, textured soul of true Donegal whiskey.

Adding to this, Moira Doherty, co-founder of The Ardara Distillery said: “Ardara’s mission has always been singular: to remain true to Donegal above all else. We know that our Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a deeply traditional style delivered in a process that today is seen as revolutionary. It doesn’t matter to us that no one else chooses to do it this way; it is true to Donegal and that’s good enough for us!”

The Ardara Distillery is proudly championing heavily peated “all grain in” distilling – a process that sees every part of the grain carried through to the wash still. This is a rare approach that honours traditional Donegal distilling while extracting maximum character from the malt. Ardara is the only distillery on the island of Ireland dedicated to peated whiskey using this method.

Carefully selected yeast strains and the use of pot stills with downward-sloping lyne arms work in harmony to harness the rich, fruity, nutty, smokiness forged in the grain.

The packaging reflects the spirit within – bold, elegant, and full of meaning. A 100% recycled sculpted bottle with vertical flutes echoes the era when these flavours were last enjoyed, while the Solera vats uniquely used prior to maturation and essential to continuity are recognised on the bottles’ caps. Metallic blue and copper accents on the label reference the native dragonfly, chosen as Ardara’s emblem – a creature of transformation, resilience and rebirth, much like the Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey itself.

The Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey marks the first release of what will be a defining style that will grow, develop and evolve with time. James Doherty said: “Our first edition of Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey drinks superbly well – even in its youth it clearly signals the style and character we’ve been committed to from the very beginning.  With each future release Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey will gain added depth and complexity as we move closer to defining Ardara’s true signature style.” James added: “We‘re proud to be at this point and grateful for the support that’s brought us here. It promises to be an exciting journey of discovery.”

The 2025 edition comprises an initial 10,000 bottles worldwide; 2,000 at cask strength (available exclusively at The Ardara Distillery visitor centre); 8,000 bottles at 46% ABV for select distribution in Ireland and the UK from August, followed by international markets from September, including Germany, France, USA, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey at 46% will be available in select outlets and online from August 2025 and costs €90.00. Find out more about The Ardara Single Malt Irish Whiskey and the spirit of Donegal here: https://www.sliabhliagdistillers.com/

The Ardara Single Malt (46% ABV) offers a sensory journey throughout – on the nose, sweet cereal and biscuit mingle with poached figs, coconut, raisins, and a delicate whisper of pipe tobacco and ash. The palate unfolds with the rich sweetness of hot beignets and poached pears, layered with notes of roasted coconut, almond, leather, and rolled tobacco. Waves of campfire smoke roll in, gradually giving way to a soft, smoky baked apple finish. The experience lingers with a warm echo of the hearth – smoke, sweet spice, and the quiet, comforting hush of a peat fire the morning after.

Heaven Hill Named Distillery of the Year at 2025 New Orleans Spirits Competition

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (July, 2025) – In another show of leadership and commitment to quality, Heaven Hill Brands has been honored as Distillery of the Year at the 2025 New Orleans Spirits Competition, a prestigious recognition announced yesterday by judges at Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans. The award celebrates Heaven Hill’s continued excellence across a broad range of spirits and underscores its leadership and craftsmanship in American whiskey and beyond. Heaven Hill also earned several top distinctions across major categories, highlighting the breadth and quality of its portfolio.

Best of Category Wins:

Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon – Heaven Hill Bottled-In-Bond
Bourbon, Non-Age Stated – Evan Williams 1783
Whiskey, Bourbon 5-10 years – Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Traditional Barrel Series – Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon
Corn Whiskey – Mellow Corn Bottled-In-Bond
Finished Bourbon – Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel

This latest accolade comes during a momentous year for Heaven Hill as the company recently celebrated being named the Best U.S. Distillery from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, prepares to unveil its new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in September and celebrates its 90th anniversary on December 13, 2025.

“This recognition from the New Orleans Spirits Competition is a testament to the dedication of our entire team,” said Kate Latts, Co-President of Heaven Hill Brands and third-generation family member. “Being named Distillery of the Year and securing these Best of Category wins reflect the passion and precision that go into every bottle we produce.”

The New Orleans Spirits Competition, founded in 2022, is an international spirits judging bringing wider recognition to fine beverages and spirits from top-flight producers across the globe. Presented by the esteemed Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, each spirit is tasted blind by a panel of industry experts, without identification, to ensure integrity and secrecy. The judging panels include pre-eminent industry professionals, including award-winning bartenders and distillers, decorated beverage writers, and industry luminaries. For more information, visit: www.nolaspiritscomp.com.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is one of the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producers and marketers, as well as the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill has been named a Best Managed Company in both 2024 and 2025 by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Heaven Hill, Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Widow Jane, Larceny, Old Fitzgerald, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye and FEW Whiskey; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul and Ocho Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; and Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur.

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2025 Parker’s Heritage Collection® Limited Edition Bottling

19th Edition of the annual ultra-premium release is an 11-Year-Old Kentucky Straight American Whiskey Bottled at Cask Strength

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (August 2025) – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the 19th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection®, featuring a distinctive Kentucky Straight American Whiskey. This year’s bottling is a masterful blend of three mashbills, resulting in a bold, layered whiskey that continues the brand’s legacy of innovation and excellence. Like previous editions, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to ALS research and patient care in memory of Parker Beam, Heaven Hill’s late Master Distiller Emeritus.

The 19th Edition is comprised of 160 barrels drawn from multiple rickhouses and floors across Heaven Hill’s rickhouse sites. The blend includes 15-year-old Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon, aged in Rickhouse A; 11-year-old Kentucky Straight Corn Whiskey aged in Rickhouses DD, GG, and BB; and 12-year-old Whiskey aged in Rickhouse Y, made from only two grains – rye and malt. Each mashbill was aged in unique rickhouses and floors, then married together post-aging.

This edition is bottled at barrel proof, 122.5 proof, and is non-chill filtered to preserve the full depth of flavor developed during aging. It will be available beginning in September in limited quantities both nationally and in select international markets at a suggested retail price of $179.99.

“With each release of Parker’s Heritage Collection, we honor Parker Beam’s legacy by pushing the boundaries of American Whiskey,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Heaven Hill Master Distiller. “This 19th Edition is a celebration of innovation and craftsmanship, bringing together three mashbills and age statements to create a complex, bold whiskey that truly stands out. We’re proud that this series not only showcases our team’s blending expertise, but also continues to support ALS research in Parker’s memory.”

The late Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam, for whom the acclaimed series is named, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2010. Since 2013, proceeds from sales of the Parker’s Heritage Collection have raised more than $1.4 million dollars toward ALS research and patient care through contributions made by Heaven Hill for each bottle purchased. With this edition, Heaven Hill will again contribute a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold to the ALS Association. To learn more about The Parker Beam Promise of Hope Fund, please visit als.org/parker-beam-promise-hope-fund.

Packaged in the same upscale 750ml bottle as the previous eighteen editions, but with a deep navy-blue label complimented by gold accents, the newest Parker’s Heritage Collection will be a standout addition to the series. With previous releases having won multiple awards from Whisky Advocate, Whisky Magazine, the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the Parker’s Heritage Collection stands as some of the most critically lauded American Whiskeys in recent memory. Past bottlings have won awards ranging from “Best Special Barrel Finished Bourbon” and “Best North American Whiskey” to “American Whiskey of the Year” and “Best of Show, Brown Spirits.”

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 2 million barrels aging in more than 70 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2024 and 2023 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year and 2023 World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon from the Icons of Whisky, as well as the 2022 Large Spirits Producer of the Year from the Ascot Awards. Heaven Hill Distillery held the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

A. SMITH BOWMAN DISTILLERY EXPANDS EXPERIMENTAL OAK SERIES WITH HUNGARIAN OAK, THIRD RELEASE EXPLORING OAK VARIETALS

As the final release in this limited series, Hungarian Oak will be available via online lottery running August 11 – August 18

FREDERICKSBURG, VA (August 4, 2025) – A. Smith Bowman Distillery today announces the release of Abraham Bowman Oak Series: Hungarian Oak, the third and final experimental whiskey from its Abraham Bowman Oak Series. Designed to explore cask maturation in different oak varietals from around the world, as well as the effect charring has on the flavor of whiskey, the Abraham Bowman Oak Series first launched in March 2024 with the release of French Oak and then continued in November 2024 with the release of American Oak. For its third release, Hungarian Oak boldly pushes the boundaries of whiskey making by introducing a whiskey that redefines the possibilities of flavor through innovation and craft.

“The Abraham Bowman Oak Series was about challenging everything we thought we knew about aging whiskey,” said A. Smith Bowman Distillery Head Distiller David Bock. “This experiment started more than fourteen years ago with former Master Distiller Truman Cox. French Oak and American Oak dazzled us with impressive flavors and now, Hungarian Oak has delivered another delicious and unexpected whiskey. In many ways, all positive, Hungarian Oak is the opposite of what we expect from our extended aged whiskey. I know Truman would be proud to see this innovation deliver such a wonderful product.”

Abraham Bowman Oak Series: Hungarian Oak is made from a blend of liquids aged for 12 years in charred Hungarian Oak barrels. Bottled at 115 proof, this bourbon has a brown velvet color. On the nose, the aroma of candied apricot engulfs your glass, unfolding layers of warm honey apples and a pronounced smokey dark chocolate on the pallet. The finish lingers on the sides of your tongue with notes of dried fruit and char.

“What surprises me about Hungarian Oak is the lack of pepper or spice, which we have come to expect from our barrels that are aging ten or more years,” said Bock. “Hungarian Oak barrels seem to have replaced any spicy notes with a flavor profile that is rich and glossy. Hungarian Oak is one of the most well-rounded whiskeys I have tasted and I’m excited for our fans to try this release.”

Inspired by his pioneering spirit, the Abraham Bowman Collection features limited-edition releases that honor Abraham’s legacy of innovation, mastery and adventure. More than 150 years before his great-grandson established Virginia’s oldest distillery, Abraham traversed the territories of the Thirteen Colonies as a Colonel of Virginia’s 8^th Regiment. The 8^th regiment played a vital role in the Continental Army’s fight for independence.

The Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Collection of whiskeys began in 2010 with the release of Abraham Bowman Rye Whiskey. Each edition of the Collection reflects innovation and creativity coming from Master Distillers Brian Prewitt, the late Truman Cox and current Head Distiller David Bock. Previous releases in the Abraham Bowman Collection have explored different mash bills, aging techniques, proofs, finishes and more.

The opportunity to purchase a limited bottle of Abraham Bowman Oak Series: Hungarian Oak will occur through an online lottery taking place from August 11 – August 18. Consumers nationwide are invited to enter the lottery; however, winners MUST purchase in-person at the A. Smith Bowman gift shop within three weeks of winning. Limit one entry per person. To enter, please submit a form here. Winners will be randomly selected on August 20 and notified via email immediately following the selection. Each 750ml bottle will be sold at the suggested retail price of $79.99, excluding state taxes and fees.

For more information about the Abraham Bowman Collection, visit asmithbowman.com/spirits.

About A. Smith Bowman Distillery

As Virginia’s oldest distillery, A. Smith Bowman Distillery’s rich history dates back to 1927, when Abram Smith Bowman purchased 7,200-acres in Fairfax County, Virginia. Named Sunset Hills Farm, the Bowman Family were grain and dairy farmers until the fields became so abundant that Bowman needed a use for the excess grain. In 1934, he built a groundbreaking distillery on the farmland and, with the help of his two sons, produced the first-ever batch of Virginia Gentleman Whiskey

Today, the historic distillery has relocated 60 miles away to Fredericksburg, where it operates as a small, family-owned company continuing the time-honored traditions on which it was founded, producing premium handcrafted spirits in small batches and experimental editions that embody innovation at its core. Award-winning products produced at A. Smith Bowman Distillery include Bowman Brothers Small Batch Bourbon, John J. Bowman Single Barrel Bourbon, A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon, the Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Collection, Deep Run Vodka, Sunset Hills Gin, George Bowman Caribbean Rum and Mary Hite Bowman Caramel Bourbon Cream, among others. In 2023, Cask Strength won Gold medals at multiple competitions including the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition, San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the American Whiskey Masters.

For more information on A. Smith Bowman Distillery, visit asmithbowman.com.

ABERARGIE DISTILLERY MARKS FINAL BARLEY HARVEST AHEAD OF INAUGURAL SINGLE MALT LAUNCH

‘From Grain to Glass’

Aberargie, Scotland – As harvest season unfolds across Scotland’s rolling fields, Aberargie Distillery is marking a milestone moment with the crop of its farm-grown barley – the last to be harvested before the distillery’s widely anticipated debut single malt launches in early 2026.

With its first spirit laid down in 2017, Aberargie is no ordinary newcomer. The distillery stands on a 300-acre farm near Perth owned by the Morrison family – a name synonymous with Scotch whisky for five generations. From grocers and brokers to blenders, bottlers and distillers, the Morrisons have played a central role in shaping the Scotch whisky industry for over a century. Today, that legacy continues at Aberargie: a fully independent, family-run distillery built on home ground.

Located seven miles south of Perth, Aberargie is one of the few distilleries in Scotland to use 100% estate-grown barley, cultivated entirely on the Morrison family’s land. This farm-to-bottle philosophy is at the heart of Aberargie’s ethos, which delivers full traceability, terroir, and complete control over quality from seed to spirit.

This year’s harvest includes the distillery’s signature Golden Promise barley, a heritage variety known for its full-bodied profile, buttery texture and oily richness. Once widely used in the 1960s by distilleries such as The Macallan, Golden Promise is now a rarity in modern Scotch production, favoured only by distillers who choose flavour over yield. Grown directly in front of the distillery itself in clear view of the stills, it is a testament to Aberargie’s commitment to tradition and depth of character.

In addition to Golden Promise, the team also grows Laureate barley, a modern, high-performing variety selected for its clean, bright spirit yield and reliability in Scottish growing conditions. Combining both strains ensures a balanced, structured, and flavour-forward whisky.

Every grain harvested this season will go directly into whisky production on-site, reinforcing Aberargie’s true grain-to-glass approach. With all distilling, blending, maturation, and bottling carried out in-house, and whisky matured exclusively in first-fill casks, Aberargie aims to deliver a single malt rooted in provenance and shaped by the Scottish landscape.

“This is a significant harvest for us. The last one before we bottle our very first single malt,” said Graeme Mackeddie, Head of Distilling at Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers. “Growing our own barley gives us unmatched control over flavour and consistency. Golden Promise is a heritage barley that brings richness and depth to our whisky. This barley isn’t known for its high-yielding properties; it’s chosen for quality, and that’s why we have chosen to grow this strain on our farms.”

Set to launch in 2026, Aberargie’s inaugural release promises a flavour-first single malt defined by heritage grain, natural depth, and a strong sense of place. It results from years of patient farming, careful distilling, and thoughtful maturation until the spirit is at its peak.

Aberargie also marks a symbolic return to distilling for the Morrison family, who last operated their own distillery before the sale of Morrison Bowmore to Suntory in 1994. Today, under Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, the family’s focus is clear: building brands with legacy, maturing whisky with patience, and investing in people, all while remaining proudly independent.

For more information on Aberargie Distillery and Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, head to https://www.morrisondistillers.com

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. With the first release of Aberargie being anticipated for launch in 2026, this is the cornerstone of the business.

CASK TRADE LAUNCHES WHISKY MASTERCLASS SERIES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE DRINKS TRUST TO ELEVATE INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE

Cask Trade, in collaboration with The Drinks Trust, is proud to announce the launch of a Whisky Masterclass as part of DEVELOP — a new, free educational programme designed to deepen whisky knowledge and elevate service standards across the drinks and hospitality industry.

Tailored for hospitality professionals, bartenders, and anyone working within the drinks trade, the DEVELOP Whisky Masterclass offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of cask strength, single malt whisky, a category often less understood but growing in popularity.

This in-depth workshop is aimed particularly at those who may not have had access to specialist training. It supports career development by empowering participants with the knowledge and confidence to speak passionately and professionally about whisky, ultimately enhancing the customer experience.

What You Will Learn:
•    The key differences between cask strength and commercial whiskies (single malt vs blends)
•    How to taste and evaluate whisky like an expert, exploring the nose, palate, and finish across multiple drams provided
•    Regional styles, flavour profiles, and the role of maturation and cask types
•    Practical knowledge to use on the floor, behind the bar, or in sales and service roles

Sessions will be held quarterly and led by whisky specialists from Cask Trade and are ideal for those looking to take their passion and expertise to the next level.

Simon Aron, Founder and Director of Cask Trade, commented: “A masterclass on single malt whisky will open a multitude of opportunities for anyone in the drinks trade looking to gain knowledge and confidence when talking about the water of life. Education, I believe, is the best way to support and give back to the drinks industry. At Cask Trade, we are committed to teaching anyone interested about the world of single malt whisky. In partnership with The Drinks Trust, we can make a difference.”

Nicola Burston, CEO of The Drinks Trust, added: “On behalf of The Drinks Trust, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Cask Trade for hosting such an insightful and exclusive whisky workshop. At a time when training and educational opportunities are increasingly scarce across our industry, initiatives like this are not only welcome but vital. It was especially meaningful to see this opportunity made available to individuals who may not otherwise have access to such high-quality learning experiences. Cask Trade’s commitment to sharing knowledge and nurturing talent within the drinks industry community is truly commendable, and we are incredibly grateful for your continued support.”

The DEVELOP Whisky Masterclass is part of The Drinks Trust’s broader DEVELOP initiative —  DEVELOP is The Drinks Trust’s flagship education, training, and employment initiative aimed at breaking down financial barriers for individuals looking to enter or advance in the UK drinks and hospitality industry. Launched in early 2022, the programme represents a unique, full-service offering combining bursaries, accredited training, and job placement support to cultivate a more skilled, inclusive workforce.

Spaces are limited. To learn more and apply for the DEVELOP Whisky Masterclass, visit the application page here.

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 off 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 stocklist – 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-gauges, and multiple exit options when customers come to sell on 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 strives 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.

Cask Trade Bottling 
For trade clients and those looking to bottle and enjoy their cask, Cask Trade offers a comprehensive bottling service located next door to their warehouse in Speyside. From cask selection, bottle options, label design and printing, and shipping to your final location, Cask Trade Bottling looks after every element of the process.

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.

ABOUT THE DRINKS TRUST

The Drinks Trust is a trade charity providing financial assistance, emotional support, and opportunity for growth to drinks industry people. Our aim is to alleviate hardship, improve the wellbeing of our colleagues, and support their professional development.

To find out more visit: https://www.drinkstrust.org.uk/ For any media enquiries please contact Alessandra Brugola, Head of Marketing & Communications at alessandra@drinkstrust.org.uk

Glencairn Crystal named as finalist for prestigious Exporter of the Year Award

at the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards 2025

Glencairn Crystal, the family-owned, award-winning crystal specialist based in East Kilbride (Scotland) has been named a finalist in the Department for Business and Trade Exporter of the Year Award at the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards 2025. Coming on top of the company’s recent award of the King’s Award for Innovation this cements Glencairn as a truly world class business in its sector.

Established over four decades ago by Raymond Davidson, Glencairn Crystal has become one of Scotland’s most iconic exporters. Renowned for its exceptional innovation in high-quality decanter and glassware design, the company has played a pivotal role in redefining the traditional crystal industry. With an unwavering commitment to creativity, quality, and design excellence, it is a world leader in ultra-premium spirit containers and a pioneer in the decoration and application of metalware on glass and crystal.

Glencairn Crystal also produces the Glencairn Glass which is recognised as the world’s official whisky glass. This year the glass celebrates its 25^th birthday and the company now sell over 5 million units across international markets each year.

The company’s influence extends across the globe, with direct exports accounting for nearly 60% of its business, rising to an estimated 80% when including customer-led distribution abroad such as distilleries sending Glencairn Glasses to other markets and decanters being sold abroad.

The Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards is the UK’s largest and most prestigious business awards programme. It celebrates leading businesses across all industries, championing sustainability, diversity, equality and those that have transcended expectations and limitations throughout the year

Glencairn Crystal previously reached the shortlist in 2018, and its selection as a finalist in 2025 reflects the company’s continued evolution as a global industry leader.

Scott Davidson, New Product Development Director at Glencairn Crystal and son of Founder Raymond Davidson, commented:

“To be named a finalist in these awards is an incredible honour and testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our entire team. As a family business rooted in Scotland but operating on a global stage, we’re incredibly proud of how far we’ve come over the last 40 years.”

The winners of the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards 2025 will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in November.

For further details about Glencairn Crystal please visit: www.glencairn.com and for The Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards: www.britishbusinessexcellenceawards.co.uk

Glencairn Crystal Awards:

This year Glencairn Crystal was honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation. The company first received the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2006 for the Glencairn Glass, followed by the Queen’s Award for International Trade in 2012

Other accolades include Whisky Advocate Industry Leader of the Year in the US in 2011. In 2019 Glencairn Crystal was one of only seven Scottish companies to join the London Stock Exchange Group’s ELITE programme for fast-growing companies, and recognition in the 2023 Scottish Export Index as one of the top 20 companies demonstrating excellence in international trade.

The second batch of Booker’s Bourbon – the ‘By The Pond Batch’

This batch is special to Fred, as it’s named after his father’s beloved backyard pond, a special place where he liked to spend sunny afternoons.

This batch is unique, as it was selected during a very wet spring with some record rainfall in Kentucky. The color of this batch reminded Fred of some of the beautiful horses you’d see competing in the Derby. The nose is very inviting with vanilla and oaky notes that spoke to him.

According to Fred Noe, 7th Generation Master Distiller, “The first taste I put into my mouth was very nice and had a sweetness I enjoyed, so I took a second. The second taste was nice, and the finish complemented and completed the experience so well. I feel sure my dad would have enjoyed sipping the “By the Pond” batch sitting by his pond feeding his fish, waiting for them to grow so he could enjoy eating them with some great Booker’s Bourbon”.

“By the Pond Batch” is made up of barrels from seven production dates that were aged in eight different warehouses. This batch is aged to 7 years, 1 month, and 20 days. The proof of the batch is 126.5, the breakdown is as follows:

• 11% came from the third floor of warehouse J a nine-story warehouse
• 11% came from the fifth floor of warehouse 3 a seven-story warehouse
• 11% came from the fifth floor of warehouse 1 a seven-story warehouse
• 5% came from the seventh floor of warehouse H a nine-story warehouse
• 11% came from the fourth floor of warehouse K a seven-story warehouse
• 11% came from the fifth floor of warehouse L a seven-story warehouse
• 11% came from the fourth floor of warehouse 4 a seven-story warehouse
• 29% came from the sixth floor of warehouse G at Waterfill a seven-story warehouse

Proof: 126.5 | SRP: $99.99

“By The Pond” Background: We didn’t always have a pond in the backyard. But then Dad decided he wanted one to raise catfish and bluegill, so we’d always have fresh fish for supper. And that was that. Next thing I knew, Dad put me and some buddies to work: digging the pond, filling it up, making it homey enough for those fish. After a few days, the pond Dad had dreamed up was right behind our house.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. At first, the pond leaked, so we put in a liner held down with big stones. Then, after realizing the city water was no good for fish, Dad rigged a system to bring in fresh rainwater. And finally, we had to figure out what to do about the fifty-foot maple tree looming above it. When its leaves fell, they covered the whole pond. Dad set up a net to catch them on the water’s surface, but all he ended up catching was the fish underneath, finding dozens of them tangled up in it each morning. Eventually he put a roof over the pond, and it became something more: a place to reflect. It was where he sat with Freddie as a boy for hours on end, and where he enjoyed plenty of those warm Kentucky days. I think it’s one of the places he felt most at peace. I hope you savor this batch in a place where you find your own bit of happiness, wherever that may be. So go off, and enjoy.

— Fred Noe, Beam Family 7th Generation Master Distiller

“Frankfort Rising” Available August 14, Goal of Raising $10K

FRANKFORT, KY (Aug 2025) – In early April of this year, the lower Ohio Valley experienced multiple rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms, resulting in widespread flash flooding in Central Kentucky.  In Frankfort, Kentucky’s state capital, the Kentucky River crested at near-record levels, impacting nearly everyone in the community.  Fortunately, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery was spared any flood damage, but its owners and team members remain deeply affected nonetheless.

In an effort to help local Franklin County residents in the flood recovery process, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery has created a limited-edition bourbon called “Frankfort Rising,” with $30 from the sale of each bottle going towards the Franklin County Community Fund to assist families affected by the April floods.

“Seeing the devastation of the floodwaters here in our new hometown was just heartbreaking, and we wanted to do something to help,” said Susanna Westerfield, director of consumer experience. “Through our partnership with the Franklin County Community Fund, we hope to raise at least $10,000 to help our local friends and neighbors recover from their horrific losses.”

Frankfort Rising Bourbon is a five-year-old, 112 proof bourbon finished with oak staves which will be released to the public at an event at the Distillery on Aug. 14. Like all J. Mattingly 1845 whiskies, this bourbon has undergone its trademarked double-staved process, adding additional charred oak staves to each barrel at just the right moment in its aging cycle to coax out extra flavor.  Tasting notes describe this bourbon as having a graham cracker note on the palate, joined by toasted oak and a gentle spice from the rye.  It has a medium to long finish with lingering baking spices, vanilla, and a nutty warmth, leaving a satisfying impression.

Frankfort Rising Bourbon will be available on-site at the Distillery in Frankfort starting at 4 p.m. on August. 14.  The public is invited to attend the event, which will run from 4-6 p.m. Complimentary snacks and tastings of Frankfort Rising will be available to those aged 21 years and over.  The suggested retail price of Frankfort Rising is $120 per 750 mL, with $30 from each sale donated to the Franklin County Community Fund.

About J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery

The Mattingly family has been synonymous with distilling in Kentucky for more than two centuries, having a hand in the development of at least nine separate distilleries in the Commonwealth, and with connections to some of the most illustrious names in the distilling industry, including George Garvin Brown, the Willetts and the Samuels.

It all started in 1845, with John Graves Mattingly’s first distillery in Marion County, Kentucky, Registered Distillery #2.  Many historians today believe his distillery was the first registered distillery in Kentucky.

            In 2010, Jeff Mattingly took up the family mantle and started his own craft bourbon business.  Today, Jeff’s son Cameron continues the legacy into the latest generation for J. Mattingly Distillery 1845 in Frankfort, Kentucky, serving as Vice President of Production.  J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery continues to innovate, with their proprietary double-staving process and custom bourbon blending experience unparalleled in the spirits industry, available on-site in Frankfort or online at https://jmattingly1845.com/build-a-bottle/

For more information about J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery visit www.JMattingly1845.com.