Unrivaled and Maker’s Mark Announce Partnership Celebrating the Spirit that Changed the Game

Maker’s Mark is named first Official Spirits Partner of Unrivaled, the breakthrough league built with the biggest stars in women’s basketball

LORETTO, Ky., December, 2025 – Ahead of the league’s second season in January, Maker’s Mark®, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced it will be the first Official Spirits Partner of Unrivaled presented by Samsung Galaxy — the athlete-founded and player-owned women’s basketball league ushering in a new era for the game. This is Maker’s Mark’s first-ever sports league sponsorship. As part of the multi-year partnership, Maker’s Mark will bring the spirit of sport to life throughout the season at games at Sephora Arena in Miami and Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.

“What Maker’s Mark has done throughout its renowned history is exactly what Unrivaled aims to do, which is carving our own path to create something better, and leaning into unreasonable ideas instead of shying away from them,” said Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled Co-Founder. “That’s what makes Maker’s Mark a perfect fit as our first Official Spirits Partner. We’re grateful for their support in our continued pursuit of making the unreasonable a reality for women’s basketball.”

Rob Samuels, eighth generation whisky maker and managing director at Maker’s Mark added, “Maker’s Mark founders – my grandparents – broke with tradition to reimagine what bourbon could be—a perfectly unreasonable spirit that endures today. Beginning with co-founders Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled shares that same spirit, and we’re delighted to shine a light on their community of players who prioritize passion and purpose on and off court.”  

As part of the partnership, Unrivaled ticketholders will have the chance to engage with Maker’s Mark brand experiences in select hospitality spaces and enjoy specialty cocktails inspired by the league. At Sephora Arena in Miami, Maker’s Mark will take over their new VIP Loge Box, creating an immersive space for VIP guests. At select games, Maker’s Mark will also be part of Unrivaled’s pre-game Fan Fest experience outside the arena where fans can enjoy games, photo opportunities, exclusive merch and activations in Unrivaled style.

Maker’s Mark will also appear in-arena through displays with broadcast-visible signage. Thirty-second commercial spots will run on media partners including TNT and truTV throughout the regular season and playoffs, featuring the new Perfectly Unreasonable global campaign, which celebrates the idea that going to unreasonable lengths—in life and in bourbon—is what separates good from remarkable. In parallel, Maker’s Mark will run custom content on Bleacher Report.

“This partnership brings together two brands that have challenged convention with an independent and generous spirit to create something truly new and compelling for their category,” said Regan Clarke, U.S. vice president of American Whiskey Brands, Suntory Global Spirits. “We’re thrilled to bring the dynamic energy of Unrivaled to life for basketball and bourbon fans alike – whether they’re enjoying the game in the arena or tuning in to watch with friends over a Maker’s Mark cocktail.” 

This announcement comes ahead of Unrivaled’s highly anticipated 2026 season, tipping off January 5 in Miami. Building on a breakthrough inaugural year that engaged and excited millions of fans, the league returns bigger than ever, featuring two new clubs, a redesigned arena with expanded fan sections, and their first-ever tour stop in Philadelphia. With broader national broadcast coverage with a fourth night of games, new brand partners and a growing roster of the sport’s biggest players, Unrivaled continues to push women’s basketball forward and redefine what a player-led league can look like.

Unrivaled and Maker’s Mark will offer their communities of ambassadors and fans exclusive content and other benefits. To explore the partnership with Maker’s Mark and Unrivaled, including nearby bar activations, signature cocktail recipes and more, visit www.makersmark.com/unrivaled-announcement or @makersmark and @unrivaled on Instagram.

ABOUT UNRIVALED
Unrivaled is a professional women’s basketball league innovating the women’s professional sports landscape with a groundbreaking model centered on investing in its athletes. Co-Founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled is player-owned, providing participating players equity opportunities for a vested interest in the league’s success. Launched in January 2025, Unrivaled features the current top women’s basketball stars in the world across eight clubs for a 3-on-3, compressed full court style of play. To learn more, visit unrivaled.basketball or contact info@unrivaled.com.

ABOUT MAKER’S MARK  
Maker’s Mark® is the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon driven by a vision for better flavor and a better world. In 1953, founders Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr. broke from tradition—burning the family’s 170-year-old recipe to create a bold, balanced bourbon made with soft red winter wheat for signature sweetness and creaminess. From the start, the Samuels went to remarkable lengths to craft uncompromisingly delicious bourbon—a perfectly unreasonable spirit that endures today. Every bottle is still hand-dipped in red wax, every barrel rotated by hand and every decision guided by the brand’s higher purpose.

Staying true to its founders’ vision, Maker’s Mark has expanded its portfolio with award-winning, super-premium expressions, including Maker’s Mark 46, Cask Strength, and Cellar Aged, as well as Private Selection, the brand’s custom barrel program. In 2025, the distillery debuted Star Hill Farm Whisky, its first-ever wheat whisky. Award-winning and the first to earn Estate Whiskey certification, Star Hill Farm Whisky inspired the Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance, a bold commitment to advance regenerative farming beyond its business, inviting farms, bars and restaurants to join the movement.

Maker’s Mark is proud to be both B Corp and Regenified Certified – milestones driven by the sustainability leadership at Star Hill Farm, home of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which strives to be the most endearing, culturally rich and environmentally responsible homeplace in the world.

Learn more at www.makersmark.com.

Rhubarb, custard and Highland smoke: Cù Bòcan’s new Creation #7 whisky marks 20 years of peat at Tomatin

Cù Bòcan, the experimental single malt crafted at Tomatin Distillery in the Scottish Highlands each winter, has launched its boldest release yet – Creation #7 – celebrating two decades of peated whisky production at the distillery.

Inspired by the lightly-peated spirit historically produced at Tomatin more than a century ago, Cù Bòcan uses unusual cask combinations to craft exceptional whiskies which push the boundaries of flavour and challenge the ordinary in whisky maturation.

Creation #7 – the anticipated seventh edition in the Creations series – has matured in rare Pineau des Charentes Rouge and American virgin oak casks, resulting in a distinctive flavour profile of rhubarb, custard, heather smoke and sweet oak spice.

Drawing on Tomatin’s experience in using fortified wine casks, including in the recent French Collection, blender and global brand ambassador Scott Adamson selected the Pineau des Charentes Rouge casks to add a new dimension to the Cù Bòcan range.

He said: “Creation #7 is Cù Bòcan’s most limited Creations release to date and is more than a whisky but an invitation to explore. The Pineau des Charentes Rouge casks are rarely used in Scotch whisky maturation and influence the lightly peated spirit to unlock nostalgic and unexpected flavours.”

Cù Bòcan Creation #7 marks 20 years of peated spirit production at Tomatin, a seasonal ritual that has closed the distillery’s calendar since 2005. Cù Bòcan’s distillation coincides with incredibly low water temperatures, allowing for faster distillate condensation and resulting in a slightly oilier mouthfeel in the new make spirit.

The new release is presented in Cù Bòcan’s bespoke bottle, housed in a vivid pink and yellow carton — a visual nod to the dram’s rhubarb and custard profile. Its engraved contours echo the wisp of Cù Bòcan’s signature smoke and the staves of the casks that shaped it.

Natural in colour and non-chill filtered, Cù Bòcan Creation #7 is bottled at 46% ABV and is available from today (24 November 2025) on Tomatin Distillery’s online shop and in specialist whisky retailers throughout the UK and worldwide, priced at £45 RRP. Only 3,000 bottles are available worldwide, 1,400 of which are in the UK. For more information, visit https://tomatin.com/cu-bocan.

Cù Bòcan Creation #7 tasting notes

Nose: Rhubarb crumble with custard, ginger and cinnamon. Almond croissants with apple and toffee. Heather smoke and musk.

Palate: Whisp of smoke followed by toasted brioche, butter shortbread, strawberry and raspberry.

Finish: Long with a mineral edge.

About Cù Bòcan

Cù Bòcan is a Highland single malt distilled, matured, and produced at the Tomatin Distillery near Inverness, renowned for its portfolio of brands including Tomatin Highland single malt, The Antiquary, Talisman and Big T.

Peat has been part of Tomatin’s story since its founding in 1897, when the distillery drew on local supplies to fire its stills. Though production shifted to an unpeated style mid-century, Tomatin revived peated runs in 2005 — sparking the birth of Cù Bòcan.

In 2005, the decision was made to produce a peated single malt and for the last week of production that year a batch of optic barley peated to 15ppm was used to produce about 60,000 litres of lightly peated spirit which was filled into a variety of different cask types.

Then, on September 3rd 2013, this lightly peated whisky produced at Tomatin was released as Cù Bòcan – a single malt at 15ppm matured in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and virgin oak casks. Since then, the Cù Bòcan brand has grown with a number of vintage releases as part of the brand’s limited-edition collection.

Cù Bòcan – ‘ghost dog’ in Gaelic – is named after a spirit thought to haunt the distillery’s hometown of Tomatin.

Cù Bòcan rebranded in August 2019. It is an experimental Highland single malt that explores innovative maturation to create whiskies full of intrigue and surprise. It is made with lightly peated Scottish barley, distilled every winter in limited batches and matured in a variety of interesting casks to unlock unusual flavours.

Harrison Ford Delivers Glenmorangie Festive Message

December 2025: Harrison Ford – clad in a Santa hat and kilt – puts a fresh spin on holiday campaigns, in a festive message celebrating Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky.

The spot, which is now live on social media, builds on his irreverent performance in Once Upon a Time in Scotland, the campaign directed by Joel Edgerton which launched in January 2025. Its twelve episodes told the story of Ford reluctantly shooting an advertisement for Glenmorangie, before being won over by its craft, people and whisky.

Fans can watch the Christmas message on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook @Glenmorangie and by visiting glenmorangie.com

Follow Glenmorangie on:

Instagram and Facebook: @Glenmorangie

For exclusive access to new releases, news and events, join Glenmorangie’s Online Community

@glenmorangie #glenmorangie glenmorangie.com

THE ORIGINAL

Creamy with vanilla and a rush of citrus, The Original is Glenmorangie’s source code – the single malt where all its whisky-making adventures begin. First released by Glenmorangie’s founders more than 180 years ago, the original Glenmorangie was known for its mellow tones and delicacy of flavour. All these years later, The Original remains at the heart of everything Glenmorangie does.

To give The Original its go-anywhere finesse, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators craft its spirit in Scotland’s tallest stills. Then they age it 12 years in bourbon casks where it absorbs all manner of delectable flavours. The result is a whisky which welcomes you with luscious layers of orange and honey, vanilla and bursts of peach. A smooth single malt, swirling with a kaleidoscope of taste. 

TASTING NOTES

Glenmorangie Original is bottled at 40% ABV

Colour: Bright gold.

Aroma: Citrus and ripening peaches are balanced by vanilla softness.

Taste: Vanilla emerges, then gives way to a burst of flowery fruitiness.

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 crackerjack crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration Launches Inaugural Event President’s Day Weekend

Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary –  A New Kentucky Tradition Kicks off Feb. 13-15, 2026

LOUISVILLE, KY. – An inaugural event celebrating Kentucky’s signature bourbon industry is coming to Louisville in 2026, the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration (KBCA). This first-of-its-kind event brings together Kentucky’s legendary distilleries, rising stars and bourbon enthusiasts from across the nation for a historic three-day experience Feb. 13-15, 2026.

Timed to coincide with President’s Day Weekend and America’s 250th anniversary celebration, the KBCA honors bourbon as America’s native spirit with exclusive opportunities over its three days, celebrating bourbon, cuisine and community, all in the spirit of giving back. Auction proceeds will benefit the Bob Woodruff Foundation, supporting veterans, first responders and their families.​​​​

“Kentucky Bourbon, with its legendary, unmatched quality, is the galvanizing lifestyle that binds us together in this great city and state and is exported around the world daily,” said Andrew Varga, Founder of the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction. “The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration is one premier way to celebrate its majestic reverence by raising a glass in community while giving back to those who have protected our freedom for 250 years by way of the Bob Woodruff Foundation.”

The KBCA will showcase an extraordinary lineup of award-winning and visionary bourbon brands joining together for this landmark event to auction their exclusive barrels and luxury lots, including brands from Brown-Forman, Four Roses, Heaven Hill and J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery.

These legendary names represent the very best of Kentucky bourbon and are a living reflection of heritage, craftsmanship and innovation. Their participation, as well as others soon to be announced, underscores the state’s continuing influence as the global heart of bourbon culture.Ticket sales begin Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, online at KYBCA.com. Pricing and availability vary by event and ticket package, with prices starting at $150 for individual events and $1,550 for weekend passes.

In addition to its distinguished bourbon brand partners, the KBCA proudly recognizes its community and business sponsors, Delta Dental, BourbonCountry.com, Louisville Water, Signarama Downtown Louisville, TagSwag, OutFront Media, Kern’s Kitchen Derby-Pie^®, Bourbon Barrel Foods, DMK Development, Unipak Solutions and Mint Julep Experiences, whose leadership and support help make this inaugural celebration possible.

“In Bourbon City, bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a culture,” said Louisville Tourism Chief Marketing Officer Stacy Yates. “BourbonCountry.com is proud to help launch an event that celebrates that spirit and the people who shape it.”

The weekend will kick off with the Grand Reveal Tasting, hosted at the Frazier History Museum. This exclusive evening invites guests to savor the rarest bourbons paired with Kentucky-inspired culinary creations, entertainment and immersive experiences, celebrating the beginning of the bourbon year and all things Kentucky.

The signature event, The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction, will feature a bourbon-paired dinner by Kentucky’s top chefs and a live auction of the world’s most collectible and extraordinary bourbons, with proceeds benefiting the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

Other exciting weekend offerings include an interactive blind-tasting brunch curated by Chef Michael Crouch at Watch Hill Proper, a live culinary experience showcasing a Bourbon-inspired lunch hosted by Chef and owner John Varanese at Savor at River House, and distillery tours at participating distilleries across Bourbon Country, offering behind-the-scenes experiences, tastings, and limited-edition releases available only during the KBCA weekend.

For more information on the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration and tickets to the event, visit www.KYBCA.com.

About the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction

The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration is a first-of-its-kind gathering honoring Kentucky’s bourbon legacy while giving back to the heroes who protect our nation. Founded in Louisville by Andrew Varga, a longtime spirits industry executive, the inaugural KBCA committee includes bourbon industry luminaries, authors and executives such as America’s CEO- Chief Entertaining Officer Tim Laird and Lori Laird, former PriceWeber VP, Exec. Creative Director Larry Profancik and brand strategist Henrietta Pepper. KBCA unites distilleries, chefs and bourbon enthusiasts for three unforgettable days of tastings, events and philanthropy — all “for the greater great.”

NEW CLYDEBUILT WHISKIES UNVEILED

AS £5 MILLION IS INVESTED IN BRAND

Distinguished Scotch whisky brand Clydebuilt today issues four new releases, including three Single Cask bottlings.

The boutique label, owned by independent whisky producer Ardgowan Distillery Company, has been laying down stocks since the company was formed in 2016.

Based in Inverclyde, Ardgowan Distillery began distilling its own malt whisky in June. While the spirit matures over the coming years, Clydebuilt “offers the opportunity for us to showcase our expertise in wood management and the art of blending”.

The award winning range is named to honour the River Clyde’s world renowned shipbuilding heritage, with the word ‘Clydebuilt’ ultimately becoming a byword for quality craftsmanship.

The firm demonstrated its continued commitment to the brand by way of a significant investment in mature malt whisky stocks to the tune of £5 million in 2025, with a further £4m planned in 2026.

CEO Roland Grain explained the rationale behind the investment: “Our bespoke Infinity Casks for Ardgowan spirit are designed for long maturation by their very nature. The stock we’ve already acquired, and this further investment, ensure Clydebuilt will have solid foundations for the decades ahead until Ardgowan Single Malt is truly ready. This is a key step in achieving our goal to double turnover annually until 2030.”

Experienced Whisky Maker and Ardgowan’s Distillery Manager Laura Davies oversaw and selected the casks, which were aged on site in the distillery’s traditional dunnage warehouses.

Comprising one Blended Malt and three Single Cask Single Malts, the latest tranche of releases from the independent bottling house includes:

• 27 year old 100% Sherry Matured Blended Malt – Speyside, Highland & Island (RRSP £95): a multifaceted expression bringing together Highland and Island whiskies matured in a Pedro Ximénez Sherry hogshead and 33 year old malt distilled at Benrinnes Distillery. A limited edition of 408 bottles.
• 2009 Bourbon Hogshead, Fettercairn Distillery (RRSP £85): distilled in the Highlands, cask number 800292 was matured on site at Ardgowan Distillery. The cask’s Bourbon history has imparted notes of toffee apples and citrus zest on the 272 bottles of Single Malt available.
• 2012 Bourbon Hogshead, Royal Brackla Distillery (RRSP £75): previously hosting Bourbon, cask number 306449 subsequently aged Highland Single Malt from Royal Brackla Distillery. The resulting 290 bottles boast vibrant flavours of lemongrass, green apple and vanilla.
• 2014 Sherry Butt, Ben Nevis Distillery (RRSP £85): an amber Highland Single Malt matured in a single Spanish Sherry cask (#800040). Limited to 327 bottles, the nose brings cinnamon stewed pears while the palate offers butterscotch, nutmeg and brown sugar.

All four of the new Clydebuilt expressions are proudly bottled at their natural cask strength and without added colouring or undergoing chill filtration, preserving their full character and integrity.

Commenting on the news, Davies remarks:

“The Clydebuilt brand stands on craftsmanship and pride in quality, just like the Clyde’s former shipbuilders. With these new releases, we’ve drawn on exceptional whiskies and incredible, rich casks to create expressions full of character and individuality. These malts show just some of the scope we’re working with in our aged stocks. Having invested £5 million this year in securing stock to lay down for Clydebuilt, there’s a very bright future ahead for the brand.”

In September, Ardgowan announced a series of new distribution partnerships for Clydebuilt across key markets in Europe, North America and Asia, significantly expanding its global accessibility.

The new Clydebuilt bottlings will become increasingly available from specialist retailers from today – find a list of UK stockists and international distributors here.

ABOUT CLYDEBUILT SCOTCH WHISKY:

Some of the greatest ships in the world were built on the River Clyde and so, over time, the word ‘Clydebuilt’ came to stand for craftsmanship, integrity and pride. The Clydebuilt brand was inspired by that exceptional legacy: a fitting tribute as Ardgowan Distillery, the home of the brand, is situated on the Firth of Clyde near Inverkip.

While Ardgowan Single Malt continues to slumber for many years, Whisky Maker Laura Davies applies the same meticulous approach to Clydebuilt. This is a boutique range of thoughtfully selected and masterfully matured Scotch whiskies that honour the spirit of the Clyde, emulating and upholding the attention to detail and the pride in quality of those that came before. Discover more.

Further information on Ardgowan Distillery Company can be found at ardgowandistillery.com

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TASTING NOTES: 

Clydebuilt 27 year old Blended Malt – Speyside, Highland & Island, 41.8% ABV

• Colour: Dark auburn.
• Nose: Citrus zest, white pepper and marzipan.
• Taste: Dark cherries, toasted marshmallow, sticky raisins and ‘pear drop’ sweets.

Clydebuilt 2009 Bourbon Hogshead Single Cask – Fettercairn Distillery, 56.3% ABV

• Colour: Bright golden.
• Nose: Lemon sorbet and vanilla fudge.
• Taste: Silky toffee apples and more citrus zest.

Clydebuilt 2012 Bourbon Hogshead Single Cask – Royal Brackla Distillery, 52.9% ABV

• Colour: Bronze.
• Nose: Ripe peaches, nutmeg and subtle heather.
• Taste: Vibrant flavours of lemongrass, green apple and vanilla pods.

Clydebuilt 2014 Sherry Butt Single Cask – Ben Nevis Distillery, 60.0% ABV

• Colour: Rich amber.
• Nose: Cinnamon stewed pears and brown sugar.
• Taste: Butterscotch sauce and freshly grated nutmeg.

SAZERAC RYE WHISKEY FULL PROOF JOINS THE BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY PORTFOLIO

Born from the Distillery’s newly completed $1.2 billion expansion, this release elevates Sazerac Rye’s signature spice and pepper profile to deliver a sipping whiskey of remarkable intensity

FRANKFORT, KY – Buffalo Trace Distillery is proud to introduce Sazerac Rye Whiskey Full Proof as a permanent addition to its growing Sazerac Rye portfolio. Bottled at 125 proof, this bold new release emerges from the Distillery’s recent expansion and amplifies the brand’s signature spicy, peppery, and dry profile to create a sipping whiskey with remarkable intensity.

Born out of the spirit of New Orleans, Sazerac Rye Whiskey captures the character of the city: bold, timeless, and unapologetically original. The brand has evolved from a bartender’s best-kept secret into a connoisseur’s staple, with the original 90 proof and the recently launched 100 proof expressions celebrated for their distinctive spice and dry complexity. The addition of Full Proof offers a full-bodied expression crafted for sipping and savoring, highlighting the versatility of Sazerac Rye while reflecting Buffalo Trace Distillery’s commitment to delivering exceptional whiskey experiences for enthusiasts at every stage of their rye journey.

“Rye whiskey is the perfect next step for whiskey drinkers looking for more flavor. Sazerac Rye’s unique, balanced, Kentucky-style recipe makes it the brand whiskey drinkers have trusted for years,” says Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director at Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Sazerac Rye Full Proof amplifies the brand’s floral notes of vanilla and clove, along with fruity hints of orange, with just a touch of pepper, proving that rye whiskeys aren’t just great in cocktails—they shine on their own.”

A result of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s $1.2 billion expansion, Sazerac Rye Whiskey Full Proof continues the Distillery’s legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. The addition of new still houses and enhanced distilling capacity enables great production of its core bourbon and rye whiskeys, while also exploring bolder proofs and distinctive flavor profiles that push tradition forward.

“We’re excited to bring another full proof option to fans after they’ve expressed their love for our W.L. Weller and Benchmark full proof offerings,” remarks Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “Our expansion is ten years in the making, and it’s rewarding to see how it’s already allowing us to create more of these whiskeys while maintaining the quality our fans expect.”

Sazerac Rye Whiskey Full Proof opens with bold aromas of rye spice, fresh dill, and smoky oak, immediately signaling its intensity and depth. On the palate, it delivers a surprisingly smooth sweetness up front, followed by floral and herbal notes, supported by rich oak and classic rye grain character throughout. The finish is lightly peppery with a late rye spice that gently lingers, presenting warmth and complexity without being overwhelming.

Sazerac Whiskey Rye Full Proof will be available in select markets beginning November 2025 at select retailers, bars, and restaurants for a suggested retail price of $39.99 per 750ML bottle (taxes and fees vary by market) via Sazerac’s United States distributor networks.

Additionally, Buffalo Trace Distillery will celebrate the new release with a limited-time premium tasting experience from Friday, November 14, through Sunday, November 16, featuring the complete Sazerac Rye Whiskey portfolio: Sazerac Rye 90, 100, and Full Proof, as well as Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. A $10 ticket to the “Sazerac Rye Vertical Tasting” includes samples of all four expressions, a commemorative Sazerac Rye glass, and a small bite pairing. Tickets are available for purchase at buffalotracedistillery.com/visit-us.html on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.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 whiskeys. Its William Larue Weller and Stagg were named Best of Show at the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition and its Traveller Whiskey is the Most Awarded Super Premium Whiskey Release of 2024. 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. To download images from Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/media.

Grasmere Distillery Launches The Pioneers Club

Grasmere Distillery is delighted to announce the launch of The Pioneers Club, inviting whisky enthusiasts to secure a rare opportunity: ownership of the first three releases of the distillery’s inaugural English single malt whisky.

Limited to just 1,000 bottles per year, Pioneers Club members will receive a uniquely numbered, gift-boxed bottle each Christmas, with the first in 2027, the second in 2028 and the final bottle in 2029. Every annual release will be drawn from one of only six casks being released that year. Over a third of the memberships have already gone, so interested parties should act quickly to secure their spot.

Each whisky expression produced by Grasmere Distillery showcases its dedication to flavour. By exploring varied mash bills, fermentation styles and barley varieties, and then marrying the spirit through a distinctive Solera maturation system using charred oak casks, the distillery team has achieved remarkable depth and consistency across its whiskies.

Membership of The Pioneers Club costs £335. Alongside their three-year allocation of limited-release single malt, members will also receive a complimentary bottle of the distillery’s award-winning, single-origin Rioja cask rum, set for public release in 2026 (RRP £45). Additional benefits include a lifetime 10% discount at the Grasmere Tap Room, a free distillery tour for the member plus three guests, priority access to future limited-edition whiskies, and a range of exclusive member privileges.

Over the past three years, co-founders Paul and Beth Abbott have transformed two modest barns on the shores of Grasmere into one of the UK’s smallest and most characterful distilleries. Following an intensive development process that began in 2021, the pair launched Grasmere Gin and Grasmere Vodka in 2022, reinvesting revenues from their white spirits to expand production and begin distilling their first single malt whisky.

From day one, their aim has been clear: to craft whisky defined by flavour, not scale. The team distils from full-flavoured beer rather than neutral spirit, allowing them to experiment freely with diverse grains, yeast strains, and cask seasonings rarely explored by larger producers.

Casks are sourced from Speyside Cooperage and include classics such as ex-bourbon, brandy, and red wine, alongside a series of innovative casks seasoned in-house with Grasmere Rum and cider. Oak is a balance of French, American, Scottish, and English oak.

Paul Abbott, co-founder and head distiller, commented: “We have been amazed by the positive response: hundreds of people backing us and cheering us on, joining our Pioneers Club in just the first two weeks. It is incredible. We are a tiny startup distillery without big resources, so we rely totally on the whisky-lovers out there to help us bring our single malt to the market. The Pioneers Club represents the very beginning of our whisky journey. We wanted to offer something unique to those brave few who have supported us from the start. Every bottle reflects our commitment to flavour, craftsmanship and curiosity. We’re excited to share these first releases with people who value small-batch whisky.”

For more information about joining the Pioneers Club, please visit: https://www.grasmeredistillery.com

SCOTLAND’S RISING WHISKY START-UP MARKS LANDMARK YEAR WITH SECOND RELEASE

Edinburgh, Scotland – November 2025; Following a landmark year in which the business is on track to achieve a turnover of £2.5 million, Tailored Spirits Co., Scotland’s fastest-growing independent whisky start-up, continues to push the boundaries of Scotch whisky with the launch of the latest releases in its acclaimed The Experimental Series – a collection of bold, small-batch whiskies that celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and curiosity.

Based in Leith, Edinburgh, Tailored Spirits Co. has quickly built a reputation for redefining how whisky enthusiasts experience single cask bottlings. The company specialises in Scotch whisky and premium spirits, working with private clients and businesses worldwide to source, mature, design, and bottle luxury whiskies and other spirits.

The Experimental Series invites drinkers to explore the diverse flavours of Scotland’s most characterful distilleries through limited-edition micro-releases, each with its own distinct story and finish. The latest line-up introduces Experiment 4 (Aultmore 15 Year Old), Experiment 5 (Echo – Benriach 13 Year Old), Experiment 6 (Fort – Dailuaine 13 Year Old), and the Special Experiment 1 Black Label (Anam – Springbank 23 Year Old).

Each release exemplifies Tailored Spirits Co.’s ethos – respecting tradition while embracing innovation – offering whisky lovers a chance to experience the unexpected in every glass: https://www.tailoredspirits.co.uk/

“This new collection marks an exciting step forward in our mission to celebrate experimentation in single cask whisky,” said Adam Harding, Co-Founder and Director of Tailored Spirits Co. “It follows a year beyond our expectations – one that’s seen us grow faster than we could have imagined.

“Each whisky in The Experimental Series tells its own story of maturation, finishing, and flavour exploration, and we’re proud to continue showcasing the depth and diversity of single cask Scotch whisky. The design is as much a part of the experience as the whisky itself. It’s about evoking curiosity – that sense of discovery and experimentation that sits at the heart of our brand.”

Inspired by vintage ski resort tickets and scientific lab bottles, the Experimental Series design has become a collector’s signature. Each bottle features a detachable ‘lab ticket’ marked with a unique code, allowing enthusiasts to track every experiment. Collectors who secure six tickets will gain exclusive access to special limited releases – including the new Black Label (Anam) bottling from Springbank.

Founded in 2024 by Edinburgh-based industry professionals Tom Costello (Brand & Creative), Carl Johnstone (Commercial & Operations), and Adam Harding (Spirits, Sales & Strategy), Tailored Spirits Co. has quickly become one of Scotland’s most exciting new whisky ventures.

With a mission to bridge the gap between large-scale production and the personal world of single cask ownership, the company creates tailored, exceptional spirits for discerning collectors and curious drinkers alike – guided by its mantra, “From the warehouse to your house.”

Explore The Experimental Series now at: 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.

W: https://www.tailoredspirits.co.uk/
I: @tailoredspiritsco
F: @tailoredspiritsco
L: @tailoredspiritsco

*The Experimental Series #2 – Full Info & Tasting Notes  

THE EXPERIMENTAL SERIES – NEW RELEASES

Experiment 4 – Aultmore 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
151 bottles | RRP £84.50
Finished in a European oak Montilla cask, this beautifully balanced whisky delivers rich fruit tones and jammy sweetness.
Colour: Vintage Copper
Nose: Baked Apple Strudel, Heather Honey, Treacle Tart
Palate: Luscious Dark Plum, Caramel Apple, Ripe Fig Jam, Butterscotch
Finish: Vanilla Fudge, Sweet Cinnamon, Chewy Sultanas, Coffee Cake

Experiment 5 – Echo (Benriach 13 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky)
81 bottles | RRP £82.50
Initially matured in bourbon casks and re-racked into a 1st Fill PX sherry octave for bold colour and complexity.
Colour: Dark Ruby
Nose: Brandy Soaked Cake, Toasted Oak, Malt Loaf, Marzipan
Palate: Dark Chilli Chocolate, Forest Fruit Preserve, Garibaldi Biscuit, Charred Oak
Finish: Long, Sweet Oaky Spices with a Hint of Salted Butter

Experiment 6 – Fort (Dailuaine 13 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky)
109 bottles | RRP £79.50
A robust, layered whisky matured in refill American oak and finished in a lively Port cask for added depth.
Colour: Polished Mahogany
Nose: Green Pear, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Walnut Cake, Sandalwood
Palate: Raspberries & Blackberries, Basil, Elderflower Syrup, Sticky Glazed Ribs
Finish: Soft, Fudgey Sweetness with Gentle Sherry Spice

Special Experiment 1 – Black Label (Anam) – Springbank 23 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
33 bottles | RRP £495.00
An exclusive collector’s release available only to those who have collected six bottles from the series.
Colour: Dark Desert Sunset
Nose: Spiced Jam, Ginger Snap, Ocean Harbour, Plums, Engine Smoke
Palate: Toasted Spices, Browned Butter, Caramelised Pears, Ripe Apricot, Sea Salt, Smoked Brisket
Finish: Dry, Nutty, Lingering with Sea Salt, Brazil Nuts and a Whisper of Smoke

GLENFIDDICH UNVEILS GLENFIDDICH XS

Marking a bold new chapter in the Glenfiddich story, family-owned distiller, William Grant & Sons introduces Glenfiddich XS — a luxurious collection of three single malt Scotch whiskies. Crafted for moments of meaningful connection, this new expression from the world’s most awarded single malt is elevated by hand-selected sherry cask finishes to reveal extra layers of richness. Launching first in China in November 2025, Glenfiddich XS is a collection defined by depth and character revealed over time.

Created under the masterful eye of world-renowned Malt Master Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich XS takes the exceptional Glenfiddich single malts aged 15, 18, and 21 years, each finished in carefully selected Oloroso, Moscatel and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. Each expression delivers ​a unique flavour profile that retains the signature vibrancy of Glenfiddich whilst revealing new and surprising depths of flavours.

Designed for celebrating moments of progress, Glenfiddich XS heralds an era of elevated whisky drinking occasions that connect with purposeful enjoyment. Rooted in Glenfiddich’s signature profile, this new Glenfiddich XS collection aims to provoke the senses through enhanced maturation.

Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich Malt Master, comments

“Glenfiddich XS is a whisky of gradual and powerful revelation.  An exciting whisky that invites exploration and is designed to mark richer experiences. The multi-layered secondary maturation has created a subtle and sophisticated taste that unveils new depths to the liquid profile.

“Glenfiddich XS is a whisky crafted with a new generation of whisky drinkers in mind, where whisky rituals and drinking moments are being reinvented to mark special moments and meaningful connection.”

The collection begins with GLENFIDDICH XS Fifteen-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky. This expression takes Glenfiddich’s signature Speyside style and enhances it with an indulgent Oloroso sherry cask finish. Matured for fifteen years in a select combination of American and European oak casks, this whisky offers a sprightly balance of soft green apple notes, with warming cinnamon. Layers of light spice and gentle oak sweetness add depth and vibrancy making this a refined and refreshing expression.

GLENFIDDICH XS Eighteen-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky builds on the richness of the collection with added complexity. A harmonious marriage of American and European oak casks is elevated by a rare Moscatel sherry cask finish, imparting bold, velvety full-bodied flavours. Fragrant, caramelised fruit, treacle toffee, raisins and dried apricot weave together for a layered, evolving and balanced character.

GLENFIDDICH XS Twenty-One-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the pinnacle of the range, defined by its exquisite depth, opulence and complexity. Matured in American oak and Oloroso sherry casks before a final flourish in rare Pedro Ximénez casks, it delivers woody spice and sun-dried dates and figs, underpinned by full-bodied layers of complex oak. This is a whisky of depth and richness to be savoured slowly, with each sip revealing further character shaped across two decades of craft.

Charlie Maclean, MBE and Master of the Quaich comments,

“All three expressions surprised me.  Finishing in different styles of sherry-seasoned casks has given each whisky a greater depth of character an added dimension and complexity, while not masking the original character of the distillate. By design, the sherry influence is subtle and understated.”

A showcase of Glenfiddich’s leadership within global luxury whisky, The Glenfiddich XS collection debuts with a design that fuses timeless heritage with modern elegance. The refreshed Glenfiddich stag and wordmark embody craft, depth and confident presence, encased within a re-designed box adorned with gold accents and ribbon detail. Together, these elements elevate Glenfiddich into a contemporary symbol of luxury with enduring global resonance.

Dave Broom, Founder of The Whisky Manual comments;

“Using a base of mature stock aged in both ex-sherry and ex-American oak casks then finished in either Oloroso, Moscatel or Pedro Ximénez, three different expressions of the distillery’s character are shown. Its base of fresh apple and grass, the chocolate note which develops over time; its ability to absorb flavour while retaining an energy that allows it to continue to evolve over decades. This is a welcome extension to the Glenfiddich range which will hopefully introduce its qualities to a new audience.”

Crafted for elevated moments of connection, Glenfiddich XS reveals a richer, deeper character that honour Glenfiddich’s celebration of lasting success.

To find out more on Glenfiddich XS, please visit: Glenfiddich.com

Glenfiddich XS will be available from The Glenfiddich Distillery Shop, selective whisky specialist retail and bars and restaurants across China, and in The Distiller’s Library boutiques across Asia from November 2025.

Suntory Spotlights The House of Suntory at the New York Stock Exchange International Day

Suntory was honored to bring The House of Suntory to this year’s New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) International Day, which welcomes senior business stakeholders from over 21 countries for a series of dialogues and product showcases on global business expansion and innovation.

The House of Suntory joined an intimate reception in the Stock Exchange’s new private room, the Tontine House, following a fireside chat with internationally renowned chef Roze Traore. We served a custom cocktail menu and offered guests a special whisky tasting featuring our new Toki Black, Hibiki Japanese Harmony and Yamazaki 12. James Bowker, our Global Advocacy Manager for The House of Suntory, provided an overview of the House’s history and the importance of protecting the authenticity of Japanese Whisky, followed by a toast led by Masaki “Mory” Morimoto, President of The House of Suntory.

The next day, Mory participated on a panel, “The Executive Edge: Scaling Beyond Borders from Challengers to Champions” to discuss The House of Suntory’s successful global reach and what constitutes authentic Japanese Whisky.  He was joined by Vishal Marria, CEO of Quantexa, and moderator Chris Taylor, Chief Development Officer of the NYSE. Mory highlighted the global rise of Japanese whisky and The House of Suntory’s leadership in both protecting the category as its founding house, and our unique craftsmanship and heritage. Mory and other speakers joined the Closing Bell Ceremony with Cassandra Seier, Head of International Capital Markets for the NYSE, followed by a special reception on the trading floor featuring a Toki highball machine and pop-up bar offering with whisky tastings.