BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY REVIVES AN ORIGINAL

19^TH-CENTURY RECIPE WITH THE RELEASE OF COLONEL E.H. TAYLOR’S DISTILLER’S COUNCIL

Conceived by a team of long-time distillery veterans at a historic Distiller’s Council meeting in 1996 at Buffalo Trace Distillery, this rare release is the most faithful recreation to date of the 19th-century bourbons once crafted at the O.F.C. Distillery.

FRANKFORT, Ky (July 9, 2025) – Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly introduces Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Distiller’s Council: a limited-edition, ultra-premium Kentucky Straight Bourbon born from the very spirit of the pioneer who helped define American whiskey. Crafted using equipment and based on techniques originally invented by Taylor himself, this 100-proof bottling stands as the closest modern interpretation of the fine bourbons produced under his leadership at O.F.C Distillery (now Buffalo Trace) during the 19^th century.

The inspiration for this modern recreation traces back to 1996, when a group of bourbon visionaries and retired George T. Stagg Distillery craftsmen* convened at Buffalo Trace Distillery in their pursuit to create the world’s best whiskey, a mission that continues to guide production at the World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery today. As they sampled more than 30 whiskeys across a range of ages, mash bills and proofs, one voice cut through the room with a thought: “Well, we don’t make whiskey the way we used to.” This led to the Distiller’s Council unpacking the way that whiskey was made when they first started their careers. That meeting, until now known by bourbon insiders as the “Distiller’s Council”, resulted in a re-discovery of E.H. Taylor’s pioneering techniques that had been lost to history.

In the spirit of Honor Tradition, Embrace Change, this led to the revival of Taylor’s sour mashing process – patent pending by Buffalo Trace – and, combined with the modern wisdom of Buffalo Trace’s expert distillation team, the creation of Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Distiller’s Council. Crafted using his trailblazing techniques, the production process remains nearly identical to that of the 1880s using both grains in his mashbill and his fermentation process. This expression celebrates a seminal moment in bourbon history and commemorates that meeting with a one-of-a-kind expression that tastes unlike anything else currently available on the market.

“Colonel Taylor’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has helped shape every decision at our Distillery since he set our standards in 1870,” said Harlen Wheatley, Master Distiller, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “His enduring legacy left a profound impact on everyone present on that fateful day in 1996. As many of them are no longer with us, we hope they are enjoying this angel’s share with the Colonel himself – watching proudly as we carry his vision forward.”

Widely recognized as the “Father of the Modern Bourbon Industry,” Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. purchased the O.F.C. Distillery in 1869 and ushered in a new era of innovation. From state-of-the-art grain equipment to copper fermentation tanks and the first steam-heated barrel warehouses – still in use at Buffalo Trace today – Taylor’s vision revolutionized bourbon production. His advocacy also led to the landmark Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, cementing his legacy as a champion of quality and integrity. His visionary spirit continues to guide Buffalo Trace more than a century later.

“Colonel E.H. Taylor didn’t just shape a distillery – he helped shape the entire bourbon industry. That’s why he’s known as the Father of Modern Bourbon,” said Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director at Buffalo Trace Distillery. “From championing the Bottled-in-Bond Act to modernizing production standards, many of his innovations have stood the test of time and are in use to this day. Always of Topmost Class, he set the bar for integrity, innovation and craftsmanship. In that spirit, we are proud to revive this faithful interpretation of his original recipe, crafted with the same standards of quality and spirit of innovation he so fiercely advocated.”

Bottled at 100-proof in a vintage-style, Grecian glass decanter modeled after one featured in an 1950s-era Old Taylor “Original Recipe” Bourbon advertisement – as seen in popular magazines such as TIME and Playboy – this special bottling will be available in limited-quantities nationwide at retail stores, restaurants and bars starting July 2025 at a suggested retail price of $1,499.99 (750ml) (local taxes and costs dependent).

Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Distiller’s Council is the 14^th release to join the acclaimed bourbon portfolio alongside expressions including Small Batch, Single Barrel, Rye, Barrel Proof Rye, Warehouse C Tornado Surviving Bourbon, Four Grain and more. In Fall 2025, E.H. Taylor will join the annual, highly-anticipated Buffalo Trace Antique Collection as the Collection’s first Bottled-in-Bond bourbon.

For more information on the Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Collection, please visit https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/e-h-taylor-jr

*The bourbon luminaries who attended the original 1996 Distiller’s Council meeting include Elmer T. Lee, Orville Schupp, Jimmy Johnson, Gary Gayheart, Al Geiser, Harlen Wheatley, Mark Brown, Ronnie Eddins and Leonard Riddle, among others.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its William Larue Weller 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.

DOUGLAS LAING RELEASE NEW ROCK ISLAND BLENDED MALT SCOTCH WHISKY:

ROCK ISLAND 16-YEAR-OLD SHERRY EDITION

Independent Scotch Whisky Distillers, Blenders, and Bottlers, Douglas Laing & Co., are proud to announce their latest limited-edition release under the Rock Island brand: Rock Island 16-Year-Old Sherry Edition.

Following the success of the 14-Year-Old Sherry Edition, released in 2023, this unique Island Malt has been matured for an additional two years in Sherry casks, resulting in even greater depth of flavour.

This exceptional Whisky is a marriage of Single Malts from the Whisky-making islands of Orkney, Arran, Jura, and Islay, all aged for 16 years and predominantly matured in Sherry casks. These hand-selected casks enhance Rock Island’s signature sweet peat and maritime influence with layers of dried fruits, walnut, and vanilla, now complemented by honeycomb and toasted almonds. A true testament to the impact of additional maturation time.

Bottled at 46.8% ABV, this edition mirrors the strength of the 14-Year-Old, allowing for a direct comparison between these two Sherry-led expressions. As with all Douglas Laing releases, it is non-chill filtered and free from artificial colouring, in line with the family ethos of bottling Whisky ‘as natural as it gets’.

Packaged in a premium foiled carton with a complementing label, this release presents Rock Island in a new light – modern and powerful, yet true to its maritime heritage.

Chloe Wood, Rock Island’s Brand Manager, commented:

“Rock Island 16-Year-Old is a release we are all incredibly excited about at Douglas Laing. The brand itself showcases a truly unique composition, containing Single Malts from some of Scotland’s most acclaimed Whisky-making islands. To release these in a predominantly Sherry-matured expression is a special moment, particularly as it marks the first 16-Year-Old under the Rock Island brand. The flavour profile, shaped by both the spirit itself and the hand-selected Sherry casks, creates a Whisky experience not to be missed. It truly highlights the importance of time and patience in Whisky maturation.”

Expected to retail at £75.00 / €90.00, Rock Island 16-Year-Old Sherry Edition will be available from specialist retailers and online across Europe, the Americas, and Asia Pacific.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distillery, blender and bottler specialising in the selection and release of Single Cask Single and Small Batch Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family – Fred Laing Jr and his daughter Cara Laing.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and without chill filtration to preserve the robust and unique character of the Whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards are a testament to this ethos.

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay).

Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old, Xtra Old Particular, and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.

Jackie Zykan Moves on from Hidden Barn Bourbon, Neeley Family Distillery to Continue with Award-Winning Brand 

SPARTA, KY (June 2025) – Jackie Zykan and Royce Neeley have announced Jackie is stepping away from Hidden Barn Bourbon, and Neeley Family Distillery will continue production of the brand.  Zykan created Hidden Barn Bourbon in 2022, in partnership with Royce Neeley and Nate Winegar.  In 2024, Neeley purchased Hidden Barn from the partners, with Zykan remaining as Master Blender and Winegar as Brand Ambassador.

Today, Winegar will continue his role as Brand Ambassador and Neeley will continue production of Hidden Barn, with the same flavor profile that it’s known for, which has earned it Best in Class and several double gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Zykan will stay involved with the Neeley Family Distillery.

“We have been thrilled to work with Jackie over the years and we look forward to continuing to work with her in a different capacity,” said Royce Neeley, Master Distiller, Neeley Family Distillery.  “We learned a lot from Jackie and have the utmost respect for her palate and blending abilities, and plan to continue to make Hidden Barn just as we have before. Our entire family thinks the world of Jackie, and the door is always open to future Hidden Barn collaborations. We’re excited about being able to work with her in this new capacity.” 

“I’ve so appreciated having this opportunity to work with the Neeley family and Nate, and I’m grateful for their support as I start my new agriculture venture, and also focus on my other business, Oduoak, which is a line of whiskey-based fragrances I created in 2020,” said Zykan, master blender emeritus. “I am honored to lean into my background of biology and chemistry to shed light on the importance of intentional and sustainable botanical sourcing. Diversifying my engagement with the natural world by growing aromatic flowers and herbs for both fragrance and spirits is an inherent next step in my journey. Being able to supply the herbs for Neeley’s Absinthe to deepen its roots as a Kentucky-made product is something I’m really excited about.”

The base of the spirit is the Neeley Family moonshine recipe, crafted using wild-crafted Appalachian yeast. This yeast is also used to create all Neeley Family Distillery distillates, including its Hidden Barn Bourbon.  There are no plans to make any changes to the Hidden Barn Bourbon after Zykan’s departure. In fact, the brand is growing stronger than ever, “We’re moving into our 20^th state as far as distribution, with several more on the horizon,” said Neeley.  Hidden Barn is also available for sale online and at the Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, Ky.

About Hidden Barn Bourbon

Hidden Barn’s name harkens back to the local communities who painted their barns black in solidarity with distillers during Prohibition.  This sense of community is continued today through the passion for quality whiskey and camaraderie shared by its three founders, Jackie Zykan, Royce Neeley and Nate Winegar.  Previous Hidden Barn Series releases have earned Best of Class in the Small Batch Bourbon Up to 5 years by The Tasting Alliance, Double Golds at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023 and 2024, and Best Small Batch, 1st Place at the 2023 New Orleans Bourbon Festival.  Hidden Barn Bourbon is owned by Neeley Family Distillery.   The brand is available online and in select states. For more information visit hiddenbarnwhiskey.com

Heaven Hill Grain to Glass® Announces 2025 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Limited-edition release crafted from locally grown grain, distilled, aged, and bottled entirely at Heaven Hill Distillery®

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (June 24, 2025) – Heaven Hill is proud to unveil the Second Edition of its Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, a limited-edition release that continues the legacy of its celebrated series. Crafted by America’s largest family-owned and operated distillery, this small-batch expression reflects the full journey of whiskey making from carefully selected ingredients to final bottling and showcases the transparency and craftsmanship for which Heaven Hill Distillery is known.

The 2025 edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Rye Whiskey is made with a mashbill of 63% rye, 20% corn, and 13% malt— a higher rye content than Heaven Hill’s traditional Rye Whiskey. Beck’s Hybrids 6225 was the corn seed varietal chosen for the second edition and was grown by family-owned Peterson Farms on one of two sites in Nelson County, Kentucky. The distillate went into the barrel at 107 proof and was aged for over six years at Heaven Hill’s Cox’s Creek rickhouse site. The product is non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel proof, 105.2 proof (52.6% ABV) which allows its unique mashbill to shine. The result is a bold, spicy rye whiskey with aromas of toasted oak and almonds, leading to a robust palate of creamy orange marmalade, chocolate with nutmeg, white pepper spices and honey sweetness. The finish is long and warm with crème brûlée, charred oak, and orange oil with rye spices.

“With this second edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Rye, we’re proud to showcase not only the art of rye whiskey making but the full story behind every drop—from seed to barrel to bottle,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Master Distiller at Heaven Hill Distillery. “The unique mashbill and higher rye content bring a bold complexity, while the transparency we provide—from the corn varietal to the barrel entry proof—gives whiskey lovers an authentic connection to the process. This is a rye whiskey that speaks to our team’s dedication to precision and passion for innovation.”

The focus on transparency in the Heaven Hill Grain to Glass line extends beyond its local ingredients. The label on each bottle features details of the specific corn seed varietal utilized from Beck’s Hybrids, the unique mashbill, as well as the distillation and released years. The illustrations include a blueprint of Bernheim Distillery, along with custom designs depicting the importance of farming tradition and innovation. The 700ml bottles will be available across the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $99.99.

The Heaven Hill Grain to Glass series continues the Shapira family’s legacy of quality, transparency, and innovation, offering whiskey lovers a deeper understanding of the people and processes behind their favorite spirits. The series has been recognized for its excellence, with the First Edition Grain to Glass Rye Whiskey earning a Gold Medal at the 2024 Beverage Tasting Institute and the title of Best American Rye Whiskey at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. Earlier this year, the Second Edition Grain to Glass Bourbon launched to critical acclaim, further cementing the series’ reputation for exceptional craftsmanship. For more information about Heaven Hill Grain to Glass, visit: https://heavenhilldistillery.com/grain-to-glass/

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. In 2025 and 2024 Heaven Hill was named Most Awarded US Distillery by the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition along with Distillery of the Year and Best in Show Whiskey in 2019. 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. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

Whisky from the Ground Up: The Heart Cut Collaborates

with Fielden on Release #16

June 2025: What happens when two whisky companies – each pushing the boundaries of what whisky can be – come together? You get something remarkable.

Release #16 from The Heart Cut is the culmination of that shared vision: a single cask, limited to just 1,109 bottles. A 100% rye whisky, finished for over two years in a 600L, 45-year-old ex-Solera system Oloroso sherry cask from a bodega in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, on the coastal edge of Spain’s sherry triangle.

A rare makeup in the Fielden world, this whisky is crafted from 100% English rye – 75% unmalted heritage landrace rye grown in the sandy soils of Oxfordshire, and 25% floor-malted rye from Warminster Maltings. And it was entirely distilled at Fielden’s original site in Oxford, using Nautilus – the legendary still built by Paul Pridham and the team at South Devon Railway Engineering.

The whisky was then finished for 2 years and 4 months in a single, extraordinary sherry cask – sourced through master distiller Chico Rosa’s background in wine. This is true coastal sherry territory, where sea winds lend minerality and salinity to the wine, and that maritime character has beautifully shaped the whisky itself. The result is a rich, luscious dram with exceptional depth and a rare note of minerality.

Fielden is reshaping how we think about whisky – not by focusing on the gleam of copper stills but by putting the field at the centre of the story. Their philosophy is simple yet quietly radical: if you care about what ends up in the glass, you have to start with the grain. That’s why Fielden works with regenerative farmers, planting a mix of grains – including heritage rye, wheat and barley – sown directly into clover. They never use chemicals -o fertisiliers,  no pesticides –  just healthy soil, deep-rooted farming, and grains grown not for yield but for flavour. This is No Chem Regen farming. That approach doesn’t just support better agriculture — it yields whiskies with structure, nuance, and Fielden’s signature warm, flaky pastry character. Fielden’s belief is a simple one:  from fields full of life, comes whisky full of flavour.

“We were speaking to Fielden for over a year, talking about this collaboration, and we kept hearing whispers about this cask,” says Georgie Bell, co-founder of The Heart Cut. “At shows, over emails – everyone kept saying, ‘You must try cask 292.’ We finally did, and after just one sip, we said yes. Then we heard its story – and we knew we had to share it with others.”

“Working with The Heart Cut felt like a natural fit,” adds Chico Rosa, Fielden’s master distiller. “They care as much about grain and flavour as we do – and this cask, with its coastal depth and ties to our history, was always meant for something special.”

Tasting Notes

You’re wrapped in warmth from the very first nose – salted caramel melts into golden honeycomb and a whisper of honeysuckle. On the palate, that saline-sweet caramel deepens, layered with vanilla ice cream and overripe apricot, before thickening into pecan pie richness. Banana chips bring a crisp, tropical chew; nostalgic notes of warm waffles with maple syrup follow. To finish, a playful fizz of kola cubes is grounded by toasted walnuts and a flicker of smoked Maldon sea salt.

Availability

The Heart Cut #16 Fielden is limited to 1,109 bottles, bottled at cask strength (56.5% ABV). Available at theheartcut.com and select retailers, including Master of Malt and Berry Bros. & Rudd.

You’ll also find it behind the bar at DRAM and Soho Whisky Club in London, with more pouring partners to follow.

https://theheartcut.com/

@theheartcut

#16 Fielden / RRP £68 / ABV 56.6% / 1 of 1109 bottles

Rich, spicy, and mineralic – this 100% Rye Whisky from Fielden was finished for 2 years in an ex-Solera Oloroso sherry cask from a bodega in Sanlucar de Barrameda, layering honeycomb and banana chips with waves of sea-salted caramel.

About The Heart Cut

The Heart Cut collaborates with whisky distilleries across the world to release one-off single cask bottlings. From small innovative producers in unexpected locations to internationally renowned brands, each carefully selected cask has been picked in collaboration with the partner distillery, telling their tale of people, provenance and the pursuit of crafting distinctive flavours through the art of production. With 16 releases out to date, The Heart Cut was awarded ‘Independent Bottler of the Year’ at the Global Icons of Whisky Awards 2024 and 2025.

The Heart Cut was founded by husband and wife duo Fabrizio Leoni and Georgie Bell, who both have a deep history in the spirits industry, having worked behind bars and for spirit brands for over a decade each. Having travelled around the world discovering exciting distilleries, The Heart Cut was born from a collective desire to inspire a more explorative drinking experience, and share this sense of adventure and exploration of whisky from across the world with others.

HONORING EXCELLENCE: 2025 KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® WELCOMES NEW INDUCTEES & CELEBRATES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENT

FRANKFORT, Ky.— The 2025 class of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® features a longtime legislative champion, a trailblazing female entrepreneur, a key architect of the craft distilling boom, a 7th-generation distiller of a storied Bourbon family and a 50-year veteran whose name is synonymous with whiskey quality, integrity and industry leadership.

That respected veteran is Chris Morris, Brown-Forman Master Distiller Emeritus, who will receive the prestigious Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award for his illustrious career in Kentucky’s signature spirits industry dating back to 1976. It is the industry’s highest honor.

Morris, 67, has played an influential role in the success of the Brown-Forman portfolio establishing renowned brands such as Woodford Reserve Double Oak and Master’s Collection, while also serving on acclaimed industry boards as a respected and visionary leader.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced this year’s esteemed class that will be inducted in September in an exclusive, private ceremony. The KDA created the Hall of Fame in 2001 to recognize individuals who have made a transformational impact on Bourbon’s stature, growth and awareness.

KDA President Eric Gregory noted that each inductee represents a chapter in the success of Kentucky Bourbon, from historic whiskey producers to the next generation of craft distillers, the recent modernization of Bourbon laws and policies, and a lifetime of service spanning the lows and highs of American whiskey which he helped to flourish.

“Even though they come from a variety of backgrounds, these distinguished leaders all have one thing in common: an unrivaled passion for Kentucky Bourbon that has shaped our timeless craft into the global economic and tourism powerhouse it is today.

“We look forward to celebrating them and their achievements in September — Bourbon Heritage Month® — along with hundreds of Bourbon’s most iconic legends and luminaries, all showcasing how Bourbon Builds Kentucky.”

Here is the 23rd class of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®, in alphabetical order:

• Craig Beam, 66, Bardstown, Ky. A seventh-generation distiller, Beam learned the art and science behind crafting great whiskeys under the tutelage of his grandfather, Earl, and father, Parker, both legendary Master Distillers and Bourbon Hall of Fame inductees from Heaven Hill Distillery. Now in his fourth decade, Craig is showcasing his award-winning talents and continuing his legacy as Master Distiller at Jackson Purchase Distillery in Western Kentucky, one of the Commonwealth’s fastest-growing contract distillers.

• The late Mary Dowling, Lawrenceburg, Ky. An acclaimed symbol of resiliency and pioneering spirit, Mary Dowling was born in 1859 to Irish immigrants and overcame anti-Irish sentiments and gender barriers to become a trailblazing Bourbon entrepreneur. The first woman to run a major distillery in 1903, Dowling audaciously moved production to Mexico during Prohibition. A pillar of her Lawrenceburg, Ky. community and clearly ahead of her time, Dowling built churches, championed immigrant, black and women’s rights and opened a free hospital before her death in 1930.

• Larry Ebersold, 75, Louisville, Ky. Ebersold’s decades-long career, blending corporate experience at Seagram’s with entrepreneurial consulting, has left an indelible mark on the modern Bourbon and rye whiskey industry. A key architect of the craft distillery boom, Ebersold’s expertise has shaped facilities for 31 distilleries, including New Riff, Rabbit Hole and Bardstown Bourbon, collaborating with architects and engineers to design innovative production spaces.

• Chris Morris, 67, Louisville, Ky. A 50-year veteran of the Kentucky Bourbon industry, Morris’ craftsmanship and integrity is hailed around the world for elevating Brown-Forman’s whiskey portfolio and crafting innovative brands such as Woodford Reserve Double Oak and its vaunted Master’s Collection. Morris also is one of the industry’s most respected historians, a three-time Chairman of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association Board of Directors, and a cherished mentor to his successor Elizabeth McCall, all of which has solidified his lasting, lifelong impact on Kentucky Bourbon.

• Damon Thayer, 57, Georgetown, Ky. One of the strongest champions of Kentucky Bourbon in the history of the Kentucky General Assembly, retired Senate Majority Leader Thayer is directly responsible for stewarding more than 20 pieces of legislation that modernized Kentucky’s signature industry, propelled its amber nectar into an unprecedented golden age and transformed distilling into an economic and tourism powerhouse for the Commonwealth.

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

Each year, candidates for the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® are submitted by KDA member distilleries and the KDA Board of Directors through a comprehensive application process.

A special selection committee consisting of all recipients of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award then carefully reviews each application and selects no more than five nominees a year for induction.

The invitation-only ceremony and luncheon will be held Tuesday, Sept. 16, at The Legacy at Log Still in Nelson County, Ky., and is proudly sponsored by Presenting Sponsors, Buzick Construction, Inc.; Brindiamo Group, Bardstown Tourism, Independent Stave Company, Log Still Distillery, and Vendome Copper & Brass Works Corp.

Tune In: 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® Livestream Event, produced by RunSwitch PR and sponsored by Kroger Wine & Spirits, will feature exclusive interviews with the 2025 Inductee Class, award presenters, and esteemed members of the Bourbon industry. Join livestream co-host Chris Blandford, Adult Beverage Specialist for Kentucky, Southern Indian, and Southern Illinois Kroger stores, for an insider’s perspective on this annual and highly anticipated celebration of excellence in Kentucky Bourbon.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the stories and recognition behind the industry’s most prestigious honor.

Learn more about the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame at www.kybourbon.com.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon™.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

Little Book Chapter 9 “None for Granted”

Chapter 9 takes us back several decades, to an era when whiskey as we know it was just finding its feet. As possibilities were explored and foundations were laid, a certain profile began to emerge – one built on brown sweets, the comforting warmth of vanilla, creamy caramel and big oak. “None for Granted” celebrates these founding flavors: the ones that are still the backbone of American Whiskey today.

Little Book

Liquid Notes:

COLOR: Golden Bronze

AROMA: Caramel and brown sweets with a hint of char

TASTE: Butterscotch, caramel, baking spice and stone fruit

PROOF: 121.8 (60.9 ABV) || SRP: $159.99

Age        Component

11yrs    Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

8yrs       Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

8yrs       Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

7yrs       Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

7yrs       Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The Golden Union: The London Distillery Company champions English whisky craftmanship with bold new blended malt  

The London Distillery Company (TLDC) continues its resurgence with the launch of the first release from The Golden Union – a new and ambitious series of English blended malt whiskies. The new expression comes hot off the heels of Renascence: The Revival Release – the first new whisky from the trailblazing London craft distillery since its rebirth earlier this year – which sold out in under 24 hours.

Available from Monday 30th June, ‘The Golden Union: Release No.1 – A Field in England’ is an artful marriage of malt whiskies produced by both Adnams Distillery and The London Distillery Company. The expression is composed of a varied selection of component malts, that have been matured in both hogsheads and barrels and have been drawn from several different vintages.

Bottled at 50% ABV and featuring a unique tripartite label inspired by TLDC’s new logo – which shows a single drop of liquid falling into the Thames Basin – the first Golden Union  release will be available from www.londondistillery.co.uk and select retailers for £49.95.

The Golden Union is TLDC’s tribute to the vibrant and rapidly evolving world of English whisky. The ongoing series of blended malt whiskies will showcase the diversity, depth, and creativity emerging from England’s growing community of whisky producers. Each Golden Union release will be composed of malt whiskies sourced from different English distilleries, produced using distinctive methodologies and matured in diverse cask types. The series aims to bring together the best of English malt whisky in small-batch releases that have been blended by TLDC to contrast cohesion with complexity and character, and which celebrate the world-class craftmanship of English whisky.

Speaking of the launch, TLDC Managing Director and Whisky Maker Matt McKay said. “At The London Distillery Company, we’ve long believed in the potential of English whisky. And with The Golden Union, we’re proud to celebrate that belief by launching an ongoing series that puts English malt whisky – in all its diversity – centre stage. For decades, drinkers have largely looked to the whisky powerhouses of Scotland, Ireland, and Japan for whiskies which express the elegance and exploration that it is possible to achieve through the art of blending. But recently, England has confidently joined that conversation. There are now over 50 licensed distilleries producing whisky across the country, each contributing their own textures, techniques, and philosophies to the production of malt whisky. What sets English whisky apart is precisely this freedom: the absence of rigid expectations.”

The London Distillery Company was established in 2011, creating the first new whisky distillery in the capital since Lea Valley Distillery closed in 1903. The Company was acquired by Gleann Mòr Spirits in 2023, who brought in Matt McKay as Managing Director & Whisky Maker to lead its revitalisation in January 2025.

The Golden Union: Release No.1 – A Field in England

English Blended Malt Whisky

A marriage of hogsheads and barrels

50% vol

£49.95

Available from www.londondistillery.co.uk and select UK retailers.

Nose: Creamy toffee and buttery corn join breakfast cereals and meringue, whilst earthiness sits alongside expressive waxed lemons.

Palate: Mouthcoating with vibrant citrus and developing tropical fruits – preserved lemons and ripening mango. White pepper cask spicing gives way to milk chocolate, oats and buttered toast.

Finish: A prolonged finish of zesty lemons and tingling cask char.

About The London Distillery Company

The London Distillery Company was established in 2011 as London’s first new whisky distillery for over a century. Trailblazing the revival of the capital’s distilling heritage, the company crafts exceptional spirits that reflect both tradition and modernity.

Committed to using only the finest ingredients and time-honoured methods, every bottle produced by The London Distillery Company expresses a dedication to craftmanship, blending expertise and a relentless pursuit of character and flavour.

www.londondistillery.co.uk/

Rare Find Unveils Investigatory Summer Releases

 Gleann Mòr Spirits the well-regarded whisky maker continues its 10th anniversary year with the unveiling of its summer collection of Rare Find single malt Scotch whiskies, which consist of several investigatory cask maturations.

Established in Leith, Edinburgh, Rare Find has built its reputation on curating limited-edition bottlings sourced from Scotland’s most sought-after distilleries. With a focus on meticulous selection, guided maturation, and exceptional cask finishing, the whisky maker is known for crafting whiskies that are rare by design.

The anticipated new expressions showcase five exceptional Scotch single malt whiskies. Included in the summer releases are: Rare Find’s first release from Annandale Distillery – a preview of an ongoing experiment into sherry barrique finishing and the utilisation of a rarely seen white port cask together with single malt from Wick’s Pulteney distillery as an exploration of the balance that is possible between sweetness and salinity.

The 2025 Summer Rare Find releases consist of:

• Craigellachie 11 year old (1st Fill Oloroso Finish): Produced as an online exclusive for www.rarefindwhisky.co.uk, Craigellachie’s weighty and characterful distillate has been amplified further with a 9-month finish in a 1st fill oloroso hogshead resulting in a substantial whisky packed full of sweet intensity.

• Annandale Peated 6 year old (Oloroso Barrique Finish): In an ongoing exploration of cask influence, this peated Annandale single malt has been re-racked from an oloroso butt into a oloroso-seasoned barrique to examine the continued maturation effects of smaller sherry casks. This first Annandale release marks the beginning of an evolving series, with future bottlings set to showcase extended maturation within the high-impact 225 litre casks.

• Glenglassaugh 11 year old (Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Finish): Rare Find’s second release from Glenglassaugh and a rare use of a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru wine cask. After nearly two-years in a red wine barrique, this coastal style distillate has been perfectly balanced with the addition of expressive, vibrant red fruits.

• Pulteney 17 year old (1st Fill White Port Finish): A pioneering release, and Rare Find’s first use of rarely seen white port casks. The coastal, salinity-forward character of Pulteney’s spirit has been perfectly preserved through a measured and monitored 6-month finish that serendipitously has resulted in an age statement identical to the beloved, but departed Old Pulteney 17 year old.

• Braeval 16 year old (1st Fill Ex-bourbon Cask Finish): Rare Find’s first release from Braeval for several years is the result of a 12-month finish in a 1st fill ex-bourbon cask. This has produced a truly expressive single malt that speaks to the distillery’s spirit character. This release was recently awarded an IWSC Gold Medal at 95 points.

“These upcoming summer releases reflect our unwavering commitment to quality and flavour,” said Greg Urquhart, Spirits Manager for Rare Find. “Each bottle captures a distinct narrative – not only of the whisky’s maturation journey but also of Rare Find’s evolution over the past ten years. We’re excited for whisky enthusiasts to explore these new expressions and uncover a new favourite.”

The Rare Find Summer 2025 releases will be available in select retailers from 7th July 2025. Further details of Rare Find stockists can be found at www.rarefindwhisky.co.uk/stockists. The five Summer Releases are joined by an online exclusive tasting pack of 2025 World Whisky Awards winning Rare Find Releases.

Rare Find 2025 Summer Releases + Award-Winning Tasting Pack

Craigellachie 11 year old

1st Fill Oloroso Sherry Finish

54.1%, 145 bottles

£75.00

Exclusively available from www.rarefindwhisky.co.uk

Aromas of baking spices, raisins, cigar leaf, and toffee. A complex palate with flavours of dark chocolate, prunes, caramel, and breakfast tea. A hint of nutmeg is present in the warm and long finish.

Annandale (peated) 6 year old

Oloroso Barrique Finish
60.4%, 334 bottles

£75.00

A smoky and sweet nose with some salinity and candied ginger. The palate is filled with aniseed sweetness and ashy smoke, which leads to fruity orange flavours and a hint of lime at the end. 

Glenglassaugh 11 year old

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Finish

55.9%, 302 bottles

£79.00

A fruity nose comprising of cranberry jelly, strawberry and key lime pie. A creamy palate with more red fruit, rhubarb, wine gums, and Chinese five spice. A finish that is both long and fruity.

Pulteney 17 year old

1st Fill White Port Finish

56.7%, 164 bottles

£115.00

The nose is scented with white fruit, spices, and pear drops. Cantaloupe melon, sour sweets, sea salt, and oatcakes create a rich palate that finishes intensely with a hint of menthol.

Braeval 16 year old

1st Fill Ex-Bourbon Cask Finish

62%, 195 bottles

£139

On the nose, there is buttered popcorn, pencil shavings, and mandarin. A mouthfeel that is both juicy and oily, with flavours of toffee, vanilla, cherry, and flapjack. Orange and white pepper lend a bold finish.

Award-Winning Tasting Pack
Bunnahabhain 40 year old | Blended Scotch Whisky 34 year old | Glenlossie 30 year old | Mortlach 10 year old
£49.00

Exclusively available from www.rarefindwhisky.co.uk

About Rare Find

Each Rare Find release is an unrepeatable, limited-edition whisky sourced from sought-after distilleries. With every bottle, we celebrate liquid excellence – meticulously selecting, maturing, and finishing in the highest quality casks to deliver whisky that’s rare by design.

From the millions of casks maturing in Scotland, only a small percentage are destined for single malt bottlings, and from those, only the best become a Rare Find.

SINGLE MALT DISTILLERY ARDGOWAN FILLS FIRST CASK

Inverkip-based single malt producer announces first distillate to be filled to cask since its completion

Independent Scotch whisky business Ardgowan Distillery Company today announces the filling of its first cask since building concluded earlier this month.

Founded in 2017, the west coast firm is led by whisky entrepreneur Roland Grain and Distillery Manager Laura Davies who together spearhead an expert team with a combined experience spanning over seven decades in the whisky industry.

Featuring an impressive Scandinavian longhouse design and visually striking 97% recycled aluminium roof, the distillery has its sights set on producing top quality whisky and striving for carbon neutrality.

The historic milestone saw Ardgowan’s first oak cask filled with new make spirit ready for maturation and an official Opening Day held last Friday (20^th June 2025).

Following eight years of development, planning and construction, it is the first new distillery to open in Inverclyde for over a century. Until now, the last distillery to operate in the region was destroyed in the Greenock Blitz on 7th May 1941.

Millions of pounds (GBP) have already been invested in the distillery’s signature ‘Infinity Casks’: oak casks which have hosted Sherry for three years prior to production commencing and are intended for maturation periods of 18 years or more.

Sustainability was a top consideration throughout construction, with green technologies, including Thermal Vapour Recompression (TVR), which recycles heat waste, being installed.

Commenting on this major landmark, Grain shares:

“After a lengthy build, the team and I are thrilled to now be in full production and filling casks with our own distillate, including private casks for our Clan Ardgowan members. Ardgowan’s ultimate goal is to revive the golden age of Scotch whisky with long Sherry cask maturation in European oak.

“Our commitment to quality is demonstrated by investing millions of pounds in our signature Infinity Casks years before the distillery was built. These bespoke oak casks were created exclusively by renowned ​Bodegas Miguel Martín and Macallan’s former Master of Wood Stuart MacPherson. Producing whisky is all about time and patience, so, as we fill our first casks and open the site to the public, we look forward to steadily perfecting our Single Malt in the years to come.”

The Ardgowan Distillery’s visitor centre is planned to open later this summer with various experiences on offer, catering for whisky novices and connoisseurs alike.

ABOUT ARDGOWAN:

Nestled in the undulating Ardgowan Estate in Inverkip, we are on a mission to revive the golden age of Scotch whisky. We are led by Roland Grain, a whisky connoisseur coming from IT who built up ties in the Scotch whisky industry over the last 15 years. His journey now culminates in the creation of Ardgowan Distillery, where every decision has been made with quality and sustainability at the forefront. From our architecturally stunning distillery to our unique wood policy, every detail is designed to deliver full, flavoursome and robust spirit. At the heart of it all are our signature Infinity Casks: symbols of our long-term commitment to producing exceptional whisky.

#CraftedWithPurpose

While we await our own Single Malt coming of age, the Clydebuilt brand provides a home for our independent bottlings. Discover more here.

Further information on the distillery and company can be found at ardgowandistillery.com

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