Glencairn Crystal Honoured with

Kings Award for Enterprise for Innovation

Scotland’s world leading crystal glassware company has been awarded The King’s Award for Enterprise – the fourth time in the company’s history it has received this prestigious accolade. 

Glencairn Crystal is one of only a few select organisations nationwide to receive a King’s Award for Enterprise.* Announced today (Tuesday 6 May), Glencairn Crystal has been recognised for its excellence in the category of Innovation.

Founded in 1981 and based in East Kilbride, Scotland, Glencairn Crystal Studio Ltd is a family-owned business employing over 70 people. The company specialises in premium crystal and glassware for both business and consumer markets, with unrivalled expertise within the spirits industry.

Renowned for its pioneering design, craftsmanship and manufacturing, Glencairn Crystal creates luxury, high-end bottles and decanters featuring intricate metalwork, unique application processes and state-of-the-art engraving techniques. It has successfully scaled up artisan techniques for commercial production, blending hand-crafted artistry and ground-breaking technical innovation. By embedding world-leading invention and highly bespoke branding into its proprietary decanters and bottles, Glencairn works with spirits companies, globally, to elevate the value of their brands, showcasing, in the best possible light, the craftsmanship that has gone into every one.

For over 20 years, Glencairn Crystal has also produced the iconic Glencairn Glass – the first glass designed specifically for whisky. Recognised as the official glass for whisky in the UK, and throughout the whisky industry internationally, it is the world’s favourite whisky glass, used by millions of consumers and distilleries around the globe.

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 and 2017.

Scott Davidson, Glencairn Crystal’s New Product Development Director said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our work with The King’s Award for Innovation.  To be granted such a prestigious award for the fourth time in the past 20 years is incredibly special.

As a family run business for more than 40 years, we have a valued team of talented employees who have innovation at the core of everything we do. This award is a testament to the passion, creativity, and dedication of everyone here at Glencairn Crystal, and to our mission of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for our customers in crystal and glass.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are the UK’s most prestigious awards for businesses, recognising and encouraging outstanding achievements in four categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility. The awards are given out annually and are a highly regarded mark of excellence for British businesses.

The Award programme, now in its 59th year and previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed in 2023 to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses.

For more information about Glencairn Crystal, visit www.glencairn.com

For more information about The Kings Award for Enterprise, visit www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise

* 197 organisations nationally have been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise and a total of 199 Awards were made with two companies being recognised with two Awards.

Jura Fèis Ìle Bottling

Jura Whisky proudly presents a new single cask release to celebrate this year’s Fèis Ìle festival, a gathering of whisky fans who come from across the globe to experience the island whisky making communities of Islay and Jura.

On 30th May Jura will be welcoming whisky lovers to its beachside distillery, with tours of the distillery on offer as well as tastings, live music, cocktails and boat tours exploring Jura’s beautiful coastline.

To mark the 2025 festival, a very special expression will be released limited to just 300 bottles, exclusively available to the whisky-lovers who visit Jura in-person during Fèis Ìle.

Jura Distillery’s Kirsty Wright said: “People who know Jura, know Jura whisky. As a Scottish island community, we appreciate each and every visitor, which is why this release is exclusively available to those that join us for our whisky festival. This release celebrates a different take on Jura’s fruity and balanced flavours, ideal to share with friends and family.”

Joe Ricketts, Whisky Maker, explained: “For this year’s Fèis Ìle single cask release we’ve revisited a standout 2007 vintage parcel. In 2022 the whisky making and distillery teams selected #1892, a bold, rich oloroso butt which explored a different side to Jura’s distillery character.

“With an additional three years maturation, #1895 builds on the complexity of our 2022 Fèis Ìle release, with notes of crystallised citrus, prune and hazelnut together with hints of polished leather and dark chocolate from its full-course Sherry maturation.”

There are a few tickets still remaining for this year’s Feis Ile celebration on Jura, which can be purchased here: Jura Whisky Festival | Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky

About Jura: Jura is a remote Scottish island nestled off the West Coast of Scotland. With only one road, one pub, one whisky distillery and 212(ish) people, Jura is as beautiful as it is remote. The distillery was established in 1810 and reborn in 1963 to revive the community. Inspired by our history and our island home, we create single malt with a true passion for the craft of whisky making.

Product information:

Jura Fèis Ìle 2025

Age: 17 years

ABV: Cask strength

Cask: oloroso Sherry butt

Available exclusively at the Jura distillery in 70cl format between 23 May and 31 May 2025

RSP: £135

Nose: walnut, apricot and autumnal forest floor notes

Palate: crystallised citrus, prune and toasted hazelnut

Finish: hints of polished leather and dark chocolate

DOUGLAS LAING & CO. RELEASES NEW BIG PEAT LIMITED EDITION BOTTLING

BIG PEAT FÈIS ÌLE 2025

The award-winning range of Big Peat Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky from independent Blenders, Bottlers, and Distillers Douglas Laing & Co., proudly announces its annual release for Fèis Ìle—a true celebration of all things Islay, specially selected to mark the occasion.

Fèis Ìle – The Islay Festival – brings together whisky and Islay enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate the island, its culture, and the unique spirits it produces. This ten-day event is a highlight in every Islay whisky fan’s calendar. Big Peat is proud to be part of such a momentous annual occasion, and releasing this unique edition from our Islay whisky character is a special moment for us at Douglas Laing.

Big Peat Fèis Ìle Limited Edition has been uniquely bottled as a 2010 Vintage, with maturation taking place exclusively in hand-selected Refill Hogsheads. This release takes Whisky enthusiasts back to where Big Peat’s story first began—on the Island of Islay, the place he calls home. This cask selection delivers a profile of classic Big Peat characteristics and more—expect layers of sweet smoke intertwined with a salty, oceanic character, culminating in the signature smoky BBQ profile for which Big Peat is renowned. Small batch, 40PPM, bottled at a higher strength of 50% ABV, and proudly without chill-filtration or added colouring, Big Peat Fèis Ìle embodies the true spirit of Islay.

Presented in a premium foiled bespoke carton, with a unique label highlighting all the key details, this edition brings a distinctive new offering to the Big Peat range.

Alongside our Fèis Ìle Limited Edition, Fred Laing, Chairman of Douglas Laing, has selected a single cask of Islay Single Malt, distilled at Caol Ila Distillery in 2010 and bottled in 2025. This rare and limited release of just 150 bottles has been matured exclusively in Refill Hogshead casks, bottled at 14 years old and at a natural cask strength of 55.4% ABV. Each bottle has been hand-numbered and personally signed by Fred. Fred adds “I love being involved in what we – and here I include Big Peat himself – select for his unique single cask releases. This particular cask ticked all our quality boxes – so much so that we decided to bottle it just before it reached 15 years old”. This single cask delivers amplified notes of citrus, salted sweetness, nuttiness and oak. Available exclusively on the Island of Islay during Fèis Ìle, it’s another not-to-be-missed release.

Chloe Wood, Big Peat Brand Manager, comments:

“Big Peat has always been crafted to tell the story of Islay, whether through ‘his’ spirit selection, cask choice, or flavour profile. With this particular release, there’s no hiding behind overpowering cask finishes—Big Peat Fèis Ìle showcases the impact of quality spirit selection and expert cask management, resulting in a Whisky that boasts full flavour from the outset and truly reflects what Big Peat was designed to be.”

Big Peat Fèis Ìle Limited Edition is available at select retailers, Whisky specialists, and online, with a suggested retail price of £70.00/€84.00.

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”.

Bladnoch Distillery unveils line-up for Wave Day whisky celebration

Bladnoch, Scotland’s oldest privately-owned Scotch whisky distillery, has unveiled the line-up for Wave Day this summer.

Taking place at the distillery on Saturday 14 June, Wave Day is a celebration of Bladnoch’s bold Galloway spirit and the history and heritage of the distillery.

The one-day festival marks the release of Bladnoch Wave II, the second chapter in the Master Distiller’s Collection which launched last year with Bladnoch Wave I: Time & Maturation.

Wave Day will be the first opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to sample and purchase Wave II, which will be available exclusively at Bladnoch Distillery on Saturday 14 June ahead of remaining bottles going on sale through Bladnoch’s online shop from Monday 16 June.

Celebrations will begin on the lade at Bladnoch Distillery at 12 noon. The distillery shop will be open, with a pop-up full bar in place for single malt enthusiasts to gather and sample Bladnoch’s portfolio of exceptional Lowland whiskies.

Highlights on the day include an interactive tasting of Wave II with Bladnoch’s master distiller, Dr Nick Savage, as well as a short, immersive theatre experience inspired by the distillery’s story and performed by Bladnoch’s UK brand ambassador, Mark Rannoch.

Each guest who purchases a full-size bottle of whisky from the distillery on Saturday 14 June will also receive a complimentary 50ml collectable dram of Wave II. Exclusively available on the day, this remarkable whisky can be sampled during the interactive tasting or taken home to enjoy later.

Food will be available from vendors including vegan and gluten-free options, with the distillery garden also open for those seeking a tranquil spot away from the hustle and bustle of the main courtyard.

Live music will be played throughout the day, with local folk musicians from The Vault Arts Centre in Newton Stewart opening the event, followed by singer-songwriter Katie Mac singing hits from throughout the decades.

Guests can extend their whisky experience on Sunday 15 June with a bespoke Wave tour of the distillery, offering a deeper dive into Bladnoch’s craftsmanship and intricate whisky-making process. Tours are available to pre-book at 11am, 1pm and 3pm on the Bladnoch website.

Dr Nick Savage, Master Distiller at Bladnoch Distillery, said:

“Wave Day is one of the highlights of our calendar year, and it’s a privilege to host this festival of our bold Galloway spirit.

“This is a time to gather, celebrate and enjoy some incredible whisky, particularly Wave II – as we unveil the next instalment in our exciting annual release series. We look forward to welcoming Bladnoch fans from near and far through the distillery doors this summer, to discover more about how we make our exceptional single malt whisky.”

Dating back to 1817, Bladnoch Distillery is one of the oldest single malt Scotch whisky producers in the world and is enjoying a bold and powerful revival.

For more information about Bladnoch Distillery, and to book tickets for Wave Day, please visit www.bladnoch.com.

About Bladnoch Distillery

Bladnoch Distillery was established in 1817, making it the oldest privately owned Scotch whisky distillery in the world. As the southernmost distillery in Scotland, Bladnoch is commonly referred to as the ‘Queen of the Lowlands.’

Hand-crafted using malt from British growers and the pristine water from the River Bladnoch which flows alongside the distillery, Bladnoch single malts are non-chill filtered to ensure the truest flavours shine through.

This legacy brand has been revived in recent years by Master Distiller, Dr Nick Savage, formerly of The Macallan, and owner David Prior, who purchased Bladnoch Distillery in 2015 and is the first Australian businessman to own a Scotch whisky distillery.

The team at Bladnoch is truly passionate about the preservation of the environment and the local community’s generational involvement in this iconic distillery.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY & BLOCKBAR ANNOUNCE ONLINE FUNDRAISER WITH PROCEEDS GOING TO KENTUCKY STORM RELIEF EFFORTS

The “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser, hosted by BlockBar, will feature rare bourbons and specialty items from Buffalo Trace Distillery and partners including the Van Winkle family, Chris Stapleton, PGA and AGE International  

FRANKFORT, KY (May 22, 2025) – Buffalo Trace Distillery, in partnership with BlockBar, today announces the launch of the “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser – an exclusive online benefit event featuring some of the Distillery’s most sought-after bourbons, collectible items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences donated by Sazerac and various esteemed partners. The fundraiser is a direct response to support statewide storm relief efforts after Kentucky faced numerous spring storms, including a deadly tornado that hit Southern Kentucky on May 16 and severe storms that brought tornadoes and historic flooding to several communities across Kentucky in early April. Buffalo Trace Distillery, along with partners including the Van Winkle family, Chris and Morgane Stapleton, PGA and AGE International, has curated an exceptional lineup of offerings. To support the communities impacted by the recent storms,  Sazerac and BlockBar will donate 100% of the total amount raised from the online charity fundraiser.

“The recent spring storms have had a profound impact on communities across Kentucky and, especially in times like these, it’s essential that we rally people to support our neighbors in need,” said Jake Wenz, President & CEO, Sazerac & Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Buffalo Trace remains committed to supporting our home state, and every bid placed is a step toward helping our community recover. We’re grateful to stand alongside our partners and supporters in this effort to help ensure relief organizations have the vital resources they need to respond effectively.”

The “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser will go live on May 22, benefitting the American Red Cross and the Franklin County Flood Relief Fund held at the Blue Grass Community Foundation. Offerings available through the “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser include:

1. Auction
   • A Sazerac Barrel Select experience, including the opportunity to pick and purchase a barrel of Blanton’s Gold, plus a VIP tour and a one-night stay in Stagg Lodge.
   • Ultra-aged individual bottlings, such as Weller Millennium, Eagle Rare 25 and O.F.C. Vintage 2005.
   • Highly-coveted bourbon sets, such as a complete Pappy Van Winkle collection, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, 2024 Prohibition Collection and an E.H. Taylor Jr. lineup.
   • One (1) bottle of Double Eagle Very Rare, plus a hand-crafted coffee table created from a former Double Eagle Very Rare barrel by the Buffalo Trace Whiskey Woodcraft team.
   • A variety of contributions from Chris & Morgane Stapleton’s “Outlaw State of Kind” charitable fund including an Epiphone Hummingbird Studio guitar, exclusive merchandise and a bottle of Traveller Whiskey – each personally autographed by Chris Stapleton.
   • An all-expense paid trip for two (2) people to Fort Worth, TX for a behind-the-scenes visit of a 101 Studios set, the global entertainment company behind the hit show ‘Yellowstone’, featuring a filming of ‘Y: Marshals’ – the forthcoming ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff starring Luke Grimes.
2. Sweepstakes
   • Enter to win the opportunity to purchase one (1) bottle of O.F.C. Vintage 2006.

1. Entrants will receive one entry for every $50 donation made through the registration site. There is no cap on the amount a person can donate.

1. • Enter to win an exclusive PGA package including a PGA certificate for four (4) people to play a round of golf at the PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass and two Buffalo Trace Bettinardi golf putters.

1. Entrants will receive one entry for every $50 donation made through the registration site. There is no cap on the amount a person can donate.

“We are grateful to Buffalo Trace for their support in times of disaster. Their partnership enables us to give help and hope to hundreds of families who were affected by the deadly tornado in Southern Kentucky and the severe April floods. Their commitment to helping individuals and families across the Commonwealth recover after these devastating disasters allows us to support their road to recovery,” said Nadine McCrindle, CEO of the Red Cross Kentucky Region.

The “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser begins on Thursday, May 22 at 10am EST. To participate in the auction, please visit https://blockbar.com/producers/sazerac/pour-it-forward-for-kentucky-charity-auction. To participate in the sweepstakes, please visit https://blockbar.com/producers/sazerac/pour-it-forward-for-kentucky-charity-auction. There are no reserves, and bidding starts at $100 for each lot with every dollar raised going to support community relief efforts. All bids must be received by 10am EST on Thursday, June 5. The winning bidder for each lot will be notified via phone and email the week of June 9.

“We know from experience that recovery is a long journey, and the needs will continue to grow. The Franklin County Flood Relief Fund is not only here for immediate relief, but also to support long-term recovery in the months to come,” said Jane Higgins, Director of Community Advancement at Blue Grass Community Foundation. “We’re thankful to be part of Buffalo Trace’s ‘Pour it Forward for Kentucky’ Charity Fundraiser. Community partnerships like this are essential to moving forward — together, we are all making Frankfort Strong.”

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. To download images from Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/media.

About BlockBar

BlockBar enables the wine and spirits community to buy, store, sell, gift, and ship the highest quality wines and spirits, sourced directly from producers and authenticated via blockchain. Our team has access to the world’s most sought-after bottles, barrels, and casks, many of which are unique to BlockBar. These are released on the platform through various sales mechanics, with many including immersive events and unique experiences. Underwritten by the power of blockchain, BlockBar guarantees provenance and authenticity so users can safely build their collections. Despite its cutting-edge approach, BlockBar’s roots stretch back decades. BlockBar was launched in October 2021 by cousins Dov and Sam, who are an active part of the family-owned Falic Group, a network founded in 2001 that includes Duty Free Americas, the largest travel retailer in the Americas. 

About Blue Grass Community Foundation

At Blue Grass Community Foundation, we know philanthropy has the power to transform a community. That’s why we work every day to grow charitable giving to create a more generous, vibrant, equitable and engaged Central and Appalachia Kentucky. We connect charitable individuals, families and businesses with nonprofit organizations and causes they care about to meet community needs and make a difference. We provide leadership on key community issues, and we’re passionate about ensuring equitable access to education, greenspaces and public places, and healthy and vibrant neighborhoods. To learn more about Blue Grass Community Foundation, visit bgcf.org.

About the Franklin County Community Fund

The Franklin County Community Fund is an endowed community fund at Blue Grass Community Foundation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Franklin County, Kentucky. Guided by a local advisory board, the Fund supports projects, programs and organizations that reflect the community’s greatest needs and opportunities. Through both long-term endowment building and responsive grantmaking in times of crisis, the Franklin County Community Fund connects generosity with impact, today and for generations to come. Learn more at www.bgcf.org/community-funds/franklin-county.

Heaven Hill Distillery® Announces Release of 2025 Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Launches Family Farms First™ Initiative

Through the Family Farms First Initiative, Heaven Hill Grain to Glass is committing up to $300,000 through 2028 to support family farms in times of need.

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (May 2025) – Heaven Hill Distillery, America’s largest family-owned and operated distillery, proudly announces the launch of Family Farms First, an initiative dedicated to supporting family-owned farms, in partnership with nonprofit organization Farm Rescue. Heaven Hill Grain to Glass is committed to celebrating and supporting the hardworking and passionate farm families who provide the high-quality ingredients essential to both America’s food supply and its finest whiskeys.

This milestone moment coincides with the release of the highly anticipated Second Edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This small-batch bourbon represents the next chapter in a story that begins with the seed and ends in the glass, highlighting Heaven Hill’s deep-rooted commitment to family, quality and craft.

Each annual edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass features a unique corn seed varietal, chosen in collaboration with Beck’s Hybrids to grow well in the soils of Central Kentucky.  The 2025 release features corn seed varietal Beck’s 6225 and was grown by family-owned Peterson Farms on one of two sites in Nelson County, Kentucky. Made up of 52% corn, 35% rye and 13% malt, this unique mashbill, with a higher secondary grain content than Heaven Hill Distillery’s traditional bourbon recipe, was aged for six years at Heaven Hill’s Cox’s Creek rickhouse site. Non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel strength, the result is a 105 proof, richly layered spirit that showcases the integrity of family-farm-grown ingredients and the craftsmanship of Heaven Hill Distillery.

“In 2017, we embarked on a journey to create a one-of-a-kind Grain to Glass Whiskey by partnering with family-owned seed companies and farms,” said Max Shapira, Executive Chairman of Heaven Hill Brands. “These innovative mash bills feature hand-selected, unique grain varieties grown locally by Kentucky family farms. Heaven Hill Grain to Glass is a testament to the important legacy of family farmers, who are the lifeblood of our country.”

As Heaven Hill approaches its 90th anniversary in December 2025, the Family Farms First initiative underscores the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting fellow family businesses—especially those within the agricultural community. The initiative is launching with a partnership with Farm Rescue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping farmers and ranchers overcome major hardships, injuries or natural disasters. Since 2005, Farm Rescue has provided free planting, harvesting, commodity hauling and livestock feeding assistance to over 1,000 farm families across eight states.

“Farm Rescue’s mission is to keep family farms intact during times of crises,” said Bill Gross, Founder and President of Farm Rescue. “Family farms, which make up 97% of U.S. farms, are vital to sustaining our communities and our future. Our collaboration with Heaven Hill Grain to Glass will bolster our ability to provide essential support to more farm families, ensuring they can continue their operations and sustain their livelihoods.”

Tim Sullivan, Executive Director of Farm Rescue, added, “Support from companies like Heaven Hill profoundly impacts our capacity to assist family farms in need. Their commitment to quality and community resonates deeply with our mission, and we are grateful for their partnership.” A portion of every sale of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass – up to $100,000 annually – will be donated to Farm Rescue.

“We are honored to partner with Farm Rescue as part of our Family Farms First initiative,” continued Shapira. “Their efforts align perfectly with our values at Heaven Hill, where we understand the dedication and resilience needed to keep a family business thriving for generations. This investment will make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who sustain our communities and our way of life.”

With every bottle of the Heaven Hill Grain to Glass, consumers are not only enjoying a world-class whiskey but also directly supporting the families who cultivate the land it comes from—a bold spirit with a bold mission. Heaven Hill and Farm Rescue are working to ensure that American farm families don’t just survive, but thrive, for generations to come.

For more information about Heaven Hill Grain to Glass, visit: https://heavenhilldistillery.com/grain-to-glass/

For more information about Farm Rescue, visit: https://farmrescue.org/

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 nearly 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. Heaven Hill reminds everyone to think wisely, drink wisely®.

Auction Debut for One of the Rarest Offerings Ever from

The Balvenie Distillery

 Hammer Proceeds from the Sale of

The Balvenie Private Cask Trunk to be Donated to WWF and The King’s Trust

 Online Auction Open for Bidding Until 29 May

LONDON, 19 May 2025 – An exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the rarest offerings ever from The Balvenie – or from any whisky distillery – is currently underway at Sotheby’s in London. Bidding is now open on a sale of Finest Whisky, in which The Balvenie 50 Year Old Private Cask #16560 Trunk is a headline lot. Quite literally a treasure chest, the appearance of this hyper-rare item containing 10 bottles of single cask 50-year-old whisky from The Balvenie Distillery marks the first time that any bottles from The Balvenie’s rare cask programme have been seen at auction.

Every one of the 220 bottles produced from this cask – and the 22 wooden trunks in total in which they are housed – is owned by one collector, who has kindly chosen to consign one of the trunks to auction in order for the sale proceeds from the hammer price to be donated to two charities: WWF and The King’s Trust. Carrying an estimate of £240,000-450,000, The Balvenie Private Cask Trunk is available to collectors until 29 May only.

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Global Head of Whisky & Spirits, said: “This unusual trunk represents not only ten fantastically old and rare bottles of whisky with exceptional presentation, but more importantly, it is a glimpse into the secret world within the upper echelons of whisky collecting. The rarest offering from Balvenie has finally become public and all for the benefit of two very worthy charities.”Cask #16560 is one of the few casks ever to be selected for the William Grant & Sons Private Client cask offer “event sale”, an annual programme in which only one cask selected from The Balvenie will be offered to one lucky private buyer and bottled for them that year. This Sherry Butt was selected by The Balvenie Malt Master, David C. Stewart MBE, for its extraordinary richness of character and depth of colour and bottled in 2021. On 14 December that year, Cask #16560 was removed from its home at The Balvenie distillery where it lay for nearly 51 years in order to be transformed into 220 dark sherry whisky bottles.

The cask itself went on to become not just the inspiration for, but the tools with which the labels were designed. For the label design concept, The Balvenie team worked with award-winning Scottish artist Paul Furneaux to commission an original artwork, from which 220 individual and unique labels were produced.

The starting point was a visit to The Balvenie’s Cooperage, a barrel-making facility that allows this particular distillery to control quality and creativity in their cask curation. Borrowing from a traditional lithography technique, Furneaux used the oak staves from Sherry Butt #16560 to create a collage of paint imprints on canvas using various colours and hues to invoke the Speyside landscape that surrounds the distillery. Once Furneaux’s vision was complete and the paint had been applied to canvas as a finished work, the final piece was scanned and then divided into 220 individual equal portions, one for each hand-applied label, giving every bottle from the cask its own unique appearance.

On the back of each bottle is another label containing the details of the liquid. Each label is individually numbered, and each bottle is packed in a matching wooden presentation case with a corresponding number etched into the top. For more information and detailed imagery of the production process, please click here.

The ten bottles are each contained with a carved wooden presentation case fixed with brass tube hinges. The cases have been lovingly produced and finished by hand and measured perfectly to fit the trunk itself. The solid oak trunk is laser engraved and gold gilded with the cask number and The Balvenie logo, then finished with Renaissance wax. For more information on the production process of these presentation cases, please click here.

World Wide Fund for Nature

The WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) is a global conservation organization that works to protect the environment and preserve biodiversity. It focuses on issues like wildlife conservation, climate change, deforestation, oceans and freshwater ecosystems, and promoting sustainable practices. The WWF partners with governments, communities, and businesses to create long-term solutions for a healthier planet.

The King’s Trust

The King’s Trust, formerly known as The Prince’s Trust, is a UK-based charity founded in 1976 by King Charles III (then Prince of Wales). Its mission is to support young people aged 11 to 30 who are facing challenges such as unemployment, educational difficulties, mental health issues, or risk of exclusion. The Trust offers programs that help young individuals build confidence, gain skills, and find pathways into education, employment, or entrepreneurship. Since its inception, The King’s Trust has assisted over a million young people in the UK and has expanded its reach internationally, operating in more than 20 countries. Through various initiatives, it continues to empower youth to transform their lives and achieve their potential.

About Sotheby’s

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

UMIKI JAPANESE SINGLE MALT WHISKY NOW IN JAPAN, SELECTED ASIAN COUNTRIES & DUTY FREE! 

YOSHINO SPIRITS / KAMIKI SHUZO UNVEILS THE UMIKI SINGLE MALT WHISKY

A Refined New Expression, Now in Japan and Asian Markets- Duty-Free Stores!

Yoshino Spirits and Kamiki Shuzo proudly present Umiki Single Malt Whisky, a distinguished new release crafted exclusively for Japan, select Asian & airport duty-free stores.

Rooted in the tradition of purity and craftsmanship that defines Japanese whisky, Umiki Single Malt offers a harmonious balance of smoothness, complexity, and nature’s elegance.

This exceptional whisky is meticulously distilled and matured, then finished in rare Mizunara Oak casks — a wood prized for its delicate influence, imparting subtle spice, sandalwood, and an unmistakable Japanese character.

With its delicate flavors and graceful finish, Umiki Single Malt stands as a tribute to authentic Japanese whisky-making — a true Collector’s Item for those who seek rarity and refinement. This new expression reaffirms Yoshino Spirits’ dedication to excellence, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving world of premium Japanese single malts.

About Umiki Single Malt Whisky

Umiki Single Malt Whisky, produced by Kamiki Shuzo Co. Distillery is finished in rare Mizunara Oak Casks, and comes in elegantly packaged in a wooden gift box.

About Yoshino Spirits / Kamiki Shuzo:

Based in Osaka, Japan, Yoshino Spirits and Kamiki Shuzo are known for pioneering innovation in Japanese whisky. Through a dedication to craftsmanship, creativity, and authenticity, they continue to define the future of Japanese spirits on a global stage.

For Further Information:

Please contact info@umikiwhisky.com and visit www.UmikiWhisky.com

Yoshino Spirits proudly announce the launch of Godzilla Umiki Blended Whisky, an exclusive collector’s edition created in collaboration with Toho Co., Ltd., Japan’s most iconic entertainment company.

This special release commemorates Godzilla’s 70th Anniversary, honoring seven decades of the world’s most legendary movie monster. Since its first appearance in 1954, Godzilla has captured the imagination of generations, symbolizing strength, resilience, and global cultural impact. Today, its legacy continues to thrive with the overwhelming success of Godzilla Minus One and a growing fanbase worldwide.

A LEGENDARY COLLABORATION WITH TOHO CO. LTD. CELEBRATING GODZILLA’S 70th ANNIVERSARY

Inspired by the spirit of the Pacific Ocean, Godzilla Umiki Blended Whisky is crafted by Umiki, the world’s first ocean-fused whisky brand. This unique blend delivers a refreshing, smooth profile that reflects the vitality and depth of the ocean itself.

The Godzilla Umiki Blended Whisky will be available as a Limited-Edition collector’s item for select markets outside of Japan, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Each bottle features a specially designed label and packaging, celebrating Godzilla’s monumental anniversary in true Japanese spirit.

For more information about Umiki Whisky, please visit: www.umikiwhisky.com

About Yoshino Spirits

Based in Osaka, Japan, Yoshino Spirits and Kamiki Shuzo are internationally recognized for blending Japanese tradition with modern innovation in whisky making.

About Toho Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1932, Toho is Japan’s leading film company and the creative force behind the legendary Godzilla franchise.

For Further Information please contact info@umikiwhisky.com

The esteemed judges at the San Francisco Spirits Competition have awarded Woodinville’s 100% Rye whiskey with a Double Gold.

For a grain to glass whiskey born, grown and aged in Washington to earn such honors is a testimony to its origins and the people behind the spirit. The whiskey is handcrafted from rye grown on the Omlin Family Farm in rural, Quincy, Washington. It’s distilled in Woodinville, WA, then sent back across the Cascades to age in the Quincy barrelhouses. It’s not the most efficient way to make whiskey— but it’s worth it. Two terroirs: one extraordinary whiskey.

“Our 90 proof, 5+ year 100% Rye Whiskey delivers aromas of cinnamon, clove and fruit leather, and notes of caramel, wood spice and honey on the palate with a long memorable finish,” explains Woodinville Co-Founder Orlin Sorensen. “The Rye’s Double Gold status is a great achievement, and we’re excited to be releasing an older 100% Rye very, very soon.”

Woodinville Flagship 100% Rye is available nationally, in store and online, with an MSRP of $40. The spirit earned 96 points in the 2025 SFWSC competition.

About Woodinville Whiskey Company: Woodinville Whiskey Company (www.woodinvillewhiskeyco.com) is a craft distillery founded by two best friends from the area, Orlin Sorensen and Brett Carlile, under the mentorship of an industry icon, the late David Pickerell, former Master Distiller for Maker’s Mark. Woodinville is Washington state’s largest craft distillery. It was reported in Forbes that Woodinville Whiskey “may just be the best craft whiskey in America.”

The distillery and tasting room in Woodinville is home to exclusive new launches like its annual Harvest Release in the fall. Private tours led by a distiller are available, when scheduled in advance. The distillery is open daily. The attached photos shows a bottle of the Flagship 100% Rye.