ARDGOWAN DISTILLERY COMPANY SECURES

DISTRIBUTION ACROSS KEY MARKETS

Independent Scotch whisky company Ardgowan appoints

multiple distributors as it increases global availability 

Leading Scotch whisky producer Ardgowan Distillery Company Ltd has secured a series of new partnerships with global distributors for its Clydebuilt brand in moves that will accelerate its presence across key markets in Europe, North America and Asia.

Ardgowan Distillery – the home of Clydebuilt – is where casks are curated in the distillery’s warehouses and carefully selected for bottling by Distillery Manager and Whisky Maker Laura Davies.

The range takes its inspiration from the River Clyde’s illustrious shipbuilding heritage, where the term “Clydebuilt” became a byword for craftsmanship and integrity.

In August 2025, an agreement was reached between Ardgowan Distillery Company and Kammer-Kirsch GmbH, a German importer of quality spirits since 1990.

The deal gives Kammer-Kirsch exclusive distribution rights for the Ardgowan product portfolio in Germany, identified as a key market for its whisky.

The Scottish firm hopes “a closeknit collaboration will lead to Germany becoming a ‘top three’ market for Clydebuilt and eventually Ardgowan Single Malt”.

Additional routes to market have been secured through distribution partners Roy + Co in Canada, Galatea AB in Sweden, and Single Malt Sdn Bhd, who cover Singapore and Malaysia.

The agreements were negotiated by Ardgowan’s Sales & Marketing Director, David Keir, whose experience spans over 25 years of building premium spirits brands across global markets.

Commenting on the news, Keir shares:

“These new partnerships mark a significant step in Ardgowan’s journey as we bring our boutique Clydebuilt brand and future Ardgowan Single Malt to discerning whisky drinkers in these important markets. Consumers in these countries hold a strong appreciation for Scotch whisky, and by working closely with our new partners, we can share our enthusiasm for quality, innovation and craftsmanship on a much wider scale.”

Managing Director of Kammer-Kirsch GmbH, Gerald Erdrich, adds:

“We are delighted to introduce Ardgowan’s Clydebuilt range to Germany and, in due course, the first Ardgowan Single Malt. Ardgowan’s long-term vision and commitment to quality make them an ideal partner for us, and we look forward to growing the brand together in Germany.”

The distillery, which began producing Ardgowan spirit in June this year, is the first new distillery in Inverclyde for over a century and is built with sustainability at its core.

Three years prior to completion, the business invested millions of pounds (GBP) in casks, including the development of a bespoke cask size: the Infinity Cask, specifically designed for long maturation periods of 18 years or more.

The company, which was founded in 2017 and is independently owned, places a firm emphasis on its wood policy, having partnered with renowned Bodega Miguel Martín to acquire the finest European oak ex-Sherry casks.

The distribution update comes in quick succession of the introduction of a distillery shop and tours at the site in Inverkip. Experiences currently run twice a day from Tuesday to Saturday, with plans to expand this over time.

Details of Ardgowan Distillery stockists and distribution partners can be found here.

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

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

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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 carefully selected and 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.

GLENFIDDICH UNVEILS GLENFIDDICH XS – A LUXURIOUS COLLECTION OF SINGLE MALT WHISKIES FINISHED IN HAND SELECTED SHERRY CASKS AND CRAFTED TO REVEAL NEW DEPTHS OF CHARACTER

October 2025: Marking a bold new chapter in the Glenfiddich story, family-owned distillery, 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 excep;onal 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 revela:on. An exci:ng whisky that invites explora:on and is designed to mark richer experiences. The mul:-layered secondary maturation has created a subtle and sophis:cated taste that unveils new depths to the liquid profile.

Glenfiddich XS is a whisky crafted with a new genera:on 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 collec;on with added complexity. A harmonious marriage of American and European oak casks is elevated by a rare Moscatel sherry cask finish, impar;ng 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 ;meless 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 :me; 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 celebra;on 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.

GLENFIDDICH XS FiIeen-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky £58
GLENFIDDICH XS Eighteen-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky £88
GLENFIDDICH XS Twenty-One-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky £170

About Glenfiddich

Founded in Du.own, Scotland by innovator William Grant, Glenfiddich first ran from the s@lls on Christmas Day, 1887. Adopting revolutionary methods and practices Grant’s maverick attitude to whisky production saw Glenfiddich excel for over a hundred and thirty years, becoming the first Single Malt Scotch Whisky to be promoted outside of Scotland, and ultimately the most awarded Single Malt Scotch Whisky[1]. While Glenfiddich is now sold in over 180 countries across the world, the brand is one of the few single malt distilleries to remain entirely family-owned and is still produced in the same distillery which William Grant and his family hand-built.

Most Awarded:

The Glenfiddich range has received more awards since 2000 than any other single malt Scotch whisky in two of the world’s most prestigious competitions, the Interna@onal Wine & Spirit Compe@@on and the Interna@onal Spirits Challenge.

About William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons is a sixth-genera@on independent family-owned dis@ller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the Company is run by a professional management team and distils, bottles, and distributes some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky and premium gin.

Its global icons include the world’s most-awarded single malt Scotch whisky Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts, Monkey Shoulder® blended malt Scotch and super-premium Hendrick’s® Gin. Other spirits in the portfolio include Grant’s® and The Famous Grouse® blended Scotch whiskies, Tullamore D.E.W.® Irish whiskey, Sailor Jerry® spiced rum, Drambuie® whisky liqueur, Milagro® tequila, Reyka® vodka, Discarded Spirits Co.® and ultra-premium Silent Pool Gin®.

Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich Malt Master Glenfiddich XS Tasting Notes

GLENFIDDICH XS Fifteen Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Nose: Classic Glenfiddich green apple notes with warming cinnamon, toasted oak and light spice
Taste: Vibrant and lively with a zesty frui@ness and a touch of citrus sherbet, evolves into a rich soYened toffee. Long-lingering oak and subtle depth
Finish: Refreshing

GLENFIDDICH XS Eighteen Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Nose: Deep sherry oak with notes of caramelised fruit, treacle toffee, raisin and dried apricot
Taste: Velvety texture balancing indulgent sherry richness, oak tannin and a whisper of antique leather. Lingering oak with quiet authority
Finish: Balance

GLENFIDDICH XS Twenty One Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Nose: Opulent with raw cane sugar, muscovado syrup, and sun-dried dates and figs
Taste: Deep, full-bodied layers of complex oak, woody spice, and dried fruits. Long-lasting with a refined dryness
Finish: Intense

Jim Beam and the Cadillac Formula 1® Team Announce Global Partnership, Fueling a Vision to Reach New Audiences

Two American originals united on one world stage

Clermont, Kentucky & Fishers, Indiana: Jim Beam®, the world’s No. 1 bourbon, and the Cadillac Formula 1® Team, are proud to announce a multi-year global partnership that brings together two of the most iconic names in American culture, now united on the world’s fastest stage: Formula 1®.

In 2026, the Cadillac Formula 1® Team will enter the FIA Formula 1 World ChampionshipTM as the first new addition to the grid since 2016, with Jim Beam as its proud Official Spirits Partner. This partnership represents two American originals driving forward together on a mission to usher in a new era by welcoming even more people into Formula 1®.

Formed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors, the Cadillac Formula 1® Team brings together a legacy of engineering excellence and a shared commitment to innovation and performance — representing a bold new chapter in American participation on the global Formula 1® stage.

More than a sponsorship, this story has been 90 years in the making. Every evening, Jim Beam, the brand’s legendary founder, would place a mason jar of his proprietary yeast — the living heart of his protected recipe — in the front seat of his Cadillac and drive it home to protect it from fire and prohibition. This daily ritual preserved the essential ingredient that still defines Jim Beam’s unmatched flavor enjoyed today around the world. Today, Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s seventh generation master distiller, still drives a Cadillac, a quiet tribute to the car that helped safeguard his family legacy.

“We are excited to bring the soul of Kentucky to the global stage of Formula 1 with Cadillac, a brand that’s been part of the Beam family’s story through the ages,” said Rashidi Hodari, managing director, James B. Beam Distilling Co.

“Both car racing and making Jim Beam bourbon require every individual and moving part to come together to create a positive collective outcome. This is very in line with how we bring Jim Beam to the world. The pit crew and our distillery workers both know that it’s the power of their communities that allows for the win. It’s this common understanding of the importance of connection with the next generation of Formula 1 fans that inspires us.”

With a vision to help the sport reach new audiences, the Official Partnership will come to life both on and off the track through immersive fan experiences with a focus on alcohol responsibility, retail and trade activations, and most importantly, a desire to bring people together.

“This partnership brings together two icons of American heritage to create something truly special,” said Cadillac Formula 1® Team and TWG Motorsports Chief Executive Officer Dan Towriss. “Formula 1® is a global stage, and we want to take our fans on this journey with us every step of the way. Our vision goes beyond racing – we’re building a team that lives where sport, technology, and culture collide. With Jim Beam joining our family of partners, the momentum behind this project grows stronger every day as we gear up for our debut next year.”

With a core value of connection, uniting fans across the world, sport and music have always played a role in the Jim Beam brand’s heritage. From sponsoring the National Football League’s (NFL)Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys, the Major League Baseball’s (MLB) L.A. Dodgers, and the United States Soccer Federation (U.S.S.F), to car racing including the Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR in the U.S., and Dick Johnson Racing (DJR), Australia’s oldest racing team. The brand has also brought fans together through local music festivals and underground shows around the world, and with global musical acts such as Muse and LeSserafim.

Known as the ‘people’s bourbon,’ Jim Beam is a brand built on community, and that unmistakable feeling of knowing that all are welcome. From a mason jar of yeast in the seat of a Cadillac to the roar of an F1 engine, this is a legacy in motion. Jim Beam is excited to celebrate shared moments of great taste and responsible connection under its rallying cry: Best Enjoyed Together, Best Enjoyed Responsibly.

To learn more about Jim Beam and Cadillac F1 Racing , visit www.jimbeam.com or follow @jimbeamofficial on Instagram @cadillacf1

About Jim Beam®: Jim Beam is the world’s best-selling bourbon, crafted by eight generations of family distillers since 1795. Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s seventh Generation Master Distiller, and Freddie Noe, Jim Beam’s eighth Generation Master Distiller, have stayed true to the family recipe that’s been passed down through generations. The Jim Beam portfolio of products includes Jim Beam Bourbon, Jim Beam Black®, and Jim Beam Flavors, among other offerings. For more information, go to www.jimbeam.com @jimbeamofficial on Instagram and @jimbeam on Twitter.

About Cadillac Formula 1® Team: The Cadillac Formula 1® Team is a specialist motor racing team competing in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. Backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors, the team has operations in Fishers, Indiana (USA); Charlotte, North Carolina (USA); and Silverstone, Northamptonshire (UK). With the confidence to dream big and the passion to deliver, the Cadillac Formula 1® Team is building everything from the ground up – from high-performance race cars to an inclusive, values-driven culture. The team will make its Formula 1® debut in 2026.

About TWG Motorsports: TWG Motorsports is the motorsports entity of TWG Global, unifying a robust racing portfolio across the world’s biggest stages in Formula 1®, INDYCAR, Formula E, IMSA, and NASCAR. With strategic partnerships that include General Motors on the Cadillac Formula 1® Team and ownership of Andretti Global, Wayne Taylor Racing and Spire Motorsports, TWG Motorsports combines deep technical expertise, proven competitive excellence and industry-leading business acumen. TWG Motorsports is committed to innovating, growing and winning at the highest levels of the sport. Learn more at TWGMotorsports.com.

About GM: General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

About Suntory Global Spirits  
As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com and www.drinksmart.com.

THE BUFFALO TRACE ANTIQUE COLLECTION CELEBRATES ITS 25^TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THE DEBUT OF E.H. TAYLOR BOTTLED-IN-BOND, A TRIBUTE TO THE BOURBON PIONEER’S ENDURING LEGACY

 Colonel E.H. Taylor’s legacy of craftsmanship and innovation finds a permanent home within Buffalo Trace’s most coveted collection

FRANKFORT, Ky (OCT 8, 2025) – This fall, Buffalo Trace Distillery proudly celebrates the 25^th release of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) with its first new addition in nearly two decades: Colonel E.H. Taylor Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. First introduced in 2000, the Antique Collection honors Buffalo Trace Distillery’s historic whiskey brands and the visionaries behind them, offering enthusiasts some of the world’s most sought-after releases each year. Alongside the new expression are the collection’s five celebrated staples – Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

Widely regarded as the “Father of Modern Bourbon” and pioneer who helped define bourbon quality standards, Colonel E.H. Taylor is a fitting permanent addition to the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. After purchasing the O.F.C. Distillery – now Buffalo Trace – in 1869, Taylor modernized operations with innovations such as advanced grain equipment, copper fermentation tanks and a first-of-its-kind steam heating system that remains in use in the distillery’s barrel warehouses today. Beyond modernizing the facilities, Colonel Taylor played a pivotal role in the movement that led to the 1897 passage of the Bottled-in-Bond Act. As one of the first consumer protection law in the United States, this landmark achievement forever altered the standards and practices of whiskey production.

“Colonel Taylor’s signature graced every bottle produced under his watch as a testament to its quality, a tradition we uphold today as a promise of integrity,” says Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Created in his honor, every sip of E.H. Taylor Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon offers more than exceptional flavor – it’s a taste of history and reminder of his strict tenets that have safeguarded America’s world-leading whiskey quality standards for nearly 150 years.”

Each BTAC expression is presented in a crystal-clear glass bottle that highlights its rich color, while the back label shares its history and tasting notes. Every bottle is accompanied by a letter detailing the whiskey’s intricate production and aging journey, offering authenticity and exclusivity to its owner. These limited-edition bottles are sold individually and available nationwide at a suggested retail price of $149.99 (local taxes and fees may apply). A limited supply will also be available for purchase directly via Legacy de Forge, a new global platform powered by Blockbar for purchasing some of the world’s most coveted bottles (shipping restrictions apply).

E.H. Taylor Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon

E.H. Taylor Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon is the first new addition to the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection since Thomas H. Handy joined the portfolio in 2006. Aged 15 years and 4 months in the Distillery’s warehouses and hand-bottled at 100 proof to meet Bottled-In-Bond standards, this whiskey is crafted from Buffalo Trace’s sour mash recipe. The nose opens with warm vanilla, seasoned oak, charred undertones, and a drizzle of maple sweetness. On the palate, balanced sweetness and baking spices mingle with gentle wood notes, while the lingering finish carries oak and vanilla into soft caramel with a hint of cherry. This Bottled-In-Bond offering bears Colonel E.H. Taylor’s signature, just as every bottle under his watch did, continuing a legacy of excellence he championed.

Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bottled at 101 proof in recognition of the original Eagle Rare brand launched in 1975, the Buffalo Trace distillers’ hand-selected their finest barrels to craft this exceptional whiskey. Aged beyond its 17-year statement – maturing 18 years and 4 months – the 2025 Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon opens on the nose with dark tobacco and well-worn leather, accented by ripe cherry and a lively peppery edge. The palate reveals caramel sweetness intertwined with supple leather and bright cherry notes, while the smooth, resonant finish carries lasting oak, a touch of vanilla, and a gentle echo of sweetness. Last year’s vintage received a Double Platinum award at the 2025 ASCOT Awards.

George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Named in honor of the whiskey pioneer George T. Stagg, who acquired the historic O.F.C. Distillery from Colonel E.H. Taylor in 1878, this powerhouse bourbon embodies his legacy of boldness and vision. Before taking the helm of what is now Buffalo Trace Distillery, Stagg had built a reputation as a successful whiskey salesman, and today his name graces the boldest expression in the Antique Collection. First introduced in 2002 to meet growing demand for well-aged, barrel-strength bourbon, this year’s George T. Stagg Bourbon was drawn from barrels aged more than 15 years and 4 months. The 2025 release is one of the strongest ever, bottled at 142.8 proof to deliver uncut, unfiltered intensity. Opening with a commanding aroma of deep oak accented by a touch of vanilla, the palate reveals bold vanilla layered with dark tobacco and ripe cherry that leads to a long, earthy finish with notes of tobacco, vanilla, and enduring oak. The 2023 George T. Stagg release earned top honors, including Best in Class and Double Gold medals at the 2024 Whiskies of the World Competition.

Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey derives its name from the historic Sazerac House in New Orleans, birthplace of the iconic Sazerac cocktail (widely regarded as America’s first cocktail) in the mid-1800s. Bottled at 18 years and 5 months and 90 proof, this year’s release opens with bright rye spice on the nose, layered with seasoned oak and a subtle herbaceous lift. The palate delivers a mature balance of spice and oak, accented by woody richness and supple leather, leading to a lingering finish of rye spice, warm leather, caraway seed, and enduring oak. Further underscoring its excellence, the 2024 vintage earned a Gold Medal at the 2025 International Spirits Challenge.

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey takes its name from the New Orleans businessman and owner of the legendary Sazerac Coffee House, who first used rye whiskey in the classic Sazerac cocktail. This uncut, unfiltered whiskey is crafted from barrels aged over six years and bottled at 129.8 proof, up from last year’s 127.2. On the nose of this year’s Handy, lively oak and spice are lifted by bright fruit and a light apple scent. The palate delivers bold spice and oak balanced with gentle fruit notes, leading to a long, warming finish of oak, vanilla, and spice.

William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon

W.L. Weller, the pioneering distiller who first introduced wheat into the mash bill of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, inspired William Larue Weller, a wheated bourbon known for its soft, smooth character distinct from traditional rye-based styles. The Buffalo Trace distilling team filled the barrels for this year’s release at 114 proof; after 14 years of aging, the whiskey now rests at 129 proof. Uncut and unfiltered, the nose offers layers of vanilla, maple, and tobacco, while the palate balances sweet vanilla with toasted oak. Its long finish carries steady oak and vanilla alongside a touch of ripe fruit. Last year’s William Larue Weller earned a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

About The Antique Collection

Introduced over two decades ago, the Antique Collection comprises six whiskeys released each fall: George T. Stagg Bourbon, William Larue Weller Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye, Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon, Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old, and, beginning in 2025, E.H. Taylor Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. Buffalo Trace Distillery has been honored by the numerous awards bestowed on the collection from such notable publications as Whisky Advocate Magazine and Spirit Journal. For more information on the Antique Collection visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/antique-collection.

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 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 and is a National Historic Landmark as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 40 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Buffalo Trace Distillery also 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

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY DEBUTS NIGHT AT THE DISTILLERY – A NEW HALLOWEEN EXPERIENCE AFTER DARK

Tickets are now available for an immersive nighttime tour of America’s oldest continuously operating distillery, plus the chance to win a private, overnight ghost-hunting experience on site

FRANKFORT, KY (October 15, 2025) – This October, Buffalo Trace Distillery invites guests to discover its all-new Halloween experience, “Night at the Distillery.” For more than 200 years, Buffalo Trace Distillery has crafted award-winning whiskey and inspired tales of spirits that linger beyond the barrel. Now, visitors can explore the Distillery’s storied past through the lens of legend and lore with two immersive after-hours experiences:

• Night at the Distillery Self-Guided Tour: Experience Buffalo Trace Distillery under the glow of moonlight on this self-guided walking trail that reveals the legends, folklore and untold stories woven into its two-century history. Along the way, each stop unveils a new chapter brought to life through ghostly tales, live entertainment, photo-worthy moments and expertly crafted cocktails that celebrate generations of bourbon-making tradition.
  • Tickets are $35 per person and include entry to the self-guided walking trail, three signature cocktail tastings, one neat pour and a curated snack box. Each guest will also take home a 1L bottle of Sazerac Rye 100 Proof and a collectible Night at the Distillery reusable tote as keepsakes.
  • The Night at the Distillery Self-Guided Tour will take place October 23-25 and October 30-November 1. To purchase tickets, please visit HERE
• Night at the Distillery Private Ghost Hunting Experience: For those seeking a deeper thrill, Buffalo Trace is offering the opportunity to win a special Halloween giveaway inviting one winner and a guest (21+) to join professional paranormal investigators for a private ghost-hunting experience inside the Distillery’s most haunted buildings. On Halloween night, the duo will trace the Distillery’s ghostly lore alongside a Distillery tour guide and real-time paranormal investigators before retiring for the night inside Stony Point – Albert Blanton’s former home, reimagined for an unforgettable stay. The prize package also includes:
  • Dinner in historic Frankfort, KY on October 31
  • Complimentary admission to the Night at the Distillery Self-Guided Tour on October 31
  • A private, after-hours ghost hunt led by professional paranormal investigators and a Distillery tour guide
  • One-night stay in Stony Point, Albert Blanton’s former home, on October 31
  • A daytime Trace Tour and premium shopping experience in the Buffalo Trace Gift Shop on November 1
  • Round-trip coach airfare and ground transportation to and from the Distillery

“For more than 200 years, Buffalo Trace has been a place where history and legend intertwine,” said Tyler Adams, General Manager, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Night at the Distillery invites guests to step into those stories and experience that connection firsthand. We set out to create an experience unlike anything we’ve done before, one that lets guests walk in the footsteps of generations past and explore the Distillery’s lore in a whole new light.”

Buffalo Trace Distillery’s story begins in the late 1700s, when distilling first took root on this site in 1775 and the “Old Taylor House” was built in 1792. For more than two centuries, master distillers and craftsmen have shaped its story – and some say their spirits still linger. Tour guides and guests alike have reported sightings of an older gentleman resembling Albert B. Blanton, appearing in various locations around the Distillery. The lore surrounding these encounters describes them as “friendly,” and many believe that any lingering “spirits” remain to watch over the legacy they created.

Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Night at the Distillery Private Ghost Hunting Giveaway goes live on October 15 at 12:00pm noon ET and ends October 22 at 11:59am ET. To register and view the full official rules, please visit www.BuffaloTraceDistilleryHalloween.com.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery  

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its William Larue Weller and Stagg were named Best of Show at the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition and its Traveller Whiskey is the Most Awarded New 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.

Night at the Distillery Private Ghost Hunting Experience: No purchase necessary to enter or win. Purchasing a product will not improve your chances of winning. Must be legal resident of (50) U.S. or D.C., age 21 or older, and able to travel to the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, KY on 10/31/2025 to accept prize award. Registration begins at 12:00pm ET 10/15/2025 and ends at 11:59am ET 10/22/2025. To enter, and for complete official rules including eligibility, prize description and ARV, visit www.BuffaloTraceDistilleryHalloween.com. Odds of winning based upon number of eligible entries received. No alcoholic beverage is part of any prize award. Void wherever prohibited or restricted by law. SPONSOR: Sazerac Company, Inc., Louisville, KY

Tomatin unveils exclusive 2005 bourbon matured single cask for specialist whisky retailers

Highland distiller Tomatin has released an exceptional new bourbon matured single cask whisky created specifically for the UK specialist whisky retail channel.

Unlike most Tomatin single malt whiskies which have matured in sherry, port or wine casks, this distinctive 2005 single cask edition is exclusively matured in a first-fill ex-bourbon cask, creating a whisky with a sweet, fruity and malty flavour profile which allows the classic tropical notes of Tomatin’s spirit to shine through.

This Tomatin 2005 single cask expression is the result of decades of experience with bourbon barrels – a craft the distillery has been perfecting since the 1930s. Carefully curated for specialist retailers, the release offers whisky aficionados the chance to discover a different side of Tomatin’s character.

Bottled at 54.3% ABV and restricted to only 240 bottles, the limited release Tomatin single cask expression will be available to consumers from today (14 October 2025) in specialist whisky retailers throughout the UK.

Imparting aromas of crunchy green apples and lemon zest on the nose, the whisky becomes sweeter with notes of Victoria sponge, buttercream and white chocolate with an underlying floral aroma throughout. On the palate, these fruity notes edge towards tropical, with malty, oak-driven flavours of brown sugar and light spice leading into a long, warming finish.

Presented in a premium 70cl bottle, the Tomatin 2005 single cask whisky is encased in sleek dark green-hued outer packaging finished with subtle elegant detailing, symbolising the rolling hills of the distillery’s Highland landscape.

Scott Adamson, blender and global brand ambassador at Tomatin, said: “As a bourbon barrel-only release, this expression presents whisky lovers with an opportunity to enjoy a single malt that is truly unique, and a style not found elsewhere in our core range. Most of our single casks are sherry, port or wine, showcasing our first-class maturation policy, but this ex-bourbon barrel whisky shines a spotlight on the tropical notes that develop in Tomatin over time.”

Gordon Hynd, UK sales director at Tomatin, said: “The release of this extraordinary expression for specialist whisky retailers allows them to share a distinctive limited Tomatin whisky which is markedly different with their customers.

“For years people have turned to specialist wine and spirit merchants to discover something different. These stores are an institution, often spanning multiple generations of the same family and upholding a reputation for product quality born out of expertise and careful selection. It’s only in these places you can find special gems like this Tomatin 2005 single cask and we’re pleased to continue our long-standing relationships through this limited release.”

With a proud heritage dating back to the 15th century, Tomatin has been a home for the whisky making team’s dedicated craftsmen and their families since the distillery was established in 1897.

Tomatin 2005 single cask release is priced at £170 RRP for a 70cl bottle. For more information, visit https://tomatin.com.

Tomatin 2005 single cask tasting notes

Nose: Crunchy green apples and lemon zest are to the fore. Becomes sweeter in time with notes of Victoria sponge, buttercream and white chocolate. There’s an underlying floral aroma throughout.

Palate: Much heavier than the nose suggests, with fruity notes edging towards tropical. It’s malty with oak-driven notes of brown sugar and light spice.

Finish: Long and warming.

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

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

In 2023, Tomatin took home seven awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, took home three. Tomatin’s 36 Year Old was crowned the ultimate winner at SFWSC for malts, being named ‘Best in Show’, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world.

Building upon this triumph, 2024 saw Tomatin’s 18 Year Old secured Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the SFWSC, elevating it to Platinum status. Meanwhile, both Tomatin’s 45 Year Old and 12 Year Old, alongside Cù Bòcan’s 15 Year Old took home Double Gold Awards, and Cù Bòcan’s 12 Year Old also secured a prestigious Gold Award.

This year, Tomatin has been awarded Gold designation for its Tomatin Sherry Collection Ximénez Edition and Silver for both its Sherry Collection Manzanilla Edition and Sherry Collection Palo Cortado Edition in the inaugural 2025 Whiskey Wash Awards.

‘To What Matters’ is the latest chapter in the brand’s evolution; it is a positive call to arms that represents the spiritual DNA of Tomatin – a belief in savouring what is truly important in life and time spent together.

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

Evan Williams Launches “Where Bourbon Begins” Campaign Celebrating Authentic American Whiskey

New National Campaign Honors Kentucky’s First Distiller and Showcases Bourbon Nation as Game Day’s #1 Pour

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (Oct. 8,  2025) — Evan Williams Bourbon, the world’s second-largest selling Bourbon, today unveiled its new “Where Bourbon Begins” campaign, reaffirming its place as a standard bearer of authentic American Whiskey. Rooted in Evan Williams’ legacy as Kentucky’s First Distiller, the platform highlights the brand’s uncompromising commitment to quality and consistency with every glass.

“For us, Evan Williams Bourbon isn’t just history. It’s about making sure every glass we pour today is as good as the last one,” said Max Stefka, Associate Vice President of Global Whiskey Brands, Heaven Hill. “That’s what Where Bourbon Begins is all about, keeping it real, keeping it consistent, and giving people a Bourbon they can trust.”

The new :30 spot can be viewed here.

It brings the story of Evan Williams to life through the people who make it, following team members as they work together in the rickhouse rolling barrels before shifting to a scene where they gather afterward to share a glass at home. The creative highlights the craft and camaraderie of bourbon-making, capturing the people who build it together and then share in the moments it creates. Dramatic textures of steam, sunlight, and patina bring to life the arenas of Bourbon, whether inside the rickhouse, around a backyard fire pit, or in the stands on game day.

A Campaign Grounded in Authenticity

“Where Bourbon Begins” invites whiskey fans to discover the roots of America’s native spirit through a Bourbon trusted for generations. The campaign underscores Evan Williams’ belief that a brand is only as good as its last glass, and that true authenticity lies in consistency, craftsmanship, and real connections.

The campaign and commercial spot were developed in partnership with independent creative agency Method1. The new :30 spot will run nationally across broadcast, streaming, digital, and social platforms beginning in October, aligning with the 2025 collegiate football season and continuing into basketball season.

Bourbon Nation: Where Game Day Meets Tradition

As part of the campaign, Evan Williams will continue to grow Bourbon Nation, its multi-year partnership with Learfield, a leader in collegiate athletics. Bourbon Nation taps into the traditions and celebrations that define college sports and unites fans nationwide as Game Day’s number one pour. Current sponsorships include:

• Alabama Crimson Tide® – Proud Partner of the Crimson Tide®
• Florida Gators® – Proud Partner of the Florida Gators®
• TCU Horned Frogs® – Official Bourbon Sponsor of The Horned Frogs®
• Syracuse Orange – Official Bourbon of Syracuse Athletics
• Ohio State Buckeyes – Official Bourbon Sponsor of Ohio State Athletics
• Oklahoma Sooners – Official Bourbon Sponsor of Oklahoma Athletics
• Oregon Ducks™ – Official Bourbon Sponsor of Oregon Athletics™
• South Carolina Gamecocks® – Official Bourbon Sponsor of the South Carolina Gamecocks®

From branded Bourbon Nation Bars in stadiums to tailgate activations and in-store programs, Evan Williams is committed to elevating the fan experience through responsible enjoyment and memorable game day moments.

About Evan Williams Bourbon

The flagship Bourbon of Heaven Hill Distillery, Evan Williams is among the leaders in the rapidly growing American Whiskey segment as the world’s second-largest selling Bourbon. In 1783, the brand’s namesake opened Kentucky’s First Distillery on the banks of the Ohio River. Many years and barrels later, Evan Williams Bourbon is still produced the right way, using the same time-honored methods. As an American-made and American-owned brand, Evan Williams has recognized true American heroes through their exceptional stories of honor and bravery on special edition American-Made Hero labels for the past nine years, now supported by the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams through an immersive visitor’s center experience which brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit as an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Learn more at www.EvanWilliams.com. Heaven Hill reminds everyone to think wisely, drink wisely®.

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, Evan Williams Bourbon, Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond, Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond, Henry McKenna, Parker’s Heritage Collection along with its extensive and diverse collection of unique and innovative products. In the past five years alone, Heaven Hill Distillery has been named Distiller of the Year eight times, including 2024 and 2023 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. Other recent honors include 2024 and 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition’s Most Awarded Distillery and the 2023 Icons of Whisky World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

Laphroaig® Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Willem Dafoe Unite in ‘Unphorgettable’ Global Campaign

Inspired by two of the world’s most iconic characters, the campaign debuts with a short film, bringing to life Dafoe’s search to define Laphroaig’s undefinable taste

Islay, Scotland: For 240 years, Laphroaig has been unapologetically doing things differently. Today, continuing this uncompromising spirit, the distinctive Islay single malt is announcing its global partnership with cult actor, Willem Dafoe.

The first of its kind in the distillery’s history, the campaign includes a short film titled ‘The Taste’, global advertising, a bespoke cocktail creation and tease of a limited-edition whisky, all celebrating those who think differently and embrace a boldness of character.

The collaboration marks the latest instalment in the brand’s ‘Unphorgettable’ campaign, which launched in 2024 and celebrates the unmistakable flavour of this iconic whisky, making it ‘unphorgettable’ to all who imbibe.

‘The Taste’ brings to life Dafoe’s search to define Laphroaig’s taste – something he can’t quite put his finger on. It draws inspiration from components in Dafoe’s life and his thirst for immersing himself to get a taste of experiences, including the attempt, as a child, to get a sense of flying to space by remaining in a wardrobe for two days. With this individual and curious style, Dafoe seeks the words to describe the bold single malt, and recites humorous descriptions submitted by some of the whisky’s biggest fans – Friends of Laphroaig.

The film and full campaign will be shared globally across channels, with a focus on digital and paid social. This will be reinforced with out of home, print, PR and in-store promotions in key markets, including the US, UK, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Japan, Australia and Global Travel Retail.

Chris Richardson, Managing Director of Suntory Global Spirits, Scotch and Irish, says: “Willem Dafoe is bold, curious, and impossible to define, much like Laphroaig itself. His uncompromising dedication to craft mirrors our own approach to whisky making. He is the ideal partner to bring to life the intense, unmistakable, and truly ‘unphorgettable’ flavour of Laphroaig, and to celebrate those around the world with character as distinctive as his.”

Speaking on the inspiration behind the film, Dafoe says:

“The first time I ever travelled overseas, I went to Scotland. I was a kid, and the first thing I thought when my feet touched down on the ground was, something feels familiar here. I feel at home. The land spoke to me, and it must be genetic because my grandmother was from Glasgow. ‘The Taste’ depicts that sort of familiarity that’s found when exploring Laphroaig. It’s the flavours and how they come together.”

Laphroaig has also enlisted award-winning mixologist, Meaghan Dorman, to create a bespoke cocktail, named ‘The Other Island’. It blends Laphroaig 10-Year-Old, fresh pineapple, lemon, spiced cinnamon syrup and Amaro Ciociaro, with a touch of prosecco, to create a smoky, tropical and gently spiced spritz, balancing Laphroaig’s familiar character with layered flavours. The cocktail will be available first to guests at The Barley Mow pub in Mayfair, London, being renamed ‘The Barley Dafoe’ for campaign launch, before appearing on menus in additional select bars worldwide.

This Dafoe partnership will also extend to a limited-edition product collaboration, set for release in 2026. Together with Sarah Dowling, Senior Whisky Maker for Laphroaig, Dafoe has developed a limited-edition, that is quietly maturing, steeped in the peat, smoke, salt and the surprising sweetness that infuses all Laphroaig whiskies.

Watch the film and behind the scenes content on www.laphroaig.com and follow @laphroaig on Instagram for more information.

About Meaghan Dorman and ‘The Other Island’

Meaghan Dorman is a globally acclaimed bartender and educator celebrated for her innovative approach to modern cocktail culture. She has been in the craft cocktail industry for more 15 years, bringing innovative cocktails and concepts to audiences looking for something refined, unique and unexpected. Currently the Bar Director & a partner at Raines Law Room, Raines Law Room at the William, Dear Irving, Dear Irving on Hudson, and the newly opened Dear Irving on Broadway, Meaghan is passionate member of the global cocktail community.

The cocktail name and ingredients, including Laphroaig 10-Year-Old, pineapple and a hint of Amaro, derive from Dafoe’s feeling of home when he’s in Scotland, combined with his preference for sunnier, tropical climes and a nod to his home in Italy.

Ingredients and method: 
45ml Laphroaig 10-Year-Old
30ml Pineapple Juice (pressed)
15ml Fresh Lemon juice
10ml Cinnamon syrup
*5ml Amaro Ciociaro
Top w/ Prosecco

Method: Shake & double strain into a coupette, then top with Prosecco and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Laphroaig encourages responsible drinking. Always follow the DrinkSmart® rules and drink in moderation.

About Laphroaig® Whisky 
Laphroaig is the number one selling Islay single malt globally* and is synonymous with this famous whisky island. Established in 1815 by the Johnston brothers, Laphroaig has stayed true to its bold and unforgettable character for over 200 years.

Today, Laphroaig is one of only a handful of distilleries that continues to make whisky using traditional techniques like floor malting barley. From hand turning the barley and burning the peat at low temperatures to flavour the malt with cool smoke to slow distillation to maintain quality, this is what truly makes Laphroaig.  Our single malt whisky embodies the character of Islay in every drop of Laphroaig. From the distinctive peat which gives us our unique smoky character to the steadfast confidence and passion of our people, making Laphroaig unmistakable. The gives us our distinctive taste of Islay, salt and smoke with a surprising sweetness.

Laphroaig’s commitment to bold character has earned us a dedicated following of brand fans, the Friends of Laphroaig.  Launched in 1994, the same year HM King Charles granted the brand a Royal Warrant, this global community has since grown to over 700,000 whisky lovers representing over 170 countries.

*By volume and value in 2024. Source: IWSR Global Database 2025
For more information visit www.laphroaig.com

Willem Dafoe
Having made over one hundred fifty films in his legendary career, Willem Dafoe is internationally respected for bringing versatility, boldness, and dare to some of the most iconic films of our time. His artistic curiosity in exploring the human condition leads him to projects all over the world, large and small, Hollywood films as well as independent cinema.

In 1979, he was given a role in Michael’s Cimino’s Heaven’s Gate, from which he was fired. Since then, he has collaborated with directors who represent a virtual encyclopedia of modern cinema: Wes Anderson, Patricia Arquette, Kathryn Bigelow, Kenneth Branagh, Tim Burton, Scott Cooper, Anton Corbijn, Saverio Costanzo, David Cronenberg, Abel Ferrara, Mary Harron, Werner Herzog, Walter Hill, , Miguel Angel Jimenéz, Spike Lee, David Lynch, Hayao Miyazaki, Phillip Noyce, Sam Raimi, Dee Rees, Jason Reitman, Robert Rodriguez, Isaiah Saxon, Julian Schnabel, Paul Schrader, Martin Scorsese, Zack Snyder, Guillermo del Toro, Lars von Trier, James Wan, Wim Wenders, Yorgos Lanthimos, Zhang Yimou, and many more.

Dafoe has been recognized with four Academy Award nominations:  Best Leading Actor for his role as Vincent van Gogh in At Eternity’s Gate (also a Golden Globe nomination), as well as Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Oliver Stone’s Platoon, E. Elias Merhige’s Shadow Of The Vampire (for which he also received Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations), and Sean Baker’s The Florida Project (also Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations).  He has also been awarded by the New York Film Critics Circle and the National Board of Review, as well as twice by the Los Angeles Film Critics Association.  Dafoe is also the recipient of two Independent Spirit Awards, the Venice Film Festival Volpi Cup and a Berlinale Honorary Golden Bear for Lifetime Achievement.  He recently was awarded the Iris Award for Best Actor from Greece’s Hellenic Film Academy for his role in Vasilis Katsoupis’ Inside.

He and his wife, director Giada Colagrande, have worked on four films together: Padre, A Woman, Before It Had a Name and the documentary, Bob Wilson’s Life And Death Of Marina Abramovic.

His natural adventurousness is evident in roles as diverse as Thomas Wake in The Lighthouse;  Marcus, the elite assassin who is mentor to Keanu Reeves in the neo-noir John Wick;  in his voice work as Gil the Moorish Idol in Pixar’s Finding Nemo;  as the notorious filmmaker in Abel Ferrara’s Pasolini;  as Paul Smecker, the obsessed FBI agent in the cult classic The Boondock Saints;  as real life hero Leonhard Seppala, who led the 1925 Alaskan dog sled diphtheria serum run in Togo;  and the notorious duality of Norman Osborn / Green Goblin, a role he reprised in Jon Watts’ record-breaking Spider-Man: No Way Home. That adventurous spirit continues with Kent Jones’ Late Fame; Nadia Latif’s The Man in My Basement; Helmer Gastón Solnicki’s The Souffleur; and Jennifer Peedom’s Tenzing. He will soon film Bárbara Paz’s Cuddle; as well as Robert Eggers’ Werwulf, marking his fourth collaboration with the director, which will be followed with Eggers’ adaptation of A Christmas Carol for Warner Bros.

Most recently, Dafoe was named the Artistic Director of the theatre department for the Venice Biennale’s 2025 and 2026 seasons.  Dafoe was one of the original members of The Wooster Group, the New York based experimental theatre collective.  He created and performed in all of the group’s work from 1977 thru 2005, both in the U.S. and internationally.  Since then, he has collaborated with Richard Foreman on Idiot Savant at NYC’s Public Theatre, with Robert Wilson on two international productions: The Life & Death of Marina Abramovic and The Old Woman (opposite Mikhail Baryshnikov); Marina Abramovic’s opera 7 Deaths of Maria Callas; and with Romeo Castellucci, on Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Minister’s Black Veil.

About Suntory Global Spirits
As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.

For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com

This year, Murray McDavid turns 31 — and what a journey it has been! From our bold beginnings on Islay in the 1990s to our newest adventures in Speyside, we’ve spent three decades pushing boundaries, reviving legends, and maturing Scotch whisky in ways the world had never seen before.

To mark the occasion, we’re sharing our story in a brand-new blog: “Whisky Rebels for over 30 Years: The Story of Murray McDavid.”

READ MORE

For over three decades, we’ve been shaking things up with bold casks, creative releases, and a restless drive to do things differently.

Raise a dram with us and celebrate over 30 years of whisky rebellion!

Slàinte,

The Murray McDavid Team

Rare Find unveils landmark partnership with Bodegas Barbadillo

-a defining moment in Rare Find’s 10th anniversary year

Rare Find, the acclaimed independent bottler, continues its 10th anniversary celebrations with the launch of its Autumn 2025 collection – a release that not only showcases four remarkable single malts, but also marks the first results of a landmark partnership with Bodegas Barbadillo.

Since its inception in 2015, Rare Find has earned a reputation for uncovering exceptional distillates and elevating them through guided cask maturation, led by a philosophy of creating whiskies that are “intentionally rare by design.” Now, a decade on, Rare Find’s Autumn 2025 releases represent a pivotal milestone: the debut of a collaboration with one of Spain’s legendary sherry houses.

With almost two centuries of heritage and stewardship of some of Jerez’s oldest soleras, Bodegas Barbadillo stands as a guardian of Andalusia’s wine-making legacy. Based in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Barbadillo worked with Rare Find to create a bespoke sherry cask seasoning programme. Together, the two makers have developed casks imbued with astonishing depth and oxidative richness – vessels shaped by time, tradition, and the soul of Andalusia. Rare Find’s Autumn 2025 releases are the first chance for whisky lovers to experience that union: Scotland’s finest single malts elevated by sherry casks steeped in Spanish heritage.

To establish the ongoing partnership, the Rare Find team travelled to Barbadillo’s historic bodegas to work alongside the sherry house’s expert oenologists. Among ancient soleras and reliquia casks dating back over a century, they hand-selected Spanish, American, and European oak casks to undergo an intensive 24-month oloroso seasoning process.

Unlike short-term or superficial seasoning, this extended period ensured that every stave is deeply imbued with sherry character – rich with dried fruits, toasted nuts, and oxidative depth.  Once reracked in Scotland, these sherry-seasoned casks contributed structured oxidative complexity to selected Scotch malts, imparting concentrated dried fruit, nut, and spice notes while maintaining the integrity and core character of the spirits.

For the Rare Find Autumn 2025 release, four single-cask, single-malt whiskies finished in oloroso sherry have been selected. Three of the releases originate from the Barbadillo partnership, each highlighting a different wood type and, consequently, a distinct sherry cask influence.

The Autumn 2025 Rare Find releases consist of: 

Longmorn 16 Year Old
Spanish oak Barbadillo 1st fill oloroso sherry finish

Tamdhu 16 Year Old
American Oak Barbadillo 1st fill oloroso sherry finish

Secret Speyside 16 Year Old

European Oak Barbadillo 1st fill oloroso sherry finish

Benriach 9 Year Old
1st fill oloroso barrique finish

Each of the four releases has been bottled without compromise – natural cask strength, natural colour, and no chill filtration – preserving the whisky’s full integrity from bodega to bottle.

Speaking of the Autumn 2025 releases, a Rare Find spokesperson said: “This collection marks one of the most important chapters in our history. Our partnership with Barbadillo has allowed us to work with some of the most extraordinary sherry casks in the world. By bringing together Scotland’s finest single malts and Andalusia’s centuries-old winemaking traditions, we’ve created whiskies that truly embody the Rare Find ethos – exceptional, authentic, and intentionally rare.”

The Rare Find Autumn 2025 releases will be available in select retailers from 13th October 2025. Further details of Rare Find stockists can be found at: www.rarefindwhisky.co.uk/stockists.

Rare Find Autumn 2025 Releases

Longmorn 16 year old

Finished for 10 months in a first fill oloroso seasoned Spanish oak hogshead from Bodegas Barbadillo

55.6%, 203 bottles

£110.00

Aromas of stewed fruit, walnuts, beeswax, and candle smoke. The palate shows sweet notes of apple pie, toffee pennies, cinnamon rolls, and glacé icing, leading to an elegant finish with both sweetness and spice.

Tamdhu 16 year old

Finished for 10 months in a first fill oloroso seasoned American oak hogshead from Bodegas Barbadillo

51.7%, 216 bottles

£120.00

Golden syrup, vanilla pod, apple, and citrus on the nose. The palate is juicy and sweet with candied orange, milk chocolate, chewy toffee, and nutmeg. The finish is warm and sweet. 

Secret Speyside 15 year old

Finished for 10 months in a first fill oloroso seasoned European oak hogshead from Bodegas Barbadillo

58.2%, 184 bottles

£95.00

A resinous nose with linseed oil, marmalade, and icing sugar. The palate shows pronounced sweet spices, caramel-coated hazelnuts, ginger, and cinnamon biscuits. The finish is medium to long.

Benriach 9 year old

Finished for 16 months in a barrique

55.1%, 301

£75.00

A rich nose of BBQ sauce, cocoa powder, and a hint of herbal tea. The palate balances sweet and savoury with dark chocolate, raisin loaf, star anise, and chilli flakes. The finish is medium-dry with clove and lingering chocolate.

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.