Elijah Craig Bourbon to Serve as Official Bourbon of the 2025 PGA Championship, Celebrates with Limited-Edition Commemorative Bottle Release

Award-winning Bourbon marks its continued commitment to golf with a special 94-Proof Small Batch Bourbon honoring the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club

LOUISVILE, Ky. (April 2, 2025) – Elijah Craig, one of America’s premier Bourbon brands, is proud to announce its designation as the “Official Bourbon” of the 2025 PGA Championship, taking place at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, from Monday, May 12 through Sunday, May 18. To mark this prestigious partnership and celebrate the championship, Elijah Craig will release a special commemorative bottle of its iconic 94-Proof Small Batch Bourbon.

The limited-edition release features a unique design, including special labels that proudly display both the “Official Bourbon” designation and the official 2025 PGA Championship logo. Each bottle is sealed with a gold coin cork, further highlighting the special nature of this release. Additionally, the commemorative bottles are crafted from carefully selected barrels from Heaven Hill Distillery’s Q and H1 rickhouses, paying homage to the PGA Championship’s return to Quail Hollow Club.

“The partnership between Elijah Craig and the PGA Championship underscores our shared commitment to excellence,” said Max Stefka, AVP, Global Whiskey Brands at Heaven Hill. “We’re thrilled to honor this prestigious event and its iconic venue, Quail Hollow Club, with a special limited-edition release that celebrates the spirit of golf and the legacy of Elijah Craig Bourbon.”

In addition to the limited-edition release, Elijah Craig will host on-course activations throughout the championship, providing attendees with exclusive opportunities to experience the rich, full-bodied flavor of this award-winning Bourbon. These activations, including the Elijah Craig Speakeasy will offer fans the chance to enjoy Elijah Craig craft cocktails, interactive experiences, and learn more about the brand’s legacy as the First to Char Oak Barrels to make Bourbon. Furthermore, Elijah Craig has invested in many out-of-home advertising outlets across the greater Charlotte area.

“Elijah Craig remains an integral element of the onsite experience at the PGA Championship,” said Jessica Burdett, Director of Corporate Partnerships at the PGA of America. “We are confident that spectators will enjoy Elijah Craig’s award-winning bourbon and premium activation experiences while watching the strongest field in golf compete at Quail Hollow Club this May.”

Elijah Craig continues to leave its mark on the golf world through its partnerships with PGA TOUR® professionals, including Max Homa and newly announced team members Robert MacIntyre and J.T. Poston, along with professional sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis, who all proudly represent Elijah Craig.  The brand is also recognized as the Official Bourbon and Whiskey Supplier of the PGA of America, the Ryder Cup, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, and as an Official Partner of the PGA National Club Championship. These partnerships further emphasize Elijah Craig’s deep connection to the sport and its dedication to supporting golfers who embody the same values of craftsmanship and excellence that define Elijah Craig Bourbon.

The commemorative 2025 PGA Championship Elijah Craig edition will be available in limited quantities, nationally, with each bottle displaying specific information about the Major Championship and the special barrels used to craft it. The product will begin shipping in March with a suggested retail price of $36.99.

ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Elijah Craig Bourbon bears the name of the Reverend Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” who established his distillery in 1789 on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in modern day Georgetown, Kentucky. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels. The clear, unaged corn liquor became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the family of whiskeys includes Elijah Craig Small Batch, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon and Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Rye, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. First brought to market in 1986, Heaven Hill Distillery’s Master Distillers were selecting a small number of barrels of the finest Bourbon to make Elijah Craig Small Batch long before the term “small batch” even existed. It is this attention to detail and superb craftsmanship that give Elijah Craig an ideal balance of age, robust body, and rich flavor. Elijah Craig accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon, Best Single Barrel Bourbon (aged 11+ years) and Best Straight Bourbon at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com

ABOUT THE PGA OF AMERICA: The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals who love the game, are expert coaches, operators and business leaders, and work daily to drive interest, inclusion and participation in the sport. The PGA of America owns and operates numerous championships and events, including major championships for men, women, seniors and the Ryder Cup, one of the world’s foremost sporting events. For more information, visit PGA.com and follow us on X, Instagram and Facebook.

Macaloney’s Distillery wins 4 more Gold Medals at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards, securing global recognition

Victoria’s Macaloney’s Island Distillery continues to make waves on the international whisky stage, claiming four prestigious gold medals at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards (WWAs). With these latest accolades, Macaloney’s has now amassed an astounding 17 gold medals since 2020—placing it among the world’s top 4 most awarded distilleries.

This comes at a critical time when Canada needs to increase inter-provincial trade and diversify its export markets away from dependency on the U.S..

Only three other distilleries worldwide, including the most revered names in American, Scotch, Japanese, Irish, and Canadian whisky, have secured more golds. This comes after Macaloneys recently dominated the Canadian Whisky Awards, taking home more golds than any other distillery, including Canadian Whisky of the Year.

Macaloney’s impressive wins at the WWAs included:

•  Best Canadian Pot Still Whisky – Peated Kildara
•  Best Canadian Small Batch Single Malt – Peat Project Sugar Kelp Peat, Red Wine Barrique
•  Best Canadian Single Cask Single Malt – Peat Project, Washington Peat, ex-Bourbon Cask
•  Category Best Single Malt Gold – Peat Project, Islay Peat, ex-Bourbon Cask

“To be recognised to this unprecedented extent at the global industry’s most competitive awards is a tremendous honour,” said Dr Graeme Macaloney, President & Master Whiskymaker. “These awards will hopefully show Provincial liquor buyers across Canada, and international buyers, that craft Canadian whisky is world-leading”

A defining feature of Macaloney’s whiskies is their deep exploration of terroir and merroir – trademarked as The Peat Project™. By incorporating peats from different regions and maturing whisky in a diverse range of cask types, Macaloney’s has created whiskies that showcase remarkable complexity and nuance. The interplay of peat sources (from Islay, USA, and Canada, enhanced with seaweed) with ex-bourbon, red wine, and other casks allows whisky lovers to embark on a sensory journey through unique maritime and regional influences.

Macaloneys continues to establish itself as the premier name in whisky, proving that exceptional single malts are ‘Made in Canada’. With an ever-expanding list of accolades, the distillery is cementing its status as a respected player in the global industry, competing—and succeeding—against the finest whiskies from the USA, Scotland, Ireland and Japan. At a time of such uncertainty, it is a welcome relief to know that Canada’s craft whisky industry is excelling.

 https://macaloneydistillers.com/shop

NEW MAKE SPIRIT FROM VIETNAM IS NOW THE BEST IN THE WORLD

A Vietnamese spirits company is celebrating after winning a prestigious global whisky award.

Về Để Đi Pale Ale New Make has been voted the World’s Best New Make & Young Spirit by the World Whiskies Awards, this week.

Launched in 2020, Về Để Đi, is known domestically for its Vietnamese gin, made with local botanicals, and its creme de cacao, made with award-winning local cacao nibs. However, the brand was conceived with the specific mission of launching the first full-scale whisky distillery in Southeast Asia, producing single malt and indigenous corn whiskies.

Co-founder of the Hanoi-based craft distillery Về Để Đi, Dr Michael Rosen, says: “As the honour of this World Whiskies Award surprise settled last night in London, I woke up our master distiller, it was 3am or 4am in Vietnam. “Edward, our Pale Ale was just announced as Best in the World in the New Make & Young Spirit category!” “Dude,” he said, he’s American, “I told you it’s exceptional.” And he hung up. 
So when the sun rises in Asia, we’ll share the news with our team, a tremendous encouragement for subtropical distilleries, for all of us dedicated to hand-batched craft distillation and ageing.  This award is an encouraging step as we look forward to sharing Vietnam’s fist single malt whiskies with the world.”

The World Whiskies Awards (WWA), part of the prestigious World Drinks Awards program, are organised by The Drinks Report, a division of Paragraph Publishing, an industry leader in beverage media. The awards recognise the very best in all internationally recognised styles of whisky.

Each year, whiskies from around the globe are rigorously blind judged by an independent panel of the world’s top whisky experts to determine the best in each category and, ultimately, the best in the world.

Về Để Đi is Vietnam’s first whisky distillery. Master distiller Edward Tiege (previously of Copalli Rum in Belize), heads up the distillery on the outskirts of Vietnam’s capital. It is equipped with a 3,000-litre copper pot wash still, 2,000-litre copper pot spirit still, 4,000-litre mash tun, and six 3,000-litre fermentation tanks.

Về Để Đi is redefining Vietnamese spirits from Southeast Asia’s first full-scale independent craft distillery producing whisky, rum, gin and tropical liqueurs.

Về Để Đi’s Brown Ale New Make and Pale Ale New Make were awarded Gold and Master at the 2024 Spirits Business Global World Whisky Masters.

https://www.ve-de-di.com

About Về Để Đi Pale Ale New Make
Production
Malt types:
Pale Ale Malt
Crystal Malt
Caramel Malt
• Ale and Whisky Yeasts
• Temperature-controlled fermentation to produce 8.5% ABV beer
• Twice distilled in pot stills to produce new-make whisky at 70% ABV

Tasting Notes
• Nose: Floral, bread, caramel and fruit with a touch of citrus.
• Taste: Fruity, malty, caramel, stone fruit with honey finish.

About the World Whiskies Awards
As part of the World Drinks Awards, the World Whiskies Awards recognises whiskies from all over the world. The awards aim to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in whisky-making, from all styles across the global industry. Launched in 2007, the World Drinks Awards are the global awards selecting the very best in all internationally recognised styles of drinks, through blind tasting with our expert panel of judges. With over 36 categories including Whisky, Gin, Vodka, Tequila, Sparkling Wine, Beer, No & Lo, and tasting held globally across the UK, Germany, Brazil, Chile, Japan, Canada and USA, we are always looking for the next best product to crown ‘World’s Best’ within each category. There are two separate strands to these awards – one is for taste and the other is for design excellence. Entrants into the competition, will be invited to attend our Awards ceremonies to celebrate in person both category winners and the ‘World’s Best’.

Loch Lomond Whiskies Releases New Expressions to Celebrate the Legacy of The Open

The duo of whiskies marks The 153^rd Open at Royal Portrush

Innovative distiller and The Spirit of the Open, Loch Lomond Whiskies, has unveiled two-limited edition single-malts to commemorate golf’s original championship, The Open.

The Open Course Collection 2025 (RRP £250; 46.7% ABV) and The Open Course Special Edition 2025 (RRP £45; 46% ABV) celebrate Loch Lomond Whiskies’ longstanding partnership with the world’s oldest major championship, paying tribute to the people, players and courses throughout its history.

The Open Course Collection 2025 has been crafted by award-winning master blender, Michael Henry who showcases Loch Lomond Whiskies’ signature adeptness and ingenuity in the liquid.

The Open Course Collection 2025 is a 22-year-old whisky first laid to rest in American oak barrels and hogshead, before being finished in hand-selected first-fill Spanish oak casks – a nod to the Spanish Armada ship, La Girona, which sank off the coast of Royal Portrush in 1588.

The exquisite single-malt was distilled using Loch Lomond Whiskies’ unique straight-neck stills. Loch Lomond Distillery is the only distiller in Scotch to use these striking stills, giving it far greater control over the final flavour profile. Henry’s meticulous process has resulted in a remarkable whisky that brings unique notes of cinnamon and spice while also emulating the classic Loch Lomond flavour profile of fruit, honey and soft smoke. 

Meanwhile, The Open Special Edition 2025 explores the influence of rich and ripe Tuscan chianti wine casks on Loch Lomond’s signature style. Also crafted exclusively in the Loch Lomond’s flagship straight-neck stills, The Open Special Edition 2025 was aged in a combination of American oak and finished for eight months in the finest first-fill chianti casks which added further depth of rich and ripe flavours to the distillery’s esteemed style. 

Scottish golfing legend and longstanding Loch Lomond Whiskies ambassador Colin Montgomerie collaborated with Loch Lomond Whiskies to create each of these expressions, with his legendary signature adorned on each pack. 

Michael Henry, master blender of Loch Lomond Group said:

“These expressions perfectly capture Loch Lomond’s explorative and innovative spirit.

“The final character of each of these fine single malts are unmistakenly Loch Lomond, and the experimentation with Spanish oak and chianti casks is indicative of our capability to push the boundaries in flavour creation.”

Loch Lomond Whiskies ambassador Colin Montgomerie said: 

“It’s been a pleasure working with Michael once again to create these popular limited-edition expressions which mark another special moment in golf history.

“There is a lot of synergy between golf and the art of whisky making. Both require dedication to the craft, passion and a willingness to take risks, which Loch Lomond Whiskies do so well.

“The ongoing releases of new limited-edition whiskies celebrates the legacy of The Open in such a wonderful way, and it has been a joy to be a part of the experience once again.”

Henry Keeling, Director – Commercial Partnerships at The R&A said:

“We are proud to continue our valued relationship with Loch Lomond Group across The Open and the AIG Women’s Open. Aligning with partners who share our vision for the championships and for golf to thrive is integral to our success.”

Both limited-edition single malts are non-chill filtered and natural in colour to keep the whisky just as nature intended. The Open Special Edition 2025 is also available in as a gift pack with dual branded Loch Lomond Whiskies and The Open glasses, retailing for £50.

The Open Course Collection 2025 and The Open Course Special Edition 2025 are available from www.lochlomondwhiskies.com and select whisky retailers from 15 April 2025.

Tasting notes 

Loch Lomond The Open Course Collection 2025

• Nose: Toasted oak, apple, ginger and vanilla.
• Taste: Toffee, pineapple, lemon and cinnamon.
• Finish: Long with warming oak spice and soft smoke.

Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2025

• Nose: Redcurrant, raspberry, apple, and vanilla.
• Taste: Honey, peach, pear and red berries.
• Finish: Medium length with drying oak tannin and soft smoke.

About Loch Lomond Whiskies

Loch Lomond Whiskies is an award-winning, independent Scotch whisky distiller which has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814.  As a Highland malt, it is part of the largest and most diverse whisky-making region in Scotland.

The original site of the Loch Lomond Distillery was established near Tarbert, towards the northwest end of Loch Lomond. In the 1960s, under the leadership of American entrepreneur and chemist, Duncan Scott (who was instrumental in the ongoing success of Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery, Littlemill), a new site was created in Alexandria, which began a move to a more innovative philosophy and style of whisky-making that is still used today.

Located only a few miles from the famous loch, the distillery has a whisky-making capability like no other, using a combination of traditional swan-neck and its signature straight-neck-stills, which are unique to Loch Lomond Whiskies.

The straight-neck stills give Master Blender Michael Henry greater control over the distillation process, allowing him to carefully manipulate the flavour profile of each whisky, and providing a signature fruit, honey and soft smoke flavour profile.

Loch Lomond Whiskies is one of only four distillers in Scotland to have its own onsite cooperage, ensuring that barrel repairs and charring are carried out to an exacting standard, so every cask is perfect for maturing whisky.

The distillery’s multi-award-winning range includes Loch Lomond Original; Loch Lomond 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond 18 Year Old; Loch Lomond 21 Year Old and Loch Lomond 30 Year Old, as well as Loch Lomond Single Grain (peated and unpeated) and the deluxe blend Loch Lomond Signature.

In 2023, it was recognised as the ‘Most Awarded Distillery’ at the globally renowned San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, achieving multiple Double Gold and Gold Awards for its collection of malt whisky brands.

Last year, Loch Lomond 18 Year Old was revealed as The Whisky Exchange’s coveted ‘Whisky of the Year 2024’, achieving superior scores from the judging panel for its full-bodied and fruity character.

Glen Scotia unveils ‘Campbeltown Malts Festival 2025’ limited edition whisky

Multi-award winning Campbeltown distillery, Glen Scotia has revealed its 2025 Festival Edition in celebration of the Campbeltown Malts Festival, the annual event which draws whisky lovers from around the world to discover the region’s rich whisky-making heritage.

The Campbeltown Malts Festival 2025 release is a charmingly unconventional dram, in keeping with Glen Scotia’s yearly festival bottlings, which are renowned for bringing bold and intriguing flavours and creating an element of surprise.

The new 9-year-old single malt is heavily peated, a unique offering from Glen Scotia which dedicates just four weeks each year to its peated spirit production.

After being fully matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, the whisky has been finished for five months in the finest Ribera del Duero red wine casks, directly sourced from the prestigious wine-making region in Spain.

This process results in vibrant flavours of ripe red fruits, juicy blackberry and a whisper of liquorice, each layer adding to the whisky’s complex character. Glen Scotia’s distinctive maritime style is also present, unfolding with notes of creamy vanilla overlaid with rich peat smoke.

The Campbeltown Malts Festival 2025 edition also returns with a unique on-pack experience, offering an insight into the distillery and the incredible journey to Campbeltown that makes the festival so special each year.

By scanning the on-pack QR code, fans will be able to experience the magical journey to the ‘Wee Toon’ with three of Scotland’s top travel influencers as they embark on the beautiful voyage to the distillery’s Campbeltown home.

Whisky lovers will have the chance to join Chris Lawlor (@chrispaullawlor) who was voted Scottish Travel Influencer of the Year 2024, Graeme Johncock (@scotlands_stories) and Barbara Gajewska (@discovermyscotland) as they travel the remarkable Kintyre peninsula by foot, sea and road.

Available to purchase online and in specialist retailers globally, Glen Scotia’s Campbeltown Malts Festival 2025 release is non-chill filtered, bottled at cask strength (54.3% ABV) and retails for £68.

Iain McAlister, Glen Scotia master distiller and distillery manager, said: “This year’s Festival Release promises a unique experience that will transport you straight to Campbeltown with your first sip. As well as delivering the maritime and salinity notes synonymous with Glen Scotia, this whisky also provides an element of surprise as it develops on the palate. The finish brings a bold burst of vibrant flavour from the Ribera del Duero red wine casks which is a distinctive pairing with the heavy peat.

“The virtual on-pack experience also offers something really special this year – our remote home on the Kintyre peninsula makes for a wild and beautiful journey that not everyone is able to take. Now people can experience what it’s like to make the spectacular journey to Campbeltown with a selection of Scotland’s top travel content creators.

“There’s no better way to savour a dram of this year’s limited edition single malt than by embarking on an unforgettable journey, whether by road, foot, or sea and we look forward to welcoming Glen Scotia fans who are making this journey to join us at the 2025 Campbeltown Malts Festival.”

Glen Scotia’s events at this year’s Campbeltown Malts Festival (20 and 21 May) will see some of its finest drams poured and will celebrate the town’s past as the former ‘Victorian Whisky Capital of the World’. The distillery will present a range of both ticketed and free events which celebrate the region’s rich history and connection to its distilling past.

Among the Glen Scotia experiences on offer, visitors will have the chance to explore the components of the Campbeltown Malts Festival 2025 edition during a deconstructed tasting with Global Brand Ambassador Gary Mills. They will also be able to celebrate a decade of Glen Scotia’s world-famous Victoriana single malt with an in-depth tasting hosted by Master Blender Ashley Smith. Finally, guests will discover the magic of the Glen Scotia Dunnage Warehouse in an exclusive tasting with Master Distiller Iain McAlister.

For further information on the Campbeltown Malts Festival 2025 bottling or this year’s festival, visit: www.glenscotia.com/

Tasting notes:

Nose: Swirling peat smoke, coastal salinity with creamy vanilla.

Palette: Vibrant juicy blackberries and red fruits with luscious oils.

Finish: Soft smoke with a velvety mouthfeel.

About Glen Scotia

Distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832 and is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown.

Producing peated and non-peated whiskies, the distillery still maintains much of its original design, including the stillroom and the dunnage warehouse dating from the 1830s. To this day, the distillery team follow in the footsteps of their founders, using traditional methods, carefully creating the subtly maritime Campbeltown style the brand has become world-famous for.

Recognition of Glen Scotia’s style and craftsmanship continues to be acknowledged globally.

• In 2021, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old single malt was awarded ‘Best In Show Whisky’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Over 3,800 entries across thirty-one categories were judged with Glen Scotia being awarded the overall winner across all countries and styles. Only seven months later, Glen Scotia was also named Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2021.
• In 2022, Glen Scotia’s Victoriana won ‘Best In Class’ in the Distillers’ Single Malt Scotch – No Age Statement category at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• In 2023, Glen Scotia won ‘Best Single Cask Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards for a single cask bottling distilled in 2009 and aged for 13 years exclusively in a first-fill bourbon barrel.
• Later that same year, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old won a coveted Platinum award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, which is awarded to the very few entries that receive a Double Gold medal for three consecutive years at the prestigious global event.
• In 2024, Glen Scotia received a number of prestigious awards across its range of single malt whiskies, including Platinum titles at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2024 for both Glen Scotia Victoriana and Glen Scotia 25 Year Old.

THE LAST DROP DISTILLERS PRESENTS ITS 2025 COLLECTION: A REMARKABLE TRIO OF ULTRA-AGED WHISKIES SHOWCASING THE INTERSECTION OF CULTURE, ART AND INNOVATION

Featuring three rarities from the world’s premier whisky-producing countries: a 27 Year Old Bourbon from Kentucky’s Buffalo Trace Distillery, 55 Year Old Single Malt Scotch from Tomintoul Distillery and 22 Year Old Japanese Blended Malt Whisky

LOUISVILLE, KY (April 1, 2025) – The Last Drop Distillers, curators of the world’s most remarkable spirits, is delighted to announce its 2025 Collection featuring three whiskies that celebrate the unique maturation methods used by the most prestigious distilleries around the world: a 27 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery (Release No. 37),  a 55 Year Old Single Malt Scotch from the Tomintoul Distillery (Release No. 38) and a 22 Year Old Japanese Blended Malt Whisky (Release No. 39). 

Each release showcases the art of blending and maturation while exhibiting best-in-class American, Scotch and Japanese whisky management techniques, from the innovative aging experiments taking place at Buffalo Trace Distillery, to the exceptional cask program used to age the Tomintoul, and the time-honored art of Japanese distilling, blending and maturation.

Release No. 37: The Last Drop 27 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery

As one of the oldest bourbons yet to be released from the World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery, this exceptional creation features three of Buffalo Trace’s oldest barrels – distilled in 1995, 1996 and 1997.  These barrels were hand selected and then married together by Master Blender Drew Mayville and Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. The resulting whiskey pushes the boundaries of bourbon beyond all expectations, retaining a delightful vibrancy while showcasing the depth and character that could only come from decades of careful aging under expert supervision at the distillery’s state-of-the-art maturation facility, Warehouse P.

Uncut and unfiltered, this ultra-rare bourbon is bottled at 121.8 proof (60.9% ABV). Just 508 bottles will be available worldwide at a suggested retail price of $10,500 (700ml + 50ml miniature).

Tasting Notes by Drew Mayville, Master Blender, Buffalo Trace Distillery

APPEARANCE A bright bronze-gold, which catches the light in a most alluring manner.

NOSE Aromas of seasoned oak immediately greet the senses followed by essences of decadent cherry and medjool date. Baking spices and dark fruit notes intertwine with an emerging peppery rye influence that adds a layer of complexity.

PALATE The palate opens with oak tannins, offering a deep, woody foundation that builds into layers of caramel sweetness and dark chocolate-dipped cherries with hints of tobacco and supple leather.

CONCLUSIONS Perfectly aged, the finish is long and satisfying. The dried fruits and caramel are lengthened by the tingling oak spice, producing a smooth and warming sipping whiskey. 

Release No. 38: The Last Drop 55 Year Old Single Malt Scotch from the Tomintoul Distillery

The sister cask to The Last Drop Release No. 36, which debuted in the 2024 Collection as the brand’s oldest single malt release to date, this rich, ultra-aged single malt is comprised of three casks of single malt Scotch Whisky matured in ex-sherry butts and refill sherry hogheads, all distilled in April 1969. To preserve the character and quality of the whisky, these casks were married together and placed into an ex-Matusalem Sherry butt to finish for an additional two years before bottling, bringing a multi-faceted flavor profile to the liquid.

Presented at 86.2 proof (43.1% ABV), a mere 430 bottles will be available worldwide at a suggested retail price of $6,950 (750ml).

Tasting notes by Colin Scott, Master Blender, The Last Drop Distillers

APPEARANCE A deep amber tinged with dusky pink, reflecting its extended ageing​.

NOSE An opulent richness of red fruits and soft notes of ripe peaches, enhanced by toasted almonds and warm toffee.

PALATE Juicy stone fruits and warm baking spices, underpinned by a grassy dryness and liquorice sweetness. The spirit opens up with the exotic flair of a pineapple upside down cake and rich caramel.

CONCLUSIONS A smooth, deeply satisfying spirit with a complex sweet, yet spicy, finish. 

Release No. 39: The Last Drop 22 Year Old Japanese Blended Malt Whisky

Even a quarter century after its closure, Hanyu Distillery is renowned for its exceptionally-elusive whisky. This rare bottling encapsulates the artistry of distilling in the country responsible for some of the most highly-valued whiskies in the world. Featuring malt whiskies distilled and laid for maturation in the year 2000 – the year Hanyu ceased operations – this release is a special marriage of 100% Japanese whiskies derived from two casks, both made from the coveted Mizunara oak. Known for its porous, temperamental nature, Mizunara imparts a distinctive flavor profile with floral, herbal and nutty characteristics.

Presented at 118.2 proof (59.1% ABV), only 319 bottles will be available worldwide at a suggested retail price of $5,500 (750ml).

Tasting notes by Helen Mulholland, Master Blender, Sazerac of Ireland:

APPEARANCE Rich deep gold.

NOSE Like walking into an exclusive spa, the nose is immediately enticed with notes of sandalwood, warming nutmeg and all-spice; further green wood earthiness leads to vanilla and marzipan.

PALATE The surprising flavors of tropical fruits such as banana and coconut combine with red berries to create a silky smooth mouthfeel, while spiced incense and wood briefly return briefly to create a perfectly-balanced and not overly sweet liquid

CONCLUSIONS The cinnamon pastry, sweet spice warming finish builds in heat and then fades beautifully into the memory.​

“The 2025 Curated Collection represents one of The Last Drop’s most anticipated and exceptional releases to date,” says Jess Scheerhorn, Vice President – Emerging Portfolio, Sazerac. “Featuring a remarkable 27-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, alongside two stunning whiskies from Scotland and Japan, this collection showcases the best of global whisky craftsmanship. Each spirit is a testament to our pursuit of the truly extraordinary, and we are thrilled to share these rare finds with epicureans of fine spirits around the world.”

Each bottle from The Last Drop 2025 Collection is wax-sealed and individually numbered, and packaged in a bespoke bottle suspended in an oak frame, held within a signature green case. Each case also includes a 50ml miniature for private enjoyment, a pocket-sized tasting book and an engraved stopper cork.

Rebecca Jago, Director of Brand Experience and daughter of Tom Jago, Co-Founder of The Last Drop Distillers says: “Each release from The Last Drop is unique and irreplaceable, and the 2025 Collection is no exception. It gives me great pride, as custodian of the brand’s legacy, to see the tradition of curating remarkable spirits continue with these three exceptional whiskies. My father and James would undoubtedly be proud of how The Last Drop has flourished, and I look forward to sharing this collection with our friends and customers.”

The Last Drop 2025 Collection will be available in limited quantities to its United States and global distributor networks as of April 2025, which will ship to select high-end retailers, bars and restaurants.

For more information, please visit www.lastdropdistillers.com.

About The Last Drop Distillers

The Last Drop Distillers was founded by two icons of the spirits industry, Tom Jago and James Espey with over 80 years of experience between them. Their aim was to curate the world’s most remarkable spirits by finding treasures across aged spirit categories and sharing them with those who seek the genuinely extraordinary.

Since the company was founded in 2008, The Last Drop Distillers has released just 39 limited bottlings across Scotch Whisky, Cognac, Bourbon and Rum, Japanese Whisky and Irish Whiskey, as well as aged Ports and Pineau des Charentes, comprising fewer than 15,600 to date. Seeking nothing less than the remarkable in the spirits they curate, the company’s unwavering commitment is to the quality of the liquid and the pleasure of sharing the treasures they uncover.

At the heart of this pursuit is The Assembly, a collective of some of the world’s most revered Master Blenders, including luminaries. With decades of expertise across multiple spirit categories, these icons of the industry play a pivotal role in selecting, blending and refining The Last Drop’s releases, ensuring that each bottling is a true masterpiece of craftsmanship and heritage.

In 2016 The Last Drop was acquired by The Sazerac Company, one of America’s oldest private, family-owned, distillers.

About The Sazerac Company

With over 400 years of history, Sazerac is one of the world’s largest distilled spirits companies. Now in the fourth generation of the current family ownership, Sazerac strives each day to bring the finest spirits to consumers and communities around the world.

Over 500 of the world’s most extraordinary brands are part of the Sazerac portfolio, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Southern Comfort, Wheatley Vodka, Meyers’s Rum, White X Cognac, Sazerac de Forge Cognac, Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, and many more.

Sazerac is also the steward of many fine distilleries internationally, including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, United States; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; Paul John Distillery in Goa, India; and Lough Gill Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. Additional impressive locations can be found in New Orleans, Montréal, London, Cork and Sydney, to name a few.

To learn more visit www.sazerac.com.

Tomatin Distillery cooper named among world’s best with prestigious award win

Allan Bartlett, cooper at Highland distiller Tomatin, has been named ‘Cooper of the Year’ at the 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards.

Allan has been coopering at Tomatin Distillery for 21 years, including five years of training under the distillery’s former head cooper, Iain Duthie, who served for 39 years.

Allan previously won ‘Cooper of the Year for Scotland’ in the 2025 Icons of Whisky regional awards, before progressing to take the global title.

Allan is only the third person to take home the prestigious ‘Cooper of the Year’ accolade in the 19-year history of the awards, and the second from a Scotch whisky distillery. Introduced in 2023, the coveted award was won by Andy Moore from Loch Lomond Distillery in its inaugural year, and by Rafa Cabello from Casknolia in Spain’s Andalusia region in 2024.

As part of his role as Tomatin Distillery’s cooper, Allan is responsible for inspecting each and every cask before it is filled and making repairs when required. In his time at Tomatin Distillery, Allan has worked on more than 37,000 carefully selected casks.

Tomatin is one of just four distilleries in Scotland to have an on-site cooperage. This facility is essential to the distillery’s first-class maturation policy, which begins with the cask. By bringing barrel repairs in-house, Tomatin can closely guard its reputation for quality and work with a wider range of suppliers than most other distilleries.

As well as purchasing casks from cooperages, Tomatin also works directly with wineries, breweries and distilleries to source barrels for maturing its exceptional Highland single malt, allowing the expert team to produce a diverse range of whiskies.

Allan Bartlett, cooper at Tomatin, said: “To be internationally recognised by the Icons of Whisky Awards as a leading figure in the industry is a real privilege, and I’m thrilled to take this award home to Tomatin Distillery. I wouldn’t be here without Iain Duthie, who taught me the tricks of the trade.

“Coopering is a traditional craft which requires care, commitment and skill, taking years to master. I’m proud to play a role in preserving this important part of Scotch whisky heritage at Tomatin.”

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 current distillery was established in 1897.

Run by the team at Whisky Magazine, the Icons of Whisky awards aim to celebrate the best and brightest people and places in the sector.

For more information, visit https://tomatin.com.

About Tomatin Distillery

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’s success continued when the distillery’s ‘Legacy’ was awarded Gold at IWSC. That same year, Tomatin also 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.

At the 2024 IWSC Awards, Tomatin Legacy was awarded the IWSC Trophy for no age statement single malt Scotch, demonstrating its exceptional quality as best in class.

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/

​MAJOR MILESTONE AS CASK TRADE OPENS FIRST WAREHOUSE

Cask Trade is opening its own warehouse this month in a milestone move that will elevate its clients’ cask ownership experience. The bonded warehouse with a bespoke tasting room will allow customers to enjoy whisky masterclasses hosted by industry experts, taste whisky straight from their cask, and even watch their own single cask be bottled.

All of this will be in the biggest malt whisky region in Scotland, Speyside. The unit, located in Forres, has the capacity for up to 25,000 casks.

Founder and CEO of Cask Trade, Simon Aron, says the move is an exciting step forward for the company.

“Opening our own warehouse is a natural progression for the business and will enhance the effective management system of our client’s whisky, something we have been working hard to make even better over 2024. This will allow us to provide Delivery Orders (DOs) with greater ease for customers who wish to have one. The amazing location also means we can offer a total single-cask whisky experience for our customers.”

Just 30 minutes from Inverness airport, the warehouse is surrounded by more than 50 world-renowned single malt distilleries and a range of hotels, making Forres the perfect place for customers to visit their cask and explore “Malt Whisky Country”. Visitors will have access to breathtaking landscapes, from stunning beaches on the Moray Firth to mountainous forests in the Cairngorm National Park.

This is another highlight in a successful twelve months for the company, having featured in; The Financial Times Fastest Growing Businesses in Europe for 2024, won The Drinks Trust Caused Based Marketing Campaign for 2024, and been included in Start Ups 100 for the year.

Cask Trade have sold casks from over 170 distilleries across Scotch whisky, rum, Cognac, and Armagnac, making them a leading global company in the sector. They are committed to transparent cask ownership where selling is as important as buying. On top of industry expert account managers, their annual Beyond The Cask magazine helps customers through the whole process of cask ownership.

To take a look inside Cask Trade’s warehouse, you can view a YouTube video here.

To visit the website click here.

ABOUT CASK TRADE:

Cask Trade was set up by Simon Aron in 2018, born from his personal experiences of buying casks as a passionate whisky collector for more than 20 years.

Having found cask ownership difficult to navigate with few reputable companies operating, he envisioned creating a marketplace that made buying and selling casks transparent, open, and honest.

Cask Trade has grown from strength to strength, building its success off several core values:
•    Stockists, not brokers – Cask Trade own all its stock, giving buyers a 100% transactional guarantee and the peace of mind that all casks have been through stringent quality checks.
•    Market leading stocklist – since 2018, Cask Trade has represented over 170 distilleries across the world of whisky, rum, Cognac and Armagnac.
•    End-to-end support – Cask Trade nurtures client relationships beyond the point of sale and offers full cask management, sampling, re-gauges, and multiple exit options when customers come to sell on their cask.
•    Trust and transparency – The company’s casks are held in the best HMRC bonded warehouses, regularly visited and approved by Cask Trade whisky masters. All stock holdings have a complete paper trail.
•    Expert team – above all, the Cask Trade team are passionate about cask ownership and strives to help clients achieve their goals, whether they are looking to buy, sell or bottle their casks.
Alongside cask sale and ownership, Cask Trade has two unique services which help clients sell and bottle their liquid when the time is right:

Auction Your Cask
Auction Your Cask is the world’s first dedicated online cask auction site. With four auctions a year, clients as well as the public can either submit a cask to sell or bid on other casks with 0% seller fees and an agreed reserve.

Regent Street Cask Bottlers
For clients looking to bottle their cask, Cask Trade offers a unique bottling service – Regent Street Cask Bottlers. The expert team take the hard work out of bottling, helping customers bottle for trade purposes, to celebrate a special occasion, or even buy pre-bottled casks.

Recognition
Acknowledgement for the achievements of Cask Trade has been recognised by the FT1000 when the business was ranked as one of the fastest-growing companies in Europe; listed in The Sunday Times Hundred fastest-growing private companies in Britain and named among the UK’s most innovative new businesses’ by StartUps 100 Index.

Welcome to

The Murray McDavid Whisky Shop! 

Whisky lovers, we have exciting news!

Today, we open the doors to our first-ever permanent whisky shop, right in the heart of Forres — the Murray McDavid Whisky Shop at The Old Bank. Housed in the stunning former Bank of Scotland building (est. 1852), this isn’t just a shop, it’s set to be a new whisky hub for locals and tourists alike!

We can’t wait to welcome you in for a dram!

READ MORE

Sláinte,

The Murray McDavid Team

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Douglas Laing & Co. Unveils Strathearn Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Batch 02

Following the exceptional reception of its inaugural release, independent Scotch Whisky specialist Douglas Laing & Co. proudly presents the second batch of Strathearn Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky. This eagerly anticipated release continues to showcase the meticulous craftsmanship and distinctive character of Scotland’s smallest traditional distillery.

Batch 02 remains true to the signature cask composition that defined the inaugural release—expertly marrying ex-Bourbon, Virgin Oak, and ex-Sherry Oak casks. However, with a deliberate reduction in Virgin Oak influence, Batch 02 delivers heightened creaminess, freshness, and overall balance, offering an evolution of Strathearn’s uniquely rich spirit. Comprising a vatting of 31 carefully selected casks, this release includes both inherited stock and casks distilled under Douglas Laing’s ownership, highlighting the ever-developing expertise of the Strathearn team.

Each production shift at Strathearn Distillery yields just one single cask, a testament to the small-batch craftsmanship that defines this super premium Highland Single Malt. The dedicated team of three distillers at Strathearn meticulously handcrafts each barrel, ensuring that quality remains paramount. Maris Otter barley continues to be the grain of choice, lending its signature ultra-rich, creamy character with buttery biscuit notes, honey, and a gentle sweetness.

Bottled at 50% ABV, without chill-filtration or added colouring, Strathearn Batch 02 embodies Douglas Laing’s commitment to authenticity and purity. This second release stands as a testament to the ongoing journey of discovery at Strathearn, refining and enhancing the spirit’s distinctive character while staying true to its artisanal roots. 

Cara Laing, Managing Director of Douglas Laing & Co., comments: 

“The launch of our inaugural Strathearn release was a momentous occasion, and the response exceeded all expectations. With Batch 02, we continue to honour the distillery’s heritage while refining our understanding of its unique spirit. Every bottle of Strathearn embodies the passion, skill, and dedication of our small but mighty team—and we’re incredibly proud to share this latest chapter with whisky lovers worldwide.”