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Join the Global Celebration of Canadian Whisky

Join the Global Celebration of Canadian Whisky.

Years in the making, the domain for Canadian Whisky Day (™) has finally been secured from the previous owner. The vision is finally coming to fruition…

Canadian Whisky Day is dedicated to promoting the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Canadian whisky. The mission is to educate, inform, and connect whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The aim is to foster a deeper appreciation for Canadian whisky, guiding our community with knowledge and passion.

Canadian Whisky Day (TM) is celebrated across the World on the third Saturday in November. The inaugural celebration is November 15, 2025.

From Grain to Glass, stay tuned as our newsletter launches with details on the forthcoming podcast, and other developments – including the launch of the website.

You can email, or subscribe through info@CanadianWhiskyDay.com

Cheers,

Gerald

The Hebridean Whisky Trail Welcomes a New Treasure – Hebridean Whisky News

The Hebridean Whisky Trail Welcomes a New Treasure

The Hebridean Whisky Trail, a voyage through wild beauty and remarkable distilleries, is thrilled to introduce our newest destination: the Isle of Tiree Distillery. Prepare to chart a course to the Isle of Tiree, known in Gaelic poetry as Tir an Eòrna, the Land of Barley, where a warm Hebridean welcome awaits you at this distinctive new addition to the Hebridean Whisky Trail.

Forged on Scotland’s Atlantic Coast, the Hebrides have always held a special allure for those seeking adventure and authentic experiences. Now, the spirit of Tiree joins the esteemed whiskies of Talisker, Torabhaig, Isle of Raasay, Isle of Harris, North Uist and Benbecula, adding its own unique character to the Trail.

Tiree boasts a rich history of whisky production, with records suggesting an astonishing fifty distillers on the tiny island around 1768. In fact, each farm on Tiree often had its own still, producing whisky from the island’s plentiful barley for both local enjoyment and export. While legal distilling declined over time, the entrepreneurial spirit of islanders Ian Smith and Alain Campbell has rekindled this proud tradition with the establishment of Tiree Whisky Company Ltd. Their aim is to preserve and promote the island’s whisky heritage and revive distilling on Tiree.

The inspiration for Tiree Whisky Company is deeply rooted in the founders’ connection to the islands. As members of the traditional music band Trail West, Ian and Alain toured the Hebrides and witnessed the positive economic impact of island distilleries on their communities. This sparked a vision to bring a similar benefit to their own community on Tiree.

Family lies at the heart of the Tiree Whisky Company. The distillery itself is housed in a shed with a special history: it was the former workshop of Ian’s father, Bernie. Alain even had his first job sweeping the floors there, creating a poignant link between the past and present. The summerhouse where Ian and his friends played as children now serves as the shop and visitor centre. Their families are always available to lend a hand in keeping the business running, a testament to the age-old Hebridean spirit. This deep connection with their heritage underscores their commitment to reviving an old industry.

The Isle of Tiree Distillery stands out as one of the smallest and most traditional whisky production operations in Scotland. Their entire process, from mashing to bottling, takes place within a single room. This low-tech, high-tradition approach offers visitors a truly unique opportunity to witness the journey from grain to bottle in an intimate setting. As Ian Smith explains, visitors often get a much clearer understanding of how whisky is made by visiting their small-scale operation.

The small production size at Tiree allows for exciting experimentation. They have already worked with barley and are soon to offer rye whisky, alongside exploring different casks and fermentation periods. This passion for innovation, driven by their own interests, promises a diverse and exciting range of spirits. As Alain Campbell notes, their fermentation times can vary significantly, influenced by factors like the seasons, weather, and even the ferries. They are keen to explore the nuances this brings to their spirit.

“Overall, the journey’s been so much fun. We are at the stage now that we were only dreaming of back in 2017, it was kind of pie in the sky stuff then. Through a lot of hard work and challenges, we’ve managed to get there. It’s been great, so much fun, and a really rewarding process.”

Running a distillery on a tiny remote island presents its challenges, including weather, financing, staff, and logistics, to name a few. However, the rewards are immense, particularly the pride in providing local employment opportunities to keep people on the island, and also in connecting with their island’s heritage. Being able to offer a bar on-site, providing a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy their gin, whisky, and cocktails, is rewarding as well. The distillery boasts a stunning location right on the edge of the sea, offering another stunning Hebridean Whisky Trail #dramwithaview experience.

We invite you to embark on a journey to the Isle of Tiree and experience the unique charm and tradition of the Tiree Whisky Company. Discover their passion for crafting exceptional spirits in a truly special setting. With the hands-on approach in their traditional distillery, a visit to Tiree promises an unforgettable stop on the Hebridean Whisky Trail, and a taste of the Land of Barley’s revived whisky heritage.

Jack Daniel’s Introduces 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey for the First Time in Over a Century – American Whiskey News

Jack Daniel’s Introduces 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey for the First Time in Over a Century

Jack Daniel’s latest in its annual award-winning Aged Series features Jack Daniel’s 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey along with 12-Year-Old Batch 3 and 10-Year-Old Batch 4

Lynchburg, Tenn. – The Jack Daniel Distillery today announced the release of its Jack Daniel’s 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, marking the first time since the early- to mid-1900s that Jack Daniel’s has offered an expression at this age. This year’s Aged Series also includes Jack Daniel’s 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Batch 3 and 10-Year-Old Batch 4, the latest in the annual release that nods toward the history of the Jack Daniel Distillery.

“When we released our first Jack Daniel’s 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey a few years ago, we set out to honor the legacy of Jack Daniel himself and replicate the lineup of age-stated whiskeys available during his time,” said Chris Fletcher, Master Distiller at the Jack Daniel Distillery. “This year’s releases build upon that as we re-introduce our new 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, the oldest age-statement for Jack Daniel’s in the last 100 years or more. These whiskeys really showcase how a little extra time in our barrels is capable of producing something so special.”

Jack Daniel’s 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, offered at 126.3 proof (63.15% abv), begins with Jack Daniel’s classic Tennessee Whiskey mash bill of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye, is distilled in Lynchburg, Tennessee, and is mellowed drop by drop through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal, just like the classic Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey. The additional years of aging for Jack Daniel’s 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey bring forward notes of sweet bakery spices with layers of oak. The palate opens with cinnamon and creamy butterscotch balanced with rich leather that lingers into aged oak and pipe tobacco.

Jack Daniel’s 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Batch 3 is offered at 107 proof (53.5% abv) and has sweet and creamy notes of pipe tobacco, seasoned oak, and butterscotch.

Jack Daniel’s 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Batch 4 is offered at 97 proof (48.5% abv) and is oak forward with layers of dark fruit and bittersweet cocoa.

Jack Daniel’s 14-, 12-, and 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskeys will be available this month in limited quantities across the U.S. in 700 mL bottles with suggested retail prices of $149.99, $94.99 and $84.99, respectively.

Additionally, Jack Daniel’s 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey will be available in select countries internationally beginning this summer.

For more information, visit www.jackdaniels.com.

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Bonded, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.

Please Drink Responsibly.

Jack Daniel’s 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, 63.15% alc. by vol., Jack Daniel’s 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, 53.5% alc. by vol., and Jack Daniel’s 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, 48.5% alc. by vol. Distilled and bottled by Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee. JACK DANIEL’S is a registered trademark. ©2025 Jack Daniel’s. All rights reserved.

Dhavall Gandhi unveils The YUKARI Collection – Whisky News

Dhavall Gandhi unveils The YUKARI Collection

 Avant-garde whiskymaker and artistic director Dhavall Gandhi is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in 2025 with the unveiling of the YUKARI Collection. The Japanese word YUKARI means connection and is often used to describe deep bonds between people, places and things.

Known for his unrivalled expertise and visionary approach to whisky-making, Dhavall has built a remarkable career, from his award-winning work with The Macallan to his instrumental role in establishing The Lakes Distillery and their award winning house style. His eponymous firm, DHAVALL GANDHI, is considered as the “haute couture” of the whisky world.

Driven by a passion for cultural sustainability, he founded KANDOBLANC to preserve & promote heritage art forms on the brink of obscurity. The Maison’s inaugural creation, AGA, was unveiled at the prestigious Distiller’s One of One auction in 2023, breaking two world records and marking Dhavall’s debut as an artistic director.

The YUKARI Collection will feature three one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by Japanese art and cultural icons, each showcasing a rare heritage technique and an exceptionally rare single malt whisky as its crown jewel. Much like the craftsmanship behind each creation, Dhavall has meticulously selected these whiskies, weaving together narratives of tradition, identity, and resilience – elements that shape the rich tapestry of human culture.

Dhavall commented, “KANDOBLANC was founded on the principle of harmony – cultivating an equal creative dialogue between diverse arts and cultures while serving as a beacon for artistic preservation. Following in the footsteps of our icon, AGA, the YUKARI Collection embodies our unwavering commitment to this mission.”

The first piece of the YUKARI Collection will be donated to The Worshipful Company of Distillers and The Distiller’s Charity to be auctioned at the Distiller’s One of One auction in October this year. All proceeds from the sale will be donated to charities supporting disadvantaged young people in Scotland. The other pieces will be available for acquisition directly through KANDOBLANC.

In the lead up to the Distillers One of One auction, more details will be revealed about each element within the series.

For more information about KANDOBLANC & Dhavall Gandhi, visit: www.KANDOBLANC.com

The IWSC Returns to Kentucky for the North American Whiskey & RTD Judging, June 4-7 in Bardstown

The Olympics of the Drink Industry accepting entries through late April

LONDON (April 2, 2025) — Spirits industry professionals from around the world will descend upon Bardstown, KY, the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” to judge the International Wine & Spirits Competition’s (IWSC) North American Whiskey and Ready to Drink (RTD) competition June 4-7, 2025.

Although the IWSC was founded in 1969, this is only the second year the North American Whiskey and RTD categories have been judged in the United States, and IWSC’s only North American event held this year.

The judges, who represent the worldwide standard of beverage excellence, give North American whiskey and RTD producers a unique opportunity for international recognition from the competition known as the ‘Olympics of the drinks industry.’

Led by Dawn Davies, Master of Wine and head buyer with the United Kingdom distribution company Speciality Drinks and retailer The Whisky Exchange, a panel of spirits experts from America and the U.K. evaluate entries based on in-depth knowledge of the North American whiskey and RTD markets, their innovations and their most recent developments.

In addition to Davies, other judges included for the North American juncture of the prestigious competition are:

  • Bridget Albert, Senior Director, External Communications and CSR, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits
  • Ryan Chetiyawardana, drinks industry veteran, creator and host of “Mr. Lyan’s Taste Trips” television show
  • Frank Dobbins III, freelance writer, Uproxx and Drinkhacker
  • Bill Lumsden, director of distilling, whisky creation and whisky stocks, Glenmorangie Company
  • Millie Milliken, freelance drinks and hospitality writer
  • Ryan Mills, founder, Amber and Ash Consulting, @thatoneduderyan
  • Reece Sims, owner, SIP Spirits Consulting, shortlisted for the 2025 IWSC’s Emerging Talent in Spirits Communications Award

“The IWSC is the oldest, largest and most influential international wine and spirits competition and was the first to bring panels of international experts to judge in situ,” says IWSC Chief Executive Officer Christelle Guibert. “We offer much more than medals, and pride ourselves on the support we provide to both categories and entrants during and after the competition. We are delighted to return to Kentucky in 2025.”

Elevate Your Brand and Open New Doors 
Kentucky is one of just seven global locations where the IWSC replicates its London competition via its global judging initiatives. As in London, the scene in Kentucky combines judging sessions with activities that showcase the people, places, and spirits unique to Kentucky’s rich whiskey culture.

By entering the IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging, producers get unparalleled recognition from key industry decision-makers, including master sommeliers and distillers, masters of wine and senior buyers. Judges from the IWSC shape market trends and foster global reach. Entrants connect with other experts, producers and consumers to foster collaboration in the beverage industry. Winners receive post-competition support and promotion via year-round global media campaigns, international trade fair presence and tastings. Award-winning whiskeys are showcased at the U.K.’s leading consumer event, The World Whisky Experience.

The heart of the IWSC’s reputation is its unparalleled judging process. Every sample is evaluated double-blind, with no judge assessing more than 65 products per day, ensuring fresh and focused decision-making. Judging is conducted in a controlled environment, with discussions among panel members helping to refine and validate the final scores.

The IWSC judging process is really strict, and it needs to be because you’ve got real experts within the industry here,” Davies says. “From distillers to retailers to bartenders, everyone looks at the product from a slightly different angle. It’s about collaboration and having the best of the business judging the drinks.

Single Malt Surge 
Founded in 1969, the London-based IWSC evaluates more than 12,000 entries annually from 90-plus countries. After the IWSC’s first appearance in Kentucky last year, Davies said in Forbes the event opens doors for U.S. whiskey producers and encourages the production of premium American whiskey. We are really seeing customers step outside their comfort zones and look to other areas of the world for better deals than are being afforded by ever-rising Scotch whisky prices,” Davies says. “We have witnessed a surge in American single malts and bourbon entries since the launch of our judging event in Kentucky.”

Entrants in the IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging event will be eligible for Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Outstanding medals. Top-scoring products advance to the prestigious Trophy Judging round, where the best of the best are recognized. Top-performing producers are shortlisted for the highly coveted producer trophies and invited to complete a short questionnaire for the Judging Committee to review. Winners are revealed at the IWSC Awards Celebration in November.

How to Enter: Visit the IWSC North American Whiskey & RTD Judging page. Entry deadlines are April 10 for Canadian Whiskies and April 25 for U.S.Whiskies and RTD’s. The award winners will be announced in early June.

About the International Wine & Spirits Competition
Since 1969, the IWSC has set the global standard for beverage excellence. Known as the “Olympics of the drinks industry,” the IWSC evaluates more than 12,000 entries annually from 90-plus countries. Judges are key decision-makers in the industry including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, Master Distillers and Senior Buyers. These experts assess wines, spirits and alternative drinks using a rigorous panel process that ensures fair evaluation. The IWSC stands out for its expert judging, consistent attention, comprehensive categories and global recognition. For producers, its offers benchmarking, recognition and business connections. For consumers, IWSC medals guide excellence in a wide selection of drinks. As part of The Conversion Group, the IWSC mission is to use competition as a catalyst for community and connection across all levels within the industry.

About the International Wine & Spirits Competition Global Judging
Since 2022, the IWSC has held in situ Global Judging events, an initiative introduced by CEO Christelle Guibert. The IWSC is proud to be the first international drinks competition to institute a series such as this. Until today wine and spirits have been judged in Italy, Austria, Georgia, Turkey, Argentina, Australia, the United States, South Africa and China. The competition is committed to the initiative due to the opportunities it gives all producers in a region to take part, no matter what their size is, and allows for the drinks entered to be judged in context by judges who are up to date with the region and its most recent developments.

Simpsons Malt Limited farmers achieve UK first FSA Gold verification for distilling wheat as part of sustainability efforts with Scotch whisky maker Chivas Brothers

Simpsons Malt Limited farmers achieve UK first FSA Gold verification for distilling wheat as part of sustainability efforts with Scotch whisky maker Chivas Brothers

Simpsons Malt Limited has supported more than 120 contracted farmers in achieving the UK’s first Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) Gold verification for distilling wheat, as part of its ongoing sustainability efforts with the Chivas Brothers Strathclyde Growers Group.

Chivas Brothers, the Pernod Ricard business dedicated to Scotch whisky and maker of Ballantine’s, is now assured that its entire supply of distilling wheat provided by Simpsons Malt Limited is verified to a globally recognised standard. This certification helps food and drink companies to source more sustainably grown agricultural products.

By attaining the highest performance level of FSA Gold, it verifies that farmers involved in Chivas Brothers Strathclyde Growers Group are utilising first-class sustainable farming practices across a range of topic areas, including soil and nutrient management, crop protection, biodiversity, community impact and employee welfare.

Until now, the highest verification awarded to any UK wheat Farm Management Group has been equivalent to FSA Silver.

Ben Gothorp, Sustainability Manager at Simpsons Malt Limited, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to see the Growers Group attain FSA Gold verification– a first for distilling wheat in the UK. In recent years, our contracted growers have become increasingly aware of the need to operate more sustainably – from reducing in-field emissions and improving biodiversity, to ensuring proper business management. With FSA examining the entire farming operation and 100% Gold performance level being achieved across the Growers Group, it is testament to these growers and highlights the progress being made with sustainability on-farm.”

Ronald Daalmans, Sustainability Director at Chivas Brothers, added: “Wheat is a critical ingredient in the creation of blended whisky and Chivas Brothers Strathclyde Growers Group supplies us with approximately 80,000 tonnes annually, so to know the farmers are meeting the highest standards of environmental and social sustainability is incredibly important to us realising our vision.

It is only by working together that we can achieve meaningful change, so our heartfelt thanks go to all 126 farmers and Simpsons Malt Limited who helped us reach this significant milestone contributing to the production of more sustainable whisky.”

Carina Calder of A M & A Calder (Lintlaw Farm) in the Scottish Borders, which was one of the farms selected for the in-person audit, added: “As farmers, we know that consumers are becoming more aware of the provenance and quality of what they buy, so it is understandable that globally recognised schemes like the FSA are becoming increasingly important. It gives me a great sense of pride to know that I’m a part of a collective which has achieved a UK-first and I’m thankful for having access to the knowledge and expertise of the group throughout the process.”

The distilling wheat grown by Chivas Brothers Strathclyde Growers Group is exclusively processed at the Scotch whisky makers Glasgow-based Strathclyde Distillery, which produces new grain spirit for blended whiskies including those within the globally recognised Ballantine’s range, which is the No. 2 Scotch whisky in the world, selling more than 70 million bottles a year worldwide.

Simpsons Malt Limited and Chivas Brothers recently also established Chivas Brothers Miltonduff Growers Group, focusing on malting barley, comprised of more than 180 farms across Scotland.

The group’s aim is to develop a close connection between the three parties in Simpsons Malt Limited’s supply chain – grower, maltster and distiller – encouraging discussion and action as to how the group can work collaboratively to enhance environmental, social and economic sustainability.

Kentucky Company Combines Bourbon and Technology to Create Online Barrel Marketplace Hogshead – American Whiskey News

Kentucky Company Combines Bourbon and Technology to Create Hogshead, an Online Barrel Marketplace

Site Brings Buyers and Sellers of Aged Bourbon Barrel Inventory Together

LOUISVILLE, KY – There’s a saying that bourbon brings people together. In Louisville, Kentucky, the heart of bourbon country, the bourbon and technology industries have come together to form Hogshead, the first-of-its-kind online marketplace for barrel-aged spirits.

Named after the old English reference to a large cask that holds liquid, Hogshead Company was formed in 2023 by a bourbon industry insider and a team of tech entrepreneurs based in Louisville with the goal of bringing barrel-aged buyers and sellers together in one seamless platform.  On the site, licensed buyers can browse an inventory of aged bourbon worth more than $310 million, held inside more than 135,000 aging barrels for sale by various proprietors.  Sellers who have an excess of aging bourbon barrel inventory can reach a broad audience of potential buyers, and distilleries can utilize the site to streamline and automate their contract distilling business.

“Hogshead is a one-stop-shop for the online buying and selling of bulk whiskey,” said Chris Wiedmar, co-founder, Hogshead.  “We’ve taken the technical knowledge that all of our team has in software development, IT strategy, applications, data mining and online marketplaces, and brought it together in this site.  We’re a tech company focused on whiskey, and we’ve brought the management of aged barrel inventory up to the 21st century.”  Wiedmar has spent his career in various tech and start up companies, including a founder of a barrel sensor technology company and creating software for a large global distilled spirits company based in Louisville.

Another Co-Founder, Beau Beckman, brings over a decade of experience in managing and developing barrel sales and web-based platforms for one of the world’s largest spirits companies. “In my previous career, I built a marketplace of sorts for single barrel buyers because I recognized the growing need for purchasing barrels online. Now, with Hogshead, we’re doing the same for bulk barrel buyers—making it easy for both buyers and sellers to connect, while also simplifying execution and management for distilleries and bonded storage facilities,” said Beckman.  “When the bourbon industry declined in the 1980s, it coincided with the rise of software and tech. But when the industry bounced back, it lacked the standardization and documentation to keep up. That’s why the first thing we built at Hogshead was a barrel commerce engine—to streamline transactions and create a centralized tool that aggregates, facilitates, tracks, and manages everything from bulk sales to storage contracts, removing complexity from the process. By simplifying how brands source barrels for bottling and adding pricing transparency, buyers can make more informed decisions, finding the best barrels at the right quantities and prices. Ultimately, this delivers more value to the customers enjoying the whiskey—because without them, none of this works.”

All sellers are vetted before they can begin listing their product on Hogshead, and all inventory is checked by the Hogshead team to ensure everything is legitimate.  Buyers must have a federal tax identification number to purchase.  “There are no ‘scams’ on the inventory we list, everything you see on the site is authentic,” adds Beckman.

Buyers may see barrels listed for sale in ages ranging from 16 years old to recently made bourbon, also called “new fill.” The barrels listed are from some of the most recognized distilleries in the world, many with hundreds of years of distilling expertise behind them.  All of the barrels have a minimum order quantity, or MOQ, some as low as one barrel.

Since the barrels are physically located in different storage facilities, depending on the seller’s warehousing location, Hogshead can also assist in the logistics of moving barrels to the buyers.  Financing is also available for qualified buyers.  More updates and opportunities will be added to Hogshead.com as they develop.

About Hogshead

Hogshead is a barrel business company founded in 2023 by five Louisville, Kentucky residents with backgrounds in technology, starts ups and bourbon.  Named one of the 2025 KY Inno Startups to Watch, Hogshead is a first-of-its-kind online marketplace for bulk spirits, bringing together buyers and sellers of barrel-aged spirits.  Hogshead offers solutions for all sides of the spirits industry, sellers, brands, investors and distillers.  For more information on Hogshead visit www.hogshead.com

Johnnie Walker renews Lunar New Year partnership with James Jean – Scotch Whisky News

Johnnie Walker renews Lunar New Year partnership with James Jean

New Johnnie Walker Blue Label Limited Edition design for Year of the Snake is second created by influential visual artist

Lunar New Year falls today (29 January) and in 2025, Johnnie Walker is marking the Year of the Snake with the extension of its partnership with acclaimed visual artist James Jean – and a new Limited Edition Blue Label.

Last year, we launched the partnership by unveiling James’s vibrant design and artwork for a Year of the Dragon Limited Edition Johnnie Walker Blue Label.

For the Year of the Snake James has created stunning artwork for a new bottle design, which shows three snakes, representing three attributes of wisdom, intelligence, and intuition.

James Jean says: “The three snakes [in the design] are constantly growing, transforming, and adapting to changing conditions. With Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year, we wanted to create a snake that felt different, new and innovative – respect for the past but also looking into the future with optimism; in the same way that Johnnie Walker stands for progress through that incredible Keep Walking spirit.”

He sought inspiration for his designs from the layers of incredible flavour that Johnnie Walker Master Blender Emma Walker and her team bring to Johnnie Walker Blue Label – a whisky made using some of the rarest whiskies from the unparalleled Johnnie Walker reserves of maturing Scotch, including some irreplaceable casks sourced from long-closed ‘ghost’ distilleries.

Johnnie Walker Global Brand Director, Jennifer English, says: “James Jean’s stunning snake design represents transformation and resilience, reflecting both the legacy of our brand and the promise of the future. We’re excited to commemorate the Year of the Snake with this remarkable, Limited Edition design that is perfect for celebrating this year’s festival.”

James has also designed incredible illustrations for the Lunar New Year John Walker & Sons XR 21 Year Old Limited Edition Design. Johnnie Walker Lunar New Year Limited Edition Designs are available in selected markets globally.

THIS ARTICLE APPEARS HERE WELL AFTER THE ORIGINAL DATE AND IS PUBLISHED HERE AS A MATTER OF INTEREST

Diageo North America Announces New Manufacturing and Warehousing Facility in Alabama

Significant investment to bring approximately 100 jobs to the City of Montgomery when facility is operational, and an additional 750 jobs during construction

Montgomery, AL – [January, 2025] – As part of its efforts to build an increasingly resilient and efficient supply network, premium drinks company Diageo North America announced plans to open a new manufacturing and warehousing facility in Montgomery, Alabama. The 360,000 square foot facility will have a multi-million case annual production capacity for Diageo’s leading beverage alcohol brands. This site will enhance the company’s North America supply chain operations and support future growth for the company’s export business.

The new facility, which will be referred to as ‘Diageo Montgomery,’ will provide a new point of operations closer to the company’s beverage distributors in the southern region. The site’s strategic location is expected to reduce required road travel, significantly helping to further mitigate carbon emissions associated with logistics operations. The new facility will also employ state-of-the-art technology for more efficient water and energy usage across the site.

“We are proud to contribute to the economic development of Montgomery, and deeply grateful to the city, state, and community leaders for their continued support,” said Marsha McIntosh, President of North America Supply at Diageo. “The new facility will not only bring our business closer to our customers and distributors in the south, but also enable our broader supply network to operate more efficiently and sustainably. This investment underscores our commitment to building greater resiliency into our supply chain across North America.”

“Diageo’s decision to open a state-of-the-art facility in Montgomery is a testament to Alabama’s ability to attract world-class companies and foster meaningful economic growth,” said Alabama Governor Kay Ivey. “This production and distribution hub not only brings high-quality jobs to our state but also reinforces Alabama’s reputation as a premier location for global investment. We are proud to welcome Diageo to Alabama and look forward to the positive impact this project will have on Montgomery and beyond.”

This project is part of a broader multi-year program across multiple geographies to strengthen the company’s global supply chain by improving its resilience and agility, delivering additional productivity savings and making its operations more sustainable.

Investing in Alabama

With an investment of approximately $415 million, development of Diageo Montgomery is currently underway, and the site is expected to be fully operational in the second half of calendar year 2025. Approximately 750 jobs will be created during the construction phase and, once operational, the facility will employ approximately 100 full-time personnel.

“Diageo’s investment in a new production facility is a significant step forward for Montgomery, Montgomery County, and the state, reinforcing our position as a leader in industrial and logistics growth. This new facility will create valuable jobs and further enhance economic opportunities throughout our region,” said Mayor Steven L. Reed of the City of Montgomery. “We are proud to work alongside Diageo, the Montgomery Chamber, Montgomery County, and our other partners to ensure the success of this facility and the lasting positive impact it will have on our citizens. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to building a stronger future for our community.”

“We are honored to have Diageo choose Montgomery County for their new production facility,” said Doug Singleton, Chairman of the Montgomery County Commission. “This is a significant investment in our community, further strengthening the growing concentration of food and beverage businesses in the region. Montgomery County’s position as a logistics hub makes it an ideal location for companies like Diageo, whose presence here will create valuable synergies with other businesses. We are excited for the future and the lasting economic impact this investment will bring to our region.”

As part of a broader initiative to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), Diageo has invested $750,000 across three Alabama institutions: Alabama A&M, Alabama State University, and Tuskegee University. The company has provided scholarships and financial support to future leaders at the institutions.

About Diageo North America

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: DGE) and their products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, their people, brands, and performance, visit www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Follow on Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA.

GreatDrams Officially… WORLD’S BEST ! – Scotch Whisky News

GreatDrams Officially… WORLD’S BEST !

GreatDrams’ Campbeltown Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Crowned World’s Best Blended Malt at 2025 World Whiskies Awards

In a triumph that has the whisky world raising its glasses, GreatDrams’ Campbeltown Blended Malt Scotch Whisky has been named the World’s Best Blended Malt at the prestigious 2025 World Whiskies Awards. This accolade cements GreatDrams’ reputation for crafting exceptional, sought-after whiskies.

The award-winning expression is a harmonious blend of single malts from distilleries within Scotland’s renowned Campbeltown region. Limited to just 157 bottles in batch one, this rare release has captivated whisky enthusiasts with its subtle smoke, vanilla, and toffee notes. The whisky’s profile has been described as having “marshmallow, cream soda, and sugar syrup aromas,” leading to “a lovely mouthfeel, with flavours of vanilla, soft fudge, and a hint of lemon zest alongside malty cereals,” culminating in “a big, peppery finish.”

Greg Dillon, co-founder of GreatDrams, expressed his delight: “Winning this award is like finding the perfect harmony in a dram—it’s music to our palates and a testament to our dedication to quality and innovation.”

Kirsty Dillon, co-founder, added: “We’re over the moon! This recognition not only honours our passion but also shines a spotlight on the rich heritage of Campbeltown whisky. Time to crack open a bottle and celebrate!”

Whisky aficionados eager to experience this award-winning dram can find more details and secure their bottle at the links below.

We have been asked to release a Campbeltown for YEARS so to be finally able to and to have already won two of the biggest awards at the World Whiskies Awards with it… well… that’s a solid result eh?!

We have to call this a blended malt as it has been Teaspooned with another malt whisky so it cannot be called a Single Malt but it is in fact 99.9999999% from one distillery… which asked not to be named… Think Campbeltown… think iconic… think cult status… think anagrams of (a) legion (of) cats. Did we say too much? Uh oh.

Thanks as always for your support, kind messages and all the time you take to talk whisky with us online and at events, it means a lot and we will never take it for granted,

Slàinte, cheers!

Greg and Kirsty Dillon, Founders of GreatDrams.com


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