Kentucky Distilleries and Precision Conservation Management Join Forces to Enhance Regenerative Corn Farming Practices throughout Commonwealth

FRANKFORT, KY.— Four leading spirits companies and the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) are joining forces with Precision Conservation Management (PCM) and the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KCGA) to launch a five-year, $2.8 million initiative for Kentucky corn farmers. Together, Kentucky distillers are providing tools for corn farmers to successfully implement proven practices that will support the long-term resilience of the state’s historic agricultural community while providing economic and sustainable value to regenerative agriculture in Bourbon and distilling.

The collaborative Kentucky partnership, formed by Brown-Forman, Diageo North America, Heaven Hill Brands and Suntory Global Spirits, will support farmers by hiring additional conservation specialists to maximize management education beginning in 2025. PCM will work with farmers in the central Kentucky region to implement regenerative corn growing practices on more than one hundred thousand acres throughout five years. With these practices and new on-farm resources, the goal is to ease administrative burdens and identify economic and environmental benefits that can be scaled.

“Farmers are spread thin and are already making hundreds of management decisions each year. They want to do a good job, but face time constraints and decision fatigue when it comes to analyzing data and making changes,” said Greg Goodwin, Director of PCM. “Our specialists work hand-in-hand with farmers to identify opportunities to improve the health of their farmland and success of their operation. We are grateful for our partnership with the KDA and Kentucky distilleries as we make these great ideas a reality by supporting our farmers in effective, regenerative practices — a win-win for our industries.”

“Having worked closely with PCM since 2015, I have seen how helpful this program has been to my on-farm decision making. I routinely work with my conservation specialist to analyze data and confirm the economic benefits of decisions I have made to adopt new practices and innovate for the environment,” shared Joseph Sisk, Sisk Farms, Christian County. “PCM has also helped me better understand how our practices are closely tied to the supply chain and allows my markets and end-users to trust that our crops will support their sustainability objectives.”

Eric Gregory, KDA President, shared, “With much of our distillers’ corn being produced in Kentucky, we see the massive impact that Bourbon has on Kentucky’s ag climate. As these four distilleries unite to support regenerative corn growing practices, I look forward to seeing how new resources and incentives can further propel our local farmers without impacting our bottom line.”

The collaborative effort will also expand PCM’s efforts in Kentucky to benchmark individual farm financials against an anonymized, regional and statewide dataset in an annual Resource Analysis and Assessment Plan. This will be utilized by farmers to understand where they can profitably implement conservation practices. This service is free to farmers, and they will receive a sign-on incentive for their time. The participating KDA distillery partners will provide additional acre-based incentives to corn growers adopting reduced tillage, cover crops, and maximizing their nitrogen use efficiency to reduce the impact of corn production within the Bourbon supply chain.

Together, PCM and the KCGA aid farmers in making economically viable conservation decisions by providing a comprehensive range of data and personalized, expert consultations with PCM’s conservation specialists. To learn more about the program, please visit www.precisionconservation.org

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

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

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™ and KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® are trademarks/service marks owned by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. About Precision Conservation Management (PCM): Precision Conservation Management (PCM) is the premier conservation program of the IL Corn Growers Association, initiated through funding by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service – Regional Conservation Partnership Program. PCM provides data-driven conservation recommendations and on-the-ground support for farmers in Illinois, Nebraska and Kentucky. For further information regarding their work, visit their website www.precisionconservation.org.

About Brown-Forman Corporation: Brown-Forman Corporation has been building exceptional spirits brands for more than 150 years, responsibly upholding our founding promise of “Nothing Better in the Market.” Our portfolio of premium brands includes the Jack Daniel’s Family of Brands, Woodford Reserve, Herradura, el Jimador, Korbel, New Mix, Old Forester, The Glendronach, Glenglassaugh, Benriach, Diplomático Rum, Chambord, Gin Mare, Fords Gin, Slane, and Coopers’ Craft. With a team of approximately 5,700 employees worldwide, we proudly share our passion for premium beverages in more than 170 countries. Discover more about us at brown-forman.com and stay connected through LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.

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 at Twitter and Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA 

About Heaven Hill Brands: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producer and marketer, the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, and a 2024 Best Managed Company as appointed by Deloitte Private and the Wall Street Journal. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Heaven Hill, Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, Old Fitzgerald, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the Samson & Surrey portfolio. Heaven Hill reminds everyone to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely®.

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

Toast the Bard with this multi-award-winning Scotch for under £40

As the world prepares to celebrate the life and work of Scottish poet, Robert Burns, on Saturday 25 January, Tomatin Distillery has recommended its Legacy single malt as the ideal dram to toast Scotland’s national bard this Burns Night.

Priced at only £36.50, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a drop of Scotland for less.

One of Scotland’s most recognisable historical figures, Burns’ legacy and influence can still be felt more than 200 years later. Holding a similar legacy in Scotch production, Tomatin Distillery has a proud heritage dating back to the 15th century. It has been a home for the whisky-making team’s dedicated craftsmen and their families since the current distillery was established in 1897.

Raise a glass of Tomatin Legacy this Burns Night – an exceptional single malt with history and heritage at its core. 

Tomatin Legacy single malt whisky (70cl, 43% ABV, £36.50)

An exceptional single malt Scotch whisky which celebrates the legacy of Tomatin Distillery and the enduring spirit of its people.

Once established in 1897 in the heart of the idyllic yet isolated village of Tomatin, the distillery needed a workforce to manage production; the local inhabitants were scattered shepherds and cattle drovers. The company began a construction project to accommodate its workforce and since then, the distillery has been at the heart of the community. Today, Tomatin is one of the few remaining distilleries which provides homes on site for the dedicated craftspeople who distil its single malt whisky. Legacy is a nod to this story.

This unpeated single malt boasts aromas of vanilla bean, white chocolate and cinnamon. Time spent in bourbon barrels and virgin oak casks brings a light sweetness to Tomatin Legacy, with a palate of gentle waves of fresh fruit peppered with ginger leading into a light, clean finish. 

Tomatin Legacy Tasting Notes

• Nose – Opens with a burst of bourbon barrel sweetness – aromas of custard cream biscuits, white chocolate, vanilla bean, white sugar and golden syrup, before hints of sandalwood, desiccated coconut and cinnamon give a nod to the use of virgin American oak.
• Palate – Waves of sweet vanilla and fresh fruit with a gentle touch of white pepper and ginger. The quality of the Tomatin spirit is on full display here, with Pink Lady apples, rhubarb, and candied orange peel.
• Finish – Fruit and oak combine to create a clean yet intriguing finish.

Available at https://tomatin.com/shop and specialist whisky retailers.

Notes 

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.

‘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/

How Johnnie Walker Ultra took a leap into the future

The launch of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra in September caused quite a wave. Luxury in look and feel, 70cl in volume but weighing in at only 180g, it’s a boundary-breaking innovation. But with less than 900 being made, the question might be: why? Jeremy Lindley, Diageo’s Global Design Director has answered this and shown how luxury design innovation can feed the hunger for carbon savings.

Jeremy Lindley and his team have had input into almost every design project at Diageo over the last 18 years.

However, the unveiling of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra last month is perhaps a career highlight – a challenge to create glass packaging for Blue Label that is not only luxury but ultra lightweight and is what we believe to be the world’s lightest whisky glass bottle.

Here he explains more about his role, the Ultra project and how lightweighting in luxury can have a major impact in all parts of the industry.

Jeremy Lindley, Global Design Director, Diageo

“We drink first with our eyes…”

The Design team’s role is to grow Diageo’s capability and output in design. Over time we’ve been able to help the company understand how design can be a growth driver for the business.

Consumers make their decisions based on emotions… and we drink first with our eyes. Of course, then the taste has to be fabulous! My job is to help people understand the importance of visual appeal, of beauty and emotional connection – and then help deliver that.

It is important that all of our products look amazing, but the further you go into luxury the more critical our input becomes.

Execution is really important as well, and we really know how to properly use production techniques like embossing and foiling and all those things that you wouldn’t explicitly notice, but add to the premium feel.

Making Blue Label Ultra…

As a premium drinks company, we’re always thinking about the future of luxury. We observed some brands and luxury categories were starting to move away from ostentatious into understated, more lightweight packaging and products. So, we asked the question, instead of luxury being heavy, what if it was light, delicate, beautiful, and then, of course, you get the carbon benefits from that as well.
We started off brand agnostic – but then Johnnie Walker did become the focus. Blue Label is our iconic, global luxury brand and I loved the challenge of exploring how luxury can also be light and not always heavy.

Teardrop in the fire…

The first thing we did was discover from glass blowers that the lightest, strongest glass bottle you can make is a teardrop shape. It’s the the natural shape that a gob of glass takes under gravity’.

Glass is an amazing material to work with, it’s made from readily available raw materials (mostly sand), can be infinitely recycled and it’s inert – having no impact on the flavour of what you put in the bottle. But it takes a lot of energy to heat sand to 1500 degrees and mould to the viscosity like honey. You can’t control where the glass goes – it flows where it wants to under gravity. You have to make the glass thick enough to be sufficiently strong all over so it’s strong enough at its thinnest point.

Having first hand-blown the glass into this teardrop shape where the wall thickness is even all round, then we started asking, how could we play with the shape? What aspects of the Johnnie Walker bottle shape can I add in? So we added Johnnie Walker neck, shoulders and hinted at the squareness without adding weight. We had to keep the rounded base, which is one of the things that makes it impossible for mass manufacture.

While created very thin, the Ultra bottle still used a mould

Just keep walking…

At multiple points through the process, I had people tell me that it was impossible to achieve a bottle this weight. Initially, people said you can’t get below 400 grams. And then over time, I was told 300 grams was too challenging. We pushed and pushed and kept making bottles lighter until they broke. The backing and support from the business was fantastic, the patience to keep going until we found the lightest bottle that would still pass our safety checks.

Releasing the patent…

It’s standard practice to register our design work and to examine if we have come up with an idea that is sufficiently novel to be granted a patent. And it took us five years of designing, testing and learning to get it right. And now we want to share the knowledge with the wider industry so anyone can use them and can start to build the lightweighting elements into their designs – as a general rule when glass is lighter, there’s a carbon reduction benefit. We hope that by releasing the patent we will not just make an impact on our own products but on the whole glass industry.

The future of light weighting glass…

Due to the craftmanship in hand-blowing and hand filling the bottles, it limits the number of bottles we can sell. But the great thing is that getting to this extreme light weight has taught us so much and we are already applying the learnings to our core portfolio and finding ways to take significant weight out.

One of the analogies I’ve used is that the process has been like creating a concept car. Manufacturers put all of their latest tech into a very limited number of handmade concept cars to stretch their learning. And then later they think, how do we apply this to our mass-produced cars? For this project we stripped away every requirement other than consumer safety. That has allowed us to achieve the world’s lightest 70cl glass whisky bottle and then the learnings have taught us how to design out weight. Going to the extreme has taught us so much more about glass lightweighting, rather than just learning about shaving little bits of weight off the bottle.

Victoria’s Macaloney’s Island Distillery wins CANADIAN WHISKY OF THE YEAR at 2025 CANADIAN WHISKY AWARDS

In all, 45 Canadian whisky producers were honoured at the prestigious 15th annual event

VICTORIA, B.C. (January 17, 2025) – Macaloney’s Island Distillery took home Canadian Whisky of the Year honours for its Peat Project Moscatel Barrique single malt, at the 2025 Canadian Whisky Awards, held Thursday, January 16, in Victoria, B.C. The 100% malted barley whisky received the top overall score from a panel of 14 judges, who tasted and scored around 200 competing whiskies in blind tastings.

The whisky was distilled using local barley and peat-smoked at the distillery, then matured in a European Moscatel wine barrique. “This remarkably well-balanced whisky, fully matured while brightly youthful, shows a tightly woven interplay of sweet malt, discrete fruitiness, brisk peppers and of course, peat smoke,” says Davin de Kergommeaux, chair of the judging panel and author of Canadian Whisky: The Essential Portable Expert.

De Kergommeaux added: “Canada’s distillers are bringing new practices, sensibilities and flavours to the Canadian whisky landscape, and now, for the first time ever, a Canadian peated single malt whisky distillery has won Canadian Whisky of the Year.”

Canadian Whisky of the Year was just one of more than two dozen awards presented at this year’s 15^th annual edition of the Canadian Whisky Awards. A selection of the honours includes:

• Alternative Grain Whisky of the Year – Wayne Gretzky Distillery Single Grain Oats – Craftsmanship Series
• Blended Whisky of the Year – Signal Hill Founders Select Overproof Whisky
• Corn Whisky of the Year – Bearface Triple Oak Canadian Whisky
• Best Barrel Finished Whisky and Limited Expression – Bridgeland Distillery Glenbow, Canadian Single Malt Whisky, Port Finish
• Rye Whisky of the Year – Sons of Vancouver Distillery Realms of Rye – Release No. 01 ‘Citrus & Botanicals’
• Best Whisky, International Market – Crown Royal Hand Selected Barrel
• Best Whisky Aged 9-15 Years – Alberta Distillers Rare Batch Issue No.1
• Best Cask Strength Whisky – Two Brewers Release 45
• Brand Ambassador of the Year – Chris Thompson, Forty Creek
• Best Whisky Broadcast, Podcast, or Video Series – Mark Gillespie, WhiskyCast

Held annually since 2010 during Victoria Whisky Festival, the Canadian Whisky Awards recognizes the very best Canadian whiskies. An independent panel of experts scores each whisky in blind tastings, based on ranking criteria that reflect the industry’s highest standards.

The Canadian Whisky Awards is fully independent of the Canadian whisky industry. Only whiskies that were distilled and matured in Canada are eligible to compete. The Canadian Whisky Awards Gala in Victoria is grateful to this year’s presenting sponsor, Spirits Canada.

For more information and the full results of the 2025 Canadian Whisky Awards, visit canadianwhiskyawards.com.

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES BALANCE DISTILLING COMPANY AS NEWEST MEMBER

VETERAN-OWNED DISTILLERY TO REVIVE MAMMOTH CAVE BOURBON

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Balance Distilling Company in Warren County as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

A veteran-owned and operated distillery, Luke Jean founded Balance Distilling in 2020 and began production in 2022. Starting with batches of rum, gin, moonshine and whiskey, Balance is resurrecting the historic Mammoth Cave Bourbon brand that dates back to the 1860s.

The brand will also be found at The Lodge at Mammoth Cave, where many visitors who have traveled to experience the world’s longest cave system begin their journey. This partnership will highlight the history of local moonshiners who have used intricate cave systems throughout Kentucky for generations.

Located at 3558 Bohannon Road in Smiths Grove, the distillery has the ability to produce 5,000 proof gallons annually. Balance Distilling is currently the only operating distillery in Warren County, which began allowing legal alcohol sales in 2019.

A public affairs officer with the Army Reserve and a graduate of Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Jean said joining the KDA is a significant moment that symbolizes upward growth for Balance Distilling and the Western Kentucky region.

“We built our distillery and revived an important Bourbon brand on the heritage and legacy of one of the great wonders of the world — Mammoth Cave,” he said. “Our products and our business will continue to build on those attributes, integrating what we learn from our new Bourbon family with the KDA.”

KDA President Eric Gregory said, “We are thrilled to welcome Balance Distilling as our newest member and a shining example of how Bourbon curiosity continues to drive new tourism, new businesses, new jobs, and new opportunities to communities across the Commonwealth.”

As proof of how Bourbon Builds Kentucky®, Gregory said the Western Kentucky region now features 18 distilleries responsible for 1,300 jobs carrying an $80 million payroll, generating $443 million in annual economic impact and $10 million in local and state tax revenue.

Learn more about Balance Distilling Company at www.balancedistilling.com.

Balance Distilling Company joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 1,000 barrels per year. The KDA now has over 120 members, including 70 distilling members and more than 50 industry partner and champion members.

Visit the KDA and its Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com for more information and details on how to join the KDA’s growing Bourbon family.

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

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

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

Town Branch®️ Releases Oldest Ever Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt Whiskey

Availability Limited to Select Markets and Town Branch Distillery

LEXINGTON, Ky, December 18, 2024— Town Branch Distillery, the primary distilling operation of Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.—the only brewery and distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®—is proud to announce the inaugural release of its Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey Archive Series. This multi-year collection will feature some of the oldest American Single Malt Whiskey in the world, all distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky under bond by Town Branch Distillery in Lexington.

The first release, Town Branch 15-Year Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey Archive Series Vol. 1 is the oldest Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt Whiskey ever made. It will be available at Town Branch Distillery and in select states across the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $399.99 for a 750ml bottle.

Town Branch®️ Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey Archive Series

In 2009, Dr. Pearse Lyons, the visionary founder of Town Branch Distillery, commissioned a select number of Single Malt whiskey barrels, crafted from 100% malted barley and distilled in a single season by one distiller. These special barrels were hand-selected to form the Town Branch Archive Series, showcasing some of the oldest American Single Malt Whiskey in the world. Each annual release, starting in 2024 and continuing through 2030, honors the rich legacy of the Lyons family in brewing, distilling, and cooperage. Bottled-in-Bond, 100 Proof, Non-Chill Filtered, and Single Barrel, every bottling a one-of-a-kind experience and a testament to generations of craftsmanship.

After tasting each barrel allocated to the project in late July 2024, their 15th birthday, our team selected Barrel Serial Number 222, filled on July 2, 2009 (lot date 09G02) to represent the inaugural 15-Year-Old release as Archive Series Vol 1. This barrel embodies the perfect balance between American Whiskey and Single Malt Whiskey, with a rich, robust flavor profile enhanced by extended aging in former Kentucky bourbon barrels. It serves as an ideal starting point for this historic series of single malt whiskey releases, which we’re excited to share over the coming years.

Each release includes a collector’s coin minted to commemorate the Archive Series. These tokens are more than just keepsakes; they offer exclusive access to your experience at Town Branch Distillery. As a coin holder, you are entitled to unlimited free tours for life, making you a cherished part of our family.

“When you select our special single malt whiskey release, you became part of our family’s traditions and legacy. It’s personal – and a privilege to share it with you,” says Mark Lyons, owner and the 7th generation of the Lyons family in the brewing, distilling, and cooperage industries.

Simply present your Collector’s Coin upon arrival to enjoy lifetime tour privileges, along with exclusive benefits reserved for our extended family. No prior booking is necessary—we always welcome you with open arms.

Town Branch®️ 15-Year Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Single Malt Whiskey Archive Series Vol. 1 (SRP $399.99/750ml)

• The oldest Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt Whiskey ever released. This age-stated, 100-proof Bottled-in-Bond whiskey is a Single Malt and Single Barrel expression, highly limited in availability. Volume 1 is the first release in an Archive Series collection, with each bottling including a collector’s coin and display box. Distilled and bottled in Lexington, Kentucky.
• Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
• Barrel Info: Serial Number 222 / Lot Date 09G02 (barrel filled July 2, 2009)
• Age: 15-Years in former Kentucky Bourbon barrels
• ABV: 50% / 100 Proof
• Estimated Availability: 108 bottles / 3pk cases
• Tasting Notes:
  • Appearance: Golden Amber
  • Aroma: Ripe Dried Fruit, Raisin, Plums, Candy Green Apple, Citrus, Floral, Brown Sugar, Wood Shavings, Oak Spices and Candied Pecans
  • Palate: Spiced Bread, Herbal Tea, Mature Oak, Cloves, Peppercorn, Stewed Apples, Caramel, Honey, and Melon
  • Finish: Leather, Salty, Citrus & Dried Spices

About the Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.:

Located in Lexington, Kentucky, Lexington Brewing Co. was originally established in 1890 and revitalized in 1999 by the late Pearse Lyons and his son Mark Lyons, evolving into Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. with the addition of Town Branch Distillery. Pearse Lyons was a pioneering Irish entrepreneur and scientist with a master’s degree in brewing and a Ph.D. in yeast fermentation. He also founded Alltech, a global leader in animal health and nutrition. Today, both Alltech and Lexington Brewing & Distilling are led by his son, Mark Lyons, who represents the seventh generation of the Lyons family in the brewing, distilling, and cooperage industry. Lexington Brewing & Distilling is renowned for its Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale® and Town Branch Distillery, which is a proud member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. Committed to sustainability, every emptied barrel is upcycled from the distillery to the brewery to create exceptional beer and spirits. For more information, visit www.lexingtonbrewingco.com, or join the conversation Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

About Town Branch Distillery:

Located in Lexington, Kentucky, Town Branch Distillery is notable as the first new distillery to open in the city since Prohibition. It is part of Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., the only brewery and distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®️. The distillery produces several acclaimed spirits, including Town Branch Bourbon, Town Branch True Cask Bourbon, Town Branch Overproof Whiskey, Town Branch Rye, Town Branch Malt, and Bluegrass Sundown, a Bourbon-infused coffee liqueur. Town Branch upcycles every used barrel to craft a variety of whiskeys and barrel-aged beers, such as Lexington’s flagship Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale. This process ensures each barrel’s legacy continues within our diverse product line. For more details, visit www.lexingtonbrewingco.com, or join the conversation Facebook or Instagram.

About Kentucky®️ Barrel-Aged Beers:

Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., the only brewery and distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®️, specializes in the art of barrel-aging beer. As one of the largest barrel-aged beer brands globally, Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. leverages its access to freshly decanted Kentucky Bourbon barrels to craft a unique style of beer. Offerings include the renowned Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale®, Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Imperial Milk Stout, Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Kentucky Pumpkin Barrel Ale, and a selection of Kentucky® Barrel-Aged Seasonal and Specialty releases. Upcycling its own bourbon barrels enhances the quality of its barrel-aged beers with a distinct character that sets them apart from other breweries in America. For more information, visit www.lexingtonbrewingco.com, or join the conversation Facebook or Instagram.

About Alltech:

Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons and now led by his son Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech is a global leader in agriculture, committed to providing smarter and more sustainable solutions. With over 40 years of scientific research backing its work, Alltech offers a diverse range of products and services designed to enhance the health and performance of plants and animals. This, in turn, leads to improved nutrition, reduced environmental impact, and advanced innovation in the field. Alltech’s portfolio includes specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed, and biologicals, all underpinned by a strong scientific foundation and a commitment to adaptability. As a private, family-owned company, Alltech emphasizes quick responses to customer needs and fosters a unique, entrepreneurial culture. Headquartered near Lexington, Kentucky, Alltech operates in over 120 countries with five bioscience centers and more than 80 manufacturing facilities worldwide. Their mission, encapsulated in their purpose of “Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™,” focuses on providing nutrition for all, revitalizing local economies, and replenishing the planet’s natural resources. For more information, visit www.alltech.com, or join the conversation on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Lochlea Distillery appoints award-winning Master Blender Jill Boyd

Farm-to-cask Ayrshire distillery Lochlea is delighted to announce the appointment of Jill Boyd as their new Master Blender.

Boyd, originally from Elgin, is an award-winning blender who previously worked at William Grant & Sons as a Laboratory Analyst, before joining Compass Box as Whisky Maker and Brand Ambassador in 2017.

In 2020 she was awarded the title of Master Blender of the Year at the Scottish Icons of Whisky Awards.

In her new role, Boyd will oversee the creation of all new Lochlea whiskies, as well as maintaining current award-winning spirit standards.

On joining Lochlea, Jill said: “I am so thrilled to become part of the incredible team at Lochlea. With passion and enthusiasm at the heart of everything they do, I cannot wait to contribute to their journey and help to shape the future of their exceptional whisky.”

Owner of Lochlea, Neil McGeoch, adds: “I am very excited that the opportunity arose for Jill to join the Lochlea team as our Master Blender. Her breadth, depth of experience, and her success in blending at Compass Box in particular, gives me great confidence that Lochlea whisky is in very good hands.”

About Lochlea Distillery:

Lochlea was originally a 222-acre livestock farm before being purchased by Neil and Jen McGeoch in 2006. After much consideration of the future of the farm and a successful trial to grow its own barley in 2015, the couple transformed the land and existing farm buildings into a fully operational distillery in 2017 and started distilling the following year. The farming side has remained a unique part of Lochlea, with the move into barley production – paving the way for Lochlea to be one of the very few fully grain-to-cask distilleries in Scotland. It also has a rich Scottish heritage with strong links to Robbie Burns, with the bard having worked and lived on the farm a several years.

Lochlea Distillery has recently won the following awards:

– Our Barley: Platinum (Las Vegas Global Spirit Awards)

– Our Barley: Gold (Great British Food Awards)

Kamiki Shuzo Co. is excited to introduce ITS PRIVATE CASK Japanese Single Malt Program

Kamiki Shuzo Co. offers a rare opportunity to own one of only 24 casks from our distillation. This exclusive program celebrates the artistry and heritage of Kamiki Whisky, offering an exclusive opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to craft their own unique masterpieces.

As part of this exclusive release, the whisky will be first aged in ex-bourbon barrels before being split and finished in Yoshino Sugi Japanese cedar barrels, a process never before attempted in the whisky world for single cask malt whisky. Each cask will be assigned a unique ex-bourbon barrel number and corresponding Yoshino Sugi barrel number, ensuring complete traceability and authenticity.

This groundbreaking method delivers an unparalleled fusion of vanilla, and cedar influences, creating a truly exceptional whisky experience.

Kamiki Japanese Single Malt Whisky, which is exclusively available in Japan, has already achieved remarkable success, with all stocks sold out and orders continuing to back up. This overwhelming demand highlights the extraordinary quality and uniqueness of Kamiki whisky, proving that the Kamiki Single Cask Program offers a rare and exceptional opportunity for enthusiasts to own a truly unparalleled masterpiece.

About Kamiki Shuzo Co.

Kamiki Shuzo Co. is more than just a distillery. The Kamiki Shuzo Distillery stands as a testament to tradition and modernity, housed in a beautifully restored building over 100 years old. Nestled in the serene highlands of Sonimura, this historic site embodies the rich heritage of Nara.

For Further Information Please Contact:

info@kamikiwhisky.com / www.kamikiwhisky.com /

Kamiki Shuzo Co., Nara Distillery 奈良県宇陀郡曾爾村山粕163

Loch Lomond Group concludes another remarkable year, securing more than 100 awards and Master Blender honoured with prestigious Keeper of the Quaich

Michael Henry, Loch Lomond Group’s Master Blender, has been awarded a prestigious Keeper of the Quaich, the Scottish distiller has announced.

Michael has led the whisky blending team at the independent distiller, which has been producing the finest single malts since 1814, for the last nine years.

Growing up near Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland, whisky was woven into the fabric of Michael’s community. Both his father and grandfather enjoyed a dram, and it was their enthusiasm for and interest in whisky which inspired his lifelong passion from an early age.

A graduate of Heriot-Watt’s brewing and distilling course, he joined to Loch Lomond Group in 2007 as a warehouse manager, before taking on the role of Master Blender in 2015.

Since then, Michael has been behind a shift which has seen the Loch Lomond Group propel itself into the heart of the finest Scotch in the world. Today, he has oversight on the liquid production of multiple brands including Littlemill, Glen Scotia, Loch Lomond Whiskies, Spearhead, and Noble Rebel.

Michael and his team’s dedication to the craft has continued to be recognised in multiple industry awards, with Loch Lomond Group being awarded more than 100 awards this year alone.

These have included Most Awarded Scotch Distillery at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), where the business took home 14 awards this year; Best Single Malt Producer at this year’s International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), and entry into the Hall of Fame after being crowned superior gold at the Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition.

Keeper of the Quaich is one of the highest recognitions in the drinks sector, awarded only to individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the heritage and future of Scotch whisky. The ceremony took place at Blair Castle in Perthshire last month.

Bill White, Group Operations Director, Loch Lomond Group, said: “This is a real testament to all Michael has achieved in his career, but especially over the last almost 20 years where he has worked at Loch Lomond Group. We are ever impressed by his craftsmanship and abilities to work across such as wide portfolio of liquids, and this is demonstrated through our multi-award-winning brands. I am so pleased to see Michael recognised as one of the best of the best in the Scotch industry.”

Michael Henry added: “I am deeply honoured to be named a Keeper of the Quaich. It’s a personal accomplishment, but it also reflects the incredible team at Loch Lomond Group and all the work we have achieved, making our distilleries some of the most interesting in the world. We are committed to creating something special, and I am very proud to be part of the journey.”

The Keepers of the Quaich is an international society which was established by the Scotch whisky industry to celebrate the outstanding commitment of those involved in the production, promotion, and protection of the world’s finest distilled spirit.

The Quaich, a traditional Scottish drinking vessel, symbolises friendship and the shared enjoyment of Scotland’s national drink.

About the Loch Lomond Group

Loch Lomond Group is an independent distiller based in Alexandria and is home to several award-winning brands that are sold in more than 125 countries worldwide.  It has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814.

Images and interviews with key staff from the Group are available upon request.

www.lochlomondgroup.com

Edrington announces Board leadership transition

Edrington, the ultra-premium spirits company, today announces the retirement of its Chair, Crawford Gillies and the appointment of his successor, Angus Cockburn.

Mr Gillies will step down from the Edrington board on 31^st March 2025 after eight years’ service. During his tenure Edrington has seen sustained growth, with highlights including the opening of the new distillery at The Macallan in 2018 and core revenue rising to over £1 billion.

Mr Cockburn is a Chartered Accountant with an MBA from the IMD Business School in Switzerland and is an Honorary Professor at the University of Edinburgh. Prior to joining the Edrington Board as a Non-Executive Director in September 2020 he had a highly successful career as a CFO, senior finance officer and Non-Executive Director with several major international companies.

He was Chief Financial Officer of Serco Group plc and before that, CFO of Aggreko plc. He is currently Chair of James Fisher & Sons plc, Senior Independent Director of Ashtead Group plc and a Non-Executive Director of BAE Systems plc.

Mr Gillies said: “It has been a privilege to chair Edrington and to witness the growth and resilience of the company and its world class portfolio of ultra-premium spirits. I have been impressed by the Giving More charitable ethos that is at the heart of the unique culture and values demonstrated by its extraordinary people around the world.

“I wish Angus every success in his role as Chair of Edrington and know his background as one of the UK’s most experienced CFOs and Non-Executive Directors will be invaluable to Edrington in the coming years.”

Mr Cockburn commented: “It is an honour to be taking over from Crawford as Chair of Edrington, a unique business that has such a clear purpose in that it competes globally with some of the world’s best-known brands whilst being owned by a charitable trust, The Robertson Trust, and plays a significant role in Scotland’s economy.

“Crawford leaves the business in good health, and I look forward to supporting the Executive Team as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Scott McCroskie, Edrington CEO, said: “Crawford has been an outstanding Chair, helping to steer the company through a period of significant growth despite volatile trading conditions. The Board and Executive Team are grateful for his dedicated service and the positive impact he has had on Edrington during his tenure. On a personal level I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Crawford and have learned a lot from him.

“Angus has been a great support to the business as a Non-Executive Director for the past four years and we are all delighted to welcome him as Chair as Edrington faces into a more challenging trading environment.”

About Edrington

The Edrington Group Limited, trading as Edrington, is a privately owned international spirits company based in Glasgow, Scotland. It produces single malts such as The Macallan, Highland Park, The Glenrothes, Naked Malt, and The Famous Grouse blended Scotch whisky.