NEW Booker’s Batch #3 – The Master Distiller’s Batch

The third release of the Booker’s® Bourbon 2024 Collection is Booker’s Batch 2024 03 “Master Distillers Batch.” This batch is named in honor of a group of distillers I admire greatly. Their work in the late 80s and early 90s helped America fall back in love with bourbon and made the industry what it is today.  This group was made up of legends like my dad, Booker Noe, and some of his peers at other distilleries during this time. These guys the “elder statesmen” as we call ‘em paved the way for Master Distillers to get recognized for their craft. They even became the very first class inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame. I remember once I was with my dad when they all met up in Chicago for a festival. We were catching up at a bar and to most of the people there, we were just six random guys drinking bourbon. But someone pointed us out to the bartender and said, “you’ve got bourbon royalty in here.” We all laughed and raised our glasses. While it’s true enough now, it wasn’t always like this.

Back in the day, being a Master Distiller just meant running the distillery. But these elder statesmen changed all that, raising the bar for all of us. The job went from spending every waking moment in the distillery, to traveling the world, all the while introducing people to our beloved bourbon. They became spokesmen and celebrities in their own right. They made the job as big as they were. I’ve looked up to these guys my whole life. They showed me the ropes of how to make great whiskey and built my love and respect for everything that goes into the craft. I’m proud to follow in their footsteps and honor them with this batch.

— FRED NOE, BEAM FAMILY 7TH GENERATION MASTER DISTILLER

The Master Distillers Batch is made up of two production dates stored in 4 different aging warehouses. The age is 7 years, 8 months, 7 days, and is 130.3 proof. 

The breakdown of barrel storage is as follows:

·      10% came from the 6th floor of 7-story warehouse Z

·      11% came from the 6th floor of 7-story warehouse 1

·      42% came from the 6th floor of 7-story warehouse 3

·      37% came from the 3rd floor of 9-story warehouse J

Booker’s Master Distiller’s Batch is now available nationwide in limited quantities with a suggested retail price of $99.99 for a 750 mL bottle.

DOUGLAS LAING’S BIG PEAT RELEASES 15^TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION BOTTLING

TO CELEBRATE 15 YEARS OF BIG PEAT

Award-winning Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Big Peat, today reveals this unique bottling in celebration of 15 Years.

Offered at an alcohol strength of 50% ABV, this Global Limited Edition has been predominantly matured in hand-selected Red Wine Casks providing a unique expression of the peated Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky.

This special edition of Big Peat has been released in a bespoke, giftable carton featuring 15 discoverable points surrounding Big Peat, the Isle of Islay and the unique Whisky itself. Also featured is a scannable QR code offering consumers the chance to join Big Peat’s Club with more to be announced in 2025.

Due to the maturation profile of this release, fans of Big Peat can expect a warming, earthy and smoke-led nose combined with black forest fruits and vanilla. The palate delivers toffee, dark chocolate and a subtle nuttiness followed by a long-lasting and lingering finish of dry peat smoke and home baking spice – a truly unique style of Big Peat to commemorate this occasion.

Celebrating 15 years of Big Peat is a truly special milestone for everyone at Douglas Laing, and there’s great excitement about what the future holds.

Commenting on the special edition bottling, Chloe Wood, Big Peat’s Brand Manager, said:

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating 15 successful years of Big Peat and to commemorate the occasion with this release is a special moment for us here at Douglas Laing.  

The Red Wine Casks hand-selected for this edition of Big Peat provide us with an entirely unique flavour profile and one that balances the classic Islay peat smoke that Big Peat is known for delivering, with the fruit-driven, chocolatey nuttiness that its slow maturation has provided.  

A dram to be savoured and a moment to be celebrated.” 

Big Peat’s 15^th Anniversary Bottling will be available from specialist Whisky retailers globally, plus online retailers from September 2024. It carries a suggested retail price of £65.00/€75.00.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distillery, blender and bottler specialising in the selection and release of Single Cask Single and Small Batch Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family – Fred Laing Jr and his daughter Cara Laing.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and without chill filtration to preserve the robust and unique character of the Whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards are a testament to this ethos.

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay).

Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old, Xtra Old Particular, and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.

Penelope Bourbon offers exclusive access to Founders Reserve

Fans get first access to Penelope’s most prestigious release from the Estate Collection

ST. LOUIS (Oct. 8, 2024) – Penelope Bourbon proudly announces the launch of its Founders Reserve List. By joining this exclusive list, our most dedicated fans will have a special opportunity to acquire these coveted bottles from the ultra-limited Founders Reserve, the rarest in Penelope’s Estate Collection. This exclusive offering grants early access to five unique lots of 11-year-old straight wheat whiskey, bottled at cask strength and available in very limited quantities. 

By joining the Founders Reserve List, fans will have the exclusive opportunity to secure one of these rare bottles for $199.99 each or acquire the entire five-lot set for $995.95. Reserved bottles will be available for pickup only at Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, between November 22 and December 21, 2024. To sign up, visit penelopebourbon.com/founders-reserve-pre-sale. 

To mark this special release, Penelope Bourbon founders Michael Paladini and Danny Polise will personally welcome guests on November 22 at Lux Row Distillers for the official Founders Reserve launch.

“Founders Reserve is one of our most special releases of the year. We created this product as a way to showcase rare and unique barrels we came across throughout our bourbon journey,” said Paladini. “We are excited to release 24 experimental barrels of 11-year-old 95% wheat whiskey from the Ross & Squibb Distillery for this year’s Founders Reserve.” 

Introducing Founders Reserve: A Rare Opportunity in the Estate Collection

Part of the Penelope Estate Collection, Founders Reserve features an 11-year-aged straight wheat whiskey with a mash bill of 95% wheat and 5% malted barley, aged in charred new American oak barrels at the historic Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. The Penelope team carefully selected barrels from the distillery’s renowned heritage, crafting five distinct lots, each offering a unique profile and bottled at cask strength.

“We have been looking forward to this release for some time,” said Polise. “Since first finding these barrels back in 2019, we’ve anxiously followed them as they aged and waited for the right time to dump each lot. Each lot is distinct in its character and offers something special for whiskey lovers.” 

Extremely Limited Production

Founders Reserve is a highly exclusive release, with some lots producing fewer than 300 bottles. The cask strength whiskey is bottled at varying proof points, ensuring that each lot delivers its own unique tasting experience:

• Lot B: 4 proof (59.2% ABV)
• Lot C: 6 proof (58.3% ABV)
• Lot D: 5 proof (54.75% ABV)
• Lot E: 6 proof (53.8% ABV)
• Lot F: 2 proof (54.1% ABV)  

Exclusive Packaging and Experience

Each bottle of Founders Reserve is presented in a luxurious dark green box, featuring gold-embossed Penelope Estate Collection branding. Inside, complete details for all five lots are listed, adding to the exclusivity of this release and making it a perfect keepsake for collectors and connoisseurs.

After the distillery release, any remaining bottles will be offered through e-commerce channels, but availability will be extremely limited.

“The Founders Reserve List allows our supporters to experience these rare bottles before they’re gone,” said Polise. “We’ve crafted something truly special, and we’re excited to share it first with all who have supported us along the journey.” 

ABOUT PENELOPE BOURBON

Founded in 2018, Penelope Bourbon has become one of the country’s fastest-growing whiskey brands. Named after founder Michael Paladini’s daughter, Penelope Bourbon offers a range of uniquely blended and finished straight bourbon and rye whiskey expressions, known for their smoothness and rich flavor, perfect for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails.

Penelope’s core expressions, including Four Grain, Barrel Strength, Architect, and Toasted Bourbon, have won more than 40 awards across the spirits industry. In 2024 alone, Penelope won Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for Barrel Strength and Toasted Rye, alongside innovation awards for limited releases such as Rio.

Penelope Bourbon continues to innovate within its Cooper Series, Limited Releases, and Estate Collection, further establishing its place among the top premium whiskey brands. Today, Penelope is available in 49 states and seven countries, proving that with passion, dedication, and love, anything is possible.

For more information, visit penelopebourbon.com or follow us on social media @penelopebourbon (Instagram/Facebook).

ANGEL’S ENVY® AND THE ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION CELEBRATE A DECADE OF IMPACT WITH 11TH ANNUAL TOAST THE TREES INITIATIVE

Since the program’s inception in 2014, ANGEL’S ENVY and the Arbor Day Foundation have replenished over 311,000 White Oak trees, which are estimated to prevent enough stormwater runoff to hydrate 213,710 people for a day, sequester 135,000 metric tons of CO2, and filter enough air to provide over 1.2 million people with breathable oxygen for a day over a projected 40-year period.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, Sept. 2024 — ANGEL’S ENVY®, the global brand that produces finished whiskeys at their Louisville-based distillery, and the Arbor Day Foundation, the world’s largest member nonprofit dedicated to planting trees, enter their 11th year of partnership for the annual Toast the Trees initiative, celebrating over a decade of impact. Since the program’s inception in 2014, ANGEL’S ENVY and the Arbor Day Foundation have planted over 311,000 White Oak trees. Based on 40-year estimates provided by the Arbor Day Foundation using the USDA Forest Service’s i-Tree tools, these trees are projected to help avoid 17.5 million gallons of water runoff (enough water to hydrate 213,710 people for one day), sequester 135,000 metric tons of CO₂, and remove 428 tons of air pollutants (filtering enough air to provide over 1.2 million people with breathable oxygen for a day). In Kentucky alone, more than 40,000 trees have been planted across 62 acres, leaving a lasting impact on this vital habitat.

“Working with the Arbor Day Foundation on the Toast the Trees initiative has been a remarkable journey ANGEL’S ENVY has been honored to be a part of,” said Gigi DaDan, General Manager of ANGEL’S ENVY. “Over the past decade, we’ve supported the bourbon industry’s need for a healthy White Oak population, and, most recently, helped local communities in dire need of trees in their city through our Urban Canopy restoration efforts. This program reflects our pride in being an American Whiskey brand made in the heart of downtown Louisville and we can’t wait to see the kind of impact we will continue to build for years to come.”

Each September, in honor of U.S. National Bourbon Heritage Month, Toast the Trees emphasizes the importance of planting trees, from urban canopy restoration to replenishing White Oak forests to support for a more sustainable future for all. Bourbon must legally be aged in new oak barrels, and the white oak tree is the most common type harvested for North American cooperages. Each white oak tree yields between one and three barrels and takes about 70 years to mature.

“For more than a decade, ANGEL’S ENVY has shown a deep commitment to the transformative power of trees,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Through our partnership, we’ve witnessed firsthand how trees can drive positive change, from revitalizing forests to enhancing urban communities. We’re grateful to work alongside this team of forward-thinking leaders and we’re excited to continue this meaningful work together.”

As the Toast the Trees program enters its 11th year, ANGEL’S ENVY will continue to support the replenishment of America’s White Oak population through reforestation efforts and by planting native trees in urban communities. ANGEL’S ENVY is also encouraging supporters to donate to the Arbor Day Foundation.

In 2023, ANGEL’S ENVY expanded Toast the Trees to include urban tree canopy restoration efforts. This year, tree plantings will continue in Jacksonville, FL; Kansas City, MO; Louisville, KY; Nashville, TN; Indianapolis, IN; Denver, CO; Sacramento, CA; Charleston, SC; New York, NY; and Phoenix, AZ throughout the fall.

ABOUT ANGEL’S ENVY
ANGEL’S ENVY is a global brand that produces finished whiskeys at their Louisville, Kentucky-based distillery. Founded in 2010, ANGEL’S ENVY was among the first American whiskey producers to employ a secondary finishing process broadly across its portfolio. Today, each of its award-winning whiskeys are finished in hand-selected barrels to add a distinct layer of flavor and complexity, and the ANGEL’S ENVY team continues to produce several highly acclaimed core offerings – a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels and a Rye Whiskey Finished in Caribbean Rum Casks – as well as a variety of innovative, special releases.

ANGEL’S ENVY opened the doors to its distillery at 500 East Main Street in 2016, making it the first full-production whiskey distillery in downtown Louisville. In June 2022, ANGEL’S ENVY completed an $8.2 million expansion to its distillery, doubling annual guest capacity.

ANGEL’S ENVY is available in all 50 U.S. states and several international markets, and it is produced by Louisville Distilling Company, a subsidiary of Bacardi Limited.

HEAVEN CAN WAIT. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY.
©2024. ANGEL’S ENVY, ITS TRADE DRESS AND THE ANGEL WINGS LOGO ARE TRADEMARKS. BOTTLED BY LOUISVILLE DISTILLING COMPANY, LOUISVILLE, KY. KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY FINISHED IN PORT WINE BARRELS – 43.3% ALC. BY VOL.

ABOUT THE ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION
Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees. Together with our partners, we have helped plant more than 500 million trees in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world. Our vision is to lead toward a world where trees are used to solve issues critical to survival. Through our members, partners, and programs, the Arbor Day Foundation inspires people across the globe to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information is available at arborday.org.

The House of Suntory Unveils the Oldest Blended Whisky in Brand History, a Blend from all Three Suntory Distilleries – Hibiki 40 Year Old

The Ultimate Expression of The Art of Blending, Honoring Generations of Master Artisans

NEW YORK, NEW YORK (October 3, 2024) – Today, The House of Suntory announces the release of Hibiki 40 Year Old – underlining the brand’s role as a leading pioneer of Japanese Whisky.

Hibiki 40 Year Old is an exclusive liquid with an extraordinary blend of high-quality Japanese Whiskies from Suntory’s globally acclaimed distilleries – Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita each matured for over 40 years and meticulously blended to create a full orchestra of flavors and aromas.

This release solidifies The House of Suntory’s position at the forefront of Japanese spirits, crafting whiskies of unparalleled rarity and lineage, each a testament to their commitment to defying convention.

Handed down from one blender to the next, Hibiki 40 Year Old has been made possible thanks to decades of accumulated expertise and experience in the art of blending. It is the pinnacle of generations of learning and craftsmanship, and a unique and incredibly rare embodiment of the finest standards of Japanese mastery, making a statement of the spirit of innovation at The House of Suntory.

The blenders carefully selected a variety of The House of Suntory’s treasured, ultra-high-aged whiskies produced with great care by their earlier generations. The decadent and truly innovative result is a gorgeous taste with layers of unprecedented aroma and mellowness.

Suntory’s Chief Blender, Shinji Fukuyo, diligently crafted Hibiki 40 Year Old – a perfectly harmonious blend. On the nose, it reveals aromas of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove. It unveils flavors of pure acacia honey and dry fig on the palate, culminating in an aromatic aftertaste.
Shinji Fukuyo said that behind the elegance and bloom that is typical of Hibiki, there is a sense of subduedness, like that of an old temple, and a wabi-sabi patina due to the long aging process.

“I would like people to enjoy the pure aroma that has been sharpened over the years; the tranquility of old temples and storehouses and the nostalgic warm feeling that accompanies them.”

Hibiki 40 Year Old demonstrates the next chapter for Hibiki, where its signature ‘Creating Harmony’ not only resonates with the complexity of Mizunara Japanese oak and the subtle sweetness of Spanish oak, but is further elevated with the smoothness of caramelized cacao palates from the aged American oak.

To honor Japanese craftsmanship, The House of Suntory has partnered with the renowned Japanese washi artist, Eriko Horiki, to hand craft the washi label on the Hibiki 40 Year Old box.

The bottle is fashioned from crystal glass, boasting 30 facets intricately crafted by a renowned glassware maker known as a trusted purveyor to the Japanese imperial family. It is decorated with traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer to pay homage to our heritage and tradition.

This design amplifies the golden hue of the liquid within, epitomizing the essence of luxury and refinement.

The wooden box is made of 12 kinds of Japanese wood such as pine and zelkova, and has 12 faces, representing the 12 months of the year. Around the box, flowers and grasses of the four seasons of Japan are depicted in maki-e lacquer, representing the changing seasons and linking the past and future through Hibiki.

Only 400 bottles of the ultra-luxury Hibiki 40 Year Old will be released in selected markets, at selected retailers, with each bottle retailing for $35,000 USD.

For more information on Hibiki 40 Year Old, please visit us online here.

About The House of Suntory
Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as a pioneer of Japanese Whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son and Suntory’s second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu Distillery.

As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014). Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku Japanese Gin and Haku Japanese Vodka. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at The House of Suntory, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka represent the nature and spirit of Japan. Last year, Suntory Whisky celebrated one hundred years of whisky innovation—a major milestone not only for the brand’s history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, The House of Suntory rolled out its centennial campaign throughout 2023.

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

Larceny Bourbon Launches Bold, New National Campaign with “Seize Tonight” Ad and Community Ambassadors Program

The award-winning brand debuts partnerships with a curated group of high-profile influencers in the digital space to coincide with new advertising campaign.

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (September 24, 2024) – Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey today released an engaging new commercial to support the recently launched “Seize Tonight” campaign which encourages fans of Larceny to unleash their carefree spirit and get into some “good mischief”. The brand will also extend its reach with Community Ambassadors who embody this same spirit in the gaming, music and food scenes to create compelling content which highlights the craftsmanship behind Larceny Bourbon and their respective passions. The “Seize Tonight” campaign is centered around the idea that the most memorable moments happen when you let curiosity get the best of you and take a little risk – much like John E. Fitzgerald himself.

On the heels of its successful premium packaging redesign, the brand will debut an engaging new ad on premium streaming platforms directed by award-winning commercial film director André Betz. The spot shows how Larceny can be the catalyst for turning an ordinary evening into a memorable one. The hero seizes the opportunity to liven his friends’ night out by playing the piano after seeing a compelling vision of a keyhole ignite on the instrument. The crowd is surprised to hear the piano play, partly because the hero is so good, but also because the piano is clearly off limits. The spot reaches a pivotal moment when the stern bartender walks over to tell off the hero, only to reveal that she’s there to pour him a glass of Larceny in appreciation of his spontaneity. Both the 30-second video, as well as 15-second version, will be streamed on Connected TV and Online Video.

The “Seize Tonight” campaign’s manifesto will be brought to life by expanding the brand’s reach and appeal beyond the traditional bourbon drinker through influential Community Ambassadors in the gaming, music and food scenes. LP Giobbi is a celebrated DJ, producer, pianist, and activist, known for her innovative sound and impactful contributions to music and advocacy. BlackKrystel is a dominant force in in the world of gaming and has made her mark as an efficacious voice for carefree, authentic fun. Fabrizio Villalpando is a no-holds-barred home cook whose bold attitude towards entertaining through food has left a mark in the culinary scene. Justin Sajda is a self-described “average guy who makes above average cocktails” whose creative concoctions elevate the spirits he serves behind the bar and on social media where he can be found @thirstywhale_.

Unlike many other bourbons, Larceny is made with wheat instead of the traditional rye, using a mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat and 12% malted barley. The use of 20% wheat as the secondary flavor grain is 25% more than the leading competitor, resulting in exceptional smoothness. Larceny Small Batch is available nationwide at a SRP of $27.99 and the new, premium packaging is now shipping. Individual batches of Larceny Barrel Proof are released nationally on an allocated basis three times annually at a SRP of $64.99 and will be bottled in the new packaging starting this fall. Fans of Larceny are encouraged to enjoy it straight, on the rocks or in the classic Paper Plane cocktail.

ABOUT LARCENY BOURBON: The story of Larceny begins with John E. Fitzgerald, a bonded U.S. Treasury agent with a penchant for thievery of the best Bourbon. Using his keys to let himself into rickhouses at night, the “Fitzgerald Barrels”, as they came to be known, became one of America’s most beloved whiskeys after Prohibition with the launch of Old Fitzgerald. Today, the John E. Fitzgerald story continues through Larceny, an incredibly smooth and exceptional small batch Wheated Bourbon. First brought to market in 2012, Larceny is one of the most successful new-to-the-world Bourbons in the past decade. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the brand offers Larceny Small Batch and Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Since its inception, Larceny has been an award-winning, best in class Bourbon receiving accolades such as Double Gold at the 2024 San Franscisco World Spirits Competition and Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year in 2020. For more information, please visit www.larcenybourbon.com.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely.  Drink Wisely.”

Glen Scotia unveils the second expression from its Icons of Campbeltown series which will take fans on a mystical adventure through the wee toon’s past

Glen Scotia has revealed the second expression in its Icons of Campbeltown collection, which was unveiled last year in homage to the rich heritage of the town the distillery calls home.

Icons of Campbeltown: Release No.2 is part of a five-part limited-edition annual series that has been inspired by etchings found on the town’s famous Market Cross, a significant and historic meeting point for community get-togethers and storytelling.

The 14th-century cross is awash with stone carvings, created by unknown hands, including saints, beasts, heroes and their foes, all of which are said to capture tales of Campbeltown’s past.  Each placement tells a fascinating story of the prevailing spirit of the place affectionally known as the ‘wee toon’.

Amongst the etchings is a visualisation of Saint Michael – the Archangel associated with courage and protection – who, backed by an army of supporters, heroically slayed a fire-breathing dragon with his spear. This legend remains confined to the history books but draws similarities to real events which have occurred in Campbeltown during its illustrious past, with many fires recorded at one of the hundreds of distilleries that gave the town its name of ‘Victorian Whisky Capital of the World’.

These fires devastated once-thriving whisky operations, much like the impact of a fire-breathing dragon, but it was the spirit of the Campbeltown community which saw the town thrive and Release No. 2 pays homage to this.

The 14 Year Old medium-peated single malt (56.8% ABV, £98) has been masterfully produced by Master Blender, Michael Henry.  Laid down in American oak, Michael decided upon a six-month finish in Barolo red wine casks, resulting in a decadently smoky liquid, complemented by red candied fruits and berries, followed by a long, dry finish. There is a subtle maritime salinity throughout, nodding to Glen Scotia’s signature style.

Glen Scotia has collaborated with illustrator, Joel Holtzman, the master behind several characters for LucasFilm, Marvel and Disney, to create a series of stunning new pack designs for the Icons collection. Packaging combines fiery tones of amber, orange and yellow which complement the rich liquid colour and transport audiences into a vivid scene of the dragon climbing the market cross.

Michael Henry, Master Blender at Loch Lomond Group, owners of Glen Scotia, said: “The Icons of Campbeltown collection provides rich inspiration for our choice of liquid with each release. The coastal character and full-bodied mouthfeel are part of Glen Scotia’s signature character. We have chosen to finish in Barolo Red Wine casks bringing delicious red berry fruits to complement Glen Scotia’s distillery character. The swirling smoke and rich red colour are evocative of the fire-breathing dragon slayed by Saint Michael on the Campbeltown Cross.”

Iain McAlister, Distillery Manager and Master Distiller at Glen Scotia, added: “Hard times have a way of pulling our distilling community together, much like on December 17th 1899, when Glen Scotia, along with heroic townspeople, fought a fierce blaze at Dalintober distillery and saved it from an early fate. You will find no living saints or dragon slayers in the town now, just a wonderful community that endures against the odds by its prevailing spirit of unity, and this is what our latest Icons of Campbeltown release celebrates.”

Icons of Campbeltown: Release No.2 is now available from the Glen Scotia website and select specialist retailers in the UK, USA, Europe, Australia, Canada, Asia, China and EMEA (Middle East/South Africa)

Tasting notes:

• Nose: Ocean spray, red berries, peat smoke
• Palate: Melted brown sugar, raspberry, cranberry, apple, vanilla
• Finish: Long, red cherries and swirling peat smoke

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 even

Fettercairn’s Annual 18 Year Old Release is

A Celebration of Scottish Provenance

Highland distillery Fettercairn has released the latest edition of its 18 Year Old Single Malt Whisky. Available annually, Fettercairn 18 Year Old is finished in responsibly-sourced, native Scottish Oak and shines a light on provenance and innovation.

Nestled in the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains, the team at Fettercairn, which this year celebrates 200 years of imaginative whisky making, are pioneers of provenance, with the quality and extra effort to use locally sourced ingredients evident in every drop.

Only locally-sourced barley from farms within a 50 mile radius of the distillery is used and, when it comes to distilling, Fettercairn’s stills are crowned with unique copper cooling rings, which cascade ice cold water from the nearby mountains down the outside. This innovation cools the stills, and allows only the lightest vapours to rise, creating the whisky’s characteristic tropical house style.

For Fettercairn 18 Year Old, this effort also extends to the cask, as part of an ongoing new initiative. Fettercairn’s Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass first started to implement the award-winning[1] Scottish Oak Programme eight years ago, bringing a new approach to whisky making. This innovative programme has been developed to ultimately future-proof the industry, whilst creating a circular economy by encouraging the use of 100% native wood in whisky making.

The small batch Fettercairn 18 Year Old is the first expression of the programme, released annually as a limited-edition due to its rarity. First unveiled in 2022, this is only the third time the expression has been made available.

Fettercairn 18 Year Old is fully finished in responsibly sourced Scottish Oak, after an initial maturation in handpicked first fill and refill ex-bourbon American White Oak barrels, to produce a beautiful depth of flavour.

Perfect for curious whisky lovers who look for innovation and value skilled craftsmanship, Fettercairn 18 Year Old is non-chill filtered, offered in its natural colour and at an ABV of 46.8%.

Golden amber in colour, Fettercairn 18 Year Old has notes of sugared almonds, baking spices, passion fruit and guava on the nose. To taste, expect exotic syruped fruits, patisserie sugars, brioche and spices, with soft hints of berry fruits, flowing through to a cacao, and natural vanilla finish.

Fettercairn’s future-facing attitude, commitment to progressive whisky making and celebration of local provenance and produce, aligns beautifully to the conscious movement that many are following – to be more aware, to eat with the seasons, shop locally and cook from farm-to-table.

With game season well underway, Fettercairn 18 Year Old’s fruity notes will pair effortlessly with game birds such as duck, partridge or grouse in both taste, as the whisky will enhance the sweeter flavours of the game, as well as in ethos, given game’s managed farming.

Equally, for keen foragers, Hen of the Woods mushrooms, often found growing amidst oak trees themselves, or Chanterelles would also make for an intriguing pairing with Fettercairn 18 Year Old.

Whilst tropical desserts shine alongside the matching notes of the whisky, more traditional autumn flavours, like apples dusted with cinnamon, custard infused with vanilla and Chelsea buns, will also complement brilliantly.

Award-winning[2] Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass comments:

“The Scottish Oak Programme is one of my proudest achievements and the annual release of the Fettercairn 18 Year Old is a regular reminder of the journey our team has gone through so far, to bring this to life. 

“Over the last three years, we’ve gained a loyal following for this special whisky and our hope every year is for more people to experience how truly special Scottish Oak is and the incredible flavours it can impart to Scotch.

“So the diverse flavours of Scottish Oak can be enjoyed for generations to come, in 2021 we replanted an ancient forest at Fettercairn. The saplings are growing well, with many now visible from the distillery. We’re still generations away from these trees being used in whisky making, but having them there to watch over our distillery offers an important reminder that our work isn’t just for the present, it’s for the future.” 

Fettercairn is celebrating its landmark 200^th anniversary in 2024. Earlier in the year, the distillery announced refreshed ranges in both domestic and global travel retail markets. The domestic core range now features a 12 Year Old, 16 Year Old and 24 Year Old, while global travel retail will exclusively offer Fettercairn 14 Year Old, 17 Year Old and 25 Year Old.

To further mark the milestone, The Fettercairn 200^th Anniversary Cabinet was unveiled in June, with just ten sets to ever be created. The handmade, bespoke cabinets are crafted from Scottish Oak, sourced from the distillery’s estate, and each hold six bottles of incredibly rare whisky. The six bottles combined total 200 years and each mark a significant moment in the distillery’s history. The collection includes a 60 Year Old, the oldest ever to be released by Fettercairn and the birth year of Distillery Manager, Stewart Walker, and a 3 Year Old which has been fully matured in 100% Scottish Oak, a look to Fettercairn’s future.

Fettercairn 18 Year Old is non-chill filtered and bottled in its natural colour, with an ABV of 46.8%. An annual, limited release, the 2024 edition will be available in specialist retailers from October, with an RSP of £212.

About Fettercairn

Fettercairn Distillery is a hidden gem – a Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery located in the heart of a thriving agricultural community, Aberdeenshire – ‘The Garden of Scotland’.

A spark of whisky making ingenuity is what makes Fettercairn special. A sense of wonder has been a constant theme back to 1824, as illustrated by our beautiful copper cooling ring, which produces a uniquely tropical style of new make spirit, and our Scottish Oak Programme from which we developed our Fettercairn 18 Year Old Scottish Oak.

Today, as we celebrate 200 years, we continue to take a progressive outlook and make new unexpected journeys in flavour led whisky making. We invite curious whisky lovers and connoisseurs to explore and enjoy Fettercairn Single Malt.

www.fettercairnwhisky.com

About Gregg Glass- Master Whisky Maker

Icons of Whisky Distiller of the Year, Scotland 2023

Respected whisky maker Gregg Glass joined Whyte and Mackay in 2016, where he has been a leading light in the rejuvenation of Fettercairn alongside Distillery Manager Stewart Walker.

Gregg enjoyed a childhood in the heart of whisky making country, the Black Isle. With 22 years in industry notably 11 years at innovative whisky maker Compass Box, Gregg joined Whyte and Mackay in 2016 to work alongside renowned Master Distiller Mr Richard Paterson OBE.

Gregg has enjoyed 15 years career as a blender and whisky maker. At Whyte and Mackay Gregg has led whisky development for Fettercairn Single Malt Whisky, Jura Single Malt Whisky and in 2017 launched Whisky Works – an independent innovation wing of Whyte and Mackay.
Gregg is devoted to his craft and believes in flavour-led hands-on whisky making. Gregg is
passionately involved in every aspect of the whisky making process from ‘acorn to glass’ and since 2020 leads whisky making across the Whyte and Mackay portfolio.

Award-Winning Whisky Makers Whyte and Mackay

Whyte and Mackay is home to a collection of multi-award-winning Single Malt Whiskies including The Dalmore, Jura and Fettercairn. With a premium spirits portfolio that includes contemporary whisky brands Shackleton, Woodsman and John Barr, alongside popular alcohol brands Wildcat, Fundador, Harveys Bristol Cream and Aperitivo.

In the UK the company produce Whyte & Mackay, an award-winning ever-popular Blended Whisky, which recently launched the market-leading ‘Whyte & Mackay Light’ – a lighter spirit drink from Scotland, bottled at a lower ABV.

Founded in Glasgow 1844, the whisky makers celebrated their 175 year anniversary in 2019. Today Whyte and Mackay have offices from New York to Singapore. In Scotland, Whyte and Mackay operate a state-of-the-art Bottling Hall and Distribution Centre in Grangemouth and a Whisky Production and Warehousing Centre in Invergordon.

Whyte and Mackay’s whisky making is led by Master Distiller Richard Paterson OBE and pioneering Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass.

[1] The Spirit’s Business Award for Innovation in Production in 2022

[2] Icons of Whisky Distiller of the Year, Scotland 2023

Talnua celebrates launch of “The Acorn Project” philanthropic mission with first 6 year old, bottled-in-bond special release whiskey.

Talnua Distillery has had many things to celebrate over the years, but this October 5th, 2024 marks two distinct celebrations.

As a way to celebrate Co-Founder & Head Distiller, Patrick Miller’s, 40th birthday, Talnua is launching its philanthropic wing, aptly named “The Acorn Project: a Talnua Initiative.”  The Acorn Project will focus Talnua’s philanthropic efforts on the natural resources that allow its whiskey and products to come to fruition. Learn more about The Acorn Project here.

The birthday party and Acorn Project launch will come with a special bottle release.  “This single barrel was the 100th barrel filled at Talnua and will be our oldest whiskey release to date.  It is a 6 year old Bottled-in-Bond single barrel,” says Miller.  “Not only are we proud to release this limited whiskey, we are elated to launch The Acorn Project to support our friends and grain suppliers at Root Shoot Malting / Olander Farms.”

Olander Farms will be the first benefactors of the funds raised through The Acorn Project.  Olander Farms is a family owned farm out of Loveland, CO focused on regenerative farming, land conservation, and a truly local supply chain.

Recently, the family farm endured a hail storm that destroyed over 500 acres of crops.

The October 5th celebration will consist of music from local bands, a special pop-up menu from Stone Cellar Bistro, Trinity mobile cigar lounge, a pipe and drum band, and many specialty cocktails and whiskey drams. This event is for 21+ individuals.

About The Acorn Project Special Release Whiskey

Talnua will be releasing their very first 6-year-old bottled-in-bond whiskey to celebrate; a testament to the years of dedication and expertise they have put in. This exceptional bottle is a single barrel selection, drawn from the historic barrel #100, and proudly bottled-in-bond to signify its unparalleled quality.

Release date: October 5, 2024, at the Talnua Harvest Festival
Mashbill: Malted & Unmalted Barley
Aging: Single Barrel new American white oak for 6 years
Bottled-in-bond
Cost: $150 per bottle with $25 from each bottle donated to Olander Farms
Proof: 100 | ABV 50%
Limited release: 220 bottles available
A distillery exclusive whiskey, not available for shipping

For additional information, interview inquiries, photos, or brand assets please contact us at connect@talnua.com.

ICONIC SCOTCH WHISKY BALLANTINE’S TOASTS TO TWO MUSIC ICONS OF THE 20TH CENTURY: ELTON JOHN AND JOHN LENNON

Ballantine’s, the world’s second most popular Scotch whisky*, has revealed new additions to its True Music Icons collection, this year paying tribute to two of the most influential musicians of all time: Elton John and John Lennon.

The iconic artists, renowned for their unparalleled contributions to global music culture, inspired the collectable design for the iconic Ballantine’s Finest bottles, which will be available across the globe from this month.

This second release in the True Music Icons series follows the success of the inaugural collection last year, which paid homage to rock and roll legends AC/DC and Queen. This second edition comes hot on the heels of Ballantine’s celebrating a decade of its True Music platform, building on its rich heritage in music culture by celebrating artists who forge their own path, stay true to who they are, and do things their own way.

The new duo of limited-edition bottle designs has been perfectly crafted to capture the essence of the legendary musicians. Whilst one honours Elton John as one of the most iconic solo artists in history, known for his chart-topping hits, exceptional song-writing, and significant influence on popular culture, the other equally stunning bottle celebrates John Lennon, a writer and musician who changed history with his music. Both with The Beatles and as a hugely innovative solo artist, he challenged what rock music could be by constantly exploring and reinventing musical genres, while introducing the idea that music could be a vehicle for social and political change.

The editions also celebrate the friendship between Elton John and John Lennon, which culminated in John Lennon’s single release of ‘Whatever Gets You Thru The Night’, featuring Elton John, and their legendary performance together at Madison Square Garden exactly 50 years ago, in 1974.

Each bottle showcases the unique personalities of these two music legends and is a testament to Ballantine’s ongoing commitment to championing global music culture, offering whisky lovers and music fans alike collectable products and unforgettable experiences. The True Music Icons John Lennon Edition bottle design incorporates Lennon’s official logo, famous self-portrait sketch and iconography, reflecting his multifaceted artistic legacy, whereas the Elton John Edition is inspired by his legendary live performance at Dodger Stadium in 1975, with the design featuring a holographic version of his ‘E’ star logo mirroring the artwork on his Diamonds Greatest Hits collection

Paul-Andre Vacheron, Global Marketing Director for Ballantine’s at Chivas Brothers, commented: “Ballantine’s has a rich heritage in music and what better way to celebrate a decade of our True Music platform than by paying tribute to two of the 20^th century’s most revered music icons on our iconic Finest bottle. Both Elton John and John Lennon are artists who are all about doing things their own way. They have not only contributed to music culture, but defined it, by staying true to who they are – a mindset that reflects the spirit of what Ballantine’s stands for, inspired by our pioneering founder George Ballantine. We look forward to seeing these collectable designs rock out on shelves around the world.”

The Ballantine’s True Music Icons: Elton John and John Lennon limited-editions bottles will be available for purchase in markets across the globe and on The Whisky Exchange from Monday 23^rd September 2024. To stay up to date with all the latest Ballantine’s news, visit www.ballantines.com or follow us on Instagram @ballantines.