Saltire Rare Malt Founders L: Nigel Heywood R: Keith Rennie

SCOTLAND’S FASTEST-GROWING WHISKY BOTTLER CELEBRATES METEORIC FIRST YEAR OF BUSINESS

 Saltire Rare Malt, based in Falkland, Fife is raising a glass to a hugely successful first year in business by launching a brand-new ‘1st Year Anniversary’ release from Linkwood Distillery, as they continue to expand their whisky business across the globe.

Saltire Rare Malt, the fastest-growing independent whisky bottler in Scotland, is raising a glass to a remarkable first year in business. Based in the picturesque village of Falkland, Fife, the company is celebrating its rapid ascent into the whisky industry by unveiling an exclusive new ‘1st Year Anniversary’ single malt release from Linkwood Distillery.

Founded just twelve months ago, Saltire Rare Malt has quickly gained international acclaim for its curated collection of exceptional Scotch whiskies and can now be found in markets across the globe. With bottles already shipped to collectors, enthusiasts and stockists across Europe, Latin America, and Asia, plus plans to launch in North America and South Africa later this year, the company has firmly cemented its place in the world of independent whisky.

Saltire Rare Malt’s ‘1st Year Anniversary’ is a special *14-year-old Linkwood from the Speyside region, 1 of only 74 bottled from a Refill American Oak Ex Bourbon Cask at 54.1% ABV priced at £113.

The Linkwood Distillery ‘1st Year Anniversary’ bottling is available to buy online at Saltire Rare Malt’s website on Friday 2nd May, along with their meticulously curated collection of ‘well-known labels’, ‘rare gems’ and casks from ‘lost distilleries’: https://www.saltireraremalt.com/

CHOOSING THE PERFECT CASK WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THEIR FRIENDS

Saltire Rare Malt’s Single Malt Scotch Whisky releases are ‘never rushed or hurried – they’re bottled when the right time arrives’. This is where they put their trust in whisky industry icons Hans & Becky Offringa –  ‘The Whisky Couple’ – who are a trusted part of the Saltire family.

Hans & Becky Offringa are well-respected judges at the Scottish Whisky Awards and the World Whiskies Awards, with over 50 years experience between them. Their incomparable guidance and advice is crucial to selecting the perfect cask for every Saltire Rare Malt release. If curators Hans & Becky disapprove of a sample, the cask will not be bottled.

Commenting on their worldwide success, Saltire Rare Malt Founder & Director Keith Rennie said; “When we started Saltire we always had a dream for it to be a worldwide success. What we didn’t realise is how fast we would achieve global acclaim. To see the reaction and excitement for Saltire Rare Malt from our partners across the world is why we work in this industry. It really is a special time for Saltire Rare Malt right now.

“Every cask is chosen with care and never hurried, to achieve the finest quality of whisky. We believe that’s why the whisky world is resonating with us and with the support of an outstanding team of whisky professionals we can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Saltire Rare Malt are bottlers of a unique range of limited-run single malt whiskies. The independent bottling company was born from a longstanding partnership between friends & Founders Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie. The pair have worked together for three decades, before moving into the whisky world to collect fine and rare single malts.

The Saltire Rare Malt Collection is available to buy online on their website at: https://www.saltireraremalt.com/

About Saltire Rare Malt Whisky
Saltire Rare Malt are bottlers of a unique range of limited-run single malt whiskies. The independent bottling company was born from a longstanding partnership between friends & founders Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie – the pair have collected fine and rare single malts over three decades. A shared passion for the ‘water of life’ led to the creation of Saltire Rare Malt – a global vehicle to share their outstanding collection of Single Malt Whiskies.

W: https://www.saltireraremalt.com/
I: https://www.instagram.com/saltireraremaltwhisky
F: https://www.facebook.com/people/Saltire-Rare-Malt-Whisky/61554723364117/

About The Whisky Couple, Hans & Becky Offringa:

Hans Offringa is an international author and whisky expert who has worked in the industry for over 30 years. An inductee of the Whisky Hall of Fame, a Kentucky Colonel and a Keeper of the Quaich, Hans is a judge at the Scottish Whiskies Awards and the World Whisky Awards and serves as Director on the Advisory Board of The Council of Whiskey Masters.

Becky Lovett Offringa is a Keeper of the Quaich and co-author of numerous whisky books. Becky is a well-respected judge at the Scottish Whisky Awards and the World Whiskies Awards. She also is a Member on the Advisory Board of the Council of Whiskey Masters. Becky and Hans, internationally known as ‘The Whisky Couple’, are trusted partners of the Saltire family.

*Saltire Rare Malt; Linkwood – 1st Year Anniversary 

Tasting notes; “A beautiful nose. This is what you want from a Linkwood, nice, sweet and fruity, think strawberry candies as a top note. Then cigar boxes and sugar-coated oranges with cotton candy. The ruby port wine vintage barrique added extra layers of fruit upon fruit. Simply a lovely, fruity dram with a smooth but full body.” 

Price: £113

Bottled at: 54.1% ABV. 

Filling date: 10-2-2011

Region: Speyside 

Release date: May 2025 

Buy Here 

Introducing Star Hill Farm Whisky From The Maker’s Mark Distillery

First new mashbill and first wheat whisky in its 70-year history, Maker’s Mark continues its leadership in sustainability and advances regenerative agriculture  

LORETTO, KY., – Maker’s Mark® today announced the debut of Star Hill Farm Whisky, the distillery’s first new mashbill and first wheat whisky, celebrating the role regenerative agriculture plays in creating healthier soil, better flavor and a more sustainable future. The annual release will be available in the United States and the United Kingdom beginning in mid-May and in Australia later in 2025. With its launch, Maker’s Mark is scaling its sustainability efforts by establishing The Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance and has committed to transitioning a million acres of conventional farmland to regenerative over the next three years.

“Guided by our founders’ pursuit of excellence and a higher purpose, we are proud to share Star Hill Farm Whisky with the world — a 10-year journey to unlock nature’s depth of flavor, resulting in something new from the Maker’s Mark Distillery,” said Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director, Maker’s Mark. “The launch of Star Hill Farm Whisky will expand our platform to advance regenerative agriculture beyond our business, fostering a more sustainable future for our industry, people and planet.”

While Maker’s Mark has used the same mashbill for over 70 years to create a balanced and consistent bourbon, Star Hill Farm Whisky will evolve each year, exploring flavors that soil, wheat, water and wood impart to quality ingredients when expertly blended, aged and grown regeneratively. The inaugural release will highlight soft red winter wheat — the distinctive grain in Maker’s Mark’s mashbill — and will remove corn entirely, allowing the wheat to shine. The 2025 release of Star Hill Farm Whisky is crafted from two mashbills: one with 70% soft red winter wheat and 30% malted barley, and the other with 100% malted soft red winter wheat.

“We’re proud to introduce the first wheat whisky in our distillery’s history, one that showcases our vision and innovation and honors the land that makes it all possible,” said Dr. Blake Layfield, master distiller, Maker’s Mark. “This release is a complex yet balanced blend of seven- and eight-year whiskies, bottled uncut at cask strength. The nose captivates with notes of buttery caramel, golden raisins and gingerbread. On the palate, you’ll find a soft, bright mix of honeyed toffee, chocolate-covered cherries, and a hint of apple pie spice. The finish is smooth and inviting, with toasted pecans and soft cinnamon bringing it all together.”

Partnering to Advance Regenerative Agriculture

Star Hill Farm Whisky is named after the 1,100-acre farm that is home to the Maker’s Mark Distillery, chosen by its founders, Margie and Bill Samuels Sr., in 1953 for its unique water source and proximity to grain growers. Maker’s Mark still owns, protects and enriches its watershed and land. Today, Maker’s Mark is the first and only bourbon distillery to achieve B Corp Certification in Kentucky and the first distillery globally to achieve certification from Regenified, the leading regenerative certification company.

With the launch of Star Hill Farm Whisky, Maker’s Mark has formed an alliance with Regenified and Understanding Ag, which provides education and technical support to build healthy farm ecosystems. The Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance will invite farms, bars and restaurants —starting in New York, Kentucky and greater London — to join its mission: pledging to adopt regenerative practices in sourcing and operations, while promoting its benefits through menu storytelling and consumer engagement.

Star Hill Farm Whisky will be the first to carry an Estate Whiskey certification — a new designation by The Estate Whiskey Alliance™ group established by the University of Kentucky to highlight the advantages of local sourcing and sustainable production in the whiskey industry. Estate whiskey refers to a category that is produced entirely on the distillery estate, using grains sourced from estate owned or controlled land.

With an ABV of 57.35% (114.7 proof), the Star Hill Farm Whisky 2025 Release will have a suggested retail price of USD $100. In the United States, the limited release will be available at select retailers nationwide and available for purchase at the Maker’s Mark Distillery by booking a Star Hill Farm Whisky experience at https://www.makersmark.com//distillery/visit-us.

For more information, please visit www.starhillfarm.com and www.makersmark.com.

ABOUT MAKER’S MARK

Maker’s Mark® is the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon driven by a vision for better flavor and a better world. Maker’s Mark began with the innovative spirit of Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr., who in 1953, fulfilled their dream to create a delicious bourbon without the bite, using soft red winter wheat instead of rye to enhance the softness, sweetness and signature creaminess. Highly desired around the world, Maker’s Mark is handmade, hand-dipped in our signature red wax, and every barrel continues to be rotated by hand and is aged to taste not time.

Always true to the founders’ vision, Maker’s Mark continues to shape the brand’s future through purposeful, flavor-driven innovation. In recent years, the brand has introduced thoughtful, super-premium expressions to its portfolio, including Maker’s Mark 46, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength, and Maker’s Mark Cellar-Aged, all Double Gold winners of the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, as well as Maker’s Mark Private Selection: the brand’s custom barrel program.

Advancing its mission to cultivate bourbon that betters the world, while crafting the most flavorful product possible for consumers, Maker’s Mark is the largest bourbon distillery in the world to achieve B Corp Certification and the first distillery to achieve Regenified Certification, a reflection of the brand’s dedication to sustainable agriculture practices at Star Hill Farm, home to the Maker’s Mark Distillery. For more information, visit www.makersmark.com.

Bowmore & Aston Martin Unveil Bowmore ARC-54

• Designed by Aston Martin and featuring one of the oldest Bowmore whiskies.
• Bowmore ARC-54; the pinnacle, and final release in the groundbreaking ARC Series

Bowmore® and Aston Martin have unveiled the second, and final, release in their groundbreaking ARC Series, Bowmore ARC-54. A pinnacle in the story of the partnership, this striking creation unites a truly rare 54-year-old whisky from Bowmore distillery with a remarkable handblown decanter inspired by the cutting-edge design of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar.

Distilled in November 1968, this rare and remarkable spirit pays homage to the fact that our single malt excels with time in cask, aging like no other to capture the definitive multi-dimensional character of Bowmore. This whisky is the culmination of 54 years of maturation, latterly spent in a 2nd Fill European Oak Sherry Butt and 3rd Fill American Oak Hogshead within the hallowed walls of the No.1 Vaults. Inspired by the Golden Ratio with 61.8% European Oak aged spirit and 38.2% American Oak aged spirit, before the two parts united for 15 months. The resulting whisky encapsulates infinite layers of flavour to captivate every sense, fully immersing the drinker in the depth of character.

Each handblown decanter takes inspiration from the F1-inspired aerodynamic exterior of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, including the full-length venturi tunnels that contribute to in the region of 1,100 kg of downforce, and the natural fluid forms of the terroir of Islay. Emanating from the design direction and principles of an Aston Martin, Bowmore ARC-54 is sculpted with precision, creating a striking sense of flow in its lines and styling.  The shape is defined by these fluid aerodynamics and showcase the shared philosophy through the diffuser inspired glass sculpture to enhance the flowing reflections of the whisky within.

Speaking on the new Bowmore ARC-54 release, Dr. Calum Fraser, Chief Blender, Bowmore said,

“A Bowmore as exquisite and complex as this 54-year-old is a testament to the skills of our distillery team, but also the very embodiment of what can be achieved simply by slowing down, standing still and letting things unfold as they are destined to. This rare creation truly demonstrates just how Bowmore ages exceptionally over time, with unmatched precision and clarity. As guardians of this spirit, we strive to harness the power of the past in every drop that we create – whilst constantly reimagining Bowmore for the next generation that will experience our whiskies.”

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin comments:

“Bowmore ARC-54 continues the cutting edge, technology-based collaboration between two exceptional brands that are steeped in heritage and tradition. It embodies the innovative thinking that we apply to Valkyrie and Valhalla, our mid-engined sports cars.  Both of these cars push the boundaries ARC-54 decanter, similar principles of materiality and fluid dynamics are employed, replacing air flow for liquid movement to create a uniquely formed shape generated by the pure movement of Bowmore whisky. A truly creative collaboration.”

With only 130 decanters available globally, Bowmore ARC-54 is a multi-dimensional flavour experience. Zesty citric tones and delicate floral notes flow together with salty caramel sweetness, spiced ginger and cinnamon – with a signature whisper of peat smoke. Housed in an individually handmade decanter that reflects the two brands’ shared mindset when it comes to craftsmanship, the streamlined bottle design takes inspiration from both the flow of air underneath the iconic Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, and the natural fluid forms of the landscapes and terroir of Islay.

Bowmore ARC-54 will be available from selected stockists worldwide as of April 3rd, 2025.
Price available on request.

Tasting notes 
ON THE EYE: Spun gold

BREATHE IN: Alluring sweet, syrupy vanilla merges with soft butterscotch and buttery shortbread, then gives way to tropical mango and sweet peach notes, before welcoming subtle hints of orange zest, toasted oak, candied walnuts and finely chopped eucalyptus mint.

TASTE: Led by rich fruity sweetness giving a depth of expressive character, it is freshly cut green apple, delicate citric tones of bergamot orange and lime juice that provide the opening act to taste. Flavours of salted caramel are complimented by floral notes as warming spices of ginger and sweet cinnamon lead to a gentle crescendo of whispering peat smoke.

SAVOUR: Intense yet lavish, long and smooth with sweet, herbal and peated character.

ABOUT BOWMORE®
For over 240 years, Bowmore distillery has stood on the shores of Lochindaal. Here facing the wild Atlantic Ocean, is home to the legendary No.1 Vaults and the mysterious alchemy within. We are more than an Islay distillery. We are the oldest distillery here.

Since 1779, we’ve been harnessing time in the creation of our exceptional Bowmore whiskies. This time has enabled us to hone our skills and make intentional choices. This means at Bowmore we can unlock the depth and breadth of multidimensional character.

From the careful and intentional ethos at the heart of the Bowmore distillery, every step and stage of the process is considered. We put flavour first. From floor maltings and peat smoke drying, to the long fermentation and slow distillation. The result of this precise and measured approach can be seen in the distinct flavours that Bowmore is famous for.  A truly multidimensional whisky always promising more layers of flavour.

Every bottle of Bowmore celebrates our ability to mature with excellence, aging like no other to capture the definitive expressive character of Bowmore.  Over time, our spirit evolves perfectly in cask, creating an enviable inventory of maturing stock and enabling an iconic archive of releases.
Our signature; a remarkably expressive character.  We are defined by rich and fruity flavours with a smouldering complexity. Each sip of Bowmore is truly captivating. It beckons you, holding your full attention, pulling you into the present moment. This is the uniquely mesmerising magic which always reveals more, in every moment, in every sip. From flavour to flair, there is always more in the glass and in the moment.
www.bowmore.com

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

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

ABOUT SOPHIA THAKUR
Sophia Thakur is an award-winning spoken word artist, author, songwriter and musician. Described by the BBC as ‘The Poet of this Generation’ and by Vogue as ‘One of the most adored poets of our time,’ she was also featured on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list as a trailblazer in her craft. The spoken word artist climbed onto the stage at the age of 16 with a refreshing and intimate take on traditional poetry and has sold out multiple solo headline shows at The Jazz Cafe, Bush Hall, Omeara, The Lower Third, The Rockefeller Centre and iconic venues in Africa and Europe. She has also been invited to play stages and stations around the world, most notably; Glastonbury, The Royal Albert Hall, Sky TV, BBC and the TEDx stage, twice.

Sophia is a storyteller from every angle. Her BBC documentary rose to public acclaim for revising how documentaries are usually approached, whilst introducing a new poetic way of educating through art.

Successfully bridging the gap between poetry and the modern world, she has forged global partnerships with brands such as Tiffany & Co., Calvin Klein and Nike, among others. Sophia is the author of three books Wearing My Mother’s Heart, Superheroes and Somebody Give This Heart a Pen, a #1 bestseller.

Sazerac Company Proudly Introduces Hawk’s Rock Distillery 

Steeped in the natural beauty of County Sligo, Ireland, Hawk’s Rock represents the rebranding of Lough Gill Distillery, which was acquired by the spirits leader in 2022 

County Sligo, Ireland (April 23, 2025) – Leading global spirits company Sazerac, which owns and operates award-winning distilleries and homeplaces worldwide including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; and Paul John Distillery in Goa, India, is proud to announce the renaming of its recently-acquired Irish Whiskey Distillery to Hawk’s Rock Distillery. Formerly known as Lough Gill Distillery, Hawk’s Rock will continue to produce and age Irish Whiskey under the watchful eye of Master Blender Helen Mulholland on the over 100-acre site located in County Sligo, Ireland, which includes the nationally listed historic landmark Hazelwood House.

The name change reflects Sazerac Company’s vision for the future of Irish Whiskey – the art and science of blending, innovation and respect for Sligo’s rich heritage. Named after a prominent outcrop in the Ox Mountains that inspired Nobel Prize winning poet William Butler (W.B.) Yeats’ play “At the Hawk’s Well”, Hawk’s Rock Distillery aims to become a global hub for Irish Whiskey, while offering a gateway to explore the rich traditions of Sligo and the surrounding region.

“The renaming of Hawk’s Rock Distillery marks a new, yet familiar, frontier for us,” says Sazerac President and CEO Jake Wenz. “Sazerac is known for its balanced approach to honoring tradition while embracing change in constant pursuit of crafting the world’s best spirits at our distilleries in America, India, Canada and France.  Our mission holds true for Ireland, and we are excited to reveal how we are blending time-honored traditions with bold innovation to advance the art of Irish whiskey-making.”

Leading the Hawk’s Rock distillation team as Master Blender is Helen Mulholland, the first female Master Blender in Irish Whiskey history, Chair of the Irish Whiskey Association and a Whisky Hall of Fame inductee. She and her carefully-selected team have been entrusted with leading the creation and blending of Hawk’s Rock’s innovative new-to-world Irish whiskey brands, the first of which will debut in June 2025.

Sazerac Company acquired Lough Gill Distillery in 2022, drawn by its historical significance and the cultural richness of Ireland. Since then, the team has upgraded and tripled its warehouse capacity, expanded production and is modernizing the distillery, ensuring continued growth while maintaining its commitment to quality.

“This rebrand is just the beginning for Hawk’s Rock Distillery,” says Wenz. “Throughout the changes at Hawk’s Rock, our vision remains the same – creating a track record for the aging and blending of award-winning whiskeys – and this name change brings us one step closer to bringing that vision to life.”

While Hawk’s Rock Distillery is closed to the public during renovations, Sazerac has received planning permission to develop a future visitor experience in Sligo.

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

About Sazerac

With over 400 years of history, Sazerac is one of the world’s largest distilled spirits companies. Now in the fourth generation of the current family ownership, Sazerac strives each day to bring the finest spirits to consumers and communities around the world. Over 500 of the world’s most extraordinary brands are part of the Sazerac portfolio, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Southern Comfort, Wheatley Vodka, Meyers’s Rum, White X Cognac, Sazerac de Forge Cognac, Paddy’s Irish Whiskey, and many more. Sazerac is also the steward of many fine distilleries internationally, including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, United States; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; Paul John Distillery in Goa, India; and Hawk’s Rock Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. Additional impressive locations can be found in New Orleans, Montréal, London, Cork and Sydney, to name a few. To learn more visit www.sazerac.com.

Timorous Beastie Highland Malt launches Final Bottling within its ‘Cheese Cellar’ Collection with the release of a Moscatel Finish Limited Edition.

Douglas Laing & Co. today proudly announces the third and final release in their Timorous Beastie ‘Cheese Cellar’ Collection. This innovative series has seen the award-winning Highland Malt undergo a range of carefully selected cask finishes, each chosen to craft the ultimate Whisky to complement artisan cheeses.

This final edition has been meticulously finished in White and Purple Moscatel casks, “imparting an exceptional depth of flavour to the spirit”. The result is said to be an exquisite expression, with tasting notes described as:

“Nose: A sweet spiciness on the nose gives way to dried fruits, caramel, and fresh orange peel.
Palate: The thick palate bursts with creamy malt and cereals, balanced by tangy marmalade and honeysuckle.
Finish: The sweet finish lingers on—anticipate orange blossom, a hint of spice, and apricot.”

To enhance the Whisky’s rich and complex profile, the ideal cheese pairing is Goat’s Cheese. The soft, tangy, and creamy characteristics of the Goat’s Cheese are said to “beautifully complement the Whisky’s sweet, fruity, and floral notes, creating a perfect harmony of flavour and texture.”

Housed in the signature tall black bottle of the Cheese Cellar Collection, this final release features the beloved Timorous Beastie mouse in a striking blue colourway, complemented by premium gold foil detailing and a deep blue wax dip seal. A foiled neck tag provides further insight into the expression’s tasting notes and its place in the series.

Bottled at 48% ABV and without colouring or chill-filtration, this whisky remains true to the Douglas Laing family philosophy of offering Scotch Whisky “as natural as it gets.

Scott Morrison, Senior Brand Manager, commented:

“With this final release in the Cheese Cellar Collection, we complete a journey of flavour exploration that Whisky and cheese lovers alike have embraced. The influence of the White and Purple Moscatel casks brings a refined sweetness and floral elegance, making this expression a fitting conclusion to the series.”

Strictly limited to just 4,200 bottles globally, Timorous Beastie ‘Moscatel Edition’ is expected to retail at £60.00 / €70.00. This final release marks the culmination of an exciting chapter for Timorous Beastie, celebrating the perfect marriage of Whisky and cheese in an exceptional collection.

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 Particular, Xtra Old Particular, and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.

Raise a Dram to Dad: Tomatin Distillery Unveils the Ultimate Father’s Day Whisky Gift Guide

Highland distiller Tomatin has recommended the perfect dram for every kind of dad ahead of Father’s Day (Sunday 15 June) – whether he’s a seasoned connoisseur, a thrill-seeking adventurer or a vintage soul who savours the classics.

With a carefully curated selection of single malts – including the richly indulgent 12 Year Old Sherry Cask, the bold and approachable Double Cask, and the luxurious 18 Year Old – Tomatin invites whisky lovers to celebrate what truly matters: time well spent together.

Crafted with care in the Scottish Highlands, each expression embodies Tomatin’s commitment to tradition, flavour and the enduring spirit of community.

For the thrill-seeking dad – Tomatin Double Cask

RRP £37 | ABV 40% | 70cl

Adventurous, open-minded and always up for something new, Tomatin Double Cask is the go-to gift for dads who embrace life with arms wide open. Matured in ex-bourbon and ex-Oloroso sherry casks, it’s bold, balanced and full of personality – the perfect companion for dads who prefer the scenic route, whether hiking through the Highlands or tackling new taste frontiers.

Available from Tesco and Amazon.

For the retro dad – Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask

RRP £50 | ABV 40% | 70cl

For the dad who loves old-school charm and enduring quality, Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask is a classic reborn. Fully matured in sherry casks for 12 years, it delivers a nostalgic richness with modern flair. Think warm memories, Sunday roasts, and tales of “how it used to be” – this dram is as comforting and characterful as the man himself.

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

For the connoisseur dad – Tomatin 18 Year Old

RRP £126 | ABV 46% | 70cl

Tomatin 18 Year Old is a dram for those who know – and love – their whisky. Rich, complex and award-winning, this expression is matured in traditional oak and first fill Oloroso sherry butts, delivering a depth and sophistication that make it the jewel of Tomatin’s core range. Ideal for dads with refined taste, an appreciation for the finer things, and a whisky shelf worth showing off.

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

For more Father’s Day inspiration, visit https://tomatin.com.

Tasting notes 

Tomatin Double Cask tasting notes 

Nose: Aromas of vanilla-sweetened baked apples and pears lead. 

Palate: Dark fruit flavours, gently balanced with ginger and cinnamon.

Finish: Sweet and spicy.

Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask 

Nose: Caramelised apple, pear, sultana, orange peel, apricot and hints of aged leather.

Palate: Chocolate fudge, manuka honey, dried fruit and nut.

Finish: Cinnamon spice.

Tomatin 18 Year Old 

Nose: VORS Oloroso Sherry; dried apricot, plum, nougat and distinctive nutty tones. Sweet notes of vanilla fudge and cinnamon baked pears are balanced with a faint suggestion of cigar box and leather-bound books.

Palate: A wonderful marriage of Oloroso Sherry and well-aged Tomatin provides bursts of tropical fruit and mellow savoury notes. Incredibly complex with marmalade, cooked apple, butterscotch and granola, cocoa powder and salted caramel all coming through.

Finish: Full bodied and rich with continued nutty undertones and uplifting orange zest lingering on the palate.

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.

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

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

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

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

LOST LANTERN LAUNCHES MONTHLY DISCOVERY CLUB TO SHOWCASE RISING STARS OF AMERICAN WHISKEY

Members-Only Exclusive Bottlings, Insider Access, and More

Vergennes, VT (May 1, 2025)— Lost Lantern, an award-winning independent bottler known for highlighting innovative and noteworthy whiskies from distilleries across the United States, is delighted to announce the launch of the Lost Lantern Discovery Club, a subscription-based monthly whiskey club designed to help whiskey lovers discover emerging stars and hidden gems in American whiskey.

Every month, Discovery Club members will receive a new, never-before-released Lost Lantern bottling from a rising star or lesser-known distillery that is breaking new ground in the whiskey world. Members will experience firsthand the innovation and diversity shaping American whiskey today. These bottles will be exclusive to Discovery Club members and will not be released any other way.

“Our goal with the Discovery Club is to share our journey of exploration with whiskey enthusiasts,” says Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern Co-Founder and Head of Whiskey Sourcing. “I visit every distillery we work with, and I’m constantly discovering exceptional whiskies from innovative distilleries all across the country. The Discovery Club is our way of sharing these whiskies and these stories directly with passionate whiskey drinkers.”

Membership Details:

• Monthly membership is $90 plus shipping
• Signup bottle shipped upon Discovery Club purchase
• Members receive a new 750ml Discovery Club release every month
• Discovery Club releases are exclusively available to members
• Behind-the-scenes stories and insights into featured distilleries
• Invitations to exclusive events, virtual tastings, and conversations with partner distilleries hosted by Adam Polonski
• Early access to all new Lost Lantern releases
• Access to Discovery Club library bottlings

Beginning May 1, visit the Lost Lantern website to sign up for membership. The initial signup bottle and first monthly release will feature whiskies from two of Lost Lantern’s most sought-after partners. The following 12 monthly releases will come from distilleries Lost Lantern has never previously collaborated with, many of which are only available in one or two states. Club releases will span a wide range of American whiskey styles, with about half being bourbons.

Members (limited initially to a maximum of 180 people) will also benefit from flexible account management options, including the ability to add additional bottles from the Lost Lantern shop, delay or skip shipments, or pause and cancel their subscription at any time. The Club will be available to customers in states where Lost Lantern can ship through its website, as well as at the Lost Lantern Tasting Room in Vermont.

The Discovery Club underscores Lost Lantern’s commitment to transparency, quality, and exploration, offering a unique opportunity to explore the breadth of American whiskey’s evolving landscape.

For more information or to sign up, visit HERE .

ABOUT LOST LANTERN

Founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is an award-winning independent bottler of American whiskey based in Vergennes, VT. The brand has been honored as Independent Bottler of the Year at the 2023 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, and founders Nora and Adam were both named to Beverage Information Group’s 40 Under 40 list for 2025 and named to SevenFifty Daily’s 2023 Drinks Innovators of the Year. The company seeks out the most unique and exciting whiskies from across the U.S. and releases them as single casks and blends, always with a deep commitment to transparency. Lost Lantern has now released whiskey from more than three dozen distilleries in over 20 states.

For more information about Lost Lantern, to learn about upcoming, available, and retired whiskies, to visit the tasting room, or to subscribe to Lost Lantern’s newsletter, please visit LostLanternWhiskey.com. Engage with Lost Lantern Whiskey on Instagram and Facebook: @lostlanternwhiskey.

Dhavall Gandhi redefines Whisky Maturation for India:

 Introducing SOLARES Cask

Visionary Whiskymaker and maturation expert Dhavall Gandhi has revealed a breakthrough whisky cask designed for Indian* climates, in exclusive collaboration with José y Miguel Martín, Spanish cooperage and wine makers.

SOLARES has been designed to help Indian* distilleries scale without compromising on flavour consistency or quality, SOLARES also delivers significant efficiencies to the maturation process – solving one of the whisky industry’s most pressing challenges. 

Challenge & Opportunity

Dhavall Gandhi said: “Whisky maturation has traditionally been shaped by the cooler climates of Scotland and Ireland. But in tropical regions like India, accelerated extraction due to higher temperatures often results in imbalance – and the unreliable quality of available casks frequently leads to batch-to-batch inconsistency. Our SOLARES cask changes that narrative.”

“It’s not just about maturation – it’s about creating the foundation for scalable growth, without compromising on quality or consistency.”

Through proprietary transformation and seasoning techniques, each 225L ex-wine barrique – sourced from Rioja and Ribera del Duero – is precisely adapted to deliver balance, depth, and consistency, redefining the next frontier of tropical whisky maturation. 

Three Distinct Variants 

SOLARES casks are offered in three distinct styles, giving distillers the ability to shape their house character with precision and reliability:

1. DULCE – Rich & sweet.
2. MEDIO – Balanced.
3. SECO – Dry & complex. 

Sustainability, research and testing

SOLARES is not just about innovation – it’s about creating a more sustainable future for whisky production.

By transforming ex-wine casks instead of relying on new oak, SOLARES actively reduces deforestation, minimizes waste, and lowers the carbon footprint of cask production.

At its core, SOLARES is built on circular design:

• Repurposed casks – Eliminate the need for fresh oak harvesting.
• 100% renewable energy – All operations are powered by sustainable sources, resulting in a low environmental impact.

This innovation is backed by years of research and refinement in Puerto de Santa María, Spain. SOLARES casks are now actively used by Indian whisky producers, demonstrating exceptional performance, structural integrity, and cost efficiency in real-world production.

Additionally, SOLARES has been successfully integrated into the maturation of rum, and other tropical spirits, proving its versatility and consistency across categories.

Scalability

Through direct winery partnerships and large-scale sourcing, SOLARES delivers consistent, scalable quality—solving a critical challenge for Indian distilleries: inconsistent supply and variable quality that disrupt production planning and cause batch variability.

Casks are sourced in large batches directly from the wineries, creating a vertically integrated supply chain that ensures reliable, high-quality inventory. These casks undergo transformation within a strict timeframe, resulting in a cleaner, more refined spirit through a rapid, controlled process.

The Visionary Behind SOLARES

Dhavall Gandhi is one of the most sought-after strategic advisors in the world of luxury whisky, trusted by promoter-led businesses, family-owned enterprises, and established whisky houses. With deep expertise in whisky maturation and portfolio architecture, he guides boards and leadership teams in defining the direction, positioning, and long-term vision of their whisky brands.

Formerly the Whiskymaker for The Macallan, Dhavall became the global authority on Sherry casks, transforming The Lakes Distillery with a visionary, Sherry-led house style and groundbreaking production techniques. His advisory firm, DHAVALL GANDHI, is considered the “haute couture” of the whisky world, offering bespoke strategic direction to family-owned businesses, established distilleries, and emerging luxury whisky brands around the world. 

Availability

SOLARES is available exclusively through José y Miguel Martín, S.L. (Spanish coopers and wine makers). For further information, contact Dhavall Gandhi Limited. (solares@dhavallgandhi.com).

LinkedIn: (13) Dhavall Gandhi | LinkedIn

ITG: @dhavall_gandhi

*as well as distilleries located in warmer climates

HATOZAKI WHISKY LAUNCHES TRIPLE CASK RESERVE: A NEW PERMANENT LABEL

 The latest expression from Master Distiller & Blender Kimio Yonezawa joins the core range of premium world whiskies finished at the Kaikyō Distillery in Southern Japan 

New York, New York – Hatozaki Whisky is pleased to announce the release of their newest expression, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve. An original and rare expression, Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve embodies Master Distiller and Blender Kimio Yonezawa’s vision to create delicate, beautiful world whiskies in the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship. The new bottle is now available in the US for a suggested retail price of $74.99 (750-ml).

Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve represents the precision and artistry honed by Kimio Yonezawa over decades of study and application of the highest standard of whisky-making techniques. A blend of hand-selected malt whiskies, the liquid is aged first in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks before finishing for an additional six months in superior Umeshu plum liqueur barrels. Known as “ume,” Umeshu plum liqueur is a popular Japanese liqueur crafted from steeping local green plums in Japanese distillate. This maturation, unique to Triple Cask Reserve, imparts delicate, complex flavors of zesty citrus, refreshing herbal notes like tea, and subtle sweetness.

“Finishing a whisky in Umeshu plum liqueur barrels is rare in the whisky world, and I wanted to explore how the flavorful plum liqueur influence would transform the blend,” says Kimio Yonezawa. “The intense plum aromas add a layer of depth and subtle sweetness that sets it apart from other traditionally distilled whiskies.”

Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on the southern coast of Japan, Hatozaki Whisky is a signature expression of Yonezawa’s modern whisky making. Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve emerges as an elegant yet accessible whisky, best sipped slowly and savored with friends and family to create memorable moments. It is now available in most major US markets. 

HATOZAKI TRIPLE CASK RESERVE, 92 PROOF/ABV 46%

COLOR: Golden

NOSE: Fragrant oak spice with black tea and oranges, followed by dried apricots and a touch of vanilla harmonizing with the lightly toasted sweet barley aromas.

MOUTH: The palate opens with a gentle oak spiciness, accompanied by hints of dried peel and flavors of Umeshu. The mid-palate maintains a lightness, revealing more pronounced wood tones and a delicate presence of the spirit.

STYLE: Round, subtle, delicately sweet 

Hatozaki Triple Cask Reserve joins the brand’s core range of whiskies including Hatozaki Finest Whisky ($45.99, 750ml, 40% ABV), and Small Batch Whisky ($65.99, 750ml, 46% ABV). All Hatozaki whiskies contain no coloring or chill filtration. 

ABOUT HATOZAKI WHISKY

Hatozaki is produced at the Kaikyō Distillery off the southern coast of Japan, where the maritime climate and seaside terroir are ideal conditions for fine whisky maturing. Fourth-generation Master Distiller & Blender Kimio Yonezawa brings blending heritage, skill and passion to the tradition of whisky-making in Japan. The Hatozaki portfolio includes two permanent expressions, Hatozaki Finest Whisky and Small Batch Whisky, and the Omakase Collection: a line of limited edition expressions exclusive to the US, hand-selected by Yonezawa to create unique cask finishes that have included Mizunara, Sakura and other Japanese oak influence. Hatozaki presents a portfolio of expertly crafted whiskies in the Japanese tradition of craftsmanship that are worthy of sipping, savoring, and enjoying with family and friends. 

ABOUT THE KAIKYŌ DISTILLERY

Founded in 2017 by Kimio Yonezawa, the distillery is the culmination of Yonezawa’s keen interest in whisky and embarking on a passionate, decades-long journey of discovery. For many years, he traveled the world studying the time honored techniques of Scotch and American whisky making, then channeled his passion for fine spirits into founding his own distillery in his home country of Japan. The philosophy of the Kaikyō Distillery includes honing past traditions and contributing to the future craft of distilling. In addition to whisky, the Kaikyō Distillery produces 135° East Gin and Akashi-Tai Sake. 

ABOUT MARUSSIA BEVERAGES USA

Marussia Beverages USA is a national importer of premium spirits, sake, and wines including brands such as Hatozaki Whiskies, Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs, Torabhaig Scotch Whiskies, Bärenjäger Honey Liqueurs, 135° East Japanese Gin, and Akashi Tai Sakes. Marussia Beverages USA is part of the global group Marussia Beverages, with 14 distribution companies and 16 production sites throughout the world, achieving a turnover of 294 million euros in 2022. In respect for the deep roots of tradition paired with a taste for innovation, Marussia Beverages mission is to create and distribute quality, brands that elevate expectations and provide authentic consumer experiences.

NEW EDEN MILL DISTILLERY NOW FULLY OPERATIONAL

Independent Scottish distiller Eden Mill has completed commissioning of their new distillery, with both gin and single malt whisky now being produced on-site. Their first cask – a Scottish Oak cask – was filled on Monday 7^th April.

This momentous occasion marks the end of twenty-one months of building work following the handover from the University of St Andrews in June 2023.

The incredible space holds a mash tun, six washbacks, a gin still, wash and spirit stills, hot liquor tanks and a cask warehouse with space to store 300 casks. The state-of-the-art distillery has a capacity of 1 million litres of pure alcohol (LPA) per year and is a fantastic addition to the vibrant distilling scene that already exists within the region of Fife.

With just under 400 casks remaining from the single malt distilled at their original distillery located on the same site, Eden Mill is now turning their attention to restarting whisky production with a view to filling hundreds more casks with their new-make spirit, ready to be laid down to mature.

Located just ten minutes from St Andrews town centre on the University of St Andrews ‘Eden Campus’, Eden Mill will open a world-class visitor centre to tourists which will offer immersive gin and whisky experiences, a retail space and a top-floor cocktail bar featuring fantastic views over the Eden Estuary. The work on the visitor centre is expected to complete this summer, with a planned opening date of August.

Commenting on the news, Rennie Donaldson, Chief Executive Officer at Eden Mill said: “The new distillery marks a step change for our business and follows years of hard work by the whole team. To be able to announce that our new distillery is now fully operational is incredibly exciting and we are just a few short months away from being able to open our doors to the public and welcome visitors from all over the world.”

Adding to Rennie’s comments, Eden Mill’s Head Distiller Scott Ferguson said: “Following the installation of our copper stills in January, we have been progressing towards getting the distillery operational and refining our new-make spirit. My objective is to replicate the profile of what we used to distil at our original site – a light, sweet spirit with floral and grassy notes. I am looking forward to coming to work at this beautiful location every day and to overseeing the distillation of our excellent products.”

All electricity at Eden Mill’s distillery will be 100% renewable, coming from either the solar farm belonging to the University of St Andrews or from renewable tariffs on the grid. The business is working on various other sustainability initiatives, including their partnership with MiAlgae which was announced in October 2024.

Eden Mill 

https://www.edenmill.com/

Eden Mill distillery, established in 2012 on the banks of the Eden Estuary in St Andrews, was the first distillery to make spirits in the region in over 150 years. Today, Eden Mill has a unique selection of limited release Single Malts, and an extensive gin portfolio crafted from the finest botanicals, many sourced from in and around Fife.

Eden Mill has an ambition to create the finest gins and Scotch Whiskies with minimal environmental impact combining traditional distilling techniques with innovation. Eden Mill is building a stunning new distillery at the mouth of the river Eden, overlooking the iconic, historic town of St Andrews. The new distillery sits at the heart of the University of St Andrews Eden Campus, a unique site dedicated to sustainable businesses and research.