International Beverage crowned ‘Best Employer’ at leading HR Industry Awards

Global premium spirits business International Beverage has been recognised for its positive workplace culture after scooping one of the HR profession’s most prestigious awards.

The company triumphed at the 2025 HR NETWORK National Awards in Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel last Thursday – winning the highly coveted Best Employer / Workplace of the Year accolade.

The HR NETWORK National Awards reward best practice in the Scottish HR profession, through a rigorous process of interviews and site visits by an expert judging panel.

International Beverage was recognised by judges for its mission to create an inclusive workplace where people feel valued as part of a community, and genuinely enjoy coming to work.

Highlights include being an accredited Great Place to Work, building dynamic career growth pathways and investing in wellbeing campaigns around both men and women’s health.

Following the win, the company paid tribute to its people, who it credits with making a positive difference every day to the working lives of all employees.

Sam Kirk, International Beverage’s Director of HC said: ‘I am so proud to see the hard work, commitment and strong community spirit that flows through our whole business recognised with this award. From our team based in Scotland to our colleagues in France, New Zealand and beyond, this is a win for all of us. It’s our employees who make International Beverage a company where colleagues are supported and valued as individuals, and able to thrive as part of a wonderful community of talented people. Congratulations to all, and let’s keep up the great work!’

International Beverage also sponsored the HR NETWORK Awards 2025 Health & Wellbeing category which the company won in 2023. This year’s recipient was the NHS – National Services Scotland.

www.interbevgroup.com

About International Beverage

About International Beverage International Beverage is the international arm of Thai Beverage Public Limited Company. The premium spirits company’s portfolio is led by a range of high-quality brands including Old Pulteney single malt Scotch whisky, Hankey Bannister blended Scotch whisky, Caorunn Gin, PRAKAAN single malt whisky and Phraya Rum from Thailand, Larsen Cognac, and Cardrona spirits and liqueurs. A certified Great Place to Work, International Beverage’s success is shaped by its 700-strong team based across the business network of nine global sites spanning the UK, France, New Zealand and Greater China, following the company’s recent acquisition of Asiaeuro International Beverage (AIB). For more information please visit www.interbevgroup.com

THE BORDERS DISTILLERY ROLLS OUT REVOLUTIONARY TECH AHEAD OF SINGLE MALT LAUNCH

Utilising new technology, the Hawick-based distillery will be able to track production from end to end through an advanced online platform

The Borders Distillery has introduced the revolutionary, cloud based technology, Bottle ERP, in a move that will allow it to achieve its growth ambitions ahead of the release of its first single malt Scotch whisky.

Partnering with premier consulting firm Catalyst ERP, the distillery has implemented Bottle ERP, a comprehensive spirit management solution designed to streamline business and operational efficiencies. Powered by NetSuite’s world-leading cloud platform, Bottle ERP equips the team to track the journey from field to glass with greater clarity and control, while strengthening quality assurance, customer engagement and cask management. The platform also includes the fully integrated warehouse management solution, WMS Go.

At the forefront of the spirits industry’s digital revolution, the transformation comes at a pivotal time for The Borders Distillery. Established in Hawick in 2018, the distillery has brought the craft of Scotch whisky making back to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837 and is currently gearing up to launch its first single malt Scotch.

The introduction of Bottle ERP is just one part of a wider investment project at The Borders Distillery, as the company pursues its ambitious goals of becoming a household name in Scotch whisky.

David Shuttleworth, distiller at The Borders Distillery, commented:

“Implementing Catalyst’s Bottle ERP is just the beginning; we’ve now laid down a foundation from which we will begin to build our virtual distillery on. Working in partnership with Catalyst, we’re building a system that has long been sought after within the whisky industry – covering the whole process from end to end. I strongly believe the system will be transformative for The Borders Distillery and shows what collective thinking and collaborative working can achieve – particularly in an industry which craves technological advances.”

Nathan Cahoon, Chief Operating Officer of The Borders Distillery, added:

“Through our work with Catalyst we have delivered a full digital transformation within the distillery – allowing our team to follow the production journey from ingredients through to cask selection, maturation and, eventually, bottling. Being able to track and demonstrate the provenance of our whisky is more important now than ever before, and Bottle ERP allows us to do this seamlessly. At The Borders Distillery we bring together industry traditions with a forward-thinking approach, allowing us to address consumer demands on a global scale.”

The release of The Borders Distillery’s Single Malt will rely heavily on the smooth implementation of the company’s new Bottle ERP system, ensuring the distillery has a product that is fit for modern consumption.

Sam A’Bear, Catalyst Bottle ERP – Sales Manager, Distillery Specialist said:

“The implementation of Bottle ERP is transforming how distilleries operate and is driving digital innovation across the whisky industry. By connecting every stage of production, from grain sourcing through to bottling and beyond, Bottle ERP brings together all aspects of a distillery’s operations within one unified system. The platform empowers producers with unprecedented visibility, traceability and control over their processes. The Borders Distillery is leading by example, demonstrating how technology can enhance tradition. Their adoption of Bottle ERP shows that data and craftsmanship can work hand in hand to produce world-class whisky with complete provenance.”

The launch of The Borders Distillery’s first Single Malt Scotch is imminent. As the first distillery to operate in the region for nearly 200 years, the Hawick-based distillery’s focus is to proudly showcase the exceptional quality and creativity the long-untouched whisky region has to offer.

Over the past seven years, the company has nurtured and trained a new generation of in-house distillers. In that time, it has laid down a fruit-forward spirit made exclusively from barley grown within 35 miles of the distillery, through the Borders Growers & Distillers programme in partnership with Simpsons Malt.

For more information on The Borders Distillery, visit www.thebordersdistillery.com.

For more information on Catalyst ERP, visit https://catalyst-erp.co.uk/

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The Borders Distillery:

Nestled in the heart of the historic and picturesque town of Hawick, The Borders Distillery is bringing the craft of Scotch Whisky making back to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837. By using its surroundings and talented people as its muse, the distillery aims to capture the spirit and heritage of the region by producing high quality spirits since its opening in 2018.

Catalyst ERP:

Catalyst ERP’s Bottle ERP empowers distilleries and spirits producers to run smarter, faster, and with greater control through a cloud-based platform built on NetSuite. Purpose-built for the drinks industry, it brings together production, finance, compliance, and reporting in one unified system. From HMRC duty management and cask tracking to real-time profitability insights, Bottle ERP gives distilleries the clarity and agility they need to grow with confidence.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye Named Whisky Advocate’s 2025 “Whisky of the Year”

First-Ever Barrel Proof Rye from the Elijah Craig Family Earns the Top Spot in the Prestigious Whisky Advocate Top 20 Ranking

LOUISVILLE, Ky.  (December 2025) – Elijah Craig, the award-winning family of premium American Whiskeys, is proud to announce that Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye has been named Whisky Advocate’s 2025 Whisky of the Year, topping the publication’s coveted Top 20 list. This honor recognizes not only the exceptional quality of this inaugural Barrel Proof Rye release, but also Elijah Craig’s continued leadership in defining excellence within American Whiskey. It also adds to Heaven Hill’s distinguished barrel proof accolades, including Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon’s Whisky of the Year win in 2017 and Larceny Barrel Proof’s top ranking in 2020. Elijah Craig Rye is no stranger to the list—Elijah Craig Straight Rye debuted in the top ten in 2020 at No. 7—and this year’s recognition marks the first time a rye whiskey has earned Whisky Advocate’s highest honor, a historic achievement for both the brand and the category.

Released in September 2025 as the first Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey in the Elijah Craig portfolio, this inaugural release showcases the brand’s signature balance of bold character, nuanced flavor, and uncompromising craftsmanship. Under the guidance of Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll, the team selected barrels that delivered extraordinary depth and approachability. Aged 12 years and 3 months and bottled at 108 proof, this uncut, non-chill filtered expression quickly earned praise from whiskey enthusiasts and critics alike.

As someone who helped bring the Elijah Craig brand to life and guide its growth for decades, Max L. Shapira holds a uniquely personal connection to this milestone. “To have Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye recognized as Whisky of the Year during our 90th anniversary year is profoundly meaningful,” said Shapira, Executive Chairman, Heaven Hill Brands. “For nine decades, our family has remained committed to elevating American Whiskey with patience, integrity, and a deep respect for tradition. This award is a remarkable tribute to the generations of craftspeople who have shaped Heaven Hill, and to the bright future of American Whiskey that we continue to build together.”

Crafted to showcase Rye Whiskey in its purest form, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye reveals aromas of baking spices, gingerbread, and molasses, followed by a complex palate of stewed fruits and cinnamon. The finish lingers with nutmeg and a generous burst of rye spice, delivering a warm, satisfying close that reflects its extended aging and meticulous barrel selection.

“We are honored to see Elijah Craig’s first-ever Barrel Proof Rye recognized at the highest level,” said Max Stefka, AVP Global Whiskey Brands for Heaven Hill. “To be chosen as Whisky of the Year is a proud milestone for our entire team and we thank Whisky Advocate for the recognition and the value they provide to all whiskey fans.”

Batch A925 marks the beginning of a new chapter for Elijah Craig’s Barrel Proof lineup and further expands the brand’s commitment to offering whiskeys in their purest, most distinctive form. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye is available nationwide in 750 ml bottles with a suggested retail price of $74.99.

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

Introducing Chivas Regal Crystalgold: The Game-Changing Innovation That Redefines Tradition

London UK – Luxury Scotch whisky brand, Chivas Regal today announces the global launch of its groundbreaking spirit innovation, Chivas Regal Crystalgold – defying what you think you know about its world-renowned range. 

Crafted from a bespoke blend and refined through a pioneering filtration process, Chivas Regal Crystalgold showcases technical excellence, delivering remarkable smoothness and transparency while preserving the depth of character and craft associated with the Chivas Regal brand signature style.  

Pairing the mixability and versatility of a clear spirit with the depth of flavour and craftsmanship of a dark, oak-aged spirit, Chivas Regal Crystalgold offers an elevated alternative to traditional clear spirits, perfect for those sundowner moments that call for something fresher and more sophisticated in taste. Where clarity, versatility and craft converge in one groundbreaking spirit, it can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail for a truly distinctive, ultra-smooth drinking experience. 

“We’ve always believed that innovation should enhance tradition, not erase it and Chivas Regal Crystalgold is the epitome of that. It pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in blending,” said Sandy Hyslop, Master Blender, Chivas Regal. “Through years of experimentation, we have perfected a filtration process that removes colour while retaining flavour for a truly unique drinking experience. Our goal with Chivas Regal Crystalgold wasn’t just to innovate, it was to preserve everything people love about an oak-aged spirit, while presenting it in a way you’ve never seen from us before. The clarity is striking, but the flavour is unmistakably ours.” 

At the heart of this launch is Chivas Regal Global Brand Ambassador and F1 driver, Charles Leclerc, whose innovative mindset and pursuit of excellence mirror the ethos behind Chivas Regal Crystalgold. Known for his precision across all disciplines, including his off-track passion for chess, Leclerc embodies the ability to stay multiple moves ahead – a quality that also defines the meticulous art of spirit blending and innovation. Just as Chivas Regal Crystalgold offers a fresh perspective on tradition, Leclerc brings a sharp, modern lens to a world shaped by legacy and precision. 

“Since partnering with Chivas Regal, I’ve been inspired by its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and ability to balance heritage with innovation,” said Charles Leclerc, Global Brand Ambassador, Chivas Regal. “That philosophy deeply resonates with me – it mirrors the way I approach both my career and off-track passions, like chess, where strategy and precision are everything. Chivas Regal Crystalgold is the embodiment of that spirit. It’s about pushing boundaries while staying true to your roots.” 

To celebrate the launch of this groundbreaking innovation, Charles Leclerc and Chivas Regal have together created the ‘Leclerc Spritz.’ Comprising of a blend of citrus, elderflower and mint, elevated with champagne and Chivas Regal Crystalgold – it’s a modern twist on a timeless favourite, a bold innovation just like Chivas Regal Crystalgold itself.  

“With 75%* of consumers seeking spirits suited to afternoon-to-evening occasions, Chivas Regal Crystalgold meets a growing demand for spirits that are lighter and more versatile, while filling a unique space in our brand portfolio,” said Nick Blacknell, Marketing Director, Chivas Regal. “We’ve created a product that allows for both existing, and new generations of drinkers to experience a new type of spirit made by Chivas Regal. It’s a breakthrough in filtration and taste, but more than that, it’s a statement of who we are: bold, strategic, and ahead of the curve.”  

Chivas Regal Crystalgold will be available for purchase from October 2025, at an RRP of £51, from a range of retailers including Amazon, with its official debut taking place ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix on 30th September.  

To keep up to date with the latest from Chivas Regal, including content that brings to life Charles Leclerc’s passion for chess, follow @ChivasRegal on Instagram or visit chivas.com.  

Please enjoy Chivas Regal responsibly and never drink and drive. 

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

Gleann Mòr Spirits announces acquisition of Lowland Bond

Gleann Mòr Spirits, the Edinburgh-based spirits producer and bottler of Rare Find, today announced that it has completed the full acquisition of Lowland Bond, Fife’s premier excise warehouse. Gleann Mòr Spirits, previously a shareholder in the bond, has now acquired full ownership from the Edinburgh Whisky Company.

The acquisition significantly enhances Gleann Mòr Spirits’ capacity to meet the global demand for whisky and spirit maturation, storage, and distribution. With this addition, the company strengthens its ability to deliver world-class services to distillers, cask owners, and importers worldwide.

Opened in April 2023, Lowland Bond has already established itself as a landmark facility. Recognised as the tallest racked whisky warehouse in the UK / Europe, it offers 30,000 square feet of secure storage with the capacity to house more than 20,000 casks. Strategically located in Glenrothes, Fife, the warehouse benefits from Scotland’s deep-rooted whisky heritage and a highly connected logistics network, making it an ideal hub for the global spirits trade.

A spokesperson from Gleann Mòr Spirits commented: “The acquisition of Lowland Bond is a transformational step for our business. It provides us with the scale, capability, and flexibility to support our partners around the world. This acquisition, alongside our continued investment, ensures Gleann Mòr Spirits is ready to scale sustainably and seize the opportunities ahead.”

About Gleann Mòr Spirits

Gleann Mór Spirits is an award-winning independent, visionary spirits producer. Founded in 2015, the company crafts a wide range of distinctively delicious premium drinks, whilst adhering to an uncompromising approach to liquid creation.

The Gleann Mór brand family includes: Rare Find; London Distillery Company; Whisky Row; Leith Spirits; Edinburgh Rum, Glasgow Gin and Wester Distillery.

Unrivaled and Maker’s Mark Announce Partnership Celebrating the Spirit that Changed the Game

Maker’s Mark is named first Official Spirits Partner of Unrivaled, the breakthrough league built with the biggest stars in women’s basketball

LORETTO, Ky., December, 2025 – Ahead of the league’s second season in January, Maker’s Mark®, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced it will be the first Official Spirits Partner of Unrivaled presented by Samsung Galaxy — the athlete-founded and player-owned women’s basketball league ushering in a new era for the game. This is Maker’s Mark’s first-ever sports league sponsorship. As part of the multi-year partnership, Maker’s Mark will bring the spirit of sport to life throughout the season at games at Sephora Arena in Miami and Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.

“What Maker’s Mark has done throughout its renowned history is exactly what Unrivaled aims to do, which is carving our own path to create something better, and leaning into unreasonable ideas instead of shying away from them,” said Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled Co-Founder. “That’s what makes Maker’s Mark a perfect fit as our first Official Spirits Partner. We’re grateful for their support in our continued pursuit of making the unreasonable a reality for women’s basketball.”

Rob Samuels, eighth generation whisky maker and managing director at Maker’s Mark added, “Maker’s Mark founders – my grandparents – broke with tradition to reimagine what bourbon could be—a perfectly unreasonable spirit that endures today. Beginning with co-founders Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled shares that same spirit, and we’re delighted to shine a light on their community of players who prioritize passion and purpose on and off court.”  

As part of the partnership, Unrivaled ticketholders will have the chance to engage with Maker’s Mark brand experiences in select hospitality spaces and enjoy specialty cocktails inspired by the league. At Sephora Arena in Miami, Maker’s Mark will take over their new VIP Loge Box, creating an immersive space for VIP guests. At select games, Maker’s Mark will also be part of Unrivaled’s pre-game Fan Fest experience outside the arena where fans can enjoy games, photo opportunities, exclusive merch and activations in Unrivaled style.

Maker’s Mark will also appear in-arena through displays with broadcast-visible signage. Thirty-second commercial spots will run on media partners including TNT and truTV throughout the regular season and playoffs, featuring the new Perfectly Unreasonable global campaign, which celebrates the idea that going to unreasonable lengths—in life and in bourbon—is what separates good from remarkable. In parallel, Maker’s Mark will run custom content on Bleacher Report.

“This partnership brings together two brands that have challenged convention with an independent and generous spirit to create something truly new and compelling for their category,” said Regan Clarke, U.S. vice president of American Whiskey Brands, Suntory Global Spirits. “We’re thrilled to bring the dynamic energy of Unrivaled to life for basketball and bourbon fans alike – whether they’re enjoying the game in the arena or tuning in to watch with friends over a Maker’s Mark cocktail.” 

This announcement comes ahead of Unrivaled’s highly anticipated 2026 season, tipping off January 5 in Miami. Building on a breakthrough inaugural year that engaged and excited millions of fans, the league returns bigger than ever, featuring two new clubs, a redesigned arena with expanded fan sections, and their first-ever tour stop in Philadelphia. With broader national broadcast coverage with a fourth night of games, new brand partners and a growing roster of the sport’s biggest players, Unrivaled continues to push women’s basketball forward and redefine what a player-led league can look like.

Unrivaled and Maker’s Mark will offer their communities of ambassadors and fans exclusive content and other benefits. To explore the partnership with Maker’s Mark and Unrivaled, including nearby bar activations, signature cocktail recipes and more, visit www.makersmark.com/unrivaled-announcement or @makersmark and @unrivaled on Instagram.

ABOUT UNRIVALED
Unrivaled is a professional women’s basketball league innovating the women’s professional sports landscape with a groundbreaking model centered on investing in its athletes. Co-Founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled is player-owned, providing participating players equity opportunities for a vested interest in the league’s success. Launched in January 2025, Unrivaled features the current top women’s basketball stars in the world across eight clubs for a 3-on-3, compressed full court style of play. To learn more, visit unrivaled.basketball or contact info@unrivaled.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. In 1953, founders Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr. broke from tradition—burning the family’s 170-year-old recipe to create a bold, balanced bourbon made with soft red winter wheat for signature sweetness and creaminess. From the start, the Samuels went to remarkable lengths to craft uncompromisingly delicious bourbon—a perfectly unreasonable spirit that endures today. Every bottle is still hand-dipped in red wax, every barrel rotated by hand and every decision guided by the brand’s higher purpose.

Staying true to its founders’ vision, Maker’s Mark has expanded its portfolio with award-winning, super-premium expressions, including Maker’s Mark 46, Cask Strength, and Cellar Aged, as well as Private Selection, the brand’s custom barrel program. In 2025, the distillery debuted Star Hill Farm Whisky, its first-ever wheat whisky. Award-winning and the first to earn Estate Whiskey certification, Star Hill Farm Whisky inspired the Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance, a bold commitment to advance regenerative farming beyond its business, inviting farms, bars and restaurants to join the movement.

Maker’s Mark is proud to be both B Corp and Regenified Certified – milestones driven by the sustainability leadership at Star Hill Farm, home of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which strives to be the most endearing, culturally rich and environmentally responsible homeplace in the world.

Learn more at www.makersmark.com.

Rhubarb, custard and Highland smoke: Cù Bòcan’s new Creation #7 whisky marks 20 years of peat at Tomatin

Cù Bòcan, the experimental single malt crafted at Tomatin Distillery in the Scottish Highlands each winter, has launched its boldest release yet – Creation #7 – celebrating two decades of peated whisky production at the distillery.

Inspired by the lightly-peated spirit historically produced at Tomatin more than a century ago, Cù Bòcan uses unusual cask combinations to craft exceptional whiskies which push the boundaries of flavour and challenge the ordinary in whisky maturation.

Creation #7 – the anticipated seventh edition in the Creations series – has matured in rare Pineau des Charentes Rouge and American virgin oak casks, resulting in a distinctive flavour profile of rhubarb, custard, heather smoke and sweet oak spice.

Drawing on Tomatin’s experience in using fortified wine casks, including in the recent French Collection, blender and global brand ambassador Scott Adamson selected the Pineau des Charentes Rouge casks to add a new dimension to the Cù Bòcan range.

He said: “Creation #7 is Cù Bòcan’s most limited Creations release to date and is more than a whisky but an invitation to explore. The Pineau des Charentes Rouge casks are rarely used in Scotch whisky maturation and influence the lightly peated spirit to unlock nostalgic and unexpected flavours.”

Cù Bòcan Creation #7 marks 20 years of peated spirit production at Tomatin, a seasonal ritual that has closed the distillery’s calendar since 2005. Cù Bòcan’s distillation coincides with incredibly low water temperatures, allowing for faster distillate condensation and resulting in a slightly oilier mouthfeel in the new make spirit.

The new release is presented in Cù Bòcan’s bespoke bottle, housed in a vivid pink and yellow carton — a visual nod to the dram’s rhubarb and custard profile. Its engraved contours echo the wisp of Cù Bòcan’s signature smoke and the staves of the casks that shaped it.

Natural in colour and non-chill filtered, Cù Bòcan Creation #7 is bottled at 46% ABV and is available from today (24 November 2025) on Tomatin Distillery’s online shop and in specialist whisky retailers throughout the UK and worldwide, priced at £45 RRP. Only 3,000 bottles are available worldwide, 1,400 of which are in the UK. For more information, visit https://tomatin.com/cu-bocan.

Cù Bòcan Creation #7 tasting notes

Nose: Rhubarb crumble with custard, ginger and cinnamon. Almond croissants with apple and toffee. Heather smoke and musk.

Palate: Whisp of smoke followed by toasted brioche, butter shortbread, strawberry and raspberry.

Finish: Long with a mineral edge.

About Cù Bòcan

Cù Bòcan is a Highland single malt distilled, matured, and produced at the Tomatin Distillery near Inverness, renowned for its portfolio of brands including Tomatin Highland single malt, The Antiquary, Talisman and Big T.

Peat has been part of Tomatin’s story since its founding in 1897, when the distillery drew on local supplies to fire its stills. Though production shifted to an unpeated style mid-century, Tomatin revived peated runs in 2005 — sparking the birth of Cù Bòcan.

In 2005, the decision was made to produce a peated single malt and for the last week of production that year a batch of optic barley peated to 15ppm was used to produce about 60,000 litres of lightly peated spirit which was filled into a variety of different cask types.

Then, on September 3rd 2013, this lightly peated whisky produced at Tomatin was released as Cù Bòcan – a single malt at 15ppm matured in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and virgin oak casks. Since then, the Cù Bòcan brand has grown with a number of vintage releases as part of the brand’s limited-edition collection.

Cù Bòcan – ‘ghost dog’ in Gaelic – is named after a spirit thought to haunt the distillery’s hometown of Tomatin.

Cù Bòcan rebranded in August 2019. It is an experimental Highland single malt that explores innovative maturation to create whiskies full of intrigue and surprise. It is made with lightly peated Scottish barley, distilled every winter in limited batches and matured in a variety of interesting casks to unlock unusual flavours.

Harrison Ford Delivers Glenmorangie Festive Message

December 2025: Harrison Ford – clad in a Santa hat and kilt – puts a fresh spin on holiday campaigns, in a festive message celebrating Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky.

The spot, which is now live on social media, builds on his irreverent performance in Once Upon a Time in Scotland, the campaign directed by Joel Edgerton which launched in January 2025. Its twelve episodes told the story of Ford reluctantly shooting an advertisement for Glenmorangie, before being won over by its craft, people and whisky.

Fans can watch the Christmas message on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook @Glenmorangie and by visiting glenmorangie.com

Follow Glenmorangie on:

Instagram and Facebook: @Glenmorangie

For exclusive access to new releases, news and events, join Glenmorangie’s Online Community

@glenmorangie #glenmorangie glenmorangie.com

THE ORIGINAL

Creamy with vanilla and a rush of citrus, The Original is Glenmorangie’s source code – the single malt where all its whisky-making adventures begin. First released by Glenmorangie’s founders more than 180 years ago, the original Glenmorangie was known for its mellow tones and delicacy of flavour. All these years later, The Original remains at the heart of everything Glenmorangie does.

To give The Original its go-anywhere finesse, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators craft its spirit in Scotland’s tallest stills. Then they age it 12 years in bourbon casks where it absorbs all manner of delectable flavours. The result is a whisky which welcomes you with luscious layers of orange and honey, vanilla and bursts of peach. A smooth single malt, swirling with a kaleidoscope of taste. 

TASTING NOTES

Glenmorangie Original is bottled at 40% ABV

Colour: Bright gold.

Aroma: Citrus and ripening peaches are balanced by vanilla softness.

Taste: Vanilla emerges, then gives way to a burst of flowery fruitiness.

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to dream up delicious single malt whiskies. They’ve been honing their craft for 180 years. They create a delicate and fruity spirit in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow for more taste and aroma. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this crackerjack crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration Launches Inaugural Event President’s Day Weekend

Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary –  A New Kentucky Tradition Kicks off Feb. 13-15, 2026

LOUISVILLE, KY. – An inaugural event celebrating Kentucky’s signature bourbon industry is coming to Louisville in 2026, the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration (KBCA). This first-of-its-kind event brings together Kentucky’s legendary distilleries, rising stars and bourbon enthusiasts from across the nation for a historic three-day experience Feb. 13-15, 2026.

Timed to coincide with President’s Day Weekend and America’s 250th anniversary celebration, the KBCA honors bourbon as America’s native spirit with exclusive opportunities over its three days, celebrating bourbon, cuisine and community, all in the spirit of giving back. Auction proceeds will benefit the Bob Woodruff Foundation, supporting veterans, first responders and their families.​​​​

“Kentucky Bourbon, with its legendary, unmatched quality, is the galvanizing lifestyle that binds us together in this great city and state and is exported around the world daily,” said Andrew Varga, Founder of the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction. “The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration is one premier way to celebrate its majestic reverence by raising a glass in community while giving back to those who have protected our freedom for 250 years by way of the Bob Woodruff Foundation.”

The KBCA will showcase an extraordinary lineup of award-winning and visionary bourbon brands joining together for this landmark event to auction their exclusive barrels and luxury lots, including brands from Brown-Forman, Four Roses, Heaven Hill and J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery.

These legendary names represent the very best of Kentucky bourbon and are a living reflection of heritage, craftsmanship and innovation. Their participation, as well as others soon to be announced, underscores the state’s continuing influence as the global heart of bourbon culture.Ticket sales begin Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, online at KYBCA.com. Pricing and availability vary by event and ticket package, with prices starting at $150 for individual events and $1,550 for weekend passes.

In addition to its distinguished bourbon brand partners, the KBCA proudly recognizes its community and business sponsors, Delta Dental, BourbonCountry.com, Louisville Water, Signarama Downtown Louisville, TagSwag, OutFront Media, Kern’s Kitchen Derby-Pie^®, Bourbon Barrel Foods, DMK Development, Unipak Solutions and Mint Julep Experiences, whose leadership and support help make this inaugural celebration possible.

“In Bourbon City, bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a culture,” said Louisville Tourism Chief Marketing Officer Stacy Yates. “BourbonCountry.com is proud to help launch an event that celebrates that spirit and the people who shape it.”

The weekend will kick off with the Grand Reveal Tasting, hosted at the Frazier History Museum. This exclusive evening invites guests to savor the rarest bourbons paired with Kentucky-inspired culinary creations, entertainment and immersive experiences, celebrating the beginning of the bourbon year and all things Kentucky.

The signature event, The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction, will feature a bourbon-paired dinner by Kentucky’s top chefs and a live auction of the world’s most collectible and extraordinary bourbons, with proceeds benefiting the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

Other exciting weekend offerings include an interactive blind-tasting brunch curated by Chef Michael Crouch at Watch Hill Proper, a live culinary experience showcasing a Bourbon-inspired lunch hosted by Chef and owner John Varanese at Savor at River House, and distillery tours at participating distilleries across Bourbon Country, offering behind-the-scenes experiences, tastings, and limited-edition releases available only during the KBCA weekend.

For more information on the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration and tickets to the event, visit www.KYBCA.com.

About the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction

The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration is a first-of-its-kind gathering honoring Kentucky’s bourbon legacy while giving back to the heroes who protect our nation. Founded in Louisville by Andrew Varga, a longtime spirits industry executive, the inaugural KBCA committee includes bourbon industry luminaries, authors and executives such as America’s CEO- Chief Entertaining Officer Tim Laird and Lori Laird, former PriceWeber VP, Exec. Creative Director Larry Profancik and brand strategist Henrietta Pepper. KBCA unites distilleries, chefs and bourbon enthusiasts for three unforgettable days of tastings, events and philanthropy — all “for the greater great.”

NEW CLYDEBUILT WHISKIES UNVEILED

AS £5 MILLION IS INVESTED IN BRAND

Distinguished Scotch whisky brand Clydebuilt today issues four new releases, including three Single Cask bottlings.

The boutique label, owned by independent whisky producer Ardgowan Distillery Company, has been laying down stocks since the company was formed in 2016.

Based in Inverclyde, Ardgowan Distillery began distilling its own malt whisky in June. While the spirit matures over the coming years, Clydebuilt “offers the opportunity for us to showcase our expertise in wood management and the art of blending”.

The award winning range is named to honour the River Clyde’s world renowned shipbuilding heritage, with the word ‘Clydebuilt’ ultimately becoming a byword for quality craftsmanship.

The firm demonstrated its continued commitment to the brand by way of a significant investment in mature malt whisky stocks to the tune of £5 million in 2025, with a further £4m planned in 2026.

CEO Roland Grain explained the rationale behind the investment: “Our bespoke Infinity Casks for Ardgowan spirit are designed for long maturation by their very nature. The stock we’ve already acquired, and this further investment, ensure Clydebuilt will have solid foundations for the decades ahead until Ardgowan Single Malt is truly ready. This is a key step in achieving our goal to double turnover annually until 2030.”

Experienced Whisky Maker and Ardgowan’s Distillery Manager Laura Davies oversaw and selected the casks, which were aged on site in the distillery’s traditional dunnage warehouses.

Comprising one Blended Malt and three Single Cask Single Malts, the latest tranche of releases from the independent bottling house includes:

• 27 year old 100% Sherry Matured Blended Malt – Speyside, Highland & Island (RRSP £95): a multifaceted expression bringing together Highland and Island whiskies matured in a Pedro Ximénez Sherry hogshead and 33 year old malt distilled at Benrinnes Distillery. A limited edition of 408 bottles.
• 2009 Bourbon Hogshead, Fettercairn Distillery (RRSP £85): distilled in the Highlands, cask number 800292 was matured on site at Ardgowan Distillery. The cask’s Bourbon history has imparted notes of toffee apples and citrus zest on the 272 bottles of Single Malt available.
• 2012 Bourbon Hogshead, Royal Brackla Distillery (RRSP £75): previously hosting Bourbon, cask number 306449 subsequently aged Highland Single Malt from Royal Brackla Distillery. The resulting 290 bottles boast vibrant flavours of lemongrass, green apple and vanilla.
• 2014 Sherry Butt, Ben Nevis Distillery (RRSP £85): an amber Highland Single Malt matured in a single Spanish Sherry cask (#800040). Limited to 327 bottles, the nose brings cinnamon stewed pears while the palate offers butterscotch, nutmeg and brown sugar.

All four of the new Clydebuilt expressions are proudly bottled at their natural cask strength and without added colouring or undergoing chill filtration, preserving their full character and integrity.

Commenting on the news, Davies remarks:

“The Clydebuilt brand stands on craftsmanship and pride in quality, just like the Clyde’s former shipbuilders. With these new releases, we’ve drawn on exceptional whiskies and incredible, rich casks to create expressions full of character and individuality. These malts show just some of the scope we’re working with in our aged stocks. Having invested £5 million this year in securing stock to lay down for Clydebuilt, there’s a very bright future ahead for the brand.”

In September, Ardgowan announced a series of new distribution partnerships for Clydebuilt across key markets in Europe, North America and Asia, significantly expanding its global accessibility.

The new Clydebuilt bottlings will become increasingly available from specialist retailers from today – find a list of UK stockists and international distributors here.

ABOUT CLYDEBUILT SCOTCH WHISKY:

Some of the greatest ships in the world were built on the River Clyde and so, over time, the word ‘Clydebuilt’ came to stand for craftsmanship, integrity and pride. The Clydebuilt brand was inspired by that exceptional legacy: a fitting tribute as Ardgowan Distillery, the home of the brand, is situated on the Firth of Clyde near Inverkip.

While Ardgowan Single Malt continues to slumber for many years, Whisky Maker Laura Davies applies the same meticulous approach to Clydebuilt. This is a boutique range of thoughtfully selected and masterfully matured Scotch whiskies that honour the spirit of the Clyde, emulating and upholding the attention to detail and the pride in quality of those that came before. Discover more.

Further information on Ardgowan Distillery Company can be found at ardgowandistillery.com

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TASTING NOTES: 

Clydebuilt 27 year old Blended Malt – Speyside, Highland & Island, 41.8% ABV

• Colour: Dark auburn.
• Nose: Citrus zest, white pepper and marzipan.
• Taste: Dark cherries, toasted marshmallow, sticky raisins and ‘pear drop’ sweets.

Clydebuilt 2009 Bourbon Hogshead Single Cask – Fettercairn Distillery, 56.3% ABV

• Colour: Bright golden.
• Nose: Lemon sorbet and vanilla fudge.
• Taste: Silky toffee apples and more citrus zest.

Clydebuilt 2012 Bourbon Hogshead Single Cask – Royal Brackla Distillery, 52.9% ABV

• Colour: Bronze.
• Nose: Ripe peaches, nutmeg and subtle heather.
• Taste: Vibrant flavours of lemongrass, green apple and vanilla pods.

Clydebuilt 2014 Sherry Butt Single Cask – Ben Nevis Distillery, 60.0% ABV

• Colour: Rich amber.
• Nose: Cinnamon stewed pears and brown sugar.
• Taste: Butterscotch sauce and freshly grated nutmeg.