Press Releases

KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® TO INDUCT FIVE NEW MEMBERS IN SEPTEMBER

KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® TO INDUCT FIVE NEW MEMBERS IN SEPTEMBER

FRANKFORT, KY.— The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame’s 2024 class includes the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman, a veteran visitor center manager who elevated Bourbon tourism, two distinctive distillery founders and a trailblazing retailer who later created his own craft distillery.

That retail guru is Ken Lewis, retired Founder and CEO of New Riff Distilling, and this year’s recipient of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award. As a retailer, Lewis created The Party Source megastore and drove legal and legislative changes to allow Sunday and credit card sales of alcohol.

A fearless entrepreneur, in 2014 Lewis launched New Riff Distilling in Northern Kentucky, with the goal of creating one of the world’s great small distilleries based on innovation and collaboration to “riff” on the old ways and redefine new benchmarks of whiskey making.

Eric Gregory, longtime president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association that created and operates the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®, lauded this year’s visionary class and said, “Our signature Bourbon industry would not be what it is today without these distinguished honorees.

“Each put the industry before self, helping Kentucky cement its place in history as the international and undisputed home of Bourbon. And now we are honored to honor them. On behalf of our signature industry, we offer congratulations – and a heartfelt thank you – to these Bourbon heroes.”

This year’s class, in alphabetic order, will officially be inducted into the Hall of Fame in September:

  • Elmer Lucille Allen, 93, Louisville. A pioneering activist, Allen broke barriers in the Bourbon industry as the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman – and possibly the entire American whiskey industry. Her work to bring opportunity to all Louisvillians didn’t stop when she left the company. Amongst her many accomplishments, she formed the Chickasaw Little League and led efforts to bring African American art and artists to the mainstream.
  • Dee Ford, 59, Louisville. An international beacon of Bourbon hospitality. Ford’s vision, experience and leadership have catapulted Angel’s Envy and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® into an international, bucket-list tourism attraction. Since 2014, she’s served as Chair of the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Committee, earning the respect of her peers and sharing best practices that have leveraged hospitality to elevate Kentucky Bourbon on the global stage.
  • Ken Lewis, 71, Cincinnati. A spirits expert and groundbreaking policy leader, Lewis graduated college as a trained English teacher, but left shortly into his young career for the world of spirits retail. He championed efforts for Sunday sales and initiated litigation that allowed retailers to use credit cards for sales, eventually building The Party Source megastore, the first of its kind in the country. Learning the industry from the bottom up, Lewis brought innovation and entrepreneurship as the founder of New Riff Distilling in Northern Kentucky, paving the way for the craft Bourbon boom that now counts dozens of Kentucky distilleries.
  • The late Peter T. Loftin, 61, Miami. A preeminent innovator, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Loftin founded the Bardstown Bourbon Company that transformed the landscape of custom whiskey production in 2014. He was among the first to take advantage of modernized Bourbon tourism laws in Kentucky, creating a world-class restaurant and bar that graciously features every distillery’s brand on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour as well as an enviable vintage spirits lounge. Along with the state-of-the-art distillery, this high-value Napa Valley-style experience greatly raised the bar for Bourbon tourism and collaborative distilling. He died peacefully at his home in 2019.
  • M. Corky Taylor, 75, Henderson, Ky. A respected businessman throughout the country, Taylor retired from an accomplished career in financial services and focused on a lifelong dream – to resurrect his great-grandfather’s whiskey company. Taylor and his son spent countless hours poring over family history to bring back the Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., originally owned by Henry Kraver in Henderson. He built back the family legacy in Louisville along historic Whiskey Row, gaining national recognition – and national awards – by patiently waiting for his whiskey to age, living up to the original quality Bourbon standards his ancestor first set in 1889.

Note: Full biographies, submitted by the inductees, accompany this release in a separate file.

The KDA created the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® in 2001 to recognize individuals and organizations that have made a significant and transformational impact on Bourbon’s stature, growth and awareness. It is the highest honor given by the signature industry.

Candidates are nominated each year by the KDA and its member distilleries. A blue-ribbon committee – including all living recipients of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award – painstakingly reviews and selects up to five applicants a year for induction.

The invitation-only ceremony will be held Tuesday, Sept. 10, at The Legacy at Log Still in Nelson County, Ky. The intimate event, known for attracting the industry’s most revered legends and champions, is held annually in conjunction with the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown.

The 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® ceremony and luncheon is sponsored by Brindiamo Group, Blue & Co., LLC, Bardstown Tourism, Buzick Construction, Inc., Stedman Machine Company and Vendome Copper & Brass Works Corp.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

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

Edinburgh Whisky Academy Launches Online Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey

Edinburgh Whisky Academy Launches Online Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey

The Edinburgh Whisky Academy, in partnership with the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, proudly announces the online Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey will launch on Monday 19 August. This groundbreaking online course is designed for whiskey enthusiasts and industry professionals eager to deepen their understanding of the dynamic and emerging category of American single malt whiskey.

Course Overview

The Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey is a self-paced online course created in partnership with the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission. The course features short, easy-to-follow multimedia lessons over seven immersive modules. Upon completion of the final assessment (a 50-question multiple-choice test) participants will receive an EWA digital completion certificate and digital badge for immediate sharing. A printed copy and a physical purple lapel pin are available to purchase.

Authored by Industry Experts

Embark on a voyage through this exciting new category with experts who are truly at the forefront of the industry. They’ll help you master the craft roots and innovative techniques at the heart of American single malt whiskey production.

Contributors include:

Steve Hawley (President, American Single Malt Whiskey Commission)

Joseph O’Sullivan (Master Distiller, Minden Mill Distilling)

Tyler Pederson (Master Distiller, Westland Distillery)

Jared Himstedt (Head Distiller, Balcones Distilling)

Murphy Quint (Master Distiller, Cedar Ridge Distillery)

Matt Hofmann (Consultant, American Single Malt Whiskey)

Clay Risen (Journalist & Author)

Kirsty McKerrow, Founder and Managing Director of Edinburgh Whisky Academy, said:

“We are thrilled to introduce the first course of its kind with our Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey. This category is new, exciting, and growing rapidly, and our partnership with the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission allows us to pioneer a new standard of whiskey education. At the Edinburgh Whisky Academy, we believe that you never stop learning about whiskey, and this course is a testament to our commitment to providing cutting-edge and comprehensive education for whiskey enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.”

Steve Hawley, President of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, said:

“We’re excited to partner with the Edinburgh Whisky Academy to offer this comprehensive and pioneering educational opportunity. The category of American single malt whiskey is an intriguing blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of both worlds. This course furthers our mission to establish American single malt whiskey as a recognized and celebrated category among global whiskey consumers.”

Curriculum

Module 1: The History of American Single Malt Whiskey

Module 2: The Business of American Single Malt Whiskey

Module 3: Raw Materials

Module 4: Production Process (From Grain to Liquid)

Module 5: Maturation

Module 6: Blending & Bottling

Module 7: Sensory

Final Assessment: 50 questions, multiple-choice format

Interactive & Engaging Learning Experience

In addition to engaging multimedia lessons, participants can opt to receive a tasting pack containing six American single malt whiskeys (Virginia Distillery Co., Stranahan’s, Boulder Spirits, Andalusia, Whiskey Del Bac, and McCarthy’s) to accompany the Sensory module.

The course includes video explainers, panel discussions, text, and quizzes, ensuring a rich and engaging learning experience. Each lesson features a Discussion tab for interactive engagement with peers and instructors.

Details
£125 (online course only), or £180 (online course + tasting pack)

LINK: CLICK HERE:

About Edinburgh Whisky Academy

Edinburgh Whisky Academy provides world-class whisky education, offering online and in-person whisky courses that are both rigorous and accessible. With a focus on the rich traditions and innovative practices of the whisky industry, the Academy is committed to nurturing the next generation of whiskey connoisseurs and professionals.

About American Single Malt Whiskey

American single malt whiskey is an exciting and rapidly growing category in the whiskey world, characterized by its unique production methods and diverse flavour profiles. This course provides an in-depth exploration of its history, production, and place in the broader whiskey industry.

COURAGEOUS SPIRITS LAUNCH KING’S INCH AGE STATEMENT WHISKY – Scotch Whisky News

COURAGEOUS SPIRITS LAUNCH KING’S INCH AGE STATEMENT WHISKY

Brand-new King’s Inch whisky; 8 Year Old King’s Inch Bourbon & Sherry Cask vatting. 


Glasgow-based Courageous Spirits launch their first-ever age-statement whisky under the King’s Inch brand. Adding to their already award-winning non-age statement King’s Inch whisky, this summer they announce the 8 Year Old King’s Inch (46%).

Hand-selected by the team at Courageous Spirits – the King’s Inch 8 Year Old, priced at £49 is carefully chosen from the best-quality mix of the Bourbon casks and Sherry butts, a small vatting of just 1,500 bottles. This 8 Year Old whisky is an ultimate example of a Bourbon and Sherry cask vatting crafted specifically to be bottled at a younger age statement.

As the liquid slowly matures the Courageous Spirits team have been experimenting with how the whisky responds to different woods and finishes.

Golden, with a tinge of amber – the nose is rich and soft, laced with hints of heather honey and subtle kick of spiced oak and citrus. On the palette, there are notes of subtle sweetness, tropical fruit and dried raisins that lead onto spiced oak and ginger. Spiced ginger on the finish, lingering at the back of the palate and finishing with a warm and long-lasting sweet chilli.

AWARDS FIT FOR A KING

King’s Inch is named after the old imperial measurement of an inch, and a forgotten island in the Clyde, with its first bottling fresh off an award-winning run in 2022. King’s Inch Non-age statement (£45) was awarded Gold at the IWSC International Wine & Spirit Competition with 95 points, received Gold as well as Best in Show at the London Spirits Competition 2022, and achieved Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022.

NEW DIGS

Announcing the 8 year old whisky coincides with the official opening of the brand-new Courageous Spirits premises based on 121 Lancefield Street, Glasgow – where the company wants to bring everything under one roof. The new 8 year old release from King’s Inch is a project Courageous Spirits are taking on before they hope to build their very own urban distillery, with plans aiming to be announced later in 2024.

Situated on the edge of Finnieston’s hub of culture & creativity, the new site currently offers 3rd party services. Aiming to bring dry goods storage, bonded storage, bottling and distribution all under one roof – significantly reducing road miles and associated carbon.

Andy McGeoch, Managing Director and Founder of Courageous Spirits, commented on the launch: “We’ve always known King’s Inch is special since its launch in 2021. The awards and customer feedback gave us real confidence in the spirit. We’re now at a point where we can experiment with casks and see how the spirit reacts. That to us, is a really exciting prospect – one that will continue to bring the best out of our King’s Inch spirit. We really look forward to hearing feedback from our customers, good or bad!”

“At Courageous Spirits, our team really takes pride in our work, and pride for our city. Our brands continue to go from strength to strength and to have our new premises bring everything under one roof, makes our future very promising as we expand the vision of Courageous Spirits.”

GLOBAL EXPANSION

Home to both the award-winning Glaswegin and King’s Inch Single Malt Whisky brands, Courageous Spirits is planning to further break into global markets; targeting international territories such as Hong Kong, Myanmar, India and currently recruiting distributors across the globe.

Courageous Spirits aims to produce world-class liquid in outstanding packaging from Glasgow to the world. They hope to launch their urban distillery plans later in 2024. Their brand-new King’s Inch 8 Year Old, priced at £49 is available to buy now: https://kingsinch.com/

*Full Tasting Notes 

King’s Inch 8 Year Old | £49

The King’s Inch 8yo is a perfect example of a bourbon and sherry cask vatting made specifically to be bottled at a younger age statement. West coast barley, narrow cut points in the distillation and fresh (some would say wet) casks all contribute to the deep and ever changing nature of the spirit. An 8yo with the profile and characteristic to stand up to any 16yo.

Colour – Golden with a tinge of amber.

Nose – Rich and soft laced with hints of heather honey and subtle kick of spiced oak and citrus.

Palette – Notes of subtle sweetness, tropical fruit and dried raisins lead onto spiced oak and ginger.

Finish – Spiced ginger lingers at the back of the palate and finishes with a warm and long lasting sweet chilli.

Link to buy: https://kingsinch.com/

Courageous Spirits
Home of multi-award-winning spirits Glaswegin Premium Gin and King’s Inch Single Malt Whisky, Courageous Spirits products embody innovation and modernity in Scottish craftsmanship.
W: https://courageousspirits.com/

King’s Inch

Named after the old imperial measurement of an inch, and a forgotten island in the Clyde, a contemporary single malt with exceptional character.

W: https://kingsinch.com/
I: @kings_inch_whisky
Link to buy: https://kingsinch.com/products/kings-inch-whisky

Glaswegin
Developed, distilled and bottled in Glasgow, Glaswegin was inspired by the city and its people and is truly a gin for Glasgow (and beyond).
W: https://glaswegin.com/
I: @glaswegin
Link to buy: https://glaswegin.com/collections/shop

Hidden Barn Bourbon Wins Double Gold  at Prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Hidden Barn Bourbon Wins Double Gold

at Prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Series 1, “23B” Finalist for Best in Class Award

SPARTA, KY (July 24, 2024) –Hidden Barn Bourbon’s Series 1, Batch 23B has won a double gold at The Tasting Alliance’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition in the Small Batch Bourbon – up to 5 Years category and is a finalist for its Best in Class awards, which will be announced in October 2024.  The judges described 23B as “a perfectly balanced bourbon” and awarded it a score of 98 points.  This is the second year in a row a Hidden Barn Bourbon has won a double gold at the esteemed San Francisco award competition.

Batch 23B, released in the fall of 2023, was distilled at Neeley Family Distillery and blended by Jackie Zykan.  The two have paired up for six other Hidden Barn Bourbon releases, including a Seven-Year-Old bourbon, released on July 7th of this year.  Batch 23B is a blend of 20 barrels aged five to six years old using Neeley’s flagship mashbill of 70 percent corn, 20 percent rye and 10 percent malted barley.

Like all Neeley Family Distillery distillates, this bourbon was double pot distilled after fermenting with wild-crafted Appalachian yeast, a practice of the Neeley Family dating back generations.  Batch 23B was bottled at cask strength at 110.1 proof with only sediment filtration.

“We’re so humbled that Hidden Barn has won double gold medals back-to-back in 2023 and 2024, in what is one of the most distinguished and also largest spirits competitions,” said Master Blender Jackie Zykan.  “To have the judges describe it as ‘perfectly balanced’ is an enormous compliment as a blender, especially in such a crowded category as small batch bourbon.”

Zykan’s tasting notes for this bourbon call it rich and intense, with a buttery caramel corn base, dark fruit and florals, and significant baked apple.  A touch of pepper throughout ramps up into a robust finish complemented by dried peppermint and anise.

Suggested retail pricing for the Hidden Barn Series 1, 23B is $74.99. It is available at Neeley Family Distillery gift shop, online and at retail in Kentucky, Indiana, Georgia, Missouri, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

About Hidden Barn Bourbon

Hidden Barn’s name harkens back to the local communities who painted their barns black in solidarity with distillers during Prohibition.  This sense of community is continued today through the passion for quality whiskey and camaraderie shared by its three partners, Jackie Zykan, Royce Neeley and Nate Winegar.  Together, the three friends bring their own strengths – a superior palate, distilling prowess, and a powerhouse connector to form Hidden Barn Bourbon.  Previous Hidden Barn Series have earned Double Golds at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023 and 2024 and Best Small Batch, 1st Place at the 2023 New Orleans Bourbon Festival.  Hidden Barn Bourbon is owned by Neeley Family Distillery.   The brand is available online and in select states. For more information visit hiddenbarnwhiskey.com

About The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition was founded in 2000 and is the largest competition of its kind with nearly 5,000 entries.  Each entry is judged double blind by a panel of spirits experts.  A double gold medal is awarded when each judge on the panel gives a gold medal to the entry.  The SFWSC medal is a testament to the hard work of the spirits industry’s distillers and producers and is a universally recognized indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

Sazerac Company Awarded 27 Medals at the Spirits Business’ 2024 American Whiskey Masters ~ American Whiskey News

SAZERAC COMPANY AWARDED 27 MEDALS AT THE SPIRITS BUSINESS’ 2024 AMERICAN WHISKEY MASTERS

 Among the top honors are Thomas S. Moore Cabernet Sauvignon Finished Bourbon and 1792 Aged 12 Years, both winning prestigious Master medals 

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 5, 2024) – The Sazerac Company, one of the world’s largest, privately-owned distilled spirits companies, is honored to receive a total of 27 medals in The Spirits Business American Whiskey Masters 2024. Top honors include two Master medals – awarded to Thomas S. Moore Cabernet Sauvignon Finished Bourbon and 1792 Aged 12 Years – as well as 15 Gold medals and 10 Silver medals. Traveller Whiskey, the first new brand release from Buffalo Trace Distillery in several years, won a Gold medal in its first year of existence.

The American Whiskey Masters is chaired by The Spirits Business and a panel of leading spirits specialists. Spirits are judged in a blind taste test and awarded by category. This year, the competition included 85 entries from 19 companies across America.

“Thank you to the judges at this year’s American Whiskey Masters, we are honored and thrilled to have received 27 medals at this year’s competition,” said Jake Wenz, President and CEO at Sazerac. “Our teams working across Sazerac’s vast portfolio of American Whiskeys are committed to the craft of making quality whiskey. These awards are a strong reflection of our team’s daily dedication to exceptional distilling and aging.”

Sazerac brands awarded medals include W.L. Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, E.H. Taylor Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Traveller Whiskey, Benchmark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Early Times Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and more. Sazerac’s full list of winners includes:

Master

  • Thomas S. Moore Cabernet Sauvignon Finished Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1792 Bourbon Aged 12 Years

Gold

  • Very Old Barton 90 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1792 Single Barrel Bourbon (Bourbon – Super Premium Category)
  • W.L. Weller Antique Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1792 Full Proof Bourbon
  • 1792 Small Batch Bourbon
  • E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Thomas H. Handy Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Benchmark Top Floor Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Benchmark Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Benchmark Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Benchmark Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1792 Bottled in Bond Bourbon
  • Sazerac Rye Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Traveller Whiskey

Silver

  • Early Times Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • W.L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1792 Sweet Wheat Bourbon
  • W.L. Weller Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Benchmark Bonded Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Early Times American Blended Whiskey
  • Early Times Bottled in Bond Whiskey
  • Benchmark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1792 Single Barrel Bourbon (Bourbon – No Age Statement Category)

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 Lough Gill 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.

Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Launches New Packaging & “Seize Tonight” Campaign – American Bourbon News

Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Launches New Packaging & “Seize Tonight” Campaign

New initiatives pay homage to John E. Fitzgerald, the U.S. Treasury Agent whose act of stealing from the best barrels in the rickhouse inspired the Larceny and Old Fitzgerald brands

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (July 2024) – Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey today announced new elevated packaging along with a new campaign entitled “Seize Tonight.” The upgraded design on both Larceny Small Batch and Larceny Barrel Proof uses premium papers and foils to prominently feature the key and keyhole iconography the brand is known for alongside the Old Fitzgerald seal. The “Seize Tonight” campaign is centered around the idea that the most memorable moments happen when you let curiosity get the best of you and take a little risk – much like John E. Fitzgerald himself.

John E. Fitzgerald, a U.S. Treasury agent in the late 1800s, used his keys to access aging whiskey barrels, stealing the best Bourbon for himself. When it came time to dump these barrels some were unusually light and exceptionally smooth and became known around the distillery as “Fitzgerald Barrels”. This inspired the historic Old Fitzgerald brand and then Larceny which launched in 2012. The connection between the two brands is highlighted in the new Larceny package. Elements like the original Old Fitzgerald seal in foil on top of the capsule and Fitzgerald’s signature at the bottom of the label show the classic brand’s endorsement of Larceny. Larceny’s iconic key symbol has also received an upgrade with a sculpturally embossed foil key that takes direct inspiration from the Old Fitzgerald key. Wheated Bourbon Mashbill is prominently featured on the bottom label, calling out Larceny’s unique flavor profile.

Sometimes what’s not there is the key to what is. One of the biggest features of the new package is not visible to the naked eye. Printed with UV ink, the legend behind Larceny can barely be seen in natural light but hold the label under a blacklight and the story is revealed. This feature alludes to the fact that for many years the story of John E. Fitzgerald was lost to history. It was only in recent decades that Fitzgerald’s true identity as a Treasury Agent with a taste for stolen whiskey came to light. The new label resembles a page ripped from the history books – lost for many years, but rediscovered. On the back of Larceny bottles, Bourbon fans can scan the QR code taking them directly to the newly updated Larceny website.

Inspired by John E. Fitzgerald’s act of mischief that left the world with an extraordinary Bourbon, the “Seize Tonight” campaign is the brand’s take on carpe diem which encourages fans to embrace the unexpected and break from routine. This campaign will be extended across connected TV, digital, social and on and off premise this fall.

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

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

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

Tomatin Distillery launches The Sherry Collection, a trio of single malts which celebrates sherry’s renaissance – Scotch Whisky News

Tomatin Distillery launches The Sherry Collection, a trio of single malts which celebrates sherry’s renaissance

Highland distiller Tomatin has unveiled an impressive trio of new single malts today, The Sherry Collection.

Available now from specialist retailers and the distillery’s website, this limited edition series will exhibit the unique influence of different casks, showcasing classic Tomatin whisky matured in Manzanilla, Palo Cortado, and Pedro Ximénez butts.

Fortified wine has played a role in the creation of Tomatin whisky throughout its history with the distillery using sherry casks sourced from Jerez in maturation for more than a century. However, The Sherry Collection has been created to celebrate modern sherry culture, which has seen a resurgence, thanks partly to the growing tapas scene and the evolving food and drink desires of consumers.

Tomatin’s award-winning team have refined three expressions, each bottled at different ages to showcase the whiskies at their peak.

The Manzanilla Edition (RRP £65, 46% ABV, non-chill filtered, natural colour) was distilled in 2014 and has been finished in Manzanilla butts for two years. It carries depth with delicious aromas of sourdough bread and salty popcorn on the nose, perfectly balanced with dried fruits, chamomile tea, grapefruit, maple syrup and salted walnut on the palate. Characteristic of the Manzanilla, the finish is slightly salty with warm brown butter.

The Palo Cortado Edition (RRP £95, 46% ABV, non-chill filtered, natural colour) has been finished for three years in Palo Cortado butts after being distilled in 2008. Aromas of cinder toffee and dried orange provide a rich and inviting introduction, followed by notes of milk chocolate, toasted fruit loaf and Brazil nuts on the palate. It has a tangy and complex finish, with hints of black tea and ginger.

The Pedro Ximénez Edition (RRP £150, 46% ABV, non-chill filtered, natural colour) has the longest maturation of 17 years, including an eight-year finish in PX casks. A nose of indulgent sticky toffee pudding and espresso is followed by a combination of lemon curd, golden syrup, dates, dried fig and muscovado sugar on the palate. The finish is long with notes of rum, raisin, and decadent dark chocolate.

Each Edition comes in the classic Tomatin 70cl bottle with distinctive packaging that brings together the rich and rustic tones of the Scottish Highland landscape while replicating the vivid colours of classic sherry.

The markings on the secondary carton represent wood grain, to highlight the different cask finishes used. 

Scott Adamson, Blender and Global Brand Ambassador for Tomatin, said:

“The Sherry Collection is a nod to our past and our present; sherry has been widely used in Scotch for decades and Tomatin’s story is no different, however, this collection celebrates our continuous experimentation, craftsmanship and desire to bring remarkable flavours to our consumers all over the world.

About Tomatin Distillery

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands, 16 miles south of Inverness, and is famous for its portfolio of refined and elegant whiskies.  The distillery has a proud heritage stretching back to the 15th century when illicit production was likely to be taking place, but it wasn’t until 1897 that the first formal distillery was established by John MacDougall as the Tomatin Spey Distillery Company.

In 2022, Tomatin was awarded ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). Later that year, it was recognised as ‘Sustainable Distillery of the Year’ at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023, in recognition of its continued contribution to sustainably at the distillery.

In 2023, Tomatin’s success continued when the distillery’s ‘Legacy’ was awarded Gold at IWSC. That same year, Tomatin also took home seven awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, took home three. Tomatin’s 36 Year Old was crowned the ultimate winner at SFWSC for malts, being named ‘Best in Show’, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world.

Building upon this triumph, 2024 saw Tomatin’s 18 Year Old secured Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the SFWSC, elevating it to Platinum status. Meanwhile, both Tomatin’s 45 Year Old and 12 Year Old, alongside Cù Bòcan’s 15 Year Old took home Double Gold Awards, and Cù Bòcan’s 12 Year Old also secured a prestigious Gold Award.

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

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

Have you been contacted by Cask Whisky Ltd? – City of London Police News

News Have you been contacted by Cask Whisky Ltd?

Published:16:5331/07/2024

The City of London Police has launched an investigation into a whisky investment company as part of the force’s commitment to protect the UK from the threat of fraud and economic crime.

The investigation is linked to Cask Whisky Ltd, a company which purports to trade in whisky casks, selling directly to clients.

Whisky is a growing investment market, with legitimate brokers and resellers operating within the UK. Investors are lured by the potential profits emanating from mature (aged) whisky.

In some cases, people are misled or promised guaranteed or unrealistic returns on their initial investment. This is the same as many forms of investment fraud, however whisky investment fraud is an area which has grown in recent years.

It is essential to understand the market and potential costs, before investing.  Potential costs include:

  • Warehousing costs: many choose to mature whisky beyond ten years. As a general rule, the older the whisky, the higher the value (although many variables affect this). Some investment companies do not cover warehousing or storage costs for the full maturation period.
  • Alcohol duty: when the whisky is removed from bond, and released for consumption in the UK, “alcohol duty” is due to be paid. Alcohol duty on whisky is currently £31.64 per litre of alcohol (as of July 2024).
  • Potential Capital Gains tax: whisky is not Capital Gains Tax exempt.
  • Bottling costs and subsequent VAT upon re-sale.

Detective Inspector Stephen Weller, from the Serious Organised Crime Team at City of London Police, said: 

“Investment fraud is an incredibly callous form of criminality, that can leave victims in financial ruin.

“Regarding Cask Whisky Ltd, we are investigating an allegation of fraud and seeking to establish if any criminality has taken place.

“If you have made any investments with Cask Whisky Ltd, or have been contacted by Cask Whisky Ltd, we would ask you to submit information to help us build a bigger picture and help our ongoing enquiries.

“You can submit information by completing a questionnaire on the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP).”

EDEN MILL CELEBRATES HOMETOWN WITH ST ANDREWS INSPIRED SINGLE MALT – Scotch Whisky News

EDEN MILL CELEBRATES HOMETOWN WITH ST ANDREWS INSPIRED SINGLE MALT

Independent Scottish distiller Eden Mill has announced the latest release in its ‘Art of St Andrews’ whisky series. The annual release celebrates the spirit, landscape and flavours of Eden Mill’s coastal hometown – and the artists inspired by its beautiful scenery.

The 2024 release sees a collaboration with artist Babs Pease. Her work is influenced by flora, fauna, landscapes, seascapes and fishing villages along the Fife coast. These are carved into blocks of lino which are covered in ink then hand-printed at her home studio with a Victorian relief press.

The bespoke artwork for the whisky carton and bottle is a celebration of St Andrews. It depicts University of St Andrews students doing a customary ‘Pier Walk’ in their red gowns. The cathedral sits proud on the skyline above the harbour village and there are a couple of other hidden surprises like a golfer and some local sea life.

Along with the exceptional artwork, the release showcases the artistry involved in our Head Distiller, Scott Ferguson’s, whisky making. The 2024 release is matured in a combination of Amarone red wine casks from Italy’s Veneto region, along with Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks from Jerez in Spain. A calling card of the ‘Art of St Andrews’ series is a unique cask finish, so this Single Malt is finished in a first-fill Amarone cask which imparts a deep copper colour and heady wine notes.

The resulting flavour profile is cinnamon spice and juicy red fruits on the nose, then the palate sees a transition to dark fruits – like cherry and blackberry – as a result of the Amarone casks. A rich, rewarding finish gives notes of raisins, figs and a lingering oak spice.

St Andrews locals and tourists will be able to buy the bottle before anyone else from the Eden Mill flagship store on Market Street as well as popular local whisky shops Taste of Scotland and Luvians. It’s exclusively available in the town until the UK-wide launch on August 1st.

Keen collectors can register their interest to be the first to buy when the whisky becomes available online and a brand-new ‘Art of St Andrews Tasting Experience’ is now available at the Eden Mill Experience in the Old Course Hotel in St Andrews.

Commenting on the partnership, Hannah Ingram, Head of Marketing at Eden Mill, said: “With The Art of St Andrews release this year we wanted to showcase familiar sights and scenes from our hometown that will be instantly recognisable for locals and tourists alike.

“From St Andrews cathedral and the iconic red gowns of the University students, to the lone golfer chipping out of a bunker – there’s something for everyone. This stunning artwork is matched by a whisky with rich, red wine notes from the Amarone casks which are balanced with sherry sweetness.”

Babs added, “I take a lot of my artistic inspiration from the towns and villages along the Fife coast, so it was great to capture the energy and history of St Andrews harbour with this commission. The vibrant red colour used in the students’ gowns is reflected by the red wine Scott used to mature this single malt whisky.”

‘The Art of St Andrews 2024’ is bottled at 46.5% ABV and retails for £150.  Just 2,250 bottles have been produced in total and the first 100 bottles sold online will come with a free 5cl sample. The whisky is now available at Eden Mill’s flagship Market Street shop as well as popular local whisky shops Luvians and Taste of Scotland. The product will be sold UK-wide via edenmill.com from August 1st. 

Eden Mill’s soon-to-be-completed distillery is located just seven minutes from St Andrews and is due to re-commence distillation later this year. It will then open its doors to tourists from spring 2025.

The brand recently launched a brand-new gin and whisky experience in the 5 star Old Course Hotel. ‘Eden Mill at the Old Course Hotel’ is now open to the public offering three distinct experiences – a Coastal Gin Flight, the Eden Mill Single Malt Flight, and the Art of St Andrews Tasting Experience.

Eden Mill

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.

KNOB CREEK® BOURBON X RYE BLENDS THE BEST OF KNOB CREEK® BOURBON AND RYE – American Whiskey News

KNOB CREEK® BOURBON X RYE BLENDS THE BEST OF KNOB CREEK® BOURBON AND RYE

Blending award-winning Knob Creek® 9 Year Old Bourbon and 7 Year Old Rye, the newest limited time offering combines the sweet notes of bourbon with the spicy notes of rye, creating the ultimate sipping experience 

CLERMONT, KY – July 17, 2024 – Knob Creek®, a leader in the Small Batch Bourbon category, is proud to debut a new, dynamic bourbon and rye blended whiskey, Knob Creek® Bourbon x Rye Kentucky Blended Straight Whiskey. The limited edition release combines two of Knob Creek’s® iconic, award-winning whiskeys; Knob Creek® 9 Year Old Bourbon and Knob Creek® 7 Year Old Rye Whiskey, into one unique blend that embodies the best of both whiskey worlds.

Unmistakably Knob Creek®, carefully crafted and bottled at 113 proof, Knob Creek® Bourbon x Rye is seasoned by time, highlighting the perfect balance of the rich, sweet notes of bourbon complemented by the robust, spicy undertones of rye, in every sip. This complex and robust whiskey is unlike anything in the existing Knob Creek® portfolio, or many other offerings on the market, solidifying the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.

“Knob Creek® has captivated whiskey fans since its inception and this year, we are pushing traditional whiskey boundaries with our new Bourbon x Rye blend, delivering two of our best expressions, in one flavorful sip,” said Freddie Noe, Eighth Generation Master Distiller. “It is an honor to work with my dad to go beyond the traditional craft an unexpected offering that upholds my grandfather’s vision of creating high-quality, flavorful whiskey.”

Knob Creek® Bourbon x Rye is bottled with the following characteristics:

  • Proof: 113
  • Color: Golden brown with copper hues
  • Aroma: Sweet maple and vanilla with hints of nuttiness and baking spice
  • Taste: Brown sweets with a hint of fruitiness and black pepper
  • Finish: Sweet with lingering spice

Knob Creek® Bourbon x Rye is available for a limited time nationwide with a suggested retail price of $44.99 for a 750mL bottle. Enjoy Knob Creek® Bourbon x Rye neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail of your choice. For more information about Knob Creek® Bourbon x Rye and Knob Creek’s® award-winning* bourbon and rye portfolios, please visit www.KnobCreek.com or visit us on Instagram @KnobCreek.

About Knob Creek®

Knob Creek® has set the standard for super-premium whiskey for three decades by crafting extraordinary full-flavored bourbon with a rich taste. Knob Creek® bourbons and ryes are patiently aged to perfection in new, maximum charred American Oak barrels to impart the biggest and fullest flavor on their whiskey. No matter the expression, Knob Creek® is crafted without shortcuts and embodies the pre-Prohibition style that founding distiller Booker Noe created in 1992. Since then, Knob Creek® has lived up to such standards with the introduction of Knob Creek® Straight Rye Whiskey in 2012, and later on, Knob Creek® Single Barrel Select Rye Whiskey. In recent years, Knob Creek® announced the permanent addition of Knob Creek® 12 Year Old Bourbon and launched two limited releases, Knob Creek® 15 Year Old Bourbon and Knob Creek® 18 Year Old Bourbon. Knob Creek has continued to build out its rye portfolio; the brand announced the addition of an age statement to its flagship rye whiskey, Knob Creek® 7 Year Old Rye Whiskey, and released Knob Creek® 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey earlier this year.

About Suntory Global Spirits

As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands.  Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker’s Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Suntory Global Spirits’ core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Suntory Global Spirits, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com


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