THE GLENLIVET REDEFINES SINGLE MALT WHISKY WITH LAUNCH OF ITS NEW FUSION CASK SERIES

Introducing The Glenlivet Rum & Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection; a first-of-its-kind innovation, offering an elevated taste experience that pushes boundaries in single malt Scotch whisky. 

The Glenlivet, the iconic Speyside single malt whisky, introduces The Glenlivet Fusion Cask Series: Rum & Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection. Offering a one-of-a-kind taste experience, this expression adopts a category-first technique that marries first-fill rum casks with American bourbon barrels to create one single, harmonious fusion cask finish. The release marks the beginning of The Glenlivet’s Fusion Cask series as well as this year’s bicentennial celebrations of 200 years of innovation and excellence from The Glenlivet.

The Glenlivet has pioneered two centuries of pushing boundaries in whisky, from its inception to this day, and remains committed to continuously setting new standards of excellence within the Single Malt category for the next 200 years. The Glenlivet Fusion Cask Series answers an increasing demand for prestige spirit drinkers seeking flavour experimentation and unique taste experiences, whilst boldly embracing an unconventional process, demonstrating its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Both a first for Chivas Brothers and in the whisky category at large, this pioneering approach to cask craft imparts a distinct finish and unparalleled taste experience.

For the first in the series, The Glenlivet Rum & Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection has been selectively finished* in recrafted first fill rum and American bourbon casks to create a bespoke fusion cask. These hand-selected barrels have been dismantled and reassembled – with the ends of one barrel put together with the body of staves from another – by expert coopers, offering a flavour profile transformed by the fusion of influences from two distinct cask types. The Glenlivet Rum and Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection delivers aromas of orange, vanilla custard, caramel, coconut and zest of lemon, notes of juicy apricot and peach, fresh apples, toffee-covered bananas and subtle cinnamon spice on the palate, and a sweet and smooth finish with enduring notes of orange.

The Glenlivet Cask Expert, Kevin Balmforth commented:

“This category-first innovation continues our commitment and 200-year legacy of pushing boundaries in whisky. As a team of makers at The Glenlivet, we work closely with our partners at the cooperage to ensure the handmade casks are of the highest quality, and this intricate dismantling and reassembling process to create new bespoke casks ensures a distinctive and expertly-crafted finish”.

The Glenlivet Fusion Cask: Rum & Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection will be initially available in the US for purchase from February 2024, priced from $99.99. Whisky enthusiasts are invited to experience this extraordinary blend, an embodiment of The Glenlivet’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and a rich legacy of 200 years.

*A portion of the whisky spends time in the referenced cask

CHIVAS BROTHERS OPENS PICTURESQUE GUEST HOUSE AND WHISKY RETREAT, LINN HOUSE IN SPEYSIDE

Demand for premium whiskies and VIP experiences takes Chivas Brothers into the business of hospitality

Chivas Brothers, the Pernod Ricard business dedicated to Scotch whisky and maker of Chivas Regal and Royal Salute, will extend its world-renowned visitor centre experiences with the opening of its first guest house, Linn House, this November. The magnificent Victorian manor, located in Keith on the banks of the River Isla, invites whisky lovers and explorers alike to enjoy a countryside getaway with traditional Scottish hospitality, unfettered access to a permanent whisky library and delicious fine dining prepared by its resident Chef.

With origins dating back to 1870, the building, designed by Scottish gentleman Robert Kynoch-Shand, has been reimagined for today with an impeccable renovation boasting luxurious amenities and rustic-chic interiors inspired by Chivas Brothers’ distilleries across Scotland. It is available to reserve in blocks of either six or 12 bedrooms, with both options offering sole occupancy of the house for the utmost privacy. Exclusive use of all the communal house facilities, including the charming living room with original Victorian fireplace, the oak-panelled mahogany dining room or the enchanting walled kitchen garden on the grounds of the estate, is offered with each reservation.

The carefully curated whisky library boasts an outstanding selection from the Chivas Brothers portfolio including Single Malt whiskies from The Glenlivet, Aberlour and Scapa, as well as blended whiskies from Chivas Regal, Royale Salute and Ballantine’s. Guests can discover these iconic whiskies through guided tastings, while learning about their rich heritage and sampling limited-release editions up to 30 years old, all from the comfort of the House.

Each reservation incorporates a culinary journey prepared by Linn House’s resident chef, who uses fresh, locally sourced produce to create elegant seasonal feasts for guests, including traditional Scottish dinners with an address to the haggis, served in the oak-paneled mahogany dining room, followed by a nightcap by the firepit under the starry Speyside sky.

Jacques-Henri Brive, Head of Brand Advocacy and Prestige Acceleration at Chivas Brothers spearheaded the project in response to the growing demand for luxury whisky experiences from global consumers. It also follows a recent report from the Scotch Whisky Association signaling whisky tourism has become the #1 attraction for visitors to Scotland in the last 12 months with more than £85m spent in total at sites across Scotland’s five whisky regions, up 90% since 2010 (SWA, 2022).

Brive commented,

“Linn House represents an opportunity for us to encourage global consumers to connect with the region in which many of our iconic whiskies are made. Just as a luxury fashion brand has an atelier, or a boutique perfumer has its by-invitation salon; the heart of our whiskies lies here in Scotland. As demand for whisky expands around the world, more consumers are intrigued to discover and explore our heritage. Linn House is an extension of our brand homes, affording anyone who visits the luxury of time: to rest, to indulge and to enjoy all that the region has to offer. It is our ambition that Linn House becomes a destination hospitality offering here in Speyside.” 

The dedicated team at Linn House will work closely with guests to design tailor-made itineraries for the ideal rural escape for whisky and nature lovers alike. For those interested in exploring the world of whisky, curated experiences at world-renowned distilleries The Glenlivet and Strathisla, an engaging cocktail masterclass or an exploration of the smuggler’s trails to learn more about the Speyside area’s illicit whisky distilling past, might be in order. Alternatively, guests can indulge in a range of local sporting and leisure activities, such as fly-fishing at the historic Ballindalloch Castle, a visit to the spectacular Hopeman golf course overlooking the sea or stargazing under striking dark sky sites.

Bookings enquiries can be registered at linn.house@pernod-ricard.com. Accommodating up to 12 guests in six rooms, the retreat is available at £9,600. Full house reservations grant guests access to all 12 rooms and accommodates up to 24 guests for £19,200. Both include a two night stay with breakfast and three course seasonal and/or Scottish dinner with wine selection, an ‘exploration’ drink package and a bottle of Linn House Reserve whisky for each guest. A minimum two-night stay applies for all bookings. Prices valid until 30th June 2024.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association

Honors Brown-Forman Executive With Prestigious “Esprit de Corps” Award

Les Fugate, Vice President –

Director of State and Local Public Affairs for Brown-Forman Corp., 

Helped Lead the Industry’s Successful Efforts to Eliminate the Barrel Tax

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Les Fugate of Brown-Forman Corp. is the recipient of an elite industry award honoring leaders who personify the legendary group’s spirit of camaraderie and integrity.

The esteemed Esprit de Corps Award can be bestowed by the Chair of the KDA’s Board of Directors to individuals who have, “by demonstrable and honorable action,” gone above and beyond the call of duty to advance the mission of the KDA and Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

“As Chairman of the KDA’s Governmental Affairs Advisory Group, Les devoted tremendous time, energy and leadership to the successful passage of House Bill 5, which phases out the annual discriminatory tax on aging barrels of Bourbon and spirits in Kentucky,” KDA President Eric Gregory said.

KDA Board Chairman Chris Morris conferred the award to Fugate at the KDA’s 2023 annual State Dinner in Louisville. Fugate received a commemorative plaque and engraved medal in recognition of his exceptional service.

“The KDA has been working for generations on a reasonable and responsible solution to the ever-growing barrel tax which had put our signature industry at a competitive disadvantage and remained a disincentive for distilleries to build or expand in the Commonwealth,” Morris said.

“By communicating and collaborating with our member distilleries and key stakeholders, Les and the industry’s team of advocates reached  a compromise that puts our state and homegrown Bourbon industry on a path to a more competitive and sustainable tax code.”

The bipartisan House Bill 5 compromise signed into law earlier this year phases out the barrel tax over 20 years while protecting funds for schools, fire departments and EMS districts, and gives local governments plenty of time to plan and diversify their tax base.

“Leaders like Les are why our industry is what it is today. He navigated an ever-changing legislative landscape while making sure all of our members, legacy and craft, were included in the process and the final outcome,” Gregory said.

Fugate, a native of Prestonsburg, Ky., and graduate of Centre College, said, “I’m humbled and filled with gratitude to be honored with the ‘Esprit de Corps’  award. So many legends within the industry worked together and paved the way to get us where we are today, and I am constantly inspired by their foresight, collegiality, and innovation to keep our industry thriving.

“The collaborative spirit that is woven throughout the history of Bourbon allowed us to come together and find a solution to lead our industry into an exciting future. This effort forever strengthens the relationship with the state that we love, our old Kentucky home.”

 Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

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

Distilled in Washington A HISTORY By Becky Garrison Foreword by Mr. Charles Finkel

Washington has a tortured history with liquor. Efforts to ban or restrict it date back to1854, before the region even attained statehood, with blue laws remaining on the books well into the twentieth century. From Jimmie Durkin, an enterprising saloon owner, to Roy Olmstead, a former Seattle cop turned gentleman bootlegger, the business of liquor has inspired both trouble and innovation. Join author and journalist Becky Garrison as she traces the history of the barrel and the bottle from early settlement to the modern craft distilling boom in the Evergreen State.

Stories to Savor

ARCADIA PUBLISHING

Changing of the guard at Isle of Raasay Distillery owner R&B Distillers

William Dobbie appointed as Managing Director, with Bill Dobbie switching to Chairman role at company he co-founded in 2014

William Dobbie moves up from Commercial Director, a position he has held for the last four years

R&B Distillers owns Isle of Raasay Distillery, and plans to launch the Machrihanish Distillery near Campbeltown over the next 12-24 months, with longer term plans for The Duke Street Distillery at Coldstream

R&B Distillers reported revenue of £5.0 million in calendar year 2023, and has set sights on growing sales to over £25 million in the next decade

Left to right are William Dobbie and Bill Dobbie of RB Distillers (by Stewart Attwood)

Edinburgh, Isle of Raasay, London, 5 February 2024 – R&B Distillers Limited has announced a reorganisation of its senior executive team, with William Dobbie appointed as Managing Director and his father Bill Dobbie switching to the Chairman role at the company he co-founded with Alasdair Day in 2014.

Bill Dobbie, Chairman, R&B Distillers, said: “William has helped drive double-digit revenue growth at over 20 per cent per annum during his four years as Commercial Director, and R&B’s Board was unanimous in its decision to give him the opportunity to lead the company’s next phase of growth.  We have continued to see solid growth in the UK and internationally over the last few years, including during what was a challenging year for the industry in 2023, and are excited by our prospects to build sales in existing and new markets over the next decade.”

R&B Distillers owns the Isle of Raasay Distillery, which opened its doors in 2017, and plans to launch the Machrihanish Distillery near Campbeltown on the Mull of Kintyre over the next 12-18 months, which will mark the first new farm distillery in the region in over 180 years. There are also longer term plans for The Duke Street Distillery at Coldstream in the Scottish Borders.

R&B Distillers reported revenue of £5.0 million in the year ended 31st December 2023, and now sells in 40 markets worldwide after launching the Isle of Raasay Gin in mid-2019 and the Isle of Raasay Single Malt at the end of 2020. The company has set its sights on growing sales to over £25 million in the next decade.

William Dobbie, Managing Director, R&B Distillers, said: “The whole team deserves so much credit for our success to date, and our 10-year vision is centred on taking the business to the next level, increasing our international presence in lucrative markets like North America and Asia. While the high end of the whisky market has come under pressure over the last year, we have managed to significantly increase sales, grow a loyal customer base and brand in the face of industry headwinds.”The Isle of Raasay Distillery, based on the Inner Hebridean island off the west coast of Scotland, sells directly to tens of thousands of consumers through hundreds of outlets in the UK and via distributors worldwide. The distillery, which has a visitor centre and luxury accommodation, won Distillery of the Year and Tourism Destination of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards in 2022. R&B has a team of 47 people, with 35 based on the Isle of Raasay, supporting long-term local employment for the community.

R&B’s senior management team also includes Stuart Blues (Finance Director), Norman Gillies (Operations Director), and Alasdair Day (Co-founder and Master Distiller).

R&B Distillers is owned by Scottish entrepreneur Bill Dobbie’s Chanrossa Group, a Scotland-headquartered scaleup with a portfolio that includes both spirits & drinks and beauty & wellness brands. The drinks business includes stakes in the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Caskshare.com, Waterford Distillery, and Renegade Rum Distillery. Chanrossa positions itself as a “long-term business that creates and owns brands of provenance, quality, and global appeal.”

Penelope Bourbon releases small-batch Tokaji Cask Finish

Annual release of award-winning variant hits shelves in February

ROSSELLE, N.J. (Feb. 6, 2024) – It’s back! Award-winning Penelope Bourbon Tokaji Cask Finish will start arriving at retail in February. A limited-allocation of 1,900 (6-pack) cases will be available at a suggested retail price of $89.99 per 750-ml bottle.

Rich and decadent, Tokaji Cask Finish straight rye whiskey captures the late harvest notes of Tokaji wine from Hungary, once dubbed, “the wine of kings” by King Louis XIV. Distilled in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, aged eight years and bottled at 106 proof, its two-grain mash bill consists of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. The rye whiskey features a nose of dark chocolate-covered raisins and almond pastry; a viscous body with notes of sweet honey and caramel with hints of orange zest; and a savory finish highlighted by notes of black cherry, tobacco and red wine.

“From consumers to tasting panels, our Tokaji Cask Finish was really well received last year,” said Michael Paladini, founder of Penelope Bourbon. “For the initial release we used a 6-year-old straight rye whiskey as our base, and we are excited to bring this back but with an 8-year base at the same price point.”

In 2023, Penelope Bourbon Tokaji Cask Finish received 91 points from Whisky Advocate and was awarded a Gold Medal ASCOT Award.

It is the third installment of the company’s Cooper Series, which takes Penelope straight whiskeys on a world tour. The other members of the series include Rosé Cask Finish, Valencia and Rio. The Cooper Series was named after the son of Daniel Polise, one of the founders and the master distiller of Penelope Bourbon. A product locator for the Penelope family of bourbons can be found here.

ABOUT PENELOPE BOURBON

Founded in 2018, Penelope Bourbon has been one of the country’s fastest-growing whiskey brands. Named after the founder’s daughter, Penelope boasts a series of straight bourbon whiskey expressions that are all uniquely blended. Remarkably smooth and flavorful, Penelope is perfect whether sipping neat or mixing in a cocktail.

Penelope’s core expressions, Four Grain, Barrel Strength, Architect and Toasted Bourbon, have received over 35 combined awards and industry accolades. In 2023, the brand won Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Best In Category at the ASCOT Awards – both for its Private Select.

In addition to its cornerstone expressions, Penelope continues to introduce new and innovative limited releases within its Cooper Series, Private Select and Founders Reserve lines. Today, Penelope Bourbon is sold in over 40 states and three countries. Proving that with enough love, care and hard work, anything is possible.

THE GLENLIVET TURNS 200, MARKING ITS MILESTONE YEAR WITH A LIMITED-EDITION COMMEMORATIVE 12-YEAR-OLD WHISKY

The Glenlivet kicks off its bicentennial celebrations with the release of an anniversary edition celebrating its illustrious legacy and pioneering future

The Glenlivet, the original Speyside single malt that set the Speyside style, raises a dram to two centuries of whisky craftsmanship, honouring its rich legacy whilst committing to forever moving forwards and continuously setting new standards in whisky for the next 200 years. To mark this historic milestone, 2024 will see a year of celebrations with bold and original innovations and initiatives, the first being the launch of The Glenlivet 200 Year Anniversary Limited Edition 12-Year-Old.

The new expression, crafted by The Glenlivet team of makers and matured in 100% first fill American Oak casks, features tasting notes of ripe, juicy pear, coconut shavings and creamy vanilla, complemented by aromas of fresh tangerines, pineapple slices and indulgent crème caramel.

The artwork for the limited-edition single malt was selected through a crowdsourcing campaign, whereby The Glenlivet invited emerging artists worldwide to submit their take on its ethos of forever moving forwards. The winning bicentennial design from Studio Berdi in Colombia encapsulates The Glenlivet’s journey from its inception by bold founder George Smith, to the whisky’s current status as a pioneering single malt, stepping into the next 200 years of innovation and excellence.

The Glenlivet will also be bringing to life celebrations with an exclusive Burns Night event on 26th January, at The Ivy West Street, London. This unique Scottish experience will mark the national day of Scotland’s cherished poet, Robert Burns and will offer guests an opportunity to savour the limited edition 12-Year-Old single malt, alongside the ground-breaking The Glenlivet Capsule Collection, through an exclusive paired menu.

Since The Glenlivet’s inception, the single malt has challenged conventions with its avant-garde spirit. From pushing boundaries of flavour and craftsmanship through exceptional distinctive casks such as the world’s first whisky finished in Cognac casks, to redefining whisky consumption through the innovative The Glenlivet Capsule Collection and The Glenlivet Twist & Mix Cocktails, the whisky has been at the forefront of pioneering initiatives.

Jayne Murphy, Chivas Brothers Marketing Director, Malts commented:

“This year is an important landmark anniversary for The Glenlivet as we look back to look forward towards the next 200 years. Since our founder George Smith introduced Speyside single malt whisky to the world in 1824, we’ve been committed to challenging conventions and will continue to craft the future of single malt whisky while setting new and uncharted standards of excellence. We extend a heartfelt invitation to everyone to join us in raising a dram with our celebratory limited-edition 12-Year-Old and we look forward to the celebrations to come throughout the year. Here’s to the next 200 years!”

To learn more about The Glenlivet’s 200-year celebrations, please visit TheGlenlivet.com or follow us @TheGlenlivet.

A Decade of Policy Advancements Propel Bourbon Industry’s Impact To Local, State and Global Economies

Commonwealth’s Bourbon Economy Thriving In Latest Report

Frankfort, Ky.— Spurred by a decade of legislative changes to Kentucky’s archaic alcohol laws, the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon industry now provides more jobs, generates more payroll, pays more taxes, attracts more tourists and features more distilleries than ever before, according to the newly published Bourbon Economic Impact Report.

The record-breaking statistics were released today by Gov. Andy Beshear, Senate President Robert Stivers, House Speaker David Osborne, Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell and leaders of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association trade group.

“Kentucky’s economy is booming, and the Bourbon industry is helping us build a strong economy for generations to come,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Today, this signature industry is generating $9 billion in total economic impact, with more on the way. We thank our distilleries for working hard to create more good jobs and boosting our tourism industry across the Commonwealth.”

“Kentucky’s Bourbon economy is stronger than ever thanks to the dedication of our elected officials to update archaic alcohol laws that were forcing distillers to look elsewhere and the men and women who work in the industry every day,” said Eric Gregory, President of KDA. “With modern alcohol laws now in place, the signature industry continues to help build a stronger Kentucky.”

The report used data from 100 distilleries in 42 counties and found that the industry continues to grow local communities with jobs, tax revenue, agriculture, tourism and out-of-state spending.

“Traditionally, Bourbon is known as a manufacturing powerhouse, but its influence really extends beyond production, as we continue to foster and grow partnerships with our local communities,” said Jessica Pendergrass, 2024 KDA Chair and General Counsel/Chief Compliance Officer at Heaven Hill.

“While the Bourbon report includes a deep analysis of industry metrics, forecasts, and of course, accolades from enthusiasts, our KDA members, deeply rooted in the Commonwealth, are proud to share the compelling story of how “Bourbon Builds Kentucky.”

The newest report found that distillers are making significant impacts in agriculture and tourism industries since the original 2009 report was published.

When it comes to the Bourbon economy taxes, the report found that Kentuckians are receiving $358 million in state and local taxes every year from distillers.

And, even though it remains the highest taxed large manufacturing industry in KY at $.17 per dollar, no other industry in the state has higher shares of national employment (27%), labor compensation (26%) and output than distilling. Kentucky distillers shipped more than $500 million in exports in 2022, almost all of which was Bourbon.

“Not only is Bourbon building Kentucky communities, but it’s also elevating Kentucky’s stature internationally as exports grow and distillers across the globe look to Kentucky for how to do it right,” added Pendergrass.

The full study completed by Dr. Paul Coomes can be found here and a topline summary can be found here. The industry’s recap of recent legislative changes can be found here.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

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

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™ and KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® are trademarks/service marks owned by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

SAZERAC BARREL SELECT TO OFFER BARREL OF BLANTON’S GOLD FOR CHARITY, PROCEEDS BENEFIT ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL

Winner of the Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes receives a VIP Blanton’s Gold barrel selection experience

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (February 8, 2024) – For the first time, Sazerac Barrel Select (SBS), Sazerac’s single barrel release program, is holding a sweepstakes for the chance to select and purchase a barrel of Blanton’s Gold Bourbon. The Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes will be open to the public, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The winner of the Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes will receive:

• A VIP behind-the-scenes tour at Buffalo Trace Distillery for the winner and up to seven of their guests.
• A private barrel selection experience where the winner will thieve, taste and select their barrel.
• $20,000 prize, which may be used to purchase personalized bottles yielded from the selected barrel.
• A private lunch at Buffalo Trace Distillery.
• The empty barrel.

“Sazerac Barrel Select is designed to offer fans a once-in-a-lifetime experience and we’re thrilled to offer Blanton’s Gold, one of the most coveted bourbons on the market,” said Diego Bianchi, Barrel Select General Manager. “We are proud to support St. Jude and their mission to advance cures, and means of prevention, of childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases through research and treatment.”

The Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes begins February 12, 2024.  Entrants will receive one entry into the sweepstakes for every $100 donation made through the registration site. To enter and make a donation benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and to view the full official rules, visit www.SazeracBarrelSelect.com/drawing. All entries must be received by 11:59pm ET on February 29, 2024. The winner will be randomly drawn and notified via phone and email the week of March 4, 2024.

SBS is an exclusive, membership-based program for individuals and small groups to visit Buffalo Trace Distillery. In recent years, SBS has worked with multiple charitable organizations to raise more than $3 million for a number of great causes. Though the Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes is open to the public, SBS encourages those who are not members to sign up and participate in the quarterly drawings. SBS membership is free and those interested can sign up here.

Named after Colonel Albert Blanton, one of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s former presidents and legendary craftsman, Blanton’s is the world’s first single barrel bourbon. Created in 1984 by Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee., Blanton’s has become a favorite among discerning bourbon aficionados and the whiskey curious alike. Blanton’s Gold, the second bourbon created in the Blanton’s collection, is bottled at 103 proof and features powerful dry vanilla notes in harmony with hints of honey amid strong caramel and corn.

For any questions regarding the Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes, please email charity@sazerac.com.

About Sazerac

Sazerac is one of America’s oldest family owned, privately held distillers with operations in the United States in Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Virginia, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maryland, California, and global operations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, India, Australia and Canada. For more information on Sazerac visit https://www.sazerac.com/  

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children.® It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. When St. Jude opened in 1962, childhood cancer was largely considered incurable. Since then, St. Jude has helped push the overall survival rate from 20% to more than 80%, and it won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude shares the breakthroughs it makes to help doctors and researchers at local hospitals and cancer centers around the world improve the quality of treatment and care for even more children. Because of generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live. Visit St. Jude Inspire to discover powerful St. Jude stories of hope, strength, love and kindness. Support the St. Jude mission by donating at stjude.org, liking St. Jude on Facebook, following St. Jude on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok, and subscribing to its YouTube channel.

No purchase or donation necessary to enter or win.  Purchasing a product will not improve your chances of winning.  Must be legal resident of 50 U.S. or D.C, excluding NY, age 21 or older as of date of entry.  Registration begins at 12:00am EST 2/12/2024 and ends at 11:59pm EST 2/29/2024.  To enter, and for complete official rules including eligibility and full prize description, scan the QR code or directly visit www.SazeracBarrelSelect.com/drawing.  Approximate retail value (“ARV”) of prize award: $20,000.  Odds of winning based upon number of eligible entries received.  No alcoholic beverage is part of any prize award.  Void wherever prohibited or restricted by law.  SPONSOR: Sazerac Company, Inc., Louisville, KY.

ROSS & SQUIBB DISTILLERY COMPLETES FIRST PROJECT WITH THE CHRIS LONG FOUNDATION’S WATERBOYS INITIATIVE TO COMBAT WATER SCARCITY IN KENYA

ST. LOUIS (JAN. 16, 2024) – Lawrenceburg, Indiana-based Ross & Squibb Distillery, in partnership with NFL legend Chris Long and his Foundation’s Waterboys initiative, announced the completion of their combined efforts to bring a lasting source of clean, safe water to a community of 1,600 people in arid southern Kenya.

In summer 2023, a deep borehole well was dug in the Oloile community in Kajiado County, Kenya, by The Chris Long Foundation’s Kenya implementing partner, Well Aware, to a depth of 80 meters, yielding 100,000 liters of water per day.  In November, construction of a storage tank, distribution points and refillable water trough was completed, ensuring the well’s long-term success in terms of maintenance and sustainability.

“Thanks to the generous support from Ross & Squibb Distillery, Waterboys is bringing life-changing, clean water to the Oloile community in Kenya,” said two-time Superbowl champion and founder of Waterboys, Chris Long. “This well represents hope, health, and a future for the residents who have faced severe water crises for decades. We’ve seen firsthand how clean water can transform lives – reducing illness, supporting education, and fostering economic growth.”

The Oloile community consists of more than 100 households and one primary school and is home to about 1,600 residents. For decades, the community has been experiencing a dangerous water crisis as the rainy season has become unreliable over time with the region experiencing droughts that would last up to two years. As a result of these recent efforts, Oloile has shifted from a “water-lacking” community to one that is “water-filled and fulfilled.”

“We are grateful we were able to make such a big difference in the lives of so many through this successful partnership with Waterboys and the Chris Long Foundation,” said Allison O’Brien, Brand Manager for Ross & Squibb. “We are fortunate to have a clean water source supplying our Ross & Squibb Distillery in Indiana, and we take pride in our mission to help others get access to safe water. We are looking forward to continuing this great work through new projects in the future.”

Video of Chris Long speaking about the partnership is available here.

About Luxco

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora González Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com.

About the Chris Long Foundation and Waterboys

The Chris Long Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded by two-time Super Bowl Champion and 2018 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, Chris Long. We mobilize champions, service providers, and experts to help communities access clean water, address basic needs for youth and families, and inspire others to make an impact at home and abroad. Our vision is access and opportunity everywhere. To date, the Waterboys initiative has provided clean water to over 550,000 people in need at home and abroad. Visit chrislongfoundation.org and waterboys.org to learn more.