KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES DARK ARTS WHISKEY HOUSE AS NEWEST MEMBER

CRAFT DISTILLERY UTILIZES UNCONVENTIONAL METHODS TO CREATE UNIQUE WHISKEYS

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today welcomed Lexington’s Dark Arts Whiskey House as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Co-founded in 2023 by entrepreneurs and whiskey enthusiasts Macaulay Minton and David Peet, Dark Arts Whiskey House hones its craft by blending, re-barreling, and finishing Bourbon, Rye, and Single Malt whiskeys using underutilized maturation techniques and unconventional barrels.

Since beginning production this year, Dark Arts has filled 200 barrels to date, each with a custom blend, limited-release whiskey. Located at 1170 Manchester Street in Lexington, Dark Arts offers visitors a front-row seat to witness the distillery’s mastery as they create products that transform traditional ingredients into an elevated experience.

“We are thrilled to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association,” said David Peet, Dark Arts Whiskey House CEO. “It’s an honor to stand among the finest in the industry as a new member of the KDA. This marks a true milestone for Dark Arts as we continue our mission to honor and elevate Kentucky Bourbon’s rich heritage—while boldly carving our own path.”

KDA President, Eric Gregory, said, “Kentucky Bourbon continues to capture the world’s attention, and we are thrilled to welcome Dark Arts Whiskey House as our newest member.

“Dark Arts is a prime example of how innovation and passion will continue to create new experiences for visitors and unique expressions that will keep the Bourbon-enthusiasts and Bourbon-curious returning to Kentucky, year after year, to experience Bourbon in a new light.”

The addition of Dark Arts Whiskey House to the KDA reflects the continued expansion of Kentucky’s Bourbon industry, a $9 billion economic engine that generates more than 23,000 jobs and attracted 2.7 million visitors in 2024 through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.

Learn more about Dark Arts Whiskey House at www.darkartswhiskey.com.

Dark Arts Whiskey House joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging less than 10,000 barrels per year. Visit the KDA and its Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

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 Worldwide Voice of Bourbon™. 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 timeless craft. Kentucky Bourbon is a $9 billion economic engine generating more than 23,500 jobs and attracting over 2 million visits annually through the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience. 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 of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Enjoy Bourbon like a true Kentuckian – Responsibly.

Never Say Die Named ‘Best New Rye of 2025’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition Top Shelf Awards

Independent whiskey brand, Never Say Die has taken home one of the top honours at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) Top Shelf Awards – which is known as the Oscars of spirit competitions – after its Rye Whiskey was crowned ‘Best New Rye of 2025’.

The win is a major milestone for the transatlantic whiskey, which is distilled and aged in Kentucky before completing its maturation in England. The ocean voyage acts like a natural agitator, enhancing contact between spirit and oak, while England’s cooler climate allows for slower, more complex ageing.

The SFWSC judges described it as a “an elegant rye that opens with inviting aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, oak, and fresh mint, unfolding on the palate with a creamy texture layered with warm baking spices, bright orange peel, succulent cherry, and rich chocolate, finishing long and memorable with a harmonious balance of sweet honey and gentle spice”.

The unique ageing journey is inspired by the legendary racehorse Never Say Die, who crossed the Atlantic to defy the odds and win the Epsom Derby in 1954 which ultimately played a role in formation of The Beatles.

Made with a proprietary sweet mash and a high-corn recipe –  what the team calls a “Kentucky Rye” – Never Say Die Rye delivers a uniquely smooth and rounded profile that’s found a following among bartenders and whiskey fans alike.

Brian Luftman, co-founder of Never Say Die, said: “We set out to do something genuinely different in taking American whiskey on a journey to see how the ocean and England’s climate could shape its character. To see that innovation and our sweet mash whiskies recognized on a global stage is incredible. The high corn content in the mash bill gives our rye a rounder, slightly sweeter profile, which has made it a real favorite with bartenders and also a great entry point for bourbon drinkers or anyone new to rye.”

Never Say Die Rye Whiskey (RRP £64.95/$84.95) is available from The Whiskey Exchange and Seelbach’s

About Never Say Die

Never Say Die has truly blazed a trail and is the first time that a US Bourbon distilled in Kentucky has been ocean-aged on a six-week trip across the Atlantic, then finally matured in barrels in the Derbyshire peaks to give it a distinct British finish.

The idea for Never Say Die was born at the Kentucky Derby when old friends David Wild and Pat Madden were talking about racing, and Pat told the story of Never Say Die, the horse that was born at Hamburg Place, his family’s farm. After a few mint juleps, they decided to build a team and create a premium bourbon that would travel as a world’s first, in barrels, to the UK to be further matured and bottled, following in the hoofsteps of its namesake, Never Say Die – the first American racehorse to win an English derby in 70 years. In 2017, Pat and David founded Never Say Die Bourbon alongside Brian Luftman, Shane Baker, Pat Heist, Martha Dalton, and Fran O’Leary.

Fast-forward five years, and the first batch of Never Say Die Bourbon made its maiden voyage from Kentucky to Derbyshire’s White Peak Distillery, landing on English shores in July 2022. Never Say Die is produced using proprietary mash bills and yeast strains at a partner distillery 30 miles south of Lexington. It is made using only the finest ingredients, with a custom mash bill designed to highlight the essence of the small grains with consistency, using local seed-grade grains. It is cut with mineral-rich, Mesozoic Era limestone-filtered water sourced from the deepest aquifer in Kentucky and then added to virgin air-dried #4 char American Oak barrels and matured for up to seven years in Kentucky before embarking on the final leg of its journey across the ocean to the White Peaks Distillery in Derbyshire to finish.

Rare Find unveils extraordinary 42-year-old Caol Ila single cask release

Landmark whisky bottled to celebrate culmination of 10th anniversary year 

Rare Find, the acclaimed independent bottler, marks the end of its 10th anniversary year with the release of a 42-year-old single cask, single malt Scotch whisky from Caol Ila Distillery.  Drawn from refill hogshead #1288, this exceptional Islay whisky pays homage to the company’s journey – fittingly returning to Caol Ila, the source of Rare Find’s very first bottling.

This milestone single malt release is a celebration of time, craftsmanship, and the Rare Find ethos: of producing whiskies that are “rare by design.” Aged for over four decades and with 42 bottles bottled at a natural cask strength of 51.7% ABV, the Rare Find Caol Ila 42- year-old offers aromas of Cuban cigars and candied tropical fruits alongside delicate, earthy peat smoke. The palate offers vibrant banana and lemon together with minerality and elegant, ethereal smoke, leading to a finish that is exceptionally long and contemplative.

The anniversary release has an RRP of £999 and will be available from select Rare Find stockists from 12th December 2025 .

The Caol Ila 42-year-old not only embodies Rare Find’s founding vision of creating whiskies that are truly rare by design but also marks a milestone in the brand’s 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of growth and its reputation as one of the most trusted names in the whisky world.

Speaking of the release, Founder Derek Mair said: “Our Caol Ila 42-Year-Old is a whisky of distinction – remarkable not just for its lineage, echoing the spirit of our very first release, but for embodying the essence of everything we pursue: profound depth, genuine authenticity and singular character. Decades of patient maturation have sculpted this venerable spirit into an archetype of what Rare Find represents – whiskies defined by character that are pure enjoyment in every sip.”

Like all Rare Find whiskies, the Caol Ila 42-Year-Old is bottled without compromise – natural cask strength, natural colour, and no chill filtration – ensuring the whisky’s integrity is preserved from cask to bottle.

Caol Ila 42-year-old

Drawn from refill hogshead #1288

51.7%, 42 bottles only

RRP £999

Available from selected retailers from 12th December 2025 

Nose: Cuban cigars, camphor and earthy peat smoke join candied tropical fruits, sea spray and cold ashes.

Palate: Vibrant fruits – banana and preserved lemons – sit alongside ethereal, maritime peat smoke – whilst chiselled minerality, chamois leather and eucalyptus are supported by honey and orange oil.

Finish: Lingering beach bonfire and light medicinalness are tempered by fading tropical fruit juices.

About Rare Find

Each Rare Find release is an unrepeatable, limited-edition whisky sourced from sought-after distilleries. With every bottle, we celebrate liquid excellence – meticulously selecting, maturing, and finishing in the highest quality casks to deliver whisky that’s rare by design.

From the millions of casks maturing in Scotland, only a small percentage are destined for single malt bottlings, and from those, only the best become a Rare Find.

The Dalmore Unveils Third in Cask Curation Series:

The Red Wine Cask Edition

 The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition has been created in collaboration with esteemed cask partner, Château Mont-Redon of Châteauneuf-du-Pape 

Highland Single Malt, The Dalmore, has unveiled the highly anticipated third instalment of their Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition.

First launched in 2023, Cask Curation Series was created to celebrate The Dalmore’s innovative approach to cask maturation, which can be traced back to 1868. The Dalmore truly treasure the cask, making the most of the maturation time by moving spirit from rare cask to rare cask, enriching every drop, and creating the rich and complex style and finesse, that defines The Dalmore.

The Dalmore curate casks from the world’s finest wineries and bodegas in their ongoing quest to create Single Malt Whiskies that elevate every moment, and the Cask Curation Series pays homage to these casks and the spirit of travel that they invoke, their cherished partners, and to their whisky making artistry.

For this chapter of the series, The Dalmore looked to France and the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, a long-standing favourite of The Dalmore whisky makers.

Located in the Rhone Wine Region in the Southeast of France, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is well regarded as producing some of the best wines in the world, characterised as rich and plummy. Over time, more complex flavours develop, with savoury and jammy notes, giving this style of wine a mature finish.

It was these flavour notes that The Dalmore’s whisky makers wished to explore in this edition, to demonstrate and showcase the incredible impact these precious red wines can have on their uniquely robust New Make Spirit.

Working closely with partner Château Mont-Redon and fourth generation winemaker Pierre Fabre, The Dalmore gained access to the freshest Châteauneuf-du-Pape casks. Château Mont-Redon’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape red, is made primarily from Grenache Noir (57%), along with Syrah (33%), Mourvèdre (9%) and small quantities of others including Cinsault and Vaccarèse.

To add further intrigue and expertise, The Dalmore chose to use the same 2023 Château Mont-Redon red wine casks to finish each of the three whiskies which comprise the set, creating the opportunity to clearly showcase how flavour, imparted from these special casks, can embolden The Dalmore’s spirit and signature house style, at three different ages – 24, 34 and 43 Years Old.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition – Aged 24 Years is 40.7% ABV. It offers aromas of rich honey, sweet citrus, hints of orchard fruits, and delicate spice. To taste, red berries, crème brûlée, orange zest, and hints of dark toffee, with finishing notes of toffee, mandarin, lightly roasted coffee, and soft exotic spices.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition – Aged 34 Years is 40.5% ABV. The extra decade has brought subtle floral notes, with hints of forest fruits, vanilla, and Seville orange. On the palate, rich dark berries, stone fruits, and vanilla, with a finish of warm honey, white chocolate, and a touch of liquorice. A subtle, gentle wood spice is notable throughout, in the aroma, taste and finish.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition – Aged 43 Years is 40.3% ABV. The oldest whisky in the set, it offers aromas of dried fruit, orange marmalade, manuka honey, and antique leather. To taste, forest berries, dark chocolate, with hints of honeyed mango, and warming spice. To finish, dark fruit, cocoa with a hint of espresso, and aged wood spice.

Each expression is presented at natural colour and is non-chill filtered.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition Whiskies

These three exquisite and exceptionally rare whiskies are presented together in a stunning hand-made presentation case, with just 150 ever to be made, available globally from 1^st October 2025, priced at £36,100 / $44,450.

Evoking the spirit of travel, inspired by the long voyages the casks make from their native wineries and bodegas, the whiskies in each edition of the Cask Curation Series are presented in a bespoke carry case, which doubles as a display case.

Hand-crafted by Italian luggage makers, AB Florence, this year’s edition is available in a bold lapis blue. Inspired by the famous winemaking region from where our casks originate, the colour brings to life the amazing blue hue of the grapes on the vine as they grow and ripen, and also pays homage to both the French and Rhône-Alpes flags.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition Whiskies in Display Case

This third chapter of the Cask Curation Series has been eagerly anticipated, following the success of the two previous releases.

The Sherry Edition launched the series in 2023, marking the over 100 year relationship between The Dalmore and González Byass. The famed Sherry producer exclusively provide The Dalmore with their Matusalem Sherry, which is used in a range of whiskies across both their Rare and Prestige Collection, and their core, Principal Collection, including The Dalmore 21 Year Old.

In 2024, the second in the series, The Port Edition, showcased collaboration with another long-term partner, Graham’s, from who The Dalmore exclusively source a range of casks from the renowned winemaker. Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port is used in both the Port Wood Reserve and King Alexander III expressions from the Principal Collection. For the most recent release of The Dalmore 30 Year Old, Graham’s exclusively provided 30 Year Old Tawny Port Casks and Single Harvest Port from 1982, to create this exquisite expression.

With The Dalmore’s renowned fascination for experimenting with red wine, and a particular fondness for the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, collaborator Château Mont-Redon was the perfect partner for this third edition showcase.

Château Mont-Redon has a visionary story and attitude, that has many parallels with that of The Dalmore.  Founded in 1923, thirteen years before the official creation of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape Appellation, Henri Plantin acquired the isolated Mont-Redon property, recognising the potential of the terroir.

Characterized by its diverse soil composition which includes fine sands (safres), limestone, and the famous rolled pebbles (galet roulés) on the majestic plateau, this landscape enables the creation of complex wines, that truly represent the essence of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Plantin’s efforts laid the groundwork for future generations who continued to expand the estate over time, which now encompasses a 100-hectare continuous estate, making Château Mont-Redon the largest single property in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape Appellation.

Richard Paterson OBE, Master Distiller, The Dalmore commented: “We are truly passionate about the art of cask curation, and the flavours that can be created with The Dalmore’s unique spirit, when using casks from the finest wineries and bodegas. Red wine casks have played an integral role in shaping The Dalmore’s success, so it felt fitting to release some very rare expressions, as part of the Cask Curation Series.”

“The layers of flavour from the complex grape blends held inside these Châteauneuf-du-Pape casks from Château Mont-Redon have been instrumental in the development of these three unique Single Malts, which have such richness and complexity.”

“This has been a wonderful journey of discovery, to see how different aged and rare whiskies, can be subtly enhanced by this red wine. The three Single Malt Whiskies within this edition of Cask Curation Series, are in my opinion, the pinnacle of red wine cask curation.”

The Dalmore has been successfully using wine casks in maturation, to unveil and enhance different flavours from their exquisite whiskies, for many years. Two wine matured whiskies feature in The Dalmore’s core, Principal Collection, The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve and King Alexander III.

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve is the perfect accompaniment to the finest cigars and enjoys maturation in Cabernet Sauvignon barriques, and Matusalem Oloroso Sherry casks, exclusively available to The Dalmore from partner of the first Cask Curation Series, González Byass.

The Dalmore King Alexander III is a masterpiece of the whisky maker’s art and a spectacular showcase of The Dalmore’s philosophy on multi-cask maturation. First launched almost twenty years ago, this one-of-a-kind Single Malt uses a unique assemblage of six, carefully curated cask finishes. Small batch Bourbon, Madeira, and Marsala feature alongside exclusive sherry from González Byass, exclusive Port from Graham’s, and Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques. This whisky was an innovation that demonstrated The Dalmore’s art of cask curation, and still stands strong today.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Edition will be available globally from 1^st October 2025, priced at £36,100 / $44,450. Just 150 sets of these exquisite and exceptionally rare Single Malt Whiskies will be created.

About The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Edition

Pricing of £36,100 / $44,450 is per set. All whiskies are natural colour and non-chill filtered.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Edition – Aged 24 Years – 40.7% ABV

Aroma:                  Rich honey, sweet citrus, hints of orchard fruits, and delicate spice

Taste:                     Red berries, crème brûlée, orange zest, and hints of dark toffee

Finish:                   Toffee, mandarin, lightly roasted coffee, and soft exotic spices

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Edition – Aged 34 Years – 40.5% ABV

Aroma:                  Subtle floral notes with hints of forest fruits, vanilla, Seville orange, and wood spice

Taste:                     Rich dark berries, stone fruits, vanilla, and gentle wood spice

Finish:                   Warm honey, white chocolate, wood spice, and a touch of liquorice

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Edition – Aged 43 Years – 40.3% ABV

Aroma:                  Dried fruit, orange marmalade, manuka honey, and antique leather

Taste:                     Forest berries, dark chocolate, with hints of honeyed mango, and warming spice

Finish:                   Dark fruit, cocoa with a hint of espresso, and aged wood spice

About The Dalmore

Founded in 1839 on the shores of the Cromarty Firth in the Scottish Highlands, The Dalmore has been making masterpieces of whisky for over 180 years.

The 12-point silver stag which proudly adorns each bottle was bestowed upon the first chieftain of Clan Mackenzie in 1263 by King Alexander III of Scotland. The stag became the whisky’s emblem when descendants of the clan took over the distillery in 1878.

The Dalmore distillery’s collection of idiosyncratic stills creates a New Make spirit of unique character and depth – robust and fruity, particularly well-suited to longer and more complex maturation. This allows The Dalmore’s renowned whisky makers to develop spirit over longer periods, continuing a tradition of visionary whisky-making as they fully express their art using rare casks from some of the world’s finest wineries and bodegas.

Savour the moments that matter this season with Tomatin

Highland distiller Tomatin has unveiled its ultimate festive whisky guide for 2025, a curated collection of drams designed to capture the spirit of the season – from cosy Christmas Eve firesides to joyful Hogmanay toasts.

The festive period is built on moments to remember, sharing time with loved ones, honouring family traditions and creating memories that last long after the decorations are packed away. Guided by its ‘To What Matters’ ethos, Tomatin celebrates these occasions with whiskies that embody warmth, generosity and togetherness.

Crafted with care in the Scottish Highlands, each expression reflects Tomatin’s heritage, award-winning quality and enduring sense of community, making it the perfect companion to celebrate the season. From the rich and indulgent Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask single malt to the luxurious Antiquary 21 Year Old blended Scotch, there is an exquisite whisky for every stage, whether it’s a dram left out for Santa, a thoughtful gift under the tree or a toast to ring in the New Year. 

The night before Christmas – Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask
RRP £52.50 | ABV 40% | 70cl

The anticipation of Christmas Eve deserves a dram that feels timeless. Fully matured in sherry oak casks, Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask is rich and nostalgic, with notes of caramelised apple, orange peel and warm spice that echo the aromas of festive baking. Perfect for a quiet fireside moment or left out for Santa, it’s a whisky that captures the magic of the night before Christmas.

Unwrapping the day – Tomatin 14 Year Old Tawny Port
RRP £78 | ABV 46% | 70cl

Christmas Day is about giving, sharing and celebrating together. Matured in bourbon and port casks, Tomatin 14 Year Old Tawny Port combines velvety flavours of red berries, honey and soft oak – indulgent yet welcoming. Whether poured as the first toast of the day or enjoyed after a festive meal, it’s a gift that lingers in the memory.

Fireside indulgence – Tomatin 18 Year Old Oloroso Sherry
RRP £126 | ABV 46% | 70cl

After the laughter and bustle of Christmas Day, the days that follow call for a slower pace. Tomatin 18 Year Old Oloroso Sherry is a whisky made for fireside indulgence – rich, complex and award-winning. Matured in traditional oak and Oloroso sherry butt casks, it offers layers of tropical fruit, marmalade and cocoa. Best enjoyed with time to spare and good company close by, it’s the whisky that makes the quieter moments of the season feel just as special.

A twist on tradition – Cù Bòcan 15 Year Old
RRP £97.50 | ABV 50% | 70cl

As the days between Christmas and New Year bring reunions and late-night conversations, Cù Bòcan adds a spark of curiosity. Distilled only in winter, this smoky and experimental lightly peated 15-year-old single malt layers sweet spice, citrus and toasted oak for a whisky that feels playful, modern and full of character. It’s the dram for friends who like to break with tradition while still celebrating it.

A final toast – The Antiquary 21 Year Old
RRP £96.50 | ABV 40% | 70cl

Hogmanay is Scotland’s most treasured celebration and The Antiquary 21 Year Old is the whisky to raise when the bells strike midnight. Elegant and refined, this historic blend marries Highland and Speyside malts with Lowland grains, offering smooth layers of fruit, honey and gentle spice. It’s an expression to carry tradition into the year ahead, and the perfect way to close the season.

For further information about Tomatin whiskies and to buy, visit https://tomatin.com

Tasting Notes

Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask
 Nose: Caramelised apple, pear, sultana, orange peel, apricot and hints of aged leather.
 Palate: Chocolate fudge, manuka honey, dried fruit and nut.
 Finish: Cinnamon spice.

Tomatin 14 Year Old Tawny Port
 Nose: Top notes of fresh peach, mandarin, watermelon, and apple with deeper forest fruits like cherry and blackberry. There’s a touch of milk chocolate and a pop of honeycomb. Notes of clove and cardamom grow in intensity before another wave of fruit.  
 Palate: The freshness on the nose has been preserved into a raspberry and strawberry jam, apricot compote, glace cherry, and crystallised ginger. Caramelised figs, prunes and nutty tones are indicative of the rich tawny port that once occupied these casks.  
 Finish: A silky texture coats the mouth with jammy fruits and Byzantium spice.

Tomatin 18 Year Old Oloroso Sherry
 Nose: VORS Oloroso Sherry; dried apricot, plum, nougat and distinctive nutty tones. Sweet notes of vanilla fudge and cinnamon baked pears are balanced with a faint suggestion of cigar box and leather-bound books.
 Palate: A wonderful marriage of Oloroso Sherry and well-aged Tomatin provides bursts of tropical fruit and mellow savoury notes. Incredibly complex with marmalade, cooked apple, butterscotch and granola, cocoa powder and salted caramel all coming through.
 Finish: Full bodied and rich with continued nutty undertones and uplifting orange zest lingering on the palate.

Cù Bòcan 15 Year Old
 Nose: Sun-dried fruit, marmalade, flamed orange peel, autumn bonfire and warm spice.
 Palate: Plum, cinder toffee, coffee, smoked meat and earthy tannins.
 Finish: Long with dried fruit, tobacco smoke, dark chocolate and Christmas cake.

The Antiquary 21 Year Old
 Nose: Camphor, hessian, cut hay, burning heather, dark mocha, saffron and vanilla.
 Palate: Spiced plum, wild strawberries, dark chocolate, charred game and orange.
 Finish: Sea salt and red fruits.

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 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.

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

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

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

L-R: Fraser Souness, Gordon & MacPhail, David Shawah, iGroup, Tristan Barter, iGroup, Dora Petherbridge, Curator (US and Commonwealth Collections), National Library of Scotland, Alison Stevenson, Director of Collections, Access and Research, National Library of Scotland

Rare Book Celebrated with Rare Drams in Donation to National Library of Scotland to Mark 100th Anniversary

Edinburgh, November 12th 2025 — In a celebration of natural heritage and enduring legacy, Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s most prestigious independent Scotch whisky companies, together with Mr. Pote Narittakurn Lee, Chairman of iGroup (and owner of Gordon & MacPhail’s distribution partner in Thailand), have collaborated to donate a rare 21st century edition of John James Audubon’s Birds of America to the National Library of Scotland.

This meaningful act of philanthropy marks a double milestone: the 100th anniversary of the National Library of Scotland and the 130th anniversary of Gordon & MacPhail. The donation reflects a shared commitment to preserving knowledge, nature, and culture for generations to come.

Established in 1895, Gordon & MacPhail blends deep heritage, family stewardship, and rare whisky curation. Over more than a century, the company has shaped global appreciation for single malt whisky—crafting and maturing some of the world’s most sought-after expressions. This legacy of patience and precision finds a kindred spirit in J.J Audubon’s painstakingly detailed tribute to avian life.

“This donation honours our shared appreciation for Scotland’s natural world, its literary and artistic traditions, and the importance of preserving cultural treasures,” said Mr. Lee, whose company iGroup have pioneered digital publishing in the Education space for over 40 years. “We are proud to support the National Library of Scotland’s vital role in safeguarding the nation’s heritage.”

Stephen Rankin, Director of Prestige at Gordon & MacPhail, added: “Just as our whiskies capture the essence of place and time, Audubon’s Birds of America captures the delicate beauty of the natural world. It’s a privilege to mark our 130th year with a gesture that celebrates both legacy and landscape.”

The National Library of Scotland will house the edition within its special collections, providing public access to a timeless fusion of science, art, and storytelling.

This donation not only commemorates landmark anniversaries but also symbolises a deeper connection between nature, craft, and the Scottish spirit—a shared legacy of excellence in both words and whisky.

A special event, with invited guests will, celebrate the donation with a tasting of some of the world’s rarest and most exclusive Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from Gordon & MacPhail.

About Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail is a family-owned Scotch whisky specialist. Based in Elgin and operating on an international level, Gordon & MacPhail is owned by the third and fourth generation of the Urquhart family. Bringing together over 130 years of expertise in Scotch whisky production with a passion for building a business that will continue for generations to come, Gordon & MacPhail owns both Benromach Distillery in Forres and The Cairn Distillery in Grantown-on-Spey, as well as maturing and bottling some of the world’s rarest Single Malt Scotch Whiskies under its Gordon & MacPhail brand.

About iGroup

iGroup connects people and organisations with the knowledge and tools they need to learn and discover. iGroup began in the book business and grew into the leading provider of digital content and technology-led solutions for libraries across the Asia–Pacific region. For over 40 years, we’ve supported libraries, universities and research communities. With local teams in 20+ countries and a global partner network, we combine on-the-ground insight with global reach to facilitate knowledge exchange, accelerate research, and empower teaching, learning and discovery.

About John James Audubon’s Birds of America

John James Audubon’s Birds of America (1827–1838) is widely regarded as one of the most significant achievements in natural history publishing, featuring 435 life-size, hand-coloured plates that combine meticulous scientific observation with exceptional artistry. The first ten copper plates in the volume were engraved, printed and watercolour-finished by an Edinburgh company headed by William Home Lizars. Produced in the monumental “double elephant folio” format, with each print measuring 99cm by 66cm, the work has inspired generations of ornithologists, artists, and nature enthusiasts.

This 21st-century edition faithfully captures the beauty and detail of Audubon’s original, making it accessible to new audiences for research, learning, and enjoyment.

SAZERAC COMPANY 2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

For the whiskey connoisseur who’s tasted it all – or thinks they have:

Paul John Christmas Edition 2025 

Crafted on the tropical shores of Goa, the 8^th annual Paul John Christmas Edition 2025 is a celebration of Indian artistry and seasonal indulgence. This unpeated single malt whisky is matured in ex-bourbon casks and finished in cream liqueur casks, revealing layers of honeyed oak, warm spice and a subtle hint of Christmas cake. This exceptional limited-edition expression embodies the spirit of Christmas in every sip, offering connoisseurs and collectors a luxurious taste of the season. SRP: $85 (local taxes and fees will vary).

For the literary soul who believes whiskey is art:

Garavogue 20 Year Old Irish Single Malt Whiskey 

Named for the river that winds through W.B. Yeats’ beloved County Sligo, Garavogue 20 Year Old Irish Whiskey is a poetic expression of place and craft. Aged across multiple casks to achieve remarkable depth and nuance, it unfolds with notes of orchard fruit, vanilla, and gentle spice. Elegant, balanced and distinctly Irish, it’s a gift for those that savor both heritage and artistry. SRP: $199 (local taxes and fees will vary).

For the sports fan who lives for the roar of the crowd and the hum of the highway: 

Traveller Whiskey 

From the baseball diamond to the racetrack, Traveller Whiskey is the perfect companion for fans who know that good whiskey – like a great season – only gets better with time. Created in partnership by Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and musician Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Harlen Wheatley, it’s the ultimate pour for America’s favorite pastimes. SRP: $39.99 (local taxes and fees will vary).

Old Pulteney Polaris, the exceptionally rare 47-year old single malt, achieves £62,500 at Distillers One of One Charity Auction

Whisky marks the first exciting announcement from Old Pulteney as the iconic distillery prepares to celebrate 200 years of industrial craftsmanship in 2026

International Beverage has revealed that Old Pulteney’s oldest-every whisky release, Polaris – a one-of-a-kind 47-year-old single malt – has achieved a value of £62,500 at the Distillers One of One Charity Auction.

Exceeding its highest pre-sale estimate (£26,000 – £40,000) and raising vital funds for The Distillers’ Charity, the sale of this remarkable whisky represents a momentous milestone for this iconic distillery as it prepares to celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2026.

Taking its name from the steadfast North Star, Old Pulteney Polaris was expertly crafted in partnership with local artisans and pays homage to Old Pulteney’s home in Wick on the far north coast of Scotland. Designed and created by Tain-based glass merchant, Glasstorm, this exceptionally rare whisky is presented within a striking 1.5L hand-blown blue glass bottle featuring inciso cuts that evoke the crashing waves of the North Sea. The art piece is encased in dramatic Caithness Slate from Norse Stone, representing the enduring cliffs found on the windswept coastline that surround the Maritime Malt’s hometown.

Further enhancing the rarity of this one-of-a-kind masterpiece, copper and silver have been masterfully integrated by local jeweller, Lucy Woodley. A hidden copper disc at the base of the sculpture has been carefully reclaimed from an Old Pulteney still, offering the winning bidder an unprecedented opportunity to own a piece of Old Pulteney’s heritage.

Distilled and aged at Old Pulteney’s home in Wick, this exceptionally rare 47-year-old single malt was rested in American oak ex-bourbon casks for four decades before an extended period of refinement in a carefully selected first-fill Spanish oak butt for an additional seven years. With an ABV of 43.6%, the result is a whisky of remarkable maritime character, elegant complexity and unrivalled depth.

Sarah Burgess, Master of Whisky Creation at International Beverage said: ‘Aged for 47 years, Old Pulteney Polaris is the distillery’s oldest release to date and pays tribute to Old Pulteney’s hometown of Wick. A celebration of the people and craftsmanship that shape the Maritime Malt, we were extremely proud to play our part in raising such an impressive sum for The Distillers’ Charity and the Youth Action Fund. Congratulations go to everyone involved in its creation, the Distillers One of One team for staging another momentous day for the Scotch whisky industry, and the new owner of Polaris who owns this very special piece of Old Pulteney history.’

The biennial Distillers One of One is one of the most prestigious events in the whisky world, bringing together rare, one-off creations from leading distilleries. This year’s auction, held on 10th October 2025 at Scotland’s Hopetoun House, offered bidders the only opportunity to own the truly exceptional Polaris showpiece (1.5L), complete with a 100ml tasting sample.

Proceeds from the sale of Old Pulteney Polaris will go directly to The Distillers’ Charity, with a proud focus on its principal beneficiary, the Youth Action Fund. This initiative supports projects across Scotland that provide education, training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged young people, ensuring this extraordinary whisky has an impact far beyond the walls of the distillery.

www.interbevgroup.com

www.oldpulteney.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

About The Distillers One of One® Auction

One of One® and Distillers One of One® are registered trademarks of The Distillers’ Charity

The Distillers One of One Auction is a biennial series of ultra-rare whisky auctions. The Auctions have raised a total of £4.3 million for charitable purposes since 2021 and uniquely, 100% of the fundraising goes to grant making, with 90% of that amount going to the Youth Action Fund and 10% going to The Distillers’ Charity for its general charitable purposes.

With a total of eighty-one unique lots created across the past two auctions, 37 of which broke world sales records for the distilleries in question, the Distillers One of One has earned its reputation as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for collectors. Each lot is imbued with the spirit of craftsmanship and exclusivity, representing the pinnacle of Scotch whisky. No two bottles are the same, and no lot will ever be recreated – a powerful draw for the most discerning collectors.

The Distillers One of One® is a trading name of The Distillers’ Ventures Limited, a company registered in England & Wales under company number 13264121 and registered office at 1 The Sanctuary, Westminster, London SW1P 3JT

In 2012, Freddie Noe stepped into the family business his father, Fred, and grandfather, Booker, helped build—three generations of Beam family distillers, each shaping the story of American whiskey in their own way. What Freddie discovered along the way was a passion for blending—a creative outlet that became Little Book®.

Freddie Noe, 8^th Generation Master Distiller, unveils Little Book® The Infinite: Edition II. This line extension launched in 2024 with the intent of bringing three generations together to create a whiskey that grows richer each year as new liquids are added to the original blend.

Little Book The Infinite: Edition II | 120.8 proof (60.40% ABV) | SRP: $199.99.

Booker’s bourbon brings oak, char, and smoke; Fred Noe’s bourbon adds rich vanilla, caramel, and dark stone fruit; and Freddie Noe’s bourbon brings brightness with fresh apple and pear. 

• Booker’s Component – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Aged 22 years
• Fred’s Component – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Aged 10 years
• Freddie’s Component – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Extended Fermentation) – Aged 7 years
• Shared Family Component – Little Book The Infinite I

Tasting Notes

• Color: Burnt copper glow
• Aroma: Crisp apple and pear mingled with caramel and char
• Taste: Layers of vanilla, caramel, and apple unfold with whispers of dark stone fruit
• Finish: A warm, lingering close with oak and smoke at the edges

Unlocking the extraordinary: Rare Find opens the Vault

A new lifetime membership gives whisky lovers front-row access to exclusive releases and hidden treasures from the independent bottler

Rare Find, the acclaimed independent bottler renowned for uncovering extraordinary single cask whiskies, today announced the launch of the Rare Find Vault – an exclusive new membership designed to immerse whisky enthusiasts in a lifetime of exceptional discovery, craftsmanship, and community.

As Rare Find celebrates its tenth anniversary, the creation of the Vault marks a bold new chapter in the bottler’s journey – one that honours its roots in independent bottling whilst offering single cask whisky enthusiasts unparalleled access to exclusive member releases crafted just for them.

For a one-off £50 lifetime membership, Vault members will receive a host of remarkable benefits, including:

• A beautifully crafted Vault membership coin, an elegant symbol of belonging and the key to unlocking the members-only online Vault portal. Inside, members can explore exclusive releases, rare cask discoveries, and curated offers unavailable to the wider public.

• An annual ‘Inner Vault’ release, combining Rare Find’s signature single cask style with unbeatable value. The first Inner Vault release is a 16-year-old single cask release from Speyside distillery Auchroisk – available to members for just £43.00.

• A welcome pack of four handpicked 3cl samples, showcasing a cross-section of Rare Find’s most sought-after releases – a perfect introduction to the depth and range of the Vault experience

• Vault-exclusive whiskies crafted solely for members, with each bottling representing a unique chapter in the Rare Find story. Every release is created with members in mind – limited in number, and designed to showcase the artistry, diversity, and spirit of Rare Find.

• Exclusive discounts and perks at growing network of partner bars and venues, accessible simply by presenting the Vault membership coin. The initial list of partners includes Scotch (at the Balmoral) and the Athletic Arms in Edinburgh, The Piper Whisky Bar in Glasgow, The Malt Room in Inverness, Bar 1745 (at the Schloss Roxburghe in Kelso) and Melody Whisky Bar in London.

• Advance notice of all Rare Find official releases, giving members the first opportunity to secure new bottlings.

• 10% discount on all online purchases made through rarefindwhisky.co.uk.

Speaking about the launch of the Rare Find Vault, a spokesperson commented: “We’re incredibly grateful for the depth and breadth of support the whisky community has shown us over the years. As we close our 10th anniversary celebrations, we wanted to create something truly special – a way to say thank you, and to deepen our connection with the enthusiasts who share our passion for single malt whisky. The Rare Find Vault isn’t just a membership – it’s a lifetime of whisky experiences, friendships, and discoveries waiting to be unlocked.”

Membership to The Rare Find Vault opens from 6pm on Thursday 13th November 2025 and is available for a one-time fee of £50. Spaces are expected to fill quickly as the Vault opens its doors to a new generation of enthusiasts and connoisseurs.

Rare Find Vault

For full details of membership benefits can be found via: www.rarefindwhisky.co.uk/jointherarefindvault

About Rare Find

Each Rare Find release is an unrepeatable, limited-edition whisky sourced from sought-after distilleries. With every bottle, we celebrate liquid excellence – meticulously selecting, maturing, and finishing in the highest quality casks to deliver whisky that’s rare by design.

From the millions of casks maturing in Scotland, only a small percentage are destined for single malt bottlings, and from those, only the best become a Rare Find.