Glenmorangie unveils first Calvados cask finish as 12-Year-Old small batch whisky 

 –Uniquely fruity and floral release is latest in Distillery’s Barrel Select series

Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky today reveals a uniquely fruity and floral whisky – its first ever finished in French Calvados casks. Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish is the fifth release in the Distillery’s Barrel Select Release series of small-batch single malts, which explores the flavours that arise from different cask finishes. Entwining scents of jasmine with baked apples and pears, this rare 12-year-old bottling offers new mellow depths to Glenmorangie’s signature fruity tones.

For 180 years, Glenmorangie’s whisky makers have been endlessly imaginative on their quest to create delicious single malt whiskies for more people to enjoy. Led by acclaimed Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, they craft their delicate, fruity spirit in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow more space for taste and aroma, then age it in the world’s finest casks. Some time ago, Dr Bill became fascinated by the soft, orchard notes of Calvados, which is distilled from apples (and sometimes pears) in France. And he began to wonder how these casks – never used before at Glenmorangie – might further enhance the whisky’s classic, fruity finesse.

Inspired to experiment, he took a whisky which had spent more than 10 years ageing in American white oak bourbon casks, for Glenmorangie’s elegant style. He transferred that whisky into casks which, for 20 years, had held Calvados du Pays d’Auge, from Normandy, in France. After a carefully judged finish, Dr Bill’s creation was ready to share. Soft and delectably rich, Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish unites mellow fruits of baked apples and pears with subtle notes of jasmine, narcissus and vanilla.

Dr Bill said: “At Glenmorangie, we are always experimenting with ways to create delicious whiskies. Since Calvados casks have never been used before at Glenmorangie, I was intrigued to see how their elegant, orchard notes would complement our whisky’s award-winning fruity style, with a judicious finish. Glenmorangie Calvados Finish is a wonderful addition to our Barrel Select Release series of small-batch single malts. Entwining scents of baked pears, vanilla and jasmine with tastes of toffee apples, lemon balsam and spice, this rare whisky takes all that is good about Glenmorangie, to richly delicious new heights.”

Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish is now available exclusively in the UK at Glenmorangie.com, RRP: £75.

https://www.glenmorangie.com/

For exclusive access to news, events and new expressions, join Glenmorangie’s World of Wonder: https://www.glenmorangie.com/members

Follow Glenmorangie on Facebook and Instagram: @glenmorangie

Tasting Notes:

Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish is non chill-filtered and bottled at 46% ABV

Colour: Bright Gold

Aroma: A most fragrant whisky at full strength, with notes of baked apples, pears, vanilla, almond and a slightly waxy note. With water, some fragrant, floral notes emerge, like narcissus, jasmine and heather honey. Finally, the aroma of baking sweet pastries is found.

Taste: The mouthfeel is oily and spicy at the same time, and leads into a burst of rich sweet flavours.  Baked pears, toffee apple, almond marzipan, star anise and chocolate praline are found, along with some lemon balsam, eucalyptus and a touch of charcoal.

Finish: Long, lingering and almost slightly cooling in nature.

RRP: £75.00

 About the Barrel Select Release series:

Glenmorangie’s Barrel Select Release series comprises small-batch bottlings exploring the flavours which arise from different cask finishes. The first release in the series was the indulgently sweet and rich Glenmorangie Malaga Cask Finish, a 12-year-old whisky finished in Spain’s Malaga wine casks. The second release was Glenmorangie Cognac Cask Finish, an elegantly oaky and fruity 13-year-old whisky, finished in Cognac casks. Glenmorangie Palo Cortado Finish was the third release in the series. This deeply sweet and nutty 12-year-old bottling was Glenmorangie’s first ever to be finished in rare Palo Cortado sherry casks. The fourth release was the nutty and spicy Glenmorangie Amontillado Finish, inspired by Dr Bill’s favourite style of sherry. Floral and gently fruity, Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish is the fifth Barrel Select release. 

About Glenmorangie:

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

Glenmorangie celebrates the joy of delicious single malt in every part of its universe, from its boutique hotel Glenmorangie House to its colourful brand campaign, shot by famed photographer Miles Aldridge. With its tagline “It’s kind of delicious and wonderful”, Glenmorangie invites whisky lovers old and new to see themselves in Glenmorangie’s world.

About Dr Bill Lumsden:

Dr Bill Lumsden’s favourite phrase is “What if?”. And throughout more than 25 years with Glenmorangie, the Distillery’s Creative Director has challenged himself and his team to take whatever captures their imaginations and turn it into whisky – be that the spirit and flavour of Glenmorangie’s homeland (the Cadboll Estate series), the magic of a walk in the forest (Glenmorangie A Tale of the Forest), a cup of coffee (Glenmorangie Signet), and more. With a PhD in biochemistry and decades of experience, Dr Bill has all the skills needed to bring these ideas to life. Already, he has earned the admiration of his peers many times over. He features in the Icons of Whisky Hall of Fame. He has won the International Whisky Competition’s award for Master Distiller of the Year more times than anyone else. And he was named twice Master Blender/Distiller of the Year by the International Spirits Challenge.

About Calvados:

Distilled from apples (and sometimes pears), Calvados is produced only in the department of Calvados within the Normandy region of France. Calvados Pays d’Auge is a sub-region of the department and has its own appellation d’origine contrôlée. The appellation’s renowned Calvados comes from fruit trees grown in the clay and limestone soils of the Pays d’Auge. It is double distilled in a traditional alembic pot still.

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association

Honors Industry Veteran

With Prestigious “Esprit de Corps” Award

Kevin D. Smith, Former Master Distiller and Industry Executive, 

Honored For More Than Three Decades of Service and Leadership to Kentucky Bourbon

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Kevin D. Smith is a recipient of the “Esprit de Corps Award,” an elite recognition 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.

Smith has 34 years of distinguished service to the KDA and the Bourbon industry, having worked at top distilleries in the state as the former Master Distiller and Vice President of Production at Maker’s Mark and the last eight years as the Vice President of Kentucky Bourbon Affairs for Beam Suntory.

In addition, Smith has served on numerous civic and charitable organizations, including Chairman of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce from 2022-2023, Chairman of the Governor’s Workforce Innovation Board, Chairman of the Japanese American Society of Kentucky and many more.

“If you’re involved in Bourbon, you know the name Kevin Smith is synonymous with respect, experience and leadership,” KDA President Eric Gregory said. “I’m proud that KDA has recognized his many contributions to the betterment of our Association, our iconic industry and our beloved Commonwealth.”

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

Morris said Smith joined the KDA Board of Directors in 2019 and served as Chairman in 2022. He also chaired the KDA’s Kentucky Spirits Collaborative, its Governmental Affairs Advisory Group, its Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) initiative, and was Secretary of the group’s non-profit Lifting Spirits Foundation.

“Kevin has been a vocal and vital leader of the KDA for the last decade and is widely respected for his ability to calmly communicate and collaborate with fellow distillers and partners to advance our signature industry and our venerable Association,” Morris said.

Smith said, “To be honored by my fellow distillers and Bourbon legends leaves me immensely grateful. I’m grateful for those who came before me in this industry, I’m grateful for those who work alongside me now, and I’m eager to see how our industry innovates and grows into the future, all right here in my 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.

Lochlea marks 5^th Anniversary with

statement whisky from across half a decade

Multi-award-winning Ayrshire distillery, Lochlea, is celebrating its 5^th Anniversary this year, marking the milestone birthday with a limited edition first age-statement whisky release. 

Lochlea 5 Year Old is a vatting of five different casks from the distillery – each one showing a different side to the house spirit, hand-selected by Production Director John Campbell and the team.

This exclusive single malt whisky is incredibly special to the Lochlea team – it is their first ever age statement release since the distillery was founded half a decade ago on Lochlea Farm – where Robert Burns lived and worked, inspiring his thinking and development as a poet.

Two of the five casks used are from the very first filling in August 2018, making this the oldest Lochlea whisky that has ever been bottled and released!

The final spirit of this limited 5 Year Old release is made up from two first fill ex-Bourbon casks, one first fill Oloroso sherry cask, one double matured Oloroso Sherry cask and a double matured Pedro Ximenez Sherry cask, giving it a delicious rich flavour and texture.

John Campbell said: “To mark our 5th Anniversary milestone, we wanted to create a whisky that shows off the best of Lochlea spirit that has been matured in different styles of casks over the last half a decade. We have carefully chosen these five casks that have matured our single malt to perfection, then vatted them together to create a unique bottling of Lochlea that we won’t replicate ever again – it’s an incredibly special dram to mark our first special milestone birthday. And as always with our whiskies, it’s made entirely from barley grown on our farm here at Lochlea.”

“In celebration of this special milestone, we felt it was fitting to release it on Burns Night as a nod to Robert Burns who once worked the land that we rely on for our own barley and, ultimately, our final spirit.”

Lochlea is one of the very few full grain-to-cask distilleries in Scotland, growing all its own barley, distilling its spirit, and maturing all stocks on site at the distillery (and farm) in the stunning region of Ayrshire. Not only does this keep production quality consistent, but it also helps to ensure the distillery is naturally as sustainable as possible.

In addition to this special anniversary release, Lochlea has a range of limited-edition seasonal whiskies that are released each year to mark the seasons on the farm, as well as a Cask Strength series. The distillery also released a signature expression in 2022 – award-winning ‘Our Barley’, that is available in over 20 markets globally, throughout the year.

Limited edition Lochlea 5 Year Old is available from 25^th January onwards, from Lochlea stockists* while stocks last, RRP: £89.99.

Lochlea 5 Year Old

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Baked pineapple, brown sugar, hazelnuts, sourdough bread

Palate: Lemon zest, candied pear crumble, orange peel

Finish: Caramel with hints of black pepper, rose petals and leather

About Lochlea Distillery:

Lochlea was originally a 222-acre livestock farm before being purchased by Neil and Jen McGeoch in 2006. After much consideration of the future of the farm and a successful trial to grow its own barley in 2015, the couple transformed the land and existing farm buildings into a fully operational distillery in 2017 and started distilling the following year. The farming side has remained a unique part of Lochlea, with the move into barley production – paving the way for Lochlea to be one of the very few fully grain-to-glass distilleries in Scotland. It also has a rich Scottish heritage with strong links to Robbie Burns, with the bard having worked and lived on the farm a several years.

*For a full list of Lochlea stockists, visit: Lochlea Distillery stockists

Lochlea Distillery has recently won the following awards:

– Icons of Whisky Scotland 2024: Single Estate and Brand Innovator

– Icons of Whisky 2023: Single Estate Distillery of the Year

– San Francisco Spirits Competition 2023: Our Barley – GOLD

– Scottish Field Summer Whisky Challenge 2023: Distilleries under 10 Years Old – GOLD

A London, Ontario Distillery claims WHISKY OF THE YEAR honours at the 2024 CANADIAN WHISKY AWARDS

More than two dozen accolades were presented at the prestigious 14th annual event

VICTORIA, B.C. (January 19, 2024) – Paradigm Spirits’ 2022 Heritage Collection was named Canadian Whisky of the Year at the 2024 Canadian Whisky Awards, held Thursday, January 18, in Victoria, B.C. The 19-year-old blended whisky was awarded top honours by a panel of 10 judges, who tasted and scored nearly 200 competing whiskies in blind tastings.

Made from 100% Canadian corn, 2022 Heritage Collection spent 19 years maturing in new American oak barrels. The whisky-makers at Paradigm then blended in a touch of classic Oloroso sherry, a recognized practice under Canada’s whisky-blending regulations.

“This is remarkable whisky,” says Davin de Kergommeaux, chair of the judging panel and author of Canadian Whisky: The Essential Portable Expert. “Long maturation in oak imbues it with sublime complexity and elegance, while meticulous blending animates its fresh, fruity top notes.”

Canadian Whisky of the Year was just one of more than two dozen awards handed out at this year’s 14th annual edition of the Canadian Whisky Awards. Other honours included:

• Corn Whisky of the Year – J.P. Wiser’s 18-Year-Old
• Wheat Whisky of the Year – LMD Whisky Release no.0005-Straight Wheat
• Rye Whisky of the Year – GrainHenge Arrowwood
• Single Malt Whisky of the Year – Two Brewers Release 41
• Blended Whisky of the Year – Wayne Gretzky Distillery No.99 Maple Cask Whisky
• Mixed Mash Whisky of the Year – Crown Royal Aged 30 Years
• Whisky Spirit of the Year – DEVINE Distillery Ancient Grains ‘Young Whisky’
• Alternative Grain Whisky of the Year – Last Straw Distillery Rice Whisky
• Flavoured Whisky of the Year – Crown Royal Golden Apple Aged 23 Years
• Cream Whisky of the Year – Forty Creek Original Cream

Held annually since 2010 at the Victoria Whisky Festival, the Canadian Whisky Awards recognizes the very best Canadian whiskies. An independent panel of experts scores each whisky in blind tastings, based on ranking criteria that reflect the industry’s highest standards.

The Canadian Whisky Awards is fully independent of the Canadian whisky industry. In order to qualify for competition, all whiskies must be distilled and matured in Canada.

For more information and the full results of the 2024 Canadian Whisky Awards, visit canadianwhiskyawards.com.

For images, please see: canadianwhiskyawards.com/media.

Media Contacts:

Davin de KergommeauxLaura Chair, Canadian Whisky Awards media@canadianwhiskyawards.com

Beam Suntory France Begins Operations

Johnnie Walker partners with James Jean for Lunar New Year

New Johnnie Walker Blue Label Limited Edition Design is created by one of the worlds’ most influential visual artists, James Jean

Johnnie Walker, the world’s number one Scotch Whisky[1], today announces an intricate new Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Limited Edition Design created by one of the most influential visual artists in the world, Asian-American artist James Jean.

The vivid design for the Year of the Dragon features an innovative and dynamic interpretation of 2024’s Zodiac animal, the noble Wood Dragon. Regarded by many as the mightiest of all the Zodiac animals, the dragon is symbolic of life and creativity as well as a portent of future prosperity in traditional Asian culture, echoing the defiant optimism of the Johnnie Walker motto, Keep Walking. In James’ layered illustrations the evergreen Wood Dragon springs from bountiful flora and fauna, and bursts to life with auspicious ambition.

Renowned for his ability to work across different genres with an imaginative and multifaceted approach to image making, James fuses contemporary subjects with aesthetic techniques inspired by traditional Chinese scroll paintings, Japanese woodblock prints, and Renaissance portraiture.

Recently James worked closely with a number of Hollywood directors on promotional posters for several award-winning high-profile films.

James, who was born in Taipei and raised in New Jersey and attended the School of Visual Arts in New York, says: “With Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year, we wanted to create a dragon that felt different, new and innovative – respect for the past but also looking into the future with optimism; in the same way that Johnnie Walker stands for progress through that incredible Keep Walking spirit.”

“The Year of the Dragon is rich in symbolism and tradition in Asia. Many consider the dragon the most powerful animal in the Chinese Zodiac and the Wood Dragon felt remarkably close to me because of the natural elements prevalent in my own work. Evolved from traditional depictions of Chinese dragons, my dragon is composed of flowers and organic elements, from which emerge tendrils and arcing lines, evoking the idea of roots and connection.”

James, who currently lives in Los Angeles, sought inspiration for his designs from the layers of incredible flavour that Johnnie Walker Master Blender Emma Walker and her team bring to Johnnie Walker Blue Label – a whisky made using some of the rarest whiskies from the unparalleled Johnnie Walker reserves of maturing Scotch, including some irreplaceable casks sourced from long-closed ‘ghost’ distilleries.

“There are hidden elements in the picture as well – layers to be discovered, just like the layers in this incredible whisky. I included chrysanthemums, from which flow liquid gold – inspired by Johnnie Walker whiskies – and hummingbirds sipping on the precious nectar. I want the viewer to peel back the layers and discover more about the image. I want my work to function from far away but reveal more details the more closely you explore the imagery.”

Johnnie Walker Global Marketing and Innovation Director, Joao Matos, adds: “James Jean’s remarkable interpretation of the Wood Dragon for Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year captures the essence of tradition and innovation. Just as Johnnie Walker embodies progress with our ‘Keep Walking’ spirit, James has beautifully blended respect for the past with an optimistic look towards the future. His dragon, crafted from flowers and organic elements, is a symbol of the power of creativity and connection. We’re thrilled to celebrate the Year of the Dragon with this exquisite, limited edition design.”

James Jean also designed incredible artwork for the Lunar New Year John Walker & Sons XR 21 limited edition design. All Johnnie Walker Lunar New Year limited edition designs are available in selected markets globally.

[1] IWSR 2022

Cask Trade Named Among UK’s Most Innovative New Businesses

Cask Trade listed in the prestigious Startups 100 Index

Startups 100 Index has previously identified brands including Monzo, Deliveroo and HelloFresh

Index finds the top 100 start-ups with the most growth potential for the year ahead

The UK’s longest running index of disruptive new start-ups, the Startups 100, has released its 2024 line-up and Cask Trade has made the list.

Run by the UK’s most established website for entrepreneurs, Startups.co.uk, the Startups 100 offers a showcase of new businesses that demonstrate innovation, solid financials, opportunity in their market, a great concept, and a strong customer base or following. The list has previously identified brands including Monzo, Deliveroo and HelloFresh.

Founded in 2018, Cask Trade is run by passionate spirits industry professionals. Built upon honesty and transparency, we created an open cask marketplace where the end goal of selling casks is as important as buying them. The foundation of this is a trusted relationship with collectors, investors, and independent bottlers within the industry. We are proud in our belief that by owning all the casks we sell, customers have 100% transactional guarantee.

In five years Cask trade has successfully grown to become a Sunday Times Top 100 Business in Britain for 2023. Offices in the UK and Hong Kong, alongside agents in Australia, Singapore, India, and the USA, allow us to cater for a diverse range of customer needs. As a result, we have sold approximately 9000 casks to over 1800 private customers and around 150 independent bottlers spanning six continents.

The casks we have sold cover 50 years’ worth of age statements from 1973 to 2023, with an astonishing 170 distilleries represented across the world of whisky and other spirits.

Managing Editor of Startups.co.uk, Richard Parris, comments: “The ingenuity and innovation of the brands featuring in our annual Startups 100 index never ceases to amaze, and this year is no exception. Despite the crises of the past couple of years, we’ve seen some incredible businesses from every corner of the UK in our rankings. They may be tackling different challenges to one another, but there’s a shared mood of opportunity and an optimism for the year ahead that’s invigorating to see as we begin 2024.”

Commenting on the achievement, Simon Aron, founder and CEO of Cask Trade says: “This is truly a pleasant and unexpected achievement to be 24 out of 100 start-ups, alongside so many fantastic companies. I’ve had the pleasure of turning my personal passion into a fast growing business, with success down to the hard work and dedication from co-directors and our fabulous team.”

About the Index:
The Startups 100, run by Startups.co.uk, showcases the top 100 new UK businesses based on five key areas of analysis: finance, external validation, size of opportunity, innovativeness of idea and strength of concept.

As well as celebrating the best small businesses in the UK, the list is also an opportunity to grow a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and business owners who support and advocate for each other.

Notes to editors:
To feature, all businesses in the index had to have launched in the last 5 years, be UK-based, and be privately owned (at the time of entering). The winners of the Startups 100 Index are chosen by a specialist panel of judges.

For the full list visit: https://startups.co.uk/startups-100/2024/list-in-full/

CHRIS STAPLETON AND BUFFALO TRACE MASTER DISTILLER HARLEN WHEATLEY UNVEIL TRAVELLER WHISKEY

A first-of-its-kind collaboration from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Traveller is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and a shared commitment to uncompromising quality

FRANKFORT, FRANKLIN COUNTY, KY (Jan. 8, 2024) – Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and musician Chris Stapleton today unveiled Traveller Whiskey, a new, premium blended whiskey that represents a first-of-its-kind collaboration of collective artistry. Proudly blended and bottled at the World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery under Wheatley’s expert supervision, Traveller is the result of countless hours of testing, tasting and dedication to craftsmanship that have produced powerful songs and world-class whiskeys.

Of the collaboration, Stapleton shared, “Partnering with Buffalo Trace Distillery and Harlen Wheatley feels like a bucket list scenario for me. Some things just make total sense – and this is definitely one of those things. Bottles from barrels that Harlen has cared for have been with us for every note we’ve ever recorded, backstage before shows and in all the moments we’ve celebrated along the way. I believe what we’ve achieved with Traveller Whiskey not only represents our shared history but also a common artistic vision and uncompromising standards of taste. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve made.”

Wheatley added: “When making art –  and we really do think that both Chris’ music and the whiskey we make at Buffalo Trace is art – you experiment, test, adjust, and don’t give up until you’ve got it right. That’s why we experimented with more than 50 blends before agreeing that Blend No. 40 would be it for Traveller.”

Bottled at 90 proof, Traveller Whiskey is characterized by notes of oak, sweet maple, tart currant and leather. Complex aromas of vanilla, aged fruit and buttery shortbread are rounded off by caramel and a touch of oak. The flavor profile also showcases a touch of sweetness, followed by spice, toasted nut and oak flavors, closing with a robust finish. Traveller is a completely unique combination of whiskeys hand-selected from The Sazerac Company’s award-winning distilleries.

“This is a whiskey for everyone, whether you’ve been enjoying all the variety in the category for years or are just now discovering it. Traveller stands up on its own as a smooth and sippable whiskey or works great in a cocktail, if that’s more your style,” said Wheatley. “But especially if you’ve tried whiskey before and been turned away by the burn – we think you’ll take one sip of this and think to yourself, “OK, now this I can do.”

Born in Lexington, KY, just down the road from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Stapleton’s relationship with Buffalo Trace matured while he recorded his first studio album, Traveller. It was during those recording sessions that he was first introduced to E.H. Taylor, one of the Distillery’s other whiskey offerings, which soon became a staple on his home bar. Since then, Buffalo Trace has collaborated with Chris and Morgane Stapleton’s charitable fund, Outlaw State of Kind, for multiple fundraising initiatives.

Traveller Whiskey has been widely released to retailers, bars and restaurants nationwide as of January 1, 2024 at a suggested retail price of $39.99 (local taxes and fees will vary).

To learn more, visit www.travellerwhiskey.com.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 40 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskeys. Buffalo Trace Distillery also has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

About Chris Stapleton

Kentucky-born Chris Stapleton is an 8x Grammy, 15x CMA and 10x ACM Award-winner and one of the country’s most respected and beloved musicians. In the midst of yet another triumphant year, Stapleton is nominated for three awards at the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards: Best Country Solo Performance (“White Horse”), Best Country Song (“White Horse”) and Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“We Don’t Fight Anymore” with Carly Pearce). The nominations follow Stapleton’s new album, Higher, which was recently released to overwhelming critical acclaim. Produced by Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton and Chris Stapleton and recorded at Nashville’s historic RCA Studio A, the record has landed on several “Best of 2023” lists so far including Billboard, Esquire, Los Angeles Times, Vulture and Rolling Stone, who praises, “dazzling…the best evidence yet for the way one man’s voice has become synonymous with the very idea of a musical genre.” Additionally, The New Yorker declares, “Stapleton is the rare country star with both traditional bona fides and broad commercial appeal. He has an outlaw soul and a pop star’s capacity for inescapable hooks,” while GQ proclaims, “In an age rife with division, he’s maybe the only thing Americans all agree on.” Known for his electric live performances, Stapleton will continue his “All-American Road Show” tour this year and will also join George Strait for select stadium shows this summer with special guests Little Big Town. In addition to his work as a musician, Stapleton and his wife, Morgane, are also founders of the Outlaw State of Kind charitable fund, which supports a variety of causes that are close to their heart.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Welcomes Heaven’s Door Distillery
as Newest Craft Member

Bourbon Distillery From Bob Dylan Sure To Be A Hit

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Heaven’s Door Distillery in Henry County as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Heaven’s Door is a collection of handcrafted Bourbon and American whiskeys co-created in 2018 with the legendary Bob Dylan, one of the greatest singer-songwriters ever. The picturesque distillery, located in Pleasureville, plans to open to the public in Spring of 2024.

The unique bespoke iron gates showcased on bottles of Heaven’s Door were created by Dylan at his metalworking shop, Black Buffalo Ironworks. The fascinating gates are made of found objects collected from farms and scrap yards across America.

“Heaven’s Door is proud to join the KDA and collaborate among the best distillers in the world,” said Emily McGee, the distillery’s Director of Business Development. “We look forward to gaining the knowledge, exposure and experience that the KDA offers its members.”

KDA President Eric Gregory said Heaven’s Door will be an immediate tourism draw thanks to its association with Dylan and its remarkable natural beauty over 160 acres of rolling hills.

“It has been exciting to watch this project quietly unfold over the last few years,” Gregory said. “Pairing Bob Dylan’s artistic genius with Kentucky’s iconic spirit makes for a can’t miss experience that will bring tourists and fans from across the world to the birthplace of Bourbon.”

Gregory also thanked Henry County officials for welcoming and working with the distillery, which will create more than 50 jobs, source grains from local farms, and help drive economic growth and other tourism opportunities.

Led by noted Master Distiller Ken Pierce, the distillery will features two separate stillhouses, each in its own towering western horse barn, a visitor’s center with tasting rooms and lounges overlooking Six Mile Creek, an 18th-century grist mill, two 18th-century cabins and a Moravian barn, all of which have been painstakingly restored.

Heaven’s Door is dedicated to sustainable practices, utilizing an underground aquifer to access Kentucky’s pure limestone water for its distilling and geothermal heating and cooling of its buildings. It also supplies protein-rich stillage as feed for cattle on surrounding farms.

Additionally, Heaven’s Door was just recognized as one of only five distilleries in Kentucky to be the first to earn an EPA ENERGY STAR RATING. This means they use less energy and contribute to less greenhouse emissions than traditional distilleries.

Its brands include Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Revelation Double Barrel Whiskey, Refuge Straight Rye Whiskey, Revival Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Decade Series Limited Release Whiskey and Bootleg Series Limited Release Whiskey.

Learn more at https://www.heavensdoor.com.

Heaven’s Door Distillery joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year. The KDA now has more than 60 member distilleries, the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition. Heaven’s Door is a collection of handcrafted Bourbon and American whiskeys co-created in 2018 with the legendary Bob Dylan, one of the greatest singer-songwriters ever. The picturesque distillery, located in Pleasureville, plans to open to the public in Spring of 2024.

Learn more at www.kybourbon.com.

Gregory said, “As a longtime fan of Bob Dylan’s songs, poetry and art – and now his whiskey – I am excited and honored to welcome Heaven’s Door to our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

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.

Two Heaven Hill Brands Facilities Recognized as EPA’s First-Ever ENERGY STAR Certified Distilleries

Heaven Hill’s historic Bernheim Distillery and Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery honored with distinction for superior energy performance.

BARDSTOWN, Ky (November 20, 2023) – Heaven Hill Brands is excited to announce two company facilities received the EPA’s first-ever ENERGY STAR certification for distilleries in recognition of superior energy efficiency and performance. According to the EPA, distilleries which earn the ENERGY STAR use significantly less energy and contribute fewer greenhouse gas emissions than their peers. The company’s historic Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Ky. has been the lifeblood of Heaven Hill’s whiskey operations since it was acquired in 1999. Also receiving recognition is the company’s Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery in Buda, Texas.

“Heaven Hill has always strived to be a good steward of the natural resources used to create our products,” said Rachel Nally, Heaven Hill Brands Director of Environment & Sustainability. “Cultivating sustainable and thriving communities is important for our employees, our partners, and our neighbors. Heaven Hill’s energy efficiency programs improve community resilience by reducing emissions and lessening the load on the area’s energy infrastructure. We are honored to receive this certification from the EPA as it recognizes our commitment to innovation in utilizing energy and responsibly using all the natural resources that support our business.”

Distilleries recognized by the EPA earned a score of 75 or higher using the ENERGY STAR’s Energy Performance Indicator (EPI) which facilities can use to benchmark their performance on a scale of 1-100.  Heaven Hill has implemented a variety of projects over recent years, including completion of multiple boiler efficiency and insulation projects to reduce energy needs, replacement of light fixtures with more efficient LED bulbs, and tree plantings around its facilities in order to reach goals identified in the company’s larger environmental and sustainability strategy. Put into place in 2021, the strategy focuses on reaching the following significant milestones by 2030:

• Drive toward zero carbon emissions by reducing carbon emissions from operations by 30%
• Use water more efficiently by improving water use efficiency by 15%
• Reduce waste by eliminating 10% of waste generated by operations, reducing virgin plastic in bottles by 50%, and working towards zero waste visitor experiences
• Conserve the ecosystems that support the business by sponsoring planting of 5,000 trees of substantial size in local communities, supporting sustainable white oak supply, and supporting sustainable agriculture

Over the course of the next decade, both corporate and branded initiatives will continue to be announced to support these goals as the long-term vision takes shape. To learn more about Heaven Hill’s environmental sustainability efforts, visit this link.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (http://www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the newly-acquired Samson & Surrey portfolio.