Lux Row Distillers Introduces Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish

Award-winning brand extends its portfolio with unique new variant

ST. LOUIS (April 9, 2024) – Lux Row Distillers announced the latest addition to the Ezra Brooks brand family: Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish. Finished in port casks from Portugal for six months, Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish delivers the great spicy ryed bourbon taste and smooth finish Ezra Brooks is known for in its already bold 99 proof bourbon, with additional flavor notes. The new variant will start shipping to retailers later this month at a suggested retail price of $34.99 per 750 ml bottle.

With a mash bill of 78% corn, 10% rye and 12% malt, Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish is distilled using the highest quality ingredients, aged the old-fashioned way and bottled at 99 proof (49.5% ABV). Distinctive packaging features prominent callouts and a special label color highlighting the port cask finish.

“We created Ezra Brooks 99 Port Wine Cask Finish for bourbon fans looking for an elevated taste profile and unique flavor option,” said Eric Winter, Ezra Brooks brand manager. “Lux Row Master Distiller John Rempe was intrigued by the juxtaposition of ryed bourbon’s spicy flavor profile and the sweeter, dark fruit notes often found in port wines.”

“This special finish brings notes of vanilla, tobacco and leather together on the nose, and sweet fruitiness and dark chocolate on the palate,” said Rempe. “We’re excited to share this special new variety with consumers as the first in a planned series of annual finishes for the Ezra Brooks 99 family.”

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 Gonzalez 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.

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Releases Commemorative Military Bottles to Kick Off New Sunday Hours and Expanded Tasting Experience

Combat Infantry Badge Bottles Support Forgotten Coast K9 

FRANKFORT, KY (April 18, 2024) – J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery, created by Jeff Mattingly, a descendant of distilling pioneer John Graves Mattingly, is releasing its highly anticipated Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) Bourbon this Sunday, April 21st, as it kicks off new Sunday visitation hours.  Also making its debut is an additional tasting experience which includes tastings straight from the barrel.

The CIB Bourbon is the latest bourbon release in J. Mattingly 1845’s CIB series.  Combat Infantry Badges are awarded to Army enlisted infantry or special forces officers in the grade of Colonel or below who were engaged in active ground combat.  Each year J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery donates a portion of the sales of the CIB bottles to a military-related nonprofit.  This year’s recipient is Forgotten Coast K9, a nonprofit organization that helps provide service dogs to veterans and first responders with the mission to stop suicide in those communities by getting them the service dogs they need.

The 2024 CIB bourbon was aged for six and a half years and bottled at 116 proof.  It has a smokey, brown sugar and banana nose with hints of sweet tobacco and baking spices.  On the palate, expect banana, oak and brown sugar forward, with leathery oak on the mid palate and a finish of sweet tobacco and baking spices.

J.Mattingly 1845 Distillery has not released a CIB bourbon since 2021, and historically the bottles have sold out quickly.  The first initial 50 bottles of the 2024 release were released during its National Pet Day Festival on April 13 and were met with eager anticipation.  The remaining 450 bottles will be available upon opening on Sunday, April 21st at noon.  Suggested retail pricing for a 750 mL of CIB is $155, with $30 of each bottle sale going to Forgotten Coast K9.

In addition to new Sunday hours, guests can now enjoy a new tasting experience allowing them to taste whiskey straight from the barrel.  Now, guests have three different tasting opportunities when visiting J. Mattingly 1845:

• Heritage Tasting Experience – taste up to six different whiskies from J. Mattingly 1845, including the 90-proof and 100-proof bourbons that started it all, and the latest proprietary blends.  But if you like something, you better grab a bottle of it, as the proprietary blends are made in very small batches and are custom creations by the in-house blending experts, never to be repeated.  The cost of the Heritage Tasting Experience is $20 and it lasts about 20 minutes
• Single Barrel Tasting Experience  – This is the newest addition to the J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery guest adventure and it allows visitors to taste straight from seven of barrels.  Each barrel selected for the tasting has been carefully vetted by the expert blenders at J. Mattingly 1845, and has undergone the proprietary double-staving process, which adds charred staves to aging bourbon barrels twice during the blending process to create unmatched flavors.  The cost of the Barrel Tasting Experience is $55 and it lasts a half hour.
• VIP Custom Bourbon Blending Experience – A bourbon connoisseur’s dream – allowing you to become a master blender for a day, choosing your own blend, bottle shape, custom label and even the wax color on the top.  Starting with four pre-selected barrels, you will mix and blend the flavors under the expert guidance of the J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery team, then choose the other elements in the packaging and leave that day with your unique creation. No two bottles will ever be the same.  The VIP Custom Blending Experience is $175 and takes approximately one hour.  Additional bottles of your custom blend may be purchased for $120.  Reservations are recommended for this experience.

“Throughout the year we have special releases that benefit many worthy nonprofit organizations,” said Jeff Mattingly, chief executive officer and founder, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery.  “The CIB release is always one of my favorites, as it honors Army veterans who saw combat on the ground, definitely heroes in my book.  And to partner with Forgotten Coast K9 to help provide service dogs to military veterans and first responders just makes the release even more special .”

The CIB Bourbon will be available on-site at the Distillery and also online, with shipping to 45 U.S. states.  J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery’s operating hours are Monday – Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon – 6 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome for the tasting experiences, but reservations are suggested for the VIP Custom Bourbon Blending Experience.  The Distillery is located at 20 Reilly Road in Frankfort, Ky.

About J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery

The Mattingly family has been synonymous with distilling in Kentucky for more than two centuries, having a hand in the development of at least nine separate distilleries in the Commonwealth, and with connections to some of the most illustrious names in the distilling industry, including George Garvin Brown, the Willetts and the Samuels.

It all started in 1845, with John Graves Mattingly’s first distillery in Marion County, Kentucky, Registered Distillery #2.  Many historians today believe his distillery was the first registered distillery in Kentucky.

In 2010 Jeff Mattingly took up the family mantle and started his own craft bourbon business.  Today, Jeff’s son Cameron has joined the team as Vice President of Production, continuing the legacy into the latest generation for J. Mattingly Distillery 1845 in Frankfort, Kentucky. For more information about J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery visit www.JMattingly1845.com.

HATOZAKI WHISKY ANNOUNCES NEWEST ADDITION TO

LIMITED “OMAKASE” SERIES:

HATOZAKI OMAKASE RYE THIRD EDITION MIZUNARA CASK FINISH 

Exclusive to the US market, the latest innovation is finished in Japanese Mizunara casks hand-selected by Master Distiller Kimio Yonezawa

New York, NY –  (April 12, 2024) – Hatozaki Whisky is pleased to announce the third and latest addition to its “Omakase” Series – Hatozaki Omakase Rye Third Edition Mizunara Cask Finish. Now available in the US for a suggested retail price of $95 (750ml), the new limited-edition expression showcases the profound aging and finishing techniques of Kimio Yonezawa, 4^th generation Master Distiller & Blender.

Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, the Hatozaki Omakase collection was born of Yonezawa-san’s vision to create elegant and genuine whiskies that reflect the character of his family distillery’s unique terroir and maritime influences. Honoring the age-old Japanese concept of “Omakase,” known as “chef’s choice” in Japanese dining, the “Omakase” collection mirrors the idea of trusting the maker’s intuition – allowing for delightful experimentation of flavors and new exploration.

“I am honored to introduce the newest blend in our Omakase Collection to the US market,” says Yonezawa-san. “I was excited to experiment with the flavors of rye, a popular category with American whisky drinkers, and see how they would respond to native Japanese oak influence. We are thrilled with the final blend and confident it will be a surprising and rewarding choice for the seeker of exciting new whiskies to try.”

In that spirit, Kimio Yonezawa presents an innovative new blend consisting of rye whisky, that is aged in new charred oak and then finished in Japanese Mizunara casks, the rare Japanese white oak sourced from the Hokkaido and Tohoku forests. This expression will be limited to less than 3,000 bottles, each numbered and sold exclusively in the US market.

Hatozaki Omakase Rye Third Edition Mizunara Cask Finish is a testament to the seasoned artistry of the Yonezawa family aging tradition, crafted in small batches of no more than 10 casks. The blend, consisting of at least 51% rye, is aged in new charred oak and then finished in traditional Mizunara casks. This dual maturation allows the Mizunara to impart its distinctive character, resulting in notes of sandalwood, coconut, and Japanese incense – a refined encounter with Japanese elegance.

The new product joins Hatozaki’s core range including: Hatozaki Finest Whisky ($45.99 ,750ml. bottle, 40% ABV) a blend of premium malt whiskies aged for up to 12 years in imported bourbon casks, imported sherry casks and native Sakura casks, the Japanese cherry wood; and Hatozaki Small Batch Whisky ($65.99, 750ml., 46% ABV), a vatting of 100% malt whiskies aged in imported bourbon casks, imported sherry casks, and native Mizunara oak barrels, yielding a rich profile of sweet cereals and malty dried fruit, with a light touch of smoke and honey on the finish.

HATOZAKI OMAKASE RYE THIRD EDITION MIZUNARA CASK FINISH, 42% ABV:

Color: Amber

Nose: Immediate rye cereal notes lead, accompanied by fresh oak spice and a hint of menthol. Develops with honeycomb, sawn wood, and tropical fruit. Concludes with yeasty bread and oak.

Mouth: Soft entry with a tickle of fire, mint, and black pepper. Transforms into a robust oaky flavor, soft spice, and a rounded finish. Lingering hints of coconut, orange peel, and cloves.

Style: Harmonious, full-bodied palate with nuanced layers of flavor. 

ABOUT HATOZAKI WHISKY

Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea in Japan, Hatozaki is named for the Hatozaki Lighthouse sitting on the bay of coastline near the distillery, built in 1657 – a beacon of welcoming to all who visit and taste Hatozaki. The maritime climate and seaside terroir are ideal conditions for fine whisky maturing. Fourth-generation Master Distiller & Blender Kimio Yonezawa brings blending heritage from a long line of shochu distillers since 1917, and in 2017 he began producing Hatozaki whisky to honor the centennial of his family’s distillery and to carry on the tradition of Japanese distilling to a dynamic, evolving category he is most passionate about. The Hatozaki portfolio includes two permanent expressions, Hatozaki Finest Whisky and Hatozaki Small Batch Whisky, and a line of Limited Edition expressions, including the Hatozaki  “Omakase” whiskies – hand-selected by Yonezawa-san to create unique cask finishes that have included Mizunara, Sakura and other Japanese oak influence. Hatozaki presents a portfolio of whiskies that are elegant, smooth, and easy to enjoy. Hatozaki appeals to everyone in a delightfully welcoming way with a selection of balanced, mellow, and delicate whisky. 

ABOUT THE KAIKYŌ DISTILLERY

The Yonezawa family’s experimentation with distilling goes back more than a century and has been a part of their story ever since. Kimio Yonezawa is the fourth generation of this legacy, having taken a keen interest in whisky and embarking on a journey of discovery. He channeled his passion for fine spirits into establishing the Kaikyō distillery and did it all with a single goal in mind: to be instrumental in honoring the past and contributing to the future of Japanese whisky-making. In addition to whisky, the Kaikyō Distillery produces 135°East Japanese Gin and Akashi-Tai Sakes. 

ABOUT MARUSSIA BEVERAGES USA

Marussia Beverages USA is a national importer of premium spirits, sake, and wines including brands such as Hatozaki Whiskies, Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs, Torabhaig Scotch Whiskies, Bärenjäger Honey Liqueurs, 135° East Japanese Gin, and Akashi Tai Sakes. Marussia Beverages USA is part of the global group Marussia Beverages, with 14 distribution companies and 16 production sites throughout the world, achieving a turnover of 294 million euros in 2022. In respect for the deep roots of tradition paired with a taste for innovation, Marussia Beverages mission is to create and distribute quality brands that elevate expectations and provide authentic consumer experiences.

WATERFORD DISTILLERY APPOINTS CRAFTWORK AS NEW UK DISTRIBUTOR

4th April 2024: Waterford Distillery, producer of the world’s most naturally flavoursome single malt whiskies, has appointed Craftwork as its new UK distributor. Craftwork will now expedite product roll-out for the full Waterford Whisky range.

Under the new distribution partnership, announced today, Waterford Whisky will benefit from expanded UK distribution operations. The award-winning products will reach even more UK consumers who value transparency, provenance and natural flavours.

As specialists in distributing premium beverage brands, the appointment of Craftwork marks a vital time of development for Waterford  – highlighting a commitment to the UK market as consumer demand for premium offerings remain high. In total, rum accounts for 14% of all spirit sales in the UK, and whisky owning a 13% share*.

With an established global reputation and recent expansion into the US market, European sales for both Waterford Whisky are growing at pace. With a wide variety of whisky bottlings to choose from, the line-up will include signature bottlings and a brand-new core range of original natural whiskies and rums, over the next two years.

Waterford Whisky were launched in 2014 and 2018 respectively by CEO and Founder, Mark Reynier, who boasts more than four decades of industry experience. Both brands combine world-leading terroir technology with locally-grown ingredients, to distil the world’s most flavoursome single malt whisky expressions.

James Cowan, Sales Director at Waterford Whisky says:

“Craftwork is established as an influential and leading distributer across the beverage segment within the UK market, and I am delighted to assign Waterford Whisky  to their existing product offering.

“We are excited at the prospect of building upon our existing distribution and look forward to a successful partnership, furthering both brands’ presence in the UK as a key territory to support growth.”

Mark Dawkins, Founder and Managing Director of Craftwork, added:

“At Craftwork, we are committed to working with the best producers, brand owners and products for our prestige portfolio. Couple that with our vision to grow our whisky and rum portfolio, and it doesn’t get any better than every credential of Waterford Distillery .

“We are delighted to be the new UK importer distributor and cannot wait to work with the team, on these brands, with our customers.”

*Data from CGA by Nielsen IQ

About Waterford Whisky  

Waterford Whisky produces the most naturally flavoursome single malts.

It is the world’s largest producer of organic and biodynamic whiskies.

It is agricultural produce, not a manufactured product.

Unashamedly influenced by the world’s greatest winemakers, Waterford Whisky obsessively brings the same intellectual drive, methodology and rigour to barley – the very source of malt whisky’s complex flavour.

Extolling a hundred exclusive farms of Irish-grown barley, the distillery searches for natural flavours via three paths: its Single Farm Origins pursue the individualism of terroir-derived flavour; its Arcadian Farm Origins express the intensity of flavour from alternative philosophies and long-forgotten varieties; whilst its Cuvée Concepts revel in the ultimate complexity, where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

For more information, visit www.waterfordwhisky.com.

About Craftwork 

Craftwork, founded in 2018, has established itself very quickly as a full-service UK importer distributor, building an enviable portfolio of premium spirits.

A balance of heritage & tradition, coupled with modernity & innovation, from brand partners such Grupo Osborne from Spain, Scapegrace from New Zealand, Cockspur Rum from Barbados, Rebel Bourbon & Rye from Kentucky, Axia Extra-Dry Mastiha from Greece, and Biggar & Leith (Shanky’s Whip from Ireland, Butterfly Cannon Tequila, Stambecco Liqueurs and Hotel Starlino Aperitivo from Italy), make up their core premium & prestige portfolio.

This has enabled Craftwork to build a broad customer base across all trading channels, supplying Multiple Grocers, on trade wholesale & retail, and e-commerce extensively.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Welcomes Bargo 459 as Newest Craft Member

Knox County To Benefit From Hometown Family’s 

Pursuit of Bourbon Excellence 

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Bargo 459 in Knox County is the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Bargo 459 is led by Matthew Bargo II, his wife, Susie, and their son, Matthew Bargo III.

Perched on Kentucky Highway 3041 overlooking the new Cumberland Run harness racing track, Bargo 459 is a small craft distillery where only a limited number of barrels are finished at a time. Its address is 133 Wes David Road in Corbin, Ky.

Their whiskey is all pot-distilled straight Bourbon that has been proofed with spring water from the Cumberland Gap and finished in either sherry or port casks. “We are focused on quality, not quantity,” said founder Matthew Bargo II.

Before developing his distillery and his whiskey, the elder Bargo said he researched thousands of articles, visited numerous Kentucky distilleries and interviewed older individuals who had been involved in creating moonshine during Prohibition.

“Making Bourbon is hard work,” he said. “Making good Bourbon is really hard work. Our goal is to consistently produce exceptional Bourbon that is a symphony of aroma and color with a rich lingering taste.

“In that spirited journey, we stand honored to join this esteemed association and harness its wealth of knowledge while contributing our own innovative approach. Our alignment with the KDA signifies our commitment to upholding the highest standards in Bourbon production.”

The distillery plans to release speciality small batch and single barrel runs with a diversity of cask finishes and limited-edition releases. It also is preparing to open a tasting room to welcome visitors to experience the Bargo 459 portfolio.

Learn more at https://bargo459.com/.

“Making Bourbon is hard work. Making good Bourbon is really hard work.”

— Matthew Bargo II, Founder, Bargo459

KDA President Eric Gregory said, “Kentucky’s Bourbon legacy is full of storied history and rich traditions that have been passed down and shared across the industry, and we applaud Matt and his family for their passion and dedication to our timeless craft.

“The KDA and our 100 distillery members and partners are excited to welcome Bargo 459 to our growing family of the Commonwealth’s finest distillers and the entire Knox County community that will benefit from their investment, their great whiskey and their tourism experiences.”

Bargo 459 joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 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 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

After more than 20 years Japan’s most legendary whisky distillery is back.

The world-renowned Karuizawa distillery closed its doors in 2000 but thanks to a recent investment, and exclusive global partnership with dekantã, the legend lives on.

The Karuizawa distillery was established in 1955 at the foothills of an active volcano, Mount Asama. The location was notable for being the highest distillery in Japan at 850m above sea level. Despite being the country’s smallest whisky producer, Karuizawa had a global reputation for producing first-class malt whiskies.

Karuizawa stopped producing whisky in 2000 and has since been known as a ‘silent’ distillery. As global interest in Japanese whisky has grown in recent years, demand for stock from the closed Karuizawa distillery has increased dramatically, with bottles selling for record prices at auction houses around the world.

In 2020 a bottle of Karuizawa 52-year-old became the most valuable bottle of Japanese whisky ever sold, achieving £363,000 / $435,273 through Sotheby’s in London.

Now, some 24 years after the initial closure, Karuizawa Whisky is back, along with members of the original distilling team.

The new Karuizawa Whisky was built by Shigeru Totsuka, who hired the former Karuizawa Master Distiller, Osami Uchibori, as an advisor, who has sadly since passed away, and his apprentice, distiller Yoshiyuki Nakazato, as Master Distiller.

Unlike the old Karuizawa distillery, which was situated in the neighbouring town of Miyota, the new distillery is situated in the town of Karuizawa itself, known for its stunning year-round vistas that range from vibrant green and yellow forests in the summer months to gleaming snow covered peaks that attract skiers from around the globe in the winter.

“I strive to produce a liquid that both respects and surpasses the old Karuizawa whisky” Yoshiyuki Nakazato, Master Distiller, Karuizawa Whisky

The new distillery, built in 2022, located at the base of Mount Asama, sees water flow through volcanic lava rock that surrounds the distillery giving it a unique quality.

Totsuka and his team are more than aware of the rich legacy that comes with the distillery’s name, and they are keen to protect this with everything they have. It is for this reason that they have chosen to use only top-quality sherry casks and each of these has a minimum ageing requirement of 10 years, ensuring that when bottles of Karuizawa single malt finally hit the market, they will be of the highest standard. In keeping with the tradition of the old distillery, the smallest in Japan, Karuizawa Whisky are only filling a very limited number of casks, with a clear emphasis on quality over quantity.

dekantã, the world’s leading online retailer of fine and rare Japanese whisky, has fostered a close working relationship with the new Karuizawa Whisky to bring both the joys of their liquid and their epic story to Japanese whisky lovers across the world.

Through a global partnership dekantã have the exclusive rights to sell a limited number of single malt sherry casks from Karuizawa Whisky which are available for their loyal customers to buy, allowing them to live the dream of owning a full cask of whisky from a legendary Japanese distillery. Cask purchases come with opportunities to sample the liquid, visit the distillery, and create one’s very own independent bottling of Karuizawa single malt whisky, once the 10-year minimum ageing requirement has been met.

“It is nothing short of an honour to be entrusted with Karuizawa’s legacy and liquid.” Makiyo Masa, Founder, dekantã

What’s more, when the time finally comes, limited edition official bottle releases will be available via dekantã, while working on their very own independent bottlings of this exceptional whisky. Until then, dekantã will be keeping their customers and cask owners up to date with regular news, content, offers and updates from Karuizawa Whisky.

“Nakazato is the fundamental route for a successful Karuizawa whisky style. When I look at what they are doing here, I think they will make some very very good liquid for the new, reborn, Karuizawa.” Daniel Lam, Global Head of Wine & Whisky, Spink & Son

Karuizawa Whisky casks are available exclusively through www.dekanta.com

About dekantã

dekantã is a specialist retailer of fine and rare Japanese whisky, proud to have the world’s largest such online inventory.

dekantā’s range covers premium, rare bottles for collectors, small batch and local whiskies from Japan’s young distilleries, and entry-level releases from the most popular Japanese whisky brands.

In 2022 dekantã was named ‘Japanese Independent Bottler of the Year’ thanks to their creative and impressive whisky bottlings that showcase top quality whisky, alongside intriguing aspects of Japanese culture, allowing customers to experience the upper echelon of Japanese whisky while gaining a better understanding of the centuries of hard work that made it possible.

In recent times, dekantā has been at the forefront of the birth of the Japanese whisky cask market and has made strong relationships with several distilleries, allowing them to become leading players in the market. Japanese whisky casks were previously hard to come by, but through tireless work, dekantā is now the leading online retailer of Japanese whisky casks.

Content

Images courtesy of acclaimed Scotch whisky photographer Konrad Borkowski, his first assignment to Japan. 3-minute hero film telling the story of Karuizawa’s re-birth available to view and download here

Keeneland and Maker’s Mark® Announce New Series: “Greats of the Gate” Bottle Series Will Honor the Greatest Thoroughbreds of All Time Beginning with Man o’ War

Whiskystats Reveals Significant Price Gap Between Retail and Auction Markets

Whiskystats, a leading authority in whisky data analysis, released today a comprehensive report documenting a growing disparity between retail and auction market prices for whisky.

The report reveals that in 2023 prices at retail were 50-75% higher than at auction, making it far more economical to purchase whisky at auction than at a whisky shop.

The report, ‘Has Whisky Become a Buyer’s Market?’, provides an in-depth analysis of whisky brand performances and trends. Notable takeaways:

• The number of whisky bottles traded at auction houses (-5%) and their cumulative hammer prices (-19%) decreased in 2023.
• More than 10,000 bottles failed to meet reserve prices—36% more than in 2022.
• The auction market’s three most value-losing brands were all Japanese: Chichibu (-43%), Karuizawa (-36%), and Yamazaki (-33%).
• Ratings winners for 2023 were Glendronach and Port Charlotte. The 2023 releases for the two Scotch brands scored highest in Whiskybase data analysed by Whiskystats.
• In contrast, Ardmore and Jura saw the biggest decline in quality perception, based on public ratings.
• Craigellachie was 2023’s most-improved brand, according to change in public perception.

Whiskystats also launched a first-of-its-kind ‘collector-drinker gauge’ to compare secondary market turnover to public ratings and reviews. The gauge reveals that Macallan, Hibiki, and Yamazaki are the most collector-oriented brands, while Ledaig, Kavalan, and Glen Scotia are the most drinker-focused. 

Johannes Moosbrugger, Founder and Head of Data at Whiskystats said:

‘Data shows that the whisky market is shifting. Buyers’ willingness to purchase whisky at listed retail prices has dropped significantly. And even for whiskies that eventually sell, bottles tend to remain on shelves far longer than in the recent past.

‘What we’re seeing in the auction market data is clear: prices are no longer reaching the peak prices of the COVID era, and there are some great bottles for sale at the lowest prices in years.’

A full copy of the report is available for free download at: whiskystats.com/reports.

Note:

Whiskystats is a Whiskybase company. Whiskystats and Whiskybase are independent: the report was not funded by any distillery group, bottler, whisky-adjacent agency, or related concern.

Each month, Whiskystats collects tens of thousands of auction price observations and tracks over 1.6 million whisky retail prices. Whiskystats incorporates ratings from Whiskybase, the world’s largest whisky database of more than 239,000 unique whiskies. Thanks to this unsurpassed dataset, Whiskystats is the standard bearer for whisky market analysis for collectors, producers, and investors.

On Whiskystats, users have access to reliable bottle-level details that allow them to accurately track auction lots, view historical and current auction prices, create and track the current market value of their whisky collection(s), set whisky watchlists, schedule notifications, and view millions of whisky ratings.

Rich, spiced single malt brings delicious new dimension to Glenmorangie’s core range

 — Bourbon casks, new charred oak and rye whiskey casks unite for deep harmony —

Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky today unveils a rich and subtly spiced whisky which brings a delicious new dimension to its core range. Inspired by the natural splendour of the Highlands to create a deep harmony of flavours, the Distillery’s whisky makers have married together three carefully chosen types of casks in Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve. Uniting bourbon casks and new charred oak with rye whiskey casks – rarely used in the Scotch whisky industry – this bottling abounds with notes of pear, candied orange, honeysuckle and clove.

For 180 years, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators have been endlessly imaginative on their search to dream up delicious whiskies. They craft their more delicate, fruity spirit in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow more space for taste and aroma. Then they age it in the world’s finest casks. Through this whisky’s judicious cask selection, they deliciously balance gentle spice with Glenmorangie’s signature elegance.

The Triple Cask Reserve arose from the Whisky Creation Team’s vision of a whisky inspired by Glenmorangie’s Highland surroundings. Their rugged, natural splendour evokes a sense of deep harmony, reflected in the harmonious flavours of this single malt. Fruity smoothness emerges from whisky aged in bourbon casks. Fuller, richer notes are brought by whisky finished in new charred oak casks. Those classic notes are balanced by drier, savoury hints of clove, nutmeg and cinnamon, from single malt wholly matured in rye whiskey casks. With its symphony of fruity aromas and creamy rich tastes, subtly cut through with spice, Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve is delicious served neat, on ice or in cocktails.

Glenmorangie’s Master Blender Gillian Macdonald said: “By uniting these three different cask types in Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve we have created a deeply harmonious whisky. Using bourbon and new charred oak, we celebrate our whisky’s classic, fruity sweetness. Laced with the savoury notes and subtle spice of rye whiskey casks – seldom used at Glenmorangie – this whisky brings a new balance of flavours to our core range. Inspired by the Highlands’ natural splendour, its luscious aromas of pear, candied orange peel and honeysuckle, and tastes of vanilla, maple syrup and clove, promise to delight everyone who tries our delicious single malt.”

Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve is initially available in the UK, Germany, France, the U.S. and South Africa. It is available now from Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Glenmorangie.com, RRP: £33.

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TASTING NOTES 

Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve is bottled at 40% ABV

Colour: Paprika

Aroma:  Luscious and tropical, with a combination of pears, vanilla, candied orange peel, honeysuckle, grapefruit and pear-flavour boiled sweets. Some gentle spices are present, such as cinnamon, clove and nutmeg, followed by some more luscious sweetness, reminiscent of maple syrup and crème brulee. With a splash of water, there is a big burst of creamy vanilla, white chocolate, pears, melon and finally some soft, oaky notes.

Taste: The mouthfeel is creamy and viscous, with a burst of creme brulée, cherry chocolate, fudge, tangy orange sherbet, clove, sweet chilli and some chewy, ripe tropical fruits. This then leads into more of the influence from the oak wood, with maple syrup, almond marzipan and the gentlest of spices.

Finish: Rich, sweet, spicy and almost chewy in nature.

About Glenmorangie:

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

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 Glenmorangie’s Whisky Creators:

Glenmorangie’s Whisky Creation Team’s favourite phrase is “What if?”. And they are constantly challenging themselves to take whatever captures their imaginations and turn it into whisky – be that their memories of a favourite place (A Tale of Tokyo), a cup of coffee (Glenmorangie Signet) and more.

At the helm of the team is Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation. 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. For instance, he has taken his place 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 has been named Master Blender/Distiller of the Year by the International Spirits Challenge twice.

Working hand-in-hand with Dr Bill is Gillian Macdonald, The Glenmorangie Company’s Master Blender. Gillian combines art and science in her role, with her main responsibilities including the daily sensory analysis of the new-make spirit, core range recipes and the co-ordination of the Company’s sensory panel. Gillian manages the New Product Development pipeline for Glenmorangie which involves nosing hundreds of casks a year for final recipe selection.

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.

Fettercairn Reveals Refreshed Domestic And Travel Retail Ranges 

Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Fettercairn, has launched refreshed ranges in both their domestic and global travel retail markets as they look to continue their ongoing momentum.

Marking the start of their bicentennial year, Fettercairn will now offer a refreshed domestic range and exclusive global travel retail range, which each comprise of three whiskies that showcase Fettercairn’s unique tropical house style at different maturations.

The domestic range will enjoy Fettercairn 12 Year Old, 16 Year Old and 24 Year Old and global travel retail will exclusively offer Fettercairn 14 Year Old, 17 Year Old and 25 Year Old.

These updated offerings will provide consumers with new age statements to try and easy to understand ranges at different maturations, price points and purchase points, aligning to both the target drinker and shopper.

Each of these whiskies have only been finished in American White Oak ex-bourbon, perfectly showcasing Fettercairn’s unique tropical house style and how it intricately changes with time, over the varying maturation periods.

The domestic range will continue to open with Fettercairn 12 Year Old, a 40% ABV which captures the very essence of the Highland distillery and offers the perfect introduction to the flavours of Fettercairn.

With tasting notes of sweet and fruity nectarine and tropical fruit, followed by subtle roasted coffee, clove and ginger, Fettercairn 12 Year Old leaves a memorable finish of sultanas and black toffee. A versatile whisky, Fettercairn 12 Year Old also makes for a great cocktail base, particularly for refreshing highballs or fruity sours.

Fettercairn 16 Year Old has previously been a limited, annually released expression with a variety of different finishes. From 2024, Fettercairn 16 Year Old will shine confidently on its own, enjoying a finish in ex-bourbon casks and will be non chill-filtered, with natural colour at 46.4% ABV.

Bottling at 16 Years Old and moving to an ex-bourbon finish only, has been a deliberate and purposeful decision by Whisky Maker Gregg Glass and Distillery Manager Stewart Walker. Fettercairn 16 Year Old offers curious whisky lovers natural progression from the 12 Year Old and the opportunity to experience a deeper tropical house style. Grilled pineapple and vanilla notes give way to passion fruit, rich honey and Turkish Delight in this expression, with a finish of mandarin, cacao and moist ginger cake.

Completing the core domestic range is a completely new expression, Fettercairn 24 Year Old. Natural colour and non-chill filtered, Fettercairn 24 Year Old is 46.5% ABV and the pinnacle of the core range, ideal for those looking for the richest flavours, coupled with higher age statement. Fully exploring the depth of Fettercairn’s house style, this expression captures sweet and cooked tropical fruits, Madagascan vanilla and red liquorice, with a sweet, spiced finish.

The innovative Fettercairn 18 Year Old will continue to be available annually in select domestic markets, on a strictly limited release. Finished in 100% Scottish Oak, Fettercairn 18 Year Old is the first release from the award-winning Scottish Oak Programme, led by Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass. Fettercairn’s Scottish Oak programme was created to ultimately create a circular economy for the whisky industry as a whole, where local and sustainably sourced Scottish oak, can be used in whisky making.

For global travel retail, Fettercairn will now offer an exclusive range featuring a 14 Year Old, 17 Year Old and 25 Year Old, all of which are non-chill filtered, natural colour and available in 70cl format. 

Fettercairn 14 Year Old showcases the ripe and fresh side of the tropical house style with orchard fruit flavours intertwined with delicate sweet spice for a truly special drinking experience.

Second in the range, Fettercairn 17 Year Old shows the house style at a transformative stage, with deeper, richer notes combined with honey, crème brûlée and coconut.

Fettercairn 25 Year Old completes the range and offers a glimpse into Fettercairn’s rare and aged treasures. This whisky offers the depth of sweet and cooked tropical fruit, with notes of passion fruit, warm vanilla and fresh baked bread, with a sweetly spiced finish.

The refreshed ranges will be available from April and mark the beginning of celebrations for Fettercairn, who will celebrate their 200^th anniversary throughout 2024 from specialist and luxury retailers

Domestic Range:

Fettercairn 12 Year Old.40% ABV.  RSP $66 / £52

Fettercairn 16 Year Old.46.4% ABV. RSP $110 / £87

Fettercairn 24 Year Old.  46.5% ABV. RSP$635 / £500 

Exclusive Global Travel Retail Range:

Fettercairn 14 Year Old. 46% ABV. RSP $89 / £70

Fettercairn 17 Year Old. 47% ABV. RSP $153 / £120

Fettercairn 25 Year Old. 46.3% ABV. RSP $667 / £525