BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY ADVANCES BOURBON EXPERIMENTATION WITH DEBUT SINGLE OAK RELEASE AND NEWEST ADDITION TO EXPERIMENTAL COLLECTION

The releases include Single Oak Rye Bourbon – the winning Barrel #80 from the Single Oak Project – and the 28^th release in the Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection: Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

FRANKFORT, KY (April 7, 2026) – Two of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s most ambitious and long-running experimental programs – the Single Oak Project and Buffalo Trace Distillery Experimental Collection – are debuting new releases this spring: Single Oak Rye Bourbon and Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey. More than a decade in the making, these releases reflect the Distillery’s long-standing commitment to studying the variables that shape bourbon’s flavor as they “Honor Tradition, Embrace Change” in pursuit of creating the “world’s best whiskey.”

The Single Oak Project began in 1999, marking the Distillery’s first and most comprehensive experiment to date as it explored the impact of seven variables including mashbill, entry proof, aging location and barrel construction. The experiment comprised 192 unique bourbon barrels, each crafted from specific sections of hand-selected oak trees and filled with either a wheat or a rye recipe before undergoing varied maturation approaches. Consumers were invited to taste and evaluate the resulting bourbons, ultimately selecting Barrel #80 as the standout expression in 2011.

Today, Buffalo Trace Distillery builds on this landmark experiment with the introduction of Single Oak as a permanent, continuously-released whiskey brand. Its inaugural release, Rye Bourbon, faithfully recreates the precise mashbill and barrel aging conditions that defined the celebrated Barrel #80, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the result of one of the industry’s most extensive bourbon studies to date.

The Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection, first introduced in 2006, will debut its 28th release with Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey. This innovation explores how lower barrel entry proof influences wood interaction over extended aging, with the wheated bourbon distillate entered at 105 proof – noticeably lower than its traditional 114 proof. Inspired by historical records indicating that pre-Prohibition barrel entry proofs were often lower than modern standards, it represents a clear example of how the Distillery honors tradition while embracing change.

“Experimentation has always been at the core of what we do at Buffalo Trace Distillery,” said Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “These releases represent years of patience, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to learning. From the Single Oak Project, where we studied every detail of oak to better understand maturation, to our exploration of entry proof in the latest Experimental Collection, each experiment helps us further our understanding of how individual variables shape flavor and push the boundaries of what bourbon can be. We’re excited for fans to experience the results.”

More about Single Oak Rye Bourbon

The Single Oak Project began in 1999, when 96 oak trees were hand-selected from the Missouri Ozarks. Each tree was cut into a top and bottom section, yielding 192 unique pieces of wood and transformed into 192 individual barrels.

Seven variables were intentionally manipulated to study their impact on the final whiskey:

• Mash bill (wheat or rye recipe)
• Entry proof (105 or 125 proof)
• Stave seasoning (six or 12 months of air drying)
• Wood grain size (tight, average or coarse)
• Barrel char level (number three or number four char)
• Tree cut (top or bottom half)
• Warehouse type (wooden rick floor or concrete floor)

Single Oak Project Barrel #80 entered the barrel at 125 proof and was aged in oak harvested from the bottom half of the tree, featuring average grain wood, staves seasoned for 12 months and charred at a level four. The bourbon was aged in a concrete floor warehouse for eight years before bottling at 90 proof.

For the inaugural release of the Single Oak Collection, Rye Bourbon opens with a delicate yet expressive nose of caramel and vanilla, layered with light baking spice, toasted oak and subtle hints of orchard fruit. The palate is rich and beautifully balanced, unfolding in layers of toffee, vanilla cream and honeyed sweetness, accented by seasoned oak and baking spices. The finish is long and elegant, lingering with warm oak, soft spice and a mellow caramel sweetness.

Each 375ml bottling of Single Oak Rye Bourbon will be available in limited quantities through Sazerac’s national distributor network as well as the Buffalo Trace Distillery Gift Shop as of April 2026 at a suggested retail price of $74.99 (local taxes and fees apply). For more information, please visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com/single-oak-project.

More about Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection: Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey

Buffalo Trace Distillery has several thousand experimental barrels that are currently aging at the Distillery. In keeping with its commitment to crafting fine products, only the most compelling results are selected for bottling and released periodically in limited quantities. The 28^th offering in the Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection, Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey represents a first of its kind innovation, examining the impact of barrel entry proof on flavor development.

While previous Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection releases present at 90 proof, Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey is bottled at 107 proof to better capture and highlight the bourbon’s complex flavor profile. The nose features rich layers of caramel and warm brown spice that are balanced by subtle leather and tobacco notes. The palate delivers full-bodied flavors of oak, earth and dried fig, mingling with a leathery depth and rounded sweetness. The finish is long and warming, where spice and fig linger alongside a grounded, oaky character.

Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection: Low Entry Proof Wheated Bourbon Whiskey will be available through the Buffalo Trace Distillery Gift Shop in limited quantities beginning in April at a suggested retail price of $46.99 (375ml; taxes and fees vary by market). For more information, please visit https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/experimental-collection.

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 it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history 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. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its William Larue Weller, Stagg, Eagle Rare 10, and Thomas H. Handy received Gold Awards at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition and its flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon received a Master Medal at the 2025 Global American Whiskey Masters. Buffalo Trace Distillery 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.

Long-lost Japanese whisky back at the top table after Gordon Ramsay selection

A £25,000 Japanese single malt is on the menu at Gordon Ramsay’s recently opened Lucky Cat restaurant, creating a unique opportunity to experience whisky history and showcasing Highland distillery Tomatin’s remarkable role in recovering a long-lost and exceptional spirit.

At £2,300 a dram, Shirakawa 1958 is Japan’s rarest whisky and is the most premium spirit offered at the new Asian-inspired dining restaurant in the sky, Lucky Cat, which opened at 22 Bishopsgate in London last year.

It also plays a starring role in Being Gordon Ramsay, Netflix’s six-part documentary series following the acclaimed chef in the creation of his new venture.

During an episode about Lucky Cat, Shirakawa 1958 is featured in an image of the bar with the construction team discussing their fears about the shelf being knocked down at the busy site.

Shirakawa 1958 is a single malt whisky from the lost Japanese distillery, Shirakawa, which was located 200km North of Tokyo, Japan. It is the only official single malt ever to be released from Shirakawa Distillery and the earliest known single vintage Japanese whisky ever bottled.

Built in the Fukushima Prefecture, in 1939, the Shirakawa Distillery operated for more than six decades and crafted malt whisky from 1951-1969 – becoming one of the first to do so in Japan. Most of the whisky produced was used in owner Takara Shuzo’s flagship ‘King’ blended whisky brand.

In 2003, the Shirakawa Distillery was demolished, and its legacy drew to a close, until, more than a decade later, Tomatin Distillery’s managing director Stephen Bremner became intrigued by owner Takara Shuzo’s malt-making past.

After piecing together a complex trail of clues, he identified the existence of Shirakawa stock at Takara Shuzo’s Kurokabegura distillery in 2019. The spirit had been distilled in 1958, aged in cask, then transferred to ceramic jars at the distillery. When Shirakawa shut down, the whisky was put into stainless steel tanks at Takara Shuzo’s factory in Kyushu where it had lain untouched until his discovery.

Stephen said: “Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd was bought by Takara Shuzo in 1986, but it was only in recent years that I became fascinated by the story of Shirakawa and its history of whisky production and embarked on a journey to find out more.

“When I discovered that the last remaining stock was distilled in 1958, I was astounded. It was a genuine ‘wow’ moment as I realised very quickly that what we were dealing with was extremely rare.

“Crafted in the early days of malt production in Japan, it has a distinctive flavour profile, with aromas of exotic incense giving way to grass and fruits before a hint of mint on the finish. It is truly extraordinary and conveys the evolving character of Japanese whisky, which is now acclaimed worldwide.

“We are incredibly honoured that Gordon Ramsay has selected Shirakawa 1958 as the pinnacle of his whisky menu at Lucky Cat. Diners who try it will be transported back to a pioneering era of Japanese whisky as they enjoy one of the rarest drams in the world.”

While the age and cask type cannot be fully determined, Shirakawa 1958 was crafted at a time when the distillery used predominantly Japanese malted barley and Mizunara oak casks.

The expression, which has an ABV of 49%, was bottled by Takara Shuzo Co Ltd in Japan. Just 1,500 bottles were released in 2022 and distributed worldwide by Tomatin Distillery, with an RRP of £25,000 per 70cl bottle.

Shirakawa 1958 single malt Japanese whisky tasting notes – created by internationally acclaimed whisky writer Dave Broom

Nose: Resinous, slight dry earth, dried citrus peels, a hint of wax. Aromatic. A drop of water makes it more vibrant and also shows clear maturity as well as a hint of incense. Exotic.

Palate: The palate is expansive with a succulent texture and hints of fragrant grass. Fruits emerge in the middle. Layered, spiced, and dry. Water brings out ash from an incense burner, a satisfying mouthfeel and surprisingly perky acidity.

Finish: Nicely balanced and persistent on the finish which picks up mint flavouring and makes it more camphor-like.

Shirakawa Distillery

Shirakawa Distillery was built in the Fukushima Prefecture, 200km North of Tokyo, in 1939 by Daikoku Budoshu and demolished in 2003. Even though Shirakawa Distillery was one of the pioneers of malt whisky making in Japan, it was never officially available as a single malt. That category didn’t take off in Japan until the mid-80s, and by that time, Takara Shuzo’s focus lay elsewhere. The land where Shirakawa Distillery once sat was subsequently gifted by Takara Shuzo in 2011 to build emergency housing to accommodate the locals who had been displaced by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.

Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd

In 1897 Tomatin was nothing but an isolated and idyllic setting for a distillery. With the new Highland Railway came opportunities, and so the distillery was born. Since then, the distillery has been at the heart of the community and the community at the heart of the distillery. Today, the Tomatin legacy lives on in the form of an exciting and varied range of Highland single malt Scotch whiskies.

https://tomatin.com

Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd

Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd produces sake, other alcoholic beverages, and seasonings. This division comprises the original business; the holding company including it was formed in 2001 as Takara Holdings Inc. Takara Shuzo, one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of traditional alcoholic beverages since sake brewing operations in 1842, acquired Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd in 1986.

In 1951, Takara Shuzo became one of only a handful of distilleries in Japan to produce malt whisky and it continued to do so uninterrupted until 1969. The vast majority of this malt whisky used in Takara Shuzo’s flagship ‘King’ blended whisky brand.

https://www.takarashuzo.co.jp/english

Copenhagen Distillery Named Best Craft Producer in the World

Copenhagen Distillery was awarded the global title at last night’s Icons of Whisky Awards for Craft Producer.

The distillery was first selected as regional winner for Rest of World, alongside winners from Scotland, Ireland, the United States and China. On Wednesday 25 March, it was announced as the overall global winner.

Master Distiller Lasse Öznek comments: “This is a very big moment for us. To be recognised at this level, across all whisky producing countries, means a lot. We respect tradition, but we don’t feel bound by it. This award tells us that our way of working stands on its own.”

Copenhagen Distillery approaches whisky as a balance between art, craft and science. The distillery works with organic Danish barley, long fermentations and single distillation to create a distinct house style. The recognition places Copenhagen Distillery at the forefront of a growing Danish whisky category, which is gaining international attention for quality and innovation.

www.copenhagendistillery.com

INDRI SINGLE MALT INDIAN WHISKY LAUNCHES DIWALI COLLECTOR’S EDITION IN UK

India’s highly acclaimed premium single malt Indian whisky Indri has announced the UK launch of its award-winning Diwali Collector’s Edition 2025 Marsala Cask, introducing whisky enthusiasts to one of India’s most distinctive contemporary single malts.

Produced in Indri, Haryana, near the foothills of the Himalayas, the annual limited-edition Diwali Collector’s Edition celebrates India’s vibrant spirit and cultural heritage. The 2025 release captures the essence of Diwali through an artfully crafted whisky and striking presentation, with intricate artwork evoking India’s rich landscapes and timeless beauty as a symbol of light, culture and joy.

Expertly crafted at Indri by master blender Surrinder Kumar, renowned as the architect of India’s premium spirits revolution, the collection is crafted in small batches from indigenous six-row Indian barley. The 2025 release uses hand-selected Marsala wine casks sourced from Sicilian wineries known for their distinctive, characterful wines to create a refined fusion of Indian provenance and Italian elegance.

Bottled at a cask strength of 58.5% ABV, the single malt displays a deep mahogany hue from the Marsala cask. Aromas of stewed apricots, cherries and plums lead into nutty spice, vanilla and honeyed caramel. The palate is full-bodied and expressive, revealing red berries, chocolate, nutmeg and walnuts, rounded by an earthy depth, while the finish is long and lingering, with fruity wine notes and flavours of delicate oak.

Surrinder Kumar, Master Blender for Indri, said: “The Diwali Collector’s Edition represents the pinnacle of our craft at Indri, where each release is designed to push the boundaries of Indian single malt while staying rooted in tradition. The 2025 Marsala Cask release brings together the richness of carefully selected wine casks with the distinctive character shaped by Indri’s unique climate. Every edition is created in limited quantities with a singular identity, making the Diwali Collector’s Edition a unique expression of innovation, craftsmanship and the evolving story of Indian single malt.”

The presentation of The Diwali Collector’s Edition 2025 Marsala Cask draws inspiration from the lush gardens of the royal era, featuring elegant arches, majestic elephants and flowing natural elements that reflect India’s rich heritage and the refined character of Indri single malt.

The release will be available in the UK from selected specialist whisky retailers including Master of Malt and The Whisky Exchange. Limited to just 180 individually numbered bottles in the UK, it has an RRP of £250.

The 2025 edition has already achieved significant international acclaim, including being named Best World Whisky at the Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards 2025, with a score of 99.1 points out of 100, alongside a Gold medal at The Design & Packaging Masters 2025 for its exceptional presentation.

Named after its village location near the Himalayan foothills, Indri benefits from a unique northern Indian micro-climate of hot summers and cool winters, which plays a defining role in the spirit’s maturation and sets it apart from distilleries in India’s more tropical southern regions.

Since its debut in 2022, Indri has quickly risen to prominence on the global whisky stage and

is the number 1 malt whisky in India (IWSR volume 2024), reshaping perceptions of Indian premium spirits worldwide.

Madhu Kanna, Head – International Business for Indri, added: “The UK is a key market for our premium and collectible whiskies, and we’re proud to introduce our award-winning Indri Diwali Collector’s Edition 2025 in response to the strong demand from collectors and enthusiasts.

“The Indri Diwali Collector’s Edition is known for its distinctive cask maturations and strictly limited quantities and has become one of the most sought-after Indian single malt releases among collectors globally. With only 180 individually numbered bottles available in the UK, this rare release further highlights Indri’s growing stature among the world’s most desirable premium single malts.”

For further information about Indri, visit https://www.indri.in/

Tasting Notes

Nose: A full bouquet of complex sweetness, nuttiness and spice. Hints of stewed apricot, cherries, plums, a caramalised richness with vanilla and honey lingering on the nose.

Palate: Full bodied with rich red berries, vanilla, nutmeg, chocolate, walnuts with an earthy finish. A sweet and spicy taste lingers on the palate.

Finish: A long finish with fruity wine and hints of oak lactones.

About Indri

Indri single malt Indian whisky was launched in 2022 by Piccadily Agro Industries Limited (PAIL) aimed at catering to discerning consumers who appreciate quality and craftsmanship in spirits and became the ‘fastest growing single malt whisky brand’ in 2024

PAIL is a publicly listed company operating primarily in two strategic business segments: Distillery and Sugar and has a manufacturing facility located in Indri, Haryana.

PAIL has established itself as a key player in the alcoholic beverages industry, particularly renowned for its expertise in malt spirits. The company boasts a robust portfolio that includes premium expressions of Indri single malt whisky, blended malt whisky brands and Camikara, premium sugarcane juice aged rum.

www.indri.in / www.piccadily.com

Award‑winning Sherry Cask expression leads Glencadam’s latest premium packaging rollout

Glencadam Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries, has revealed the next release of its premium packaging rollout, with three expressions transitioning to the brand’s refreshed identity.

The move follows Glencadam’s landmark bicentenary celebrations and the opening of its visitor centre in Brechin.

The new packaging now extends to the award-winning Glencadam Reserva Andalucía Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish, Glencadam Reserva de Porto Tawny, Tawny Port Cask Finish and Glencadam Reserva de Porto Branco, White Port Cask Finish, bringing these celebrated expressions in line with the contemporary, elevated look introduced across the core range earlier this year. The update reinforces Glencadam’s premium positioning while preserving the award‑winning single malt within, crafted using the same traditional methods the distillery has upheld since 1825.

The refresh also marks the return of two fan favourites, with the Tawny Port Cask Finish and White Port Cask Finish rejoining the range. Their reappearance reflects ongoing demand for Glencadam’s cask finish expressions and strengthens the distillery’s offering across global markets. All three expressions carry an RRP of £46.50.

The refreshed packaging balances heritage with modern clarity. Each tube highlights cask maturation and tasting notes to aid selection, alongside hand-drawn illustrations by Edinburgh-based artist Andrew Davidson, known for his work on the Harry Potter series, depicting the distillery as it would have appeared in 1825.

A clean, contemporary aesthetic reinforces Glencadam’s commitment to natural colour and non-chill filtration, while the waterwheel motif – an enduring symbol of the distillery since 1825 – features prominently across the design, including an embossed detail around the base of each bottle.

Glencadam’s Master Blender, Iain Forteath, said “The acclaim for our award‑winning Reserva Andalucía Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish highlights just how much whisky lovers appreciate our cask finish releases.

“That’s why the return of our Tawny Port and White Port expressions is something we know people have been waiting for, and reflects both their popularity and our continued focus on delivering characterful, cask‑led whiskies that showcase the versatility of Glencadam’s spirit. It’s great to see them reintroduced in refreshed packaging that better reflects their quality and character.”

The newly packaged expressions include:

• Glencadam Reserva Andalucía Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish – a vibrant, award winning, Andalusian‑inspired single malt marrying ex‑bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks.

• Glencadam Reserva de Porto Tawny, Tawny Port Cask Finish – returning to the range with its signature notes of red berries, toasted nuts and soft spice.

• Glencadam Reserva de Porto Branco, White Port Cask Finish – also returning, offering bright orchard fruit, citrus sweetness and delicate floral character.

With the continued rollout of its premium new look, Glencadam strengthens its cohesive brand identity across global markets, celebrating more than two centuries of craftsmanship while looking confidently to the future

To find out more, visit: www.GlencadamWhisky.com

Glencadam Distillery

Established in 1825, Glencadam Distillery is steeped in history, heritage and tradition, handcrafting single malt Scotch whisky in a process that’s remained unchanged for over 200 years. In 2021, Glencadam Distillery re-installed a working internal waterwheel, modelled on the original which was used to power the distillery back in in 1825.

One of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, Glencadam was mothballed for several years before it was purchased and re-opened by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003.

Today, Glencadam’s multi-award-winning range includes American Oak Reserve, Reserva Andalucía, the 10-Year-Old, 13-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, 18-Year-Old and 25-Year-Old expressions, as well as a series of special cask finishes.

Visit www.glencadamwhisky.com to find out more. 

Glencadam Distillery Visitor Centre

Glencadam’s state-of-the-art visitor centre opened its doors in November, inviting visitors to explore two centuries of craftsmanship with an intimate look behind the scenes of this storied distillery.

Guests can enjoy guided tours, tutored tastings and an interactive exhibition, tracing Glencadam’s journey from its 1825 origins to its place among Scotland’s most celebrated single malts today. The new brand home also features a whisky lounge, café, retail shop and function suite, blending tradition with modern hospitality to attract more visitors to Brechin and the surrounding area.

To find out more and book a tour, visit HERE

Glencadam Reserva Andalucía

RRP: £46.50

70cl, 46% ABV, Natural Colour, Unchillfiltered

NOSE:  Initial aromas of ripe soft fruits, nougat and oaky vanilla with a background of freshly made fudge.

PALATE: Smooth and creamy with sultanas, orchard fruits and toffee apple sweetness.

FINISH: Long-lasting and silky smooth with honey, muscovado sugar and green tea lingering on the tongue.

Glencadam Tawny Port Cask Finish

RRP: £46.50

70cl, 46% ABV, Natural Colour, Unchill filtered

NOSE: Rich dark fruits and candied cloves with hints of blackcurrant liquorice and baking spices.

PALATE: Layers of brambles, blackcurrant jam, treacle toffee and Morello cherries leading into plum crumble and cedarwood spices

FINISH: Warming notes of walnut, golden syrup and Victoria sponge cake fading into toasty wood spices.

Glencadam White Port Cask Finish

RRP: £46.50

70cl, 46% ABV, Natural Colour, Unchill filtered

NOSE: Tangy strawberries and stone fruits bound with Chantilly cream, buttery malt and citrus oils.

PALATE: Sweet layers of summer berries and baked apple mingled with golden raisins, raspberry jam and brandy snap biscuits.

FINISH: White pepper and custard tarts fading into a cinder toffee and sandalwood linger.

Tomatin brings wood expertise to life with striking new packaging across core range of single malts

Highland whisky distillery Tomatin is showcasing its dedication to exceptional cask management with a bold new packaging refresh across its core range of single malts, marking the next chapter in the brand’s visual evolution while staying true to the values that have defined the distillery for over a century.

The new design highlights the craft, care and expertise which goes into every cask, placing Tomatin’s first-class wood policy centre stage. As one of only a handful of Scotch whisky distilleries to have its own on-site cooperage, Tomatin’s enhanced presentation follows cooper, Allan Bartlett, being awarded ‘Cooper of the Year’ at the 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards.

At the heart of the redesign is a premium box adorned with a wood-grain motif, symbolising the natural tree rings found in oak. This reflects the distillery’s commitment to wood and knowing the history of each cask which passes through its warehouses, marking a thoughtful evolution from the previous landscape-led design. Each expression is distinguished by a vibrant colourway, from dark indigo, forest green and scarlet red to rich purple and teal blue.

The new packaging also introduces new label designs to further enhance visual impact and shelf presence in competitive retail and on-trade environments.

Range messaging has also been streamlined with clearer product names and simplified information architecture to clearly communicate each whisky’s character. These changes reflect Tomatin’s belief in focusing on what matters most – clarity, quality and authenticity in an increasingly competitive landscape.

The bold new look is being rolled out globally across Tomatin Legacy and Tomatin 12 Year Old Triple Cask, the latter being renamed from Tomatin 12 Year Old, with the remainder of the core range following in the months ahead.

The refresh builds on the success of the vivid scarlet red pack recently introduced for Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask, which will now also feature the enhanced label, delivering a more impactful, contemporary presence on shelves while preserving the award-winning Highland single malt whisky inside. Global travel retail expressions, including Tomatin 8 Year Old and Tomatin 13 Year Old, will also transition to the updated label throughout 2026.

Refined packaging marks a strategic step in Tomatin’s long-term plan to strengthen its presence and positioning in global markets and emphasise the craftsmanship which defines the brand. It follows the 2025 release of Tomatin Double Cask and Tomatin 10 Year Old, which were designed to stand out in grocery and convenience retailers and are achieving widespread success following launch in Tesco and Waitrose respectively.

Jennifer Masson, Head of Marketing at Tomatin, said: “This bold new packaging reflects what we do best at Tomatin – exceptional cask management, craftsmanship and attention to detail. It aligns our visual identity with consumer expectations in modern retail and on-trade settings and gives our whiskies greater presence in global markets. Our focus remains unchanged – creating remarkable single malts at excellent value for whisky lovers around the world.” 

For more information on Tomatin, visit https://tomatin.com.

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands, 16 miles south of Inverness, and is famous for its 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 sustainability 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.

2024 saw Tomatin’s 18 Year Old secure Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the SFWSC, elevating it to Platinum status.

Tomatin has a first-class wood policy and a commitment to knowing the history of each cask that passes through its warehouses. It is one of only a handful of Scotch whisky distilleries to have its own cooperage on-site, with cooper Allan Bartlett being named ‘Cooper of the Year’ at the 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards.

‘To What Matters’ lies at the heart of the brand’s ethos and is a belief in savouring what is truly important.

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

Lost Lantern Explores High vs. Low Proof in New Spring 2026 Collection

Curated pairings invite whiskey lovers to explore one of whiskey’s emerging debates

Vergennes, VT — This spring, Lost Lantern, the Vermont-based independent bottler of American whiskey, turns its focus to one of the most spirited discussions in whiskey today: high proof versus low proof.

While high-proof whiskies, especially hazmat whiskies (those bottled at 140 proof or higher), have developed a true cult following among dedicated whiskey drinkers, many whiskey lovers have yet to encounter these intense, powerful whiskies. At the same time, a growing faction of whiskey enthusiasts are gravitating toward lower proof whiskies, embracing their balance and approachability. Lost Lantern’s Spring 2026 Collection is a nod to both movements.

The Spring 2026 Collection was created in honor of Lost Lantern’s newest flagship release: Far-Flung Bourbon 100 Proof, the first non-cask strength whiskey in its award-winning bourbon series. Painstakingly slow-proofed to 100 proof, the whiskey is being released alongside the limited, cask strength Far-Flung Bourbon IV. The collection also includes eight cask strength single casks presented in four curated higher- and lower-proof pairings. Rather than declaring one style superior, the collection invites whiskey drinkers to explore how proof shapes aroma, texture, structure, and overall experience across styles and regions. The single casks include whiskies from three returning partners (Boulder Spirits in Colorado, Copperworks in Washington, and New Riff in Kentucky), as well as five new partners: Day’s Defile in Idaho, Montgomery Distilling in Montana, Dread River Distilling Co. in Alabama, ASW Distillery in Georgia, and Broad Branch in North Carolina.

“As the industry evolves, we’re seeing passionate camps emerge around proof,” said Nora Ganley-Roper, co-founder and Head Blender at Lost Lantern. “Some people seek intensity and power. Others prefer balance and approachability. We’re not choosing sides: we love both higher- and lower-proof whiskies! Instead, we’re exploring what each proof reveals about the whiskey itself and encouraging whiskey lovers to make these comparisons for themselves.”

“There is no perfect proof for whiskey,” said co-founder Adam Polonski. ”It depends not just on the distillery and the whiskey, but also on when and why you’re drinking it–whether you’re enjoying whiskey on the rocks with friends, or slowly savoring a very high-proof dram to close out an evening. Proof is just one part of a whiskey’s story, and this collection explores that.”

Spring 2026 Collection at a Glance

To encourage whiskey lovers to dive in and compare these whiskies to each other, the whiskies are being sold both individually and in bundles online and at select retail partners. 

Far-Flung Bourbon Pairing

• Far-Flung Bourbon IV – 120.7 proof | 120 bottles | $100
  • Far-Flung Bourbon 100 – 100 proof | 758 bottles | $80 

High–Low Single Malt Pairing

• Boulder Spirits Colorado Single Malt 7 Years Old – 138.7 proof | 173 bottles | $140
  • Copperworks Distilling Washington Single Malt – 120.6 proof | 210 bottles | $100 

High–Low Mountain Bourbon Pairing

• Day’s Defile Idaho Straight Bourbon 10 Years Old – 154.4 proof | 126 bottles | $140
  • Montgomery Distillery Montana Straight Bourbon – 104.6 proof | 207 bottles | $100 

High–Low Southern Bourbon Pairing

• Dread River Distilling Co. Alabama Straight Bourbon – 141.8 proof | 158 bottles | $140
  • Fiddler Soloist Georgia Straight Bourbon – 129.9 proof | 146 bottles | $100 

High–Low Rye Pairing

• Broad Branch Distillery North Carolina Straight Rye 8 Years Old – 141.6 proof | 174 bottles | $140
  • New Riff Distilling Kentucky Straight Rye – 115.1 proof | 172 bottles | $100

All releases are non-chill-filtered and have no added color, and all single casks are released at natural cask strength.

The Spring 2026 Collection will be available individually and in bundles on Wednesday, March 25^th via LostLanternWhiskey.com, Seelbachs.com, at, select retailers in CA, NY, MA, and RI, and at the Lost Lantern Tasting Room in Vergennes, VT.

Explore the Spring 2026 Collection by Pairing

 THE FLAGSHIP FAR-FLUNG PAIRING

• Far-Flung Bourbon IV | 120.7 proof | 120 bottles | $100
  • Far-Flung Bourbon 100 | 100 proof | 758 bottles | $80

At the center of the Spring Collection is Lost Lantern’s flagship blend, Far-Flung Bourbon, released for the first time ever in two different proofs.

Both whiskies share the same blend of straight bourbons from seven distilleries in seven states: Baltimore Spirits Co.(MD), High Wire Distilling Co. (SC), Rich Grain Distilling (MS), SanTan Spirits (AZ), Still Austin Whiskey Co. (TX), Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. (IL), and Wollersheim Distillery (WI). Far-Flung Bourbon reflects the idea that great bourbon comes from all across the country.

“For this release, we took the exact same blend and expressed it in two ways,” explained Nora. “Proof isn’t just about alcohol level. It changes how aromas open, how texture develops, and how flavors integrate. Releasing both versions side by side lets people experience that shift in structure and balance for themselves.”

Far-Flung Bourbon IV at cask strength highlights depth and layered spice, while Far-Flung Bourbon 100 emphasizes integration, approachability, and harmony. Both showcase warm oak, bright spice, citrus lift, and layered vanilla, with proof shaping how each trait presents itself

HIGH–LOW SINGLE MALT PAIRING

• Boulder Spirits Colorado Single Malt 7 Years Old | 138.7 proof | 173 bottles | $140
  • Copperworks Distilling Washington Single Malt | 120.6 proof | 210 bottles | $100

Although produced in different states, these American single malts share key traits: unsmoked barley, traditional copper pot stills, and maturation in new oak barrels. This pairing reveals how proof interacts with malt character, oak influence, and climate-driven expression. 

Boulder Spirits (Higher Proof)

100% malted barley, aged 7 years in new oak. Spicy oak, clove, red pear, and pomegranate lead to a dense, powerful palate with underlying sweetness. A bold crossover for bourbon drinkers exploring American single malt. 

Copperworks (Lower Proof)

Distilled from five malted barleys with different roast levels and aged 3 years in new oak. Clove and milk chocolate on the nose, with honeyed cereal, cardamom, and baking spice on a balanced, malt-forward palate.

HIGH–LOW MOUNTAIN BOURBON PAIRING

• Day’s Defile Idaho Straight Bourbon 10 Years Old | 154.4 proof | 126 bottles | $140
  • Montgomery Distillery Montana Straight Bourbon | 104.6 proof | 207 bottles | $100

The Rocky Mountains are an emerging American whiskey region extending beyond Colorado into Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Utah. High elevation and dry air contribute to deeply concentrated spirits that can be bold and powerful, or rich and nuanced. 

Day’s Defile (Higher Proof)
The oldest whiskey ever released from Idaho, distilled at a now-closed distillery and aged further by Day’s Defile. Made from 76% corn, 11% triticale, and 13% malted barley, it bursts with French vanilla, black cherry, and intense oak. The palate is powerful, layered with clove and nutmeg. 

Montgomery Distillery (Lower Proof)
A wheated straight bourbon from Montana made from 70% corn, 20% wheat, and 10% malted barley, aged 4 years. Warm cinnamon and clove on the nose, with vanilla and milk chocolate on a soft yet structured palate.

HIGH–LOW SOUTHERN BOURBON PAIRING

• Dread River Distilling Co. Alabama Straight Bourbon | 141.8 proof | 158 bottles | $140
  • Fiddler Soloist Georgia Straight Bourbon | 129.9 proof | 146 bottles | $100

These two Southern bourbons reflect intensity and heat in different ways. 

Dread River (Higher Proof)
Made from 60% white corn, 30% winter wheat, and 10% malted barley, aged 6 years. Bold and powerful, with chocolate and leather on the nose and dried clove, oak, nutmeg, and baking spice on the palate. 

Fiddler Soloist (Lower Proof)
Made by the Atlanta-based ASW Distillery from 56% corn, 14% malted wheat, 10% malted rye, 10% malted barley, 7% smoked malt, and 3% chocolate malted rye, aged 7 years. Rich and chocolate-forward with cocoa powder, key lime, and dense oak on the nose. Deep and balanced on the palate.

HIGH–LOW RYE PAIRING

• Broad Branch Distillery North Carolina Straight Rye 8 Years Old | 141.6 proof | 174 bottles | $140
  • New Riff Distilling Kentucky Straight Rye | 115.1 proof | 172 bottles | $100

This rye pairing from the Upland South demonstrates how proof shapes spice, texture, and aromatic complexity. 

Broad Branch (Higher Proof)
Lost Lantern’s first hazmat rye. Made from 100% prairie rye and aged 8 years in a char 4 barrel. Minty and grassy on the nose with clove and butterscotch. Deep, powerful, and full-bodied with intense spice and dark chocolate. 

New Riff (Lower Proof)
Lost Lantern’s first Kentucky rye, made from a 95% rye, 5% malted rye mashbill. Warm oak, vanilla, lemon, and clove on the nose. Fresh, grassy, and balanced on the palate with milk chocolate and eucalyptus.

ABOUT LOST LANTERN

Founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is an award-winning independent bottler of American whiskey based in Vergennes, Vermont. Lost Lantern seeks out distinctive whiskies from across the U.S., releasing them as single casks and blends with a commitment to transparency.

Named Independent Bottler of the Year at the 2026 Icons of Whisky America Awards and the 2023 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Lost Lantern has also seen both founders honored as Drinks Visionaries of the Year by Food & Wine Magazine, Drinks Innovators of the Year by SevenFifty Daily, named to the VermontBiz Rising Stars list, and named to Beverage Information Group’s 40 Under 40.

For more information, explore current and past releases, visit the tasting room, or sign up for the newsletter or Discovery Club at LostLanternWhiskey.com. Follow @lostlanternwhiskey on Instagram and Facebook.

Lord-Lieutenant of Lanarkshire presents Glencairn Crystal with

Kings Award for Enterprise for Innovation

The Lord-Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, Lady Haughey (Susan) CBE visited Glencairn Crystal Studio Ltd in East Kilbride (on 20 February 2026) to formally present the company with its trophy for the King’s Award for Enterprise.

One of only a select number of organisations across the UK to receive the honour, Glencairn Crystal was recognised for excellence in Innovation. This marks the fourth time the family-owned business has received this prestigious accolade.

Founded in 1981 and employing more than 70 people, Glencairn Crystal is a family-owned business specialising in premium crystal and glassware for both business and consumer markets, with unrivalled expertise in the spirits industry. The company is renowned internationally for pioneering design, exceptional craftsmanship and advanced production techniques, successfully scaling artisan processes for commercial manufacture.

For more than 20 years, Glencairn has also produced the iconic Glencairn Glass, the first glass designed specifically for whisky and now recognised worldwide as the industry’s official whisky glass.

The company previously received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation in 2006, and for International Trade in 2012 and 2017.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, Lady Haughey (Susan) CBE said: “As the King’s personal representative in Lanarkshire, I was delighted to present the King’s Award for Enterprise – in the Innovation category – to Glencairn Crystal. To receive this prestigious award for the fourth time is a phenomenal achievement, highlighting consistent excellence in design, craftsmanship, and manufacturing, and reflecting the passion, creativity, and dedication of everyone at Glencairn Crystal.”

Scott Davidson, New Product Development Director at Glencairn Crystal, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this trophy for the King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation. As a family-run business for over 40 years, innovation has been at the heart of everything we do and this award reflects the dedication and talent of our entire team. To be honoured once again is a proud moment for us all.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are the UK’s most prestigious awards for businesses, recognising and encouraging outstanding achievements in four categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility. The awards are given out annually and are a highly regarded mark of excellence for British businesses.

The Award programme, now in its 59th year and previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed in 2023 to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses.

For more information about Glencairn Crystal, visit www.glencairn.com

For more information about The Kings Award for Enterprise, visit www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise

* 197 organisations nationally were recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise and a total of 199 Awards were made with two companies being recognised with two Awards.

Ardbeg House awarded The Times and The Sunday Times Best Places to Stay 2026 winner in the UK and Scotland 

Ardbeg House, the recently opened world-class whisky and hospitality experience on Islay, has been named the best place to stay in the UK and Scotland by The Times and The Sunday Times.

Nestled on the shores of the picturesque village of Port Ellen, just a stone’s throw from Ardbeg Distillery, the boutique hotel has been awarded overall winner of the prestigious list only six months after opening, topping the definitive guide to the 50 Best Places to Stay from across the UK and Scotland

The judges praised the hotel as “a whisky wonderland, with playful, maximalist interiors; and a convivial, well-stocked bar that’s priced for locals.”

They also applauded the rooms and suites, as well as the food and drink, receiving an impressive 9/10 score, praising the “eye-popping interiors” and “playful, personality-packed” hotel rooms.

Ardbeg House opened its doors to the public in September 2025, and was designed in collaboration with interior storymakers Russell Sage Studio to celebrate the best of Islay. The boutique hotel, which offers 12 unique rooms, is complemented by handcrafted pieces from more than 20 Scottish and Islay artisans to blend Ardbeg’s signature smoky character with the island’s warmth, creativity and community.

Ellie Goss, Comms and Hospitality Director at Ardbeg, said: “We’re incredibly honoured to top such a prestigious list, especially so quickly after the opening of Ardbeg House.

“Every element of the luxury hotel has been crafted to immerse visitors to the island and its community in local stories and Ardbeggian rituals, while also offering the chance to experience some very exclusive whiskies.

“This recognition marks a major milestone for Ardbeg House, cementing its place as one of the most exciting new destinations in the UK.”

For more information on Ardbeg House, please visit: www.ardbeghouse.com

The Times and The Sunday Times, Best Places to Stay

www.ardbeg.com

www.ardbeghouse.com

Follow us on:

Instagram: @ardbeghouseofficial

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ardbeghouseofficial

Ardbeg House

Ardbeg House is a world-class whisky and hospitality experience on Islay, which offers the island’s visitors an extraordinary opportunity to eat, sleep and drink Ardbeg. Situated in the bustling town of Port Ellen, this 12-bedroom boutique hotel blends the ultimate in Scottish hospitality with the flavours and legends of Ardbeg’s island world. Visitors and locals are welcomed to enjoy the best of Scottish food and drink at the House’s Signature restaurant and the Islay Bar, including exclusive Ardbeg drams.

To book, go to www.ardbeghouse.com

Russell Sage Studio

Russell Sage Studio, established in 2005, comprises a thriving team of dedicated interior designers, FF&E designers, planners, restorers and art and antiques experts. Since inception, the studio has built a reputation for creating unique interior stories for five-star hotels, exclusive members’ clubs, premium restaurants, luxury bars and private residences around the world.

About Ardbeg

Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky. Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts. Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’. During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future, and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction. Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well-established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following. Today, Ardbeg is one of the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whiskies.

The GlenAllachie unveils a marvel of time with 35-year-old single malt

The GlenAllachie Distillers Company Ltd. has proudly announced the release of The GlenAllachie 1990 / 35-year-old Cask Strength, a marvel of time meticulously crafted by legendary Master Blender, Billy Walker.

Three and a half decades in the making, this Speyside Single Malt represents the pinnacle of Walker’s artistry – shaped by more than half a century of expertise in cask selection and blending. It brings together four distinguished cask types in perfect harmony: Mizunara virgin oak, American virgin oak, Oloroso sherry, and Pedro Ximénez sherry.

At the heart of The GlenAllachie 1990 / 35-year-old Cask Strength is Mizunara virgin oak. This elusive Japanese oak, sourced from 200-year-old trees and renowned for its delicate balance and remarkable complexity, imparts distinctive notes of coconut, pineapple, sandalwood, and the subtle fragrance of Japanese incense. Revered yet notoriously challenging to work with due to its porous nature and tendency to leak, Mizunara remains one of the most sought-after and character-defining influences in whisky-making.

By marrying Mizunara with the richness of Oloroso, the opulence of Pedro Ximénez, and the warmth of American oak, Walker has created a symphony of flavour that celebrates time, patience and unparalleled mastery.

On the nose, mocha, crystalised cinnamon and treacle tart evolve into cocoa, toasted hazelnuts, pineapple, ginger and heather honey, whilst the palate is laden with cocoa, baking spices and chocolate-coated raisins, complemented by coconut, brandied orchard fruits, sandalwood, vanilla, dried red fruits and honeycomb.

Commenting on the release, Billy Walker said:

“This 35-year-old embodies everything I have learnt over the last five decades – masterful cask selection and management, patience, and sensory instinct. By uniting these four extraordinary cask types, particularly the Mizunara which requires a superlative level of skill to work with, we’re extremely proud to have created a whisky that is as complex as it is harmonious. It is truly a marvel of time and a project that has challenged us in the very best way.”

Bottled at cask strength (ABV 50.2%), The GlenAllachie 1990 / 35-year-old offers an experience as close as it gets to sampling straight from the cask – pure, uncompromising and extraordinary. Non-chill filtered and free from added colouring, it stands as a testament to The GlenAllachie’s uncompromising quality and craft it is celebrated for.

Developed in-house by Scottish designer, Kayley Barbour, the bottling is presented in a striking Valchromat box, housed within a bespoke wooden case inspired by Kumiko – the traditional Japanese woodworking art of assembling intricate patterns without nails. Each side of the box is adorned with four unique motifs, representing the quartet of casks that shaped the whisky’s remarkable character. The bottle has a broad shoulder that tapers down proudly, finished with foil and no label to showcase the intensely rich mahogany colour of the liquid.

The inner box pays homage to The GlenAllachie namesake – meaning “valley of the rocks” in Scots Gaelic – with stone and slate textures that evoke the rugged Scottish landscape. An enclosed booklet offers insight into the whisky, its inspiration, cask types, and tasting notes, while a foil-stamped signature from Billy Walker serves as a distinguished seal of approval.

With a UK RRSP of £1,512.99, The GlenAllachie 1990 / 35-year-old Cask Strength is available from The GlenAllachie Distillery, online at www.theglenallachie.com and via select retailers within the UK from today. It will become increasingly available globally in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit www.theglenallachie.com.

The GlenAllachie 1990 / 35-year-old Cask Strength

ABV: 50.2%
RRP (UK): £1,512.99
Bottled at cask strength
Natural colour and non-chill filtered

Tasting notes:
Colour: Intensely rich mahogany.

Nose: Mocha, crystalised cinnamon and treacle tart, followed by cocoa, toasted hazelnuts and pineapple, with soft notes of ginger and heather honey.

Palate: Cocoa, baking spices and chocolate-coated raisins, followed by coconut, brandied orchard fruits and sandalwood, with vanilla, dried red fruits and honeycomb.

About The GlenAllachie Distillery

One of Scotland’s few independently owned and managed distilleries, The GlenAllachie is led by industry veteran, Billy Walker, who boasts over a half-century’s tenure in whisky. With 16 on-site warehouses holding over 50,000 casks, The GlenAllachie Distillery have complete control of the end-to-end maturation process.

Since re-emerging under independent ownership in 2017, The GlenAllachie has made bold, strategic choices rooted in flavour integrity over volume. By fine-tuning fermentation practices, streamlining production, and investing heavily in cask management, the distillery has cultivated a house style renowned for depth, complexity, and individuality.

Beyond the stillhouse, The GlenAllachie’s influence continues to grow, with high-profile and innovative releases such as The Sinteis Series, and age-stated limited editions earning global acclaim. The distillery’s commitment to transparency – bottling at natural colour, non-chill filtered, and often at cask strength – underscores its dedication to the discerning whisky drinker.

Prioritising the production of quality spirit, the GlenAllachie Distillery chose to reduce its production capacity from four million to around one million litres of alcohol and increase its fermentation period to 160 hours – almost three times the industry standard – for an ester-rich, fruity spirit.

The GlenAllachie also maintains a strong focus on sustainability and provenance, with local sourcing and traditional methods guiding much of its ethos. Supported by the Scottish Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (SIETF), a state-of-the-art Mechanical Vapour Recompression (MVR) system was installed at the distillery to capture and recycle waste heat from distillation, using it to reheat the stills. The result is a distillery that not only honours Scotch whisky heritage but actively shapes its future.

About Billy Walker

With a career spanning over 50 years, Billy Walker is a legendary figure in the Scotch whisky industry, renowned for his transformative leadership of distilleries like Benriach, Glendronach, and Glenglassaugh. Celebrated for his innovative use of casks and unwavering commitment to quality, he is now the owner and Master Distiller at The GlenAllachie.

Under his stewardship, the company has achieved widespread acclaim. Among its many accolades, the GlenAllachie 12-year-old was named World’s Best Single Malt at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards.

From this incredible record of success, Billy has cemented his reputation as one of the most prominent whisky figures of his generation.