(L-R: Edward Odim, George McNeil, Becca Smith)

ACEO APPOINTS INAUGURAL CEO TO SPEARHEAD GROWTH

Aceo Limited, a leading  independent whisky bottler and provider of cask whisky management services, has announced a new chapter in its journey, with a major new appointment. Founder and Managing Director, Edward Odim, is transitioning to Chairman, paving the way for one of Scotland’s leading luxury brand directors, George McNeil, to become its inaugural Chief Executive Officer.

Headquartered in Edinburgh, for 25 years Aceo has been steadily building its business centred around cask whisky services as well as its own spirit brands which includes flagship Murray McDavid range of premium Scotch whisky. The company has several whisky maturation warehouses in Speyside, including 40,000 casks at Royal Brackla Distillery. Aceo is also reviving the historic Dallas Dhu Distillery in Speyside, with plans to return whisky production to the site and develop a state-of-the-art visitor attraction that honours its Victorian heritage.

Edward Odim, who has been at the helm of Aceo since its inception, has been instrumental in establishing the company’s reputation for whisky and its strong spirit brands, said:

“I am very pleased to welcome George McNeil as our new CEO. His proven track record in Scottish luxury brands and sales will help steer Aceo into an ambitious future, turbocharging a new era of growth focusing on premiumisation of our brands. With George as CEO, this is the perfect time for me to step into the Chairman role, focusing on strategic oversight and leading our Dallas Dhu Distillery project, whilst George helps to drive forward our brands and their sales.”

George McNeil brings innovative leadership skills and a wealth of luxury brand experience to his new role. For the last 17 years, he has been the Managing Director of the Retail Division at world -renowned heritage cashmere brand Johnstons of Elgin. In this role as part of the Senior Management Team, he helped double turnover to £100m with luxury retail flagship store openings in locations from London to Edinburgh.  George also chaired the internal Sustainability Group, which supported the delivery of Johnstons of Elgin becoming a B Corp. His passion for whisky showcased in his recent role as the Chairman of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, positions him perfectly to lead Aceo in the next chapter of its history.

Commenting on his new role, Mr McNeil said:

“After 17 wonderful years at world-renowned luxury Speyside textiles company Johnstons of Elgin, I am looking forward to this next chapter where I can combine my experience of retail, sustainable Scottish luxury and importantly, whisky, to build on Aceo’s record and develop the premiumisation and global reach of their expansive portfolio alongside their team. I can’t think of a better way to start 2025.”

ABOUT ACEO

Aceo Limited has been in the Scotch whisky industry for 25 years and has built its own successful spirit brands which are sold around the world – including the award-winning and well-established Murray McDavid whisky. Aceo provides a wide range of B2B services including bottling, label design, cask storage and management, logistics and exports. Aceo has its HQ near Edinburgh but also has strong and longstanding ties with Scotland’s whisky production capital, Speyside. In addition to its whisky maturation warehouses at Kinloss, Coleburn and Royal Brackla (together holding approximately 70,000 casks), Aceo has a Craft Bottling Hall at Dandaleith near Craigellachie.  Aceo is reviving the historic Dallas Dhu Distillery in Speyside, originally built in 1898 and closed since 1983, with plans to return whisky production to the site and develop a state-of-the-art visitor attraction that honours its Victorian heritage.

Aceo is transforming the historic Old Bank in Forres, Moray, into a vibrant whisky hub featuring a bar, restaurant, whisky shop and tasting rooms. Other assets in Speyside include; Dallas Dhu House in Forres, Parkmore Distillery Manager’s House in Dufftown, an old stone-ruined Bothy in the Glenrinnes hills and Tide’s Edge Cottage and Beach Huts in Findhorn.

• Aceo also owns  The Murray McDavid Boat a 60ft traditional ex-pilot wooden boat on the River Clyde in Glasgow which hosts whisky tastings and events
• Click here for more information about Murray McDavid and ULTRA: Masterpieces of Time launch video here.
• Click here for more information on Dallas Dhu Distillery Project

For more information on Aceo Limited visit https://www.aceo.co.uk

Aceo Spirits: X, Facebook, LinkedIn Instagram,

Murray McDavid: X, Facebook, LinkedIn Instagram.

Elijah Craig Returning as ‘Official Bourbon’ of 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy to feature signature cocktails and engaging consumer activations.

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Elijah Craig Bourbon is proud to return as the “Official Bourbon” of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. One of the fastest growing spirits in the U.S., Elijah Craig has gained a loyal following for its award-winning family of Bourbons and American Whiskeys. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has been designated a PGA TOUR Signature Event in 2024. The result is a reimagined tournament and an unbeatable fan experience, with a central focus on the top players from the TOUR competing at Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill.

As the Official Bourbon partner, Elijah Craig will activate on the Triangle Plaza in the heart of Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of two Monterey Peninsula golf courses making up the tournament grounds. At the Triangle’s “Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy,” spectators can taste the distinctive warm spice & smooth flavor of Elijah Craig Small Batch, enjoy hand-crafted signature cocktails, and engage in photo opportunities after signing their name on an interactive signature wall. Throughout the course at general concessions, fans can also find Elijah Craig featured in the Elijah Craig Signature Old Fashioned. Offsite, consumers in the area will find displays and engagement opportunities at retail and bar locations promoting Elijah Craig’s exclusive sponsorship. Elijah Craig will further support the partnership with an investment in digital advertising and across social media channels.

“Team Elijah Craig embodies the striver mindset of those endeavoring to achieve greatness and master their craft whether that is in the boardroom or the golf course,” said Max Stefka, Elijah Craig Group Product Director. “Players participating in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament are the best in their field and we look forward to celebrating their greatness at this PGA TOUR Signature Event.”

One of the most exciting events on the PGA TOUR, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is contested annually in front of thousands of spectators and millions of television viewers and features a mix of professional golfers and amateurs. The tournament and host organization, the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, is proud to share that the Foundation donated nearly $18 million to over 200 nonprofits in the Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties during their last fiscal year.

Monterey Peninsula Foundation CEO and Tournament Director, Steve John, added “We’re thrilled Elijah Craig is returning to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Fans and spectators will once again be able to enjoy watching the best names in golf with the best name in Bourbon. We’re grateful for the Elijah Craig partnership and will cheers to another successful year together this week at venues throughout the course.”

With golf consumers twice as likely to drink Bourbon compared to the average consumer, the Elijah Craig Bourbon partnership with AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am offers a strong fit for the brand as it continues to cement its name in the world of golf through the 19^th Hole Campaign. The campaign extends the fan experience beyond the course including premium media placements in golf publications, digital and social media, consumer contests, and in-store displays rounding out the 360-degree program. The brand also is proud to be named Official Bourbon of the PGA of America, PGA Championship, Women’s KPMG PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup as well as “The Official Bourbon” of PGA TOUR Pro Golfer Max Homa and Sports Broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner.  

ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Elijah Craig Bourbon bears the name of the Reverend Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” who established his distillery in 1789 on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in modern-day Georgetown, Kentucky. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Today, Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of more than $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

Kentucky Distillers’ Association

Welcomes Buzzard’s Roost

as Newest Craft Member

Micro Distillery Brings A Mix of Tradition and Innovation to Louisville’s Booming Bourbon Community

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) today announced Buzzard’s Roost Spirits as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Buzzard’s Roost Spirits, established by co-founders Judith Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner, as a contract distilled brand now is also a micro distillery nestled on Whisky Row in downtown Louisville.

“Building our business on the esteemed Whiskey Row in Louisville was a dream come true for us and we are so excited to now be able to join the Kentucky Distillers’ Association,” said co-founder, Judith Hollis Jones.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of fellow distillers. That’s what is so special about this work, the Bourbon community and the impact we can have on the wider community when we attract tourism and grow our business.”

Jones and Brauner, both native Kentuckians and Bourbon lovers, met doing barrel picks for independent ventures – Brauner’s Bourbon’s Bistro and Judy’s consultancy focused on client gifts.

Jason had been steeped in the bourbon community for almost 20 years ,with a culinary background, had returned to Kentucky and was looking for an entrepreneurial venture. Together they decided it was time to step into building a bourbon brand.

“We researched all aspects of the industry for a little more than two years to ensure we could start with knowledge,” said Jones.

“We have grown our brand by acquisition of aged whiskey from MGP and others and are preparing for the future with new make produced by Bardstown Bourbon Company and Green River Distillery.”

“From the beginning, the makers at Buzzard’s Roost embraced the traditions that make Kentucky Bourbon such a powerhouse. Working alongside other distillers, they found a new way to share the spirit we love so much,” said Eric Gregory, President of KDA.

“When new members join, we help them explore the future, and I am confident Buzzard’s Roost will be a part of Louisville’s Bourbon community for years to come, bringing new jobs and tourism to the state’s largest city.”

Buzzards Roost joins KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year.

The KDA now has more than 60 member distilleries, the most since the glorious Repeal of Prohibition.

Buzzard’s Roost produces Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Strength Bourbon, Buzzard’s Roost Toasted American Oak Bourbon, Buzzard’s Roost Char # 1 Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon for private selection, RYE, Buzzard’s Roost Barrel Strength Rye, Buzzard’s Roost Toasted Barrel Rye and Buzzard’s Roost Char #1 Rye.

Learn more at https://www.buzzardsroostwhiskey.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.

KDA Statement

on Delay of Bourbon Tariff Increase

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As the worldwide voice for Bourbon, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association and our 102 distilling and partner member companies welcome the news that the European Union will delay reimposing tariffs on American whiskey and other goods from the United States for another 15 months.

The retaliatory tariffs were set to double to 50% on January 1, 2024, which would have caused a devastating blow to our signature industry and the 22,500 hard-working Kentuckians it employs, as well as the countless wholesalers, retailers, and supply chain partners in E.U. countries that count on its future well-being.

As a reminder, the trade dispute that provoked these retaliatory tariffs has nothing to do with the Kentucky Bourbon or American whiskey industry. U.S. and E.U. spirits exporters had enjoyed duty-free access to each other’s markets for more than two decades, which had greatly benefited both spirits producers and consumers, and resulted in increased exports, jobs and consumer choice.

To that end, we strongly urge E.U. and U.S. officials to permanently end the tariffs sooner than later. Our signature industry has worked hard to recover and regain footing from the last short-term suspension of tariffs. As Bourbon takes years of aging to perfect, a permanent solution will bring certainty to our distillers as they look to continued growth and investments in international markets.

We appreciate and applaud the efforts of the Biden administration and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear to secure the extended suspension of the tariffs. We look forward to the day when we can return to free and fair trade and our main business of making the world’s finest whiskey.

KDA President Eric Gregory

E.U. statement here

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

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

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

Raise a dram to Rabbie Burns with Bladnoch

As the world prepares to celebrate the life and work of iconic Scottish poet, Robert Burns, on Thursday 25th January 2024, Bladnoch has recommended some of its finest Lowland malt whiskies to toast Scotland’s national bard this Burns Night.

Bladnoch is the southernmost distillery in Scotland and one of the closest to where Burns spent his life in Dumfries & Galloway. The water which gave life to this historic distillery sustained the whiskies of Burns’ era, making Bladnoch the ideal dram to complement Burns Suppers this January.

The Bladnoch Classic Collection is expertly handcrafted by Master Distiller, Dr Nick Savage and his team, using water from the River Bladnoch which flows alongside the distillery. All four whiskies – Vinaya, Liora, Samsara and Alinta – are natural in colour and non-chill filtered, to ensure the truest flavours shine through.

Bladnoch Vinaya, 70cl, 46.7% ABV, £50 / AUD $100 / USD $70

Vinaya, a Sanskrit word meaning respect and gratitude, pays homage to Bladnoch Distillery’s original founders who paved the way for the brand’s exciting new era of innovation and production.

Non-chill filtered and natural in colour, Bladnoch Vinaya is matured in a unique combination of first-fill bourbon and sherry casks, a process which creates notes of fresh apple, sweet floral grass and hints of chocolate.

Available at www.bladnoch.com, Amazon and specialist whisky retailers.

Bladnoch Liora, 70cl, 52.2% ABV, £70 / AUD $125 / USD $90

The name Liora has its origins in Hebrew, meaning ‘the gift of light’. The latest addition to the Classic Collection, Bladnoch Liora is matured in a combination of bourbon and new oak casks and is the first of the brand’s releases to be bottled at distiller’s strength of 52.2% ABV.

Liora embodies the delicate balance between the intensity of the new oak and the sweetness of the bourbon casks, resulting in flavours of fresh cut apples, toasted caramel, peppery spices and fresh oak.

Available at www.bladnoch.com, Amazon and specialist whisky retailers.

Bladnoch Samsara, 70cl, 46.7% ABV, £80 / AUD $160 / USD $100

Bladnoch Samsara, meaning ‘rebirth’, is a full-bodied and fragrant blend of malts matured in Californian red wine and ex-bourbon casks.

Rich and sweet with notes of vanilla, fudge and citrus, this unique non-age-statement malt whisky is the perfect dram for the dark winter months.

Available at www.bladnoch.com, Amazon and specialist whisky retailers. 

Bladnoch Alinta, 70cl, 47% ABV, £80 / AUD $160 / USD $100

Alinta, an indigenous word from several southeast Australian language groups, means ‘fire’ and ‘flames’, and evokes the notes of campfire embers found in each sip.

A sweet, smoky, peated spirit, Bladnoch Alinta takes its flavour from maturation in Pedro Ximénez sherry and ex-bourbon casks, which sets this whisky apart from anything previously released by Bladnoch.

Available at www.bladnoch.com, Amazon and specialist whisky retailers. 

Tasting Notes

 Bladnoch Vinaya

Colour: Summer barley field.

Nose: Sweet floral grass with boiled sweets.

Palate: Fresh green apples and chocolate with a hint of pepper.

Finish: Light and refreshing.

Bladnoch Liora

Colour: Natural.

Nose: Fresh cut apples, with toasted caramel and floral notes.

Palate: Caramelised toffee apples with peppery spices and fresh cut oak.

Finish: Long, with a slightly warming dryness.

Bladnoch Samsara

Colour: Copper gold.

Nose: Vanilla cream, floral with fresh cut apples.

Palate: Thick vanilla fudge, sweet floral grass.

Finish: Rich, mouth coating, leading to refreshing citrus.

Bladnoch Alinta

Colour: Copper.

Nose: Smoky ice cream, delicate floral with sweet oak.

Palate: Campfire smoke, almonds and raisins with a white chocolate body.

Finish: Long with a sweet smoke.

 About Bladnoch Distillery

Bladnoch Distillery was established in 1817, making it the oldest privately owned Scotch whisky distillery in the world. As the southernmost distillery in Scotland, Bladnoch is commonly referred to as the ‘Queen of the Lowlands.’

Hand-crafted using malt from British growers and the pristine water from the River Bladnoch which flows alongside the distillery, Bladnoch single malts are non-chill filtered to ensure the truest flavours shine through.

This legacy brand has been revived in recent years by Master Distiller, Dr Nick Savage, formerly of The Macallan, and owner David Prior, who purchased Bladnoch Distillery in 2015 and is the first Australian businessman to own a Scotch whisky distillery.

The team at Bladnoch is truly passionate about the preservation of the environment and the local community’s generational involvement in this iconic distillery.

A. SMITH BOWMAN DISTILLERY RELEASES THIRD BATCH OF ANNUAL CASK STRENGTH BOURBON WHISKEY

FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA (December 2023) – A. Smith Bowman Distillery, Virginia’s oldest distillery, today announces the return of its award-winning Cask Strength Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Now in its third year, the annual cask strength offering showcases the excellence in craft distilling bourbon enthusiasts have come to expect from A. Smith Bowman Distillery.

A.Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon is the result of continuous year-long tastings to blend the best barrels available. Hand-selected by Distiller David Bock, this year’s release is 135.1 proof and aged a minimum of nine years.

“When tasting through our barrel inventory, the 9-year-old barrels had a wonderful complexity and sweetness that I wanted to incorporate in this blend,” said Bock. “We believe our Cask Strength Whiskey is about crafting the best possible cask strength whiskey we can provide from our stocks. I’m excited for fans to try this year’s release!”

Bottled uncut and non chill-filtered, this bourbon boasts aromas of candy apples and strong maple; the palate offers pronounced sweet raisins and vanilla flavors, followed by toasted toffy. The tasting experience starts with very soft notes that continue to build toward a strong crispy finish indicative of higher proof bourbon.

A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon Batch #3 will be available in select markets in the United States, as well as through an online lottery. The online lottery will begin on January 3, 2024 at noon EST and ends January 10, 2024 at noon EST. The lottery is open nationwide, but winners MUST be able to purchase bottles in-person at the A. Smith Bowman gift shop within three weeks of winning. Limit one entry per person. To enter, please submit a form here. Winners will be randomly selected January 12, 2024, and notified by email immediately following the selection. Bottles are packaged in 750 mL and available at a suggested retail price of $99.99 (local taxes and fees apply).  For more information, please visit www.asmithbowman.com.

About A. Smith Bowman

A. Smith Bowman’s distilling roots date back to the years before Prohibition when the Bowman family had a granary and dairy farm in Sunset Hills, Virginia. They used excess grain from the family estate to distill spirits. In 1934, after the Repeal of Prohibition, Abram Smith Bowman and his sons continued the family tradition and built a more modern distillery in Fairfax County, Virginia called Sunset Hills Farm.  The Distillery was moved in 1988 and is now nestled in Spotsylvania County near the city of Fredericksburg, 60 miles away from the original location. 

As a small and privately owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded. Considered a micro-distillery by today’s standards, A. Smith Bowman produces an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural ingredients and using the latest technology. This micro-distillery focuses on the production of premium spirits honoring the legacy of Virginia’s first settlers. Its various brands have won more than 100 awards in the past five years, including “World’s Best Bourbon” in 2016 for its Abraham Bowman Port Finished Bourbon and again in 2017 for its John J. Bowman Single Barrel at the World Whisky Awards. For more information on A. Smith Bowman, please visit www.asmithbowman.com.

WYOMING WHISKEY DEBUTS “MADE OF WYOMING” CAMPAIGN

77 Ventures Creative develops the first brand campaign for Edrington’s Wyoming Whiskey

KIRBY, Wyo.  [December 4, 2023] – Wyoming Whiskey captures the soul-stirring vistas of Wyoming, the state at the heart of the whiskey brand, in their most extensive campaign to date, “Made of Wyoming.” Reinforcing Wyoming Whiskey’s position as America’s premium craft bourbon, the campaign showcases Wyoming’s vast landscapes and rugged beauty, from the Bighorn Basin to the Teton Range, and highlights craftsmanship, western tradition, and the sense of adventure intrinsic to the craft distiller and its home state. 

“Made of Wyoming” was developed by Wyoming Whiskey’s longtime agency partner, 77 Ventures Creative, who collaborated with production company Boomshot on an array of mixed-media assets. Footage and imagery for the campaign come from 7 years of shooting across the state — captured at the Mead Ranch in Jackson, Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Parks, and the Wyoming Whiskey Distillery in Kirby. 

Michael Haje, President and Creative Director of 77 Ventures Creative and Boomshot founder, says of the campaign, “It’s another great creative opportunity from Wyoming Whiskey. The chance to tell its authentic brand story, show the whiskey world where we’re from, and demonstrate the impact of our very different environment on our bourbon.”  

Jack Bauer, Senior Brand Manager for Wyoming Whiskey, says of the campaign, “It’s exciting to launch our first ever brand Campaign and communicate why Wyoming Whiskey stands alone. The whiskey is a reflection of the state. Its people, landscape, and weather create one of the most unique whiskeys in the world, and we are delighted to share its story through the “Made of Wyoming” campaign.”

About Wyoming Whiskey

Wyoming Whiskey is ‘Made of Wyoming’. At its distillery in Kirby, WY, we distill the finest corn, wheat, barley, rye, and water from the Big Horn Basin to craft a spirit that carries with it the character of the region, and of the Mead family, who first came to the state as ranchers in 1890. In the past decade, Wyoming Whiskey has earned recognition for its high-quality bourbon and rye whiskeys, including its Small Batch and Outryder expressions, as well as a range of sought-after limited editions, most notably The Grand and National Parks series. To learn more, visit http://www.wyomingwhiskey.com . 

About Edrington

Edrington’s vision is to give more by crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands.

The Macallan is our central focus, supported by Highland Park and The Glenrothes in the fast-growing single malt category and Naked Malt in the blended malt category. Our portfolio is completed with Brugal premium rum from the Dominican Republic, The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky, and Wyoming Whiskey and Noble Oak in the American Whiskey category. Edrington also has a strategic partnership with No.3 London Dry Gin.

Edrington is headquartered in Scotland and employs over 3,000 people in its wholly owned and joint venture companies, with over half employed outside the UK. We own our route to market in 16 countries and distribute our brands to more than 100 countries around the world through joint ventures and third-party agreements. 

Edrington Americas is headquartered in New York, NY with regional offices in Mexico City, Miami and Orange County.

Edrington’s principal shareholder is The Robertson Trust, which has donated £343 million to charitable causes since 1961. Our business is underpinned by the Edrington values of giving, respect, integrity and excellence. 

About 77 Ventures

To venture is to dare. 

77 Ventures is an independent, full-service creative company based in New York and Nashville with a mission to create powerful brand stories for partners who inspire us. 

Our approach is fearless, strategic, and dynamic, honed by years of working with the most legendary names in sports, lifestyle, and beyond.

Find out more about 77 Ventures here:

Witness Me 

Jenny Hollowell

+1 917 733 5832

jenny@witnessme.com 

Agency and Production Credits

Agency: 77 Ventures Creative 

Production Co: Boomshot
President: Michael Haje 

Managing Director: Meredith Weiss 

CD/Writer: Michael Haje

CCO: Galen Bernard 

Head of Design: Alan Leusink 

CD/ Writer: Brendan Gillen

Executive Producer: Kim Daniels 

Head of Production: Krysia Johnstone 

Director of Photography: Will Atherton 

Editor/Photographer: Connor Cassidy 

Colorist: Rob Bessette / Color Refinery 

Sound/Mix:  Rick Van Benschoten 

VO: Will Brood 

Product Photographer: Mark Loader 

Print Producer: Josette Lata 

Group Account Director: Laura Ericksen 

Assistant Account Executive / Social Media Coordinator: Eva Speaker  

Sotheby’s Whisky & Whiskey | Festive Spirits

and American Classics Achieves $2.3 Million
With 99% of Lots Sold

Historic and Rare Whiskey Captivates Buyers,
Representing Three Record-Breaking Lots in the Sale, Including:

A $200,000 The Glenturret Eight Decades by James Turrell 41.5 ABV

Never Before Seen at Auction

&

A $56,250 LeNell’s Red Hook Rye 23 Year Old Barrel #1 67.6 ABV

&

A $37,500 Rathskeller Rye 136 Proof 1983

Auction Marks the Highest Number of Bids Ever Placed in a Sotheby’s Spirits Sale

NEW YORK, DECEMBER 2023 – Sotheby’s auction of Whisky & Whiskey | Festive Spirits and American Classics concluded on Saturday, realizing a total of $2.3 million, with an impressive 99% of lots sold, and nearly half above their pre-sale high estimates. The sale attracted interest from bidders across 21 countries, with more than 91% of buyers choosing to purchase online.

Speaking after the sale, Jonny Fowle, Global Head of Spirits, said: “This weekend represented a great success for the market, with Sotheby’s final whiskey auction for the year in New York setting a number of new records, not least for Red Hook Rye. This sale garnered the highest number of bids ever placed on a Sotheby’s spirits auction, and contributed to a total of $9M in sales globally over the last 4 weeks alone. We look forward to building upon this result for our first ever Sotheby’s Whiskey Evening Sale on 20 January 2024.”

Saturday’s sale saw exceptional achievements from Bourbon and Rye as well as from prominent collectors in the Spirits industry. Read below for a breakdown of the record-breaking highlights…

The Glenturret Eight Decades by James Turrell 41.5 abv NV (1 BT 70cl), sold for $200,000 (est. $60,000 – $100,000)

The Glenturret, Scotland’s Oldest Working Distillery, presents Eight Decades, a collaboration with Lalique and renowned American artist James Turrell, who is famed worldwide for working with light and space to create artworks that engage viewers with the limits and wonder of human perception.

The Eight Decades decanter was created as a celebration of the artist’s 80th year and a poetic tribute to generations of craftsmanship – both The Glenturret distillery (since 1763), and Lalique’s master glassmakers (since 1888). The shape and colour of the bottle, which has a neck injected with violet crystal, created a technical difficulty for the Lalique artisans in Alsace, ensuring that the crystal be evenly distributed to offer a transparency that would magnify the amber-coloured whisky inside.

The whisky was selected by The Glenturret’s Whisky Maker, Bob Dalgarno using insight from his conversations with James. Drawn from eight casks, ranging from 1987 through to 1998, each represents a different facet of the eight decades of James Turrell’s life, his character and vocation.

Proceeds raised from the sale will be donated to the Roden Crater foundation.

LeNell’s Red Hook Rye 23 Year Old Barrel #1 67.6 ABV, sold for $56,250 (est. $20,000 – $30,000)

In the 2000s, LeNell Santa Ana Camacho owned a specialty liquor store in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn. Ahead of her time, she reveled in American whiskey: She not only carried brands like Pappy Van Winkle in her shop, but she traveled to Kentucky to see how she could source more. On one of those trips, she met Drew Kulsveen of the Willett distillery; they got to talking, and soon the two were selecting four barrels of rye whiskey, aged between 23 and 24 years and bottled at cask strength. It was a great choice: the barrels came from a legendary run of whiskey distilled at the Bernheim Distillery, in Louisville, in the early 1980s. Other legendary whiskeys came from the same batch, like Rathskeller Rye and the Bitter Truth, but LeNell’s Red Hook Rye has emerged as the most distinctive and sought after American whiskey, perhaps of all time. To top it all off, this bottle is signed by LeNell herself.

Rathskeller Rye 136 Proof 1983 (1 BT 75cl), sold for $37,500 (est. $18,000 – $24,000)

Built by two German immigrants in an opulent European style, the Seelbach is Louisville’s grandest hotel. In its basement sits the Rathskeller, a ceramic-encrusted pub that today is used as a ballroom. In 2007 the hotel’s owners commissioned the Willett Distillery to bottle two whiskeys, a bourbon and a rye, to commemorate its rich history. The 24-year-old rye, known as Rathskeller, came from the same run of whiskey that went into bottles like Doug’s Green Ink and LeNell’s Red Hook Rye – legendary company befitting one of the country’s most desired whiskeys.

*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium or overhead premium. Prices achieved include the hammer price plus buyer’s premium and overhead premium and are net of any fees paid to the purchaser where the purchaser provided an irrevocable bid.

About Sotheby’s

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Announces New Board Officers, Directors

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Jessica Pendergrass of Heaven Hill Distilleries has been elected Chair of the 143-year-old non-profit trade group that unites, promotes and protects the signature Kentucky Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Pendergrass, who is General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer at Heaven Hill, will begin her term Jan. 1, 2024, and serve through December 2024. The KDA Board of Directors elected officers during its Annual Meeting last month in Louisville.

Pendergrass first served as Chair in 2020, leading KDA through the global pandemic when the industry came together to create hand sanitizer and fill the supply chain void. She was the third woman to ever serve as Chair of the KDA Board of Directors when she assumed the role in 2020.

“The KDA leads the way for Kentucky Bourbon, America’s native spirit, and to be given the opportunity to serve as Board Chair once again is an honor,” Pendergrass said. “We have a bold strategic plan that will cement Kentucky Bourbon and KDA as the voice of this signature industry and spirit around the world.

“It’s such a dynamic time for our industry, and I’m ready once again to lead us forward.”

Pendergrass was the first woman to receive the KDA’s Esprit de Corps award for camaraderie in the distilled spirits industry in 2020 during her term as Chair. She also is the founder of the KDA’s DEI Advisory Panel to the distilled spirits industry and she led the formation of the KDA’s Lifting Spirits non-profit arm.

Pendergrass also represents Heaven Hill on the board of the American Distilled Spirits Alliance in D.C. She is the executive sponsor of Heaven Hill’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy and is a member of the Board of Trustees of Bernheim Forest and Arboretum.

The Board named Ken Lewis of New Riff Distilling as Vice Chair; Gigi DaDan, General Manager of Louisville Distilling Co. as Secretary; and Ryan Ashley, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Distillery Operations at Four Roses as Treasurer.

Other Board officers include Chris Morris, Master Distiller Emeritus at Brown-Forman, the Immediate Past Chairman; Ray Franklin, Founder and President of Garrard County Distilling Co., representing “Proof” level members; and Lynne Dant, Head Distiller, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Log Still Distillery, representing “Craft” level members.

Other Board members for 2024 include:

• Bardstown Bourbon Co.: Mark Erwin, President and CEO
• Castle & Key Distillery: Will Arvin, Co-Founder
• Diageo North America: Antoine Smith, Vice President of Distillation and Maturation North America
• James B. Beam Distilling Co.: Crady deGolian, Director of Public Affairs
• Lux Row Distillers: Erika Lapish, Vice President of Human Resources
• Michter’s Distillery: Andrea Wilson, Chief Operating Officer & Master of Maturation
• Rabbit Hole Distillery: Kaveh Zamanian, Founder, Whiskey Maker & CEO
• White Dog Trading & Storage: Tyler Harris, President
• Wild Turkey: Marco Barassi, Government Relations and Sustainability Director, North America
• Willett Distillery: Britt Kulsveen, President
• Jackson Purchase Distillery: David Salmon, Chief Operating Officer
• Kentucky Artisan Distillery: Jade Peterson, Master Distiller
• Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.: Robert Krass, Managing Director
• Moonshine University: Clay Smith, Distillery Operations Manager

KDA President Eric Gregory, who is finishing his 16th year leading the historic organization, said he looks forward to working with Pendergrass and the entire Board of Directors as it implements the new three-year strategic plan to strengthen the KDA as the worldwide voice for Bourbon.

“The tremendous economic and tourism impact of Kentucky Bourbon continues to shape communities across the Commonwealth,” Gregory said. “We are excited to continue sharing that story of success around the globe.

“Bourbon brings people together, and that mission of unity and camaraderie has been the hallmark of the KDA since our founding in 1880. We have elevated Bourbon to an unprecedented level of success by working with industry leaders, elected officials, community members and farm families.

“We still have many challenges at home and abroad, especially with a looming crisis from retaliatory tariffs, but I know we can accomplish more by standing together than working apart. The sky’s the limit for where Kentucky Bourbon goes next.”

 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

DOUGLAS LAING REVEALS NEW CHINESE NEW YEAR BOTTLINGS FOR 2024’S YEAR OF THE DRAGON

Independent Scotch Whisky distillers, blenders, and bottlers, Douglas Laing & Co reveal new Limited Releases today from their Island Malt Rock Island and their Exceptional Single Cask range.

In commemoration of the Chinese Year of the Dragon, namely the Wood Dragon in 2024, a Cask Strength edition of Rock Island, finished in fiercely charred ‘Crocodile Casks’ is announced.

Emma Reid, Rock Island’s Brand Manager commented:

“The Rock Island brand showcases the finest qualities of our most celebrated whisky-producing islands. The intricate flavors found across Scotland’s islands are unparalleled, marrying seamlessly to craft a subtly peated style that is accessible and enjoyable for both novices and connoisseurs alike. This edition celebrates charring – the process when casks are met with a flame to open the grain of the wood, therefore enabling the spirit to extract a greater depth of flavour.”

The original Rock Island Malt Scotch Whisky is a marriage of Single Cask Single Malts distilled only on Scotland’s Whisky islands. The resulting spirit boasts a complex balance of maritime flavours, with waves of sweet, salty, smoky, and earthy notes and accordingly has been decorated with several high-profile industry awards over the years, including double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Packaged in a unique crocodile skin premium tube, with artwork from renowned Asian designer and tattoo-artist, Milkabean.

RRP: £55.00 / 65.00 EUR

Tasting Notes:

Nose

Experience ashy bonfire embers, grilled pineapple and soft peat smoke on the nose.

Palate

Anticipate waves of sea-salt, caramelised sugar and BBQ’d banana.

Finish

The finish has remnants of smoke with brown sugar, coconut and salted caramel.

ABOUT ROCK ISLAND

Twitter/X : @DLaingWhisky

Instagram: @rockisland_whisky

Facebook: /dlrockisland

Rock Island joined Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts range in 2015, offering consumers the opportunity to taste the ultimate distillation of Scotland’s Whisky Islands, in one delicious glass. The multi award-winning Small Batch Scotch is a marriage of Single Cask Single Malts from Orkney, Arran, Jura, and Islay. The truly unique spirit is celebrated for its beautifully complex flavour profile. The sweet, salty, smoky, and earthy notes earn this maritime Malt the reputation of being the ultimate dram to pair with seafood. Rock Island is offered at high alcohol strength and always without colouring or chill-filtration. Since 2015, the core range has grown to encompass a 10-year-old and Sherry Edition offering for specialist retail, plus occasional limited releases. 

Exceptional Single Cask Releases 

Douglas Laing’s Exceptional Single Cask range is also celebrating the Year of the Dragon with the release of three new Limited-Edition bottlings, consisting of an Old Particular Craigellachie 10 Years Old, an XOP Bunnahabhain 35 Years Old and an XOP Carsebridge 46 Years Old.

Each bottling has been distilled in the previous ‘Year of the Dragon’ and bottled to commemorate the Year of the Wood Dragon.

The intricate and beautiful illustration seen on the label, celebrating the Year of the Wood Dragon was also proudly created by designer and tattoo-artist, Milkabean.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distillery, blender and bottler specialising in the selection and release of Single Cask Single and Small Batch Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family – Fred Laing Jr and his daughter Cara Laing.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and without chill-filtration to preserve the robust and unique character of the Whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards is testament to this ethos.

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay).

Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old Particular, Xtra Old Particular and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.