Van Winkle Bourbon Annual Release Coming Soon 

             FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Oct. 10, 2019) – This is the favorite time of the year for bourbon fans, the annual release of the Van Winkle Bourbons.  Like previous years, yields from the barrels are low due to evaporation during the long aging cycle.

            Known for their smoother and sweeter flavor due to the wheat recipe versus the traditional rye recipe found in most bourbons, Van Winkle bourbons are aged years longer than most others and have garnered an impeccable reputation among connoisseurs.  Although  bourbon has become increasingly popular worldwide in recent years, very little Van Winkle is sold overseas, so that  these coveted bottles are available in the United States.

The Van Winkle collection consists of several whiskeys. Suggested retail prices are as follows:

• $69.99 – Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old 107 proof
• $79.99 – Old Rip Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12 Year Old
• $119.99 – Old Rip Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old
• $119.99 – Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15 Year Old
• $199.99 – Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20 Year Old
• $299.90 – Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23 Year Old

“Unfortunately we cannot control the price retailers charge, so some retailers mark it up beyond our MSRP, even though we ask them not to,” said Julian Van Winkle, president, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “We are committed to releasing a quality product and hope retailers will honor what we suggest as a fair retail price.”

Upon release of the Van Winkle bourbon this fall, Buffalo Trace warns consumers to be wary of online resellers such as Craigslist and other online marketplaces, especially private Facebook and MeWe groups. “Trading and selling bourbon online is an unlicensed and illegal sale.  Purchasing bourbon online from unlicensed parties is dangerous.  The product may be counterfeit and unsafe.  If you are not a licensed retailer and you are selling Van Winkle products, we are prepared to take action to curtail the activity,” adds Kris Comstock, senior marketing director at Buffalo Trace Distillery.

The Van Winkle line of whiskeys has won a multitude of awards through the years, including the 20-year-old receiving a double gold medal, best bourbon, best small batch bourbon at the 2018 New York International Spirits Competition; the 15-year-old being named Best Bourbon, 11-15 Years Old in the 2019 Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, and also nabbing a Gold Medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

            The Van Winkle Whiskeys will be available starting in November, but please be mindful that supply is quite limited and bottles shall be hard to find in stores, bars and restaurants. They will be packed three bottles per case. 

About Van Winkle Bourbon

The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery has a four generation history. The Van Winkle

family’s involvement in the bourbon industry began in the late 1800s with Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr. He was a traveling salesman for the W.L. Weller and Sons wholesale house in Louisville. Pappy and a friend, Alex Farnsley, eventually bought the wholesale house and also partnered with Mr. A. Ph. Stitzel on the purchase of Mr. Stitzel’s distillery.  The three of them merged the two companies and became the Stitzel-Weller Distillery.

In May of 1935 at the age of 61, Pappy opened the newly completed Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville. Its prominent brands were W.L. Weller, Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and Cabin Still.  Pappy had a heavy influence on the operations there until his death at the age of 91. His son, Julian, Jr. took over operations until he was forced by stockholders to sell the distillery in 1972. The rights to all of their brands were sold to Norton Simon, Inc. Later, United Distillers, who eventually ended up with the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, sold off all of the original labels around 1999.
After selling the distillery, Julian Jr. resurrected a pre-Prohibition label, the only one to which the Van Winkles kept the rights, called Old Rip Van Winkle. He used whiskey stocks from the old distillery to supply his brand. Julian Jr.’s son, Julian, III took over in 1981 when Julian, Jr. passed away. Julian III has continued with the Van Winkle tradition of producing high-quality wheated bourbon. His son, Preston, joined the company in 2001 and the Van Winkles look to continue that tradition for generations to come.
In 2002 the Van Winkles entered into a joint venture with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Frankfort, Ky. All of the Van Winkle’s whiskey production now takes place at Buffalo Trace Distillery under the same strict guidelines the family has always followed. For more information on the Van Winkle family of bourbon please visit www.oldripvanwinkle.com.

KININVIE RELEASES FIRST THREE TRIALS FROM ITS KININVIE WORKS RANGE – KVSM001, KVSG002 AND KVSB003

• Kininvie, from William Grant & Sons, releases KVSM001, KVSG002 and KVSB003; a Single Malt, Single Grain and a Blended expression – three whiskies created from different trials from Kininvie Works, near Dufftown, Scotland
• Alongside this, it has published its first technical White Paper; a theoretical hypothesis that explores a potential innovation that Kininvie Works could undertake – ‘rousing’ of new make spirit to affect flavour
• Kininvie Works aims to challenge what we know about Scotch whisky making and acts as a creative hub where collaboration, curiosity and a desire to learn are key

Kininvie Works is a collective of determined free-thinking distillers that go against the grain to challenge what we know about Scotch whisky. The ideas that they test are never constrained or informed by any commercial fulfilment plans, something that is unique to Kininvie Works.

For the first time, Kininvie has released the outputs of three of its trials. The inaugural Kininvie Works range is comprised of three makes – KVSM001, KVSG002 and KVSB003; the result of the bravery and creativity that epitomises the work done at Kininvie Works, where invention, learning and discovery lead the way.

Each of these expressions is characterised by one distinctive technique, with the ambition to create a liquid that represents the learnings of the experiments carried out at Kininvie Works.

The new releases:

KVSM001 – For this expression, Kininvie experimented with the distillery parameters to allow a third distillation process, comparable to Irish distillation and a contrast to the normal set-up at Kininvie. Run for one week at the distillery, KVSM001 is the result of this experiment – a five-year-old Single Malt whisky that has been aged in ex-Bourbon casks with an ABV of 47%. The observation of this trial was that shifting from a double to a triple distillation resulted in a floral and fruity character with hints of pear drops.

KVSG002 – Behind this expression is an experiment to explore the different flavour profiles generated by cereals other than the usual malted barley to see if, and how, the addition of malted rye could alter the whisky’s profile. KVSG002 is a three-year-old Single Grain whisky aged in Virgin American oak casks with an ABV of 47.8%, defined by the addition of malted rye to the mash. What was observed was that the final product had a distinguished toffee flavour along with the classic spiciness associated with rye.

KVSB003 – The final release of the range is an innovation in Blended Scotch. It uses a higher proportion of malt than usual for a Blend, exploring how malt and grain drive flavour differently. KVSB003 is a blend of a three-year-old Single Grain Scotch whisky with a parcel of Single Malt Scotch whisky both produced at the Kininvie Distillery, aged in Virgin American oak & European casks respectively. It has an ABV of 48.2%. The observation was that this shift created a distinct spicy note that balances out the light floral note of Kininvie malt.To accompany the launch of this experimental range is Kininvie Works’ first White Paper – theorising a potential trial at Kininvie Works. It was written as a springboard for the whisky community to exchange and discuss ideas about potential future whisky experimentations and whether they should be pursued or not.

Titled ‘The Influence of the Continuous Rousing of Spirit on the Characteristics of New Make Whisky Spirit’, this first research work explores how the principle of aeration could be applied to whisky making in a similar way it is used to enhance the flavours of wine, and to understand the possibilities of ‘rousing’ new make spirit before it goes into casks. Developed collaboratively by the Distilling team, its objective is to champion learning and creativity in whisky making and offer a hypothesis about the future of whisky innovation.

This first White Paper is testament to the experimentation that happens at Kininvie Works – a creative sanctuary to bend and reinvent the traditions of whisky and where creativity meet a meticulous observation process.

The three Kininvie releases, KVSM001, KVSG002 and KVSB003 (50cl) are available to purchase online from 7th October 2019 in the UK, and from 14^th October 2019 in France on www.amazon.co.uk for £35 or 35€.

The White Paper, titled The Influence of the Continuous Rousing of Spirit on the Characteristics of New Make Whisky Spirit, and published on September 2019, can be downloaded free here: www.kininvie.com

NOTES

Where to buy and RRP
KVSM001, KVSG002 and KVSB003 (50cl) – the inaugural releases of Kininvie Works – are available to purchase on www.amazon.co.uk from 7^th October 2019 (UK) and 14^th October 2019 (FR) for a RRP of £35 or 35€.

Or via direct links below:

• KVSM001 – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YCJR3CC
• KVSG002 – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YCPV2K9
• KVSB003 – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YCQ4G1P

Packaging info
The Kininvie Works range comes in 100% recyclable packaging, specifically designed for e-commerce; the bottle is flat, light and its outer box doesn’t require additional bubble wrap or safety packaging.

Social media
Kininvie can be found on social media via the links below:

• Facebook – @kininvie
• Instagram – @kininvie
• Twitter – @Kininvie
• YouTube – @Kininvie 

Product names
The Kininvie Works products names – KVSM001, KVSG002 AND KVSB003 – relate to each expression’s own experiment.

KV stands for Kininvie, the next two letters relate to the whisky type; SG stands for Single Grain, SM stands for Single Malt and SB stands for Scotch Blend. The final number – 001, 002 and 003 – relates to the experiment number of the expression.

About Kininvie
The Kininvie whisky distillery is based in Dufftown, Speyside. It is one of William Grant & Sons three distilleries in Dufftown. The Kininvie distillery was founded on 4^th July 1990. Kininvie has long been a hub for creation and innovation; and for the first time, it’s showing this side to the public with the inaugural three releases from its Kininvie Works range.

About Kininvie Works
Kininvie Works, is a collective of free-thinking distillers that go against the grain to challenge what we know about Scotch Whisky. The ideas that they test are never constrained or informed by any commercial

Park Avenue After Hours
An evening with Robin Robinson Author of,
“The Complete Whiskey Course”

Think of it as Whiskey book club.

Usually, when we hold ‘After Hours’ events here at Park Ave ~ they’re hosted by Brand Ambassadors of specific whisk(e)y distilleries eager to share their line-up. Well this time around we’re bringing in the Ambassador of ALL things whiskey…Mr. Robin Robinson! Robin just released his book, “The Complete Whiskey Course. A comprehensive tasting school in ten classes”. He’s ready to sign books and drop knowledge while sampling an international range of bottlings.

We’d love to have you here on Wednesday, October 16th to get book and whiskey smart starring the international man of whiskey and one-time featured guest-star on, “Married with Children”.

There will be drams.
There will be food.
There will be education.
There will be swag.
There will be jokes about Robin’s vest collection.

Please RSVP with the store ASAP as seating is very limited.
Full details below.

Cheers!
Jonathan, Eric & Marlon
The Park Avenue Liquor Shop
270 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
212-685-2442
jonathan@parkaveliquor.com
eric@parkaveliquor.com
whiskyconn@gmail.com
www.parkaveliquor.com

 Wednesday, October 16th 7:15~9:30-ish

$50 ~ per person

Once again , seating is limited so please RSVP ~ ASAP. We are not responsible for any typographical errors or the unrealistic hope Giants fans are unfairly putting on Daniel Jones’ padded shoulders. Please contact the store with any questions.

The Park Avenue Liquor Shop | 212-685-2442 | 212-689-6247 |

parkaveliquor.com

. . . I bought this in a supermarket !

https://youtu.be/tE8ZZ4Hckxk

Hockey Hall of Famer Ed Belfour Launches Second Career: Belfour Spirits

Ultra-Premium Whiskey Brand Debuts with Three Products in Illinois and Texas

DALLAS (Oct. 1, 2019) – Belfour Spirits proudly announces the launch of its ultra-premium whiskey brand and family of products, The Spirit of Champions™. The company is founded and led by Hockey Hall of Famer, Stanley Cup winner and Olympian Ed Belfour who teamed up with his son and daughter to translate his on-ice intensity into a new passion: hand-crafting spirits with unique character for whiskey aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts.

“There are a lucky few who do what they love, not once in a lifetime, but twice,” said Ed Belfour, president and CEO of Belfour Spirits, who retired in 2008 after 21 years of playing professional hockey. “For me, this is the perfect career, post hockey. There are so many similarities in this business to the sport – the competition, the art of distilling, the creativity in barrel selection, the dedication required, the camaraderie of the team. I feel blessed to work alongside my family and work to build what I hope is a second legacy for the Belfour name.”

The Belfour Spirits’ debut has been marked with high regards already from industry tasters, including Mark Gillespie of WhiskyCast, who rated the Bourbon Whiskey Finished with Texas Pecan Wood a 93 and the Rye Whiskey a 91, both out of 100 points.

A Five-Year Training Camp

For the past five years, two generations of the Belfour family (including Ed, son Dayn, 30, and daughter Reaghan, 27) have been working toward one goal: to produce a whiskey worthy of a championship; one that tastes as luxurious as its unique packaging: a 1920s-inspired, decanter-like bottle with a pattern that resembles cut crystal.

But additional generations of Belfours had a hand in this in the 1930s. “My grandparents in Canada were moonshiners, so we like to think this was our destiny,” Ed says.

Applying lessons learned by both father and son during their respective, professional hockey careers and industry education from attending two whiskey schools (Canadian Craft Distilling Institute in Kelowna, B.C., and Moonshine University in Louisville, Ky.), they have used teamwork, patience and attention to detail to distill 1,700 barrels of whiskey to date.

From Barrel to Bottle

All but 12 of its 1,700 barrels were distilled and continue to age in Statesville, N.C., by Ed and Dayn, in partnership with Southern Distilling.

They made the other 12 barrels first during Dayn’s internship at Woody Creek Distillery in Basalt, Colo. Those barrels aged the brand’s Limited Edition Straight Rye Whiskey. Fewer than 2,700 bottles exist and all are presented in a one-of-a-kind collector’s bottle and box.

“We meticulously handcraft in small batches, paying attention to the art of barrel selection, charring and blending, and marrying that with the science of fermentation, distillation and aging,” said Dayn Belfour, vice president of distilling and production for Belfour Spirits, who played professional hockey as a goalie until he was 26. “Our whiskey is intentionally well balanced, not too heavy with sweet or spice, and every bottle is infused with our family’s shared, immense passion.”

Three spirits are included in the brand’s debut: 

Rye Whiskey                                                                          47% ABV, 94 Proof, 750 ML

A nontraditional tasting Rye Whiskey, this spirit honors a nostalgic mash bill profile and has unexpected flavors for its kind.

• Appearance: Golden honey, medium amber

• Nose: A burnt sea salted vanilla caramel aroma, leather
• Taste: Sweet caramel, butterscotch, cinnamon
• Finish: Full-bodied velvety warmth that lingers with a peppermint finish 

Bourbon Whiskey Finished With Texas Pecan Wood                   46% ABV, 92 Proof, 750 ML

The majestic beauty of a 300-year-old, oversized pecan tree on the old Belfour ranch in North Texas inspired this unique spirit. This Bourbon Whiskey aged in American white oak barrels then spent extra time mellowing with added staves of Texas pecan wood, imparting subtle notes of brown sugar and heavy notes of smoky roasted pecan.

• Appearance: Golden honey, light amber
• Nose: Nutty, butterscotch, crème brulee
• Taste: Smoky vanilla, molasses
• Finish: Long mellow warmth with a rich mouthfeel layered with vanilla 

Limited Edition Straight Rye Whiskey                                50% ABV, 100 Proof, 750 ML

This Limited Edition is offered at 100 proof and presented in an autographed collector’s bottle, featuring a 1 oz. chalice cork that is plated in sterling silver.

• Appearance: Golden honey, light amber
• Nose: Smoke pear, plum, dark chocolate
• Taste: Light almond, white pepper, pear, apple
• Finish: Elegant lingering smoke, lasting warmth

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits will distribute Belfour Spirits in Illinois and Texas beginning Oct. 1, 2019. Consumers are encouraged to visit their local fine spirits stores and restaurants to inquire about the availability of Belfour Spirits.

About Belfour Spirits

Led by Hockey Hall of Famer Ed Belfour, Belfour Spirits is an ultra-premium whiskey producer known for its spirits’ unique character and stunning packaging. In 2014, the Belfour family began their journey to hand craft exceptionally smooth and well-balanced whiskey made from the finest ingredients. Today, the company has distilled and is aging more than 1,700 barrels of whiskey. Belfour Spirits distributes in Illinois and Texas with additional markets expected to follow in 2020. To learn more, visit belfourspirits.com.

Record breaking Scotch Whisky Industry Charity Auction raises over £370k for leading Scottish cancer charity

Glasgow, Scotland – At The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, the parties involved in the Scotch Whisky Industry Charity Auction for Beatson Cancer Charity gathered to mark the success in raising funds and awareness for the charity: The Auction smashed auction estimates by achieving a record-breaking £371,950.

This amount includes the hammer price total, plus 100% of the buyer commission donated by auction host Whisky Auctioneer along with other donations associated with the Auction.

Beatson Cancer Charity supports people and families affected by cancer, from providing wellbeing and patient care services to funding pioneering research and specialist clinical posts.

The inspiration and driving force for the auction came from Ian Curle, former CEO of Edrington and former Chairman of the Scotch Whisky Association, who benefitted first-hand from the skill and dedication of the clinicians at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre.

The collection of 103 exceptional whiskies from over 30 different distilleries and independent bottlers encompassed the very best of the Scotch Whisky Industry and generated a significant level of interest globally, with over 4,200 bids placed by 321 bidders from across 35 countries.

Of particular interest were the one-of-a-kind whiskies bottled exclusively for the auction. One of these, the Bunnahabhain 50 Year Old Beatson Sherry Cask No.1 of 1, donated by Distell, is the oldest official bottling ever released by the Islay-based distillery and raised a stunning £12,650 (inc. buyer commission), which is £7,000 more than the previous auction record for an official Bunnahabhain bottling.

A further unique whisky was specially bottled and donated by Ian MacLeod Distillers, representing their first release in their role as new owners of the soon to be resurrected Rosebank Distillery. The Rosebank 1989 Single Cask 29 Year Old #2477 No. 1 of 1 raised £17,600 (inc. buyer commission), over £10,000 more than the previous auction record for an official Rosebank bottling.

Record UK auction prices were also achieved for The Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter 50 Year Old, which raised £36,300 (inc. buyer commission) and Dalmore 1978 Constellation 33 Year Old Cask #1, which raised £7,370 (inc. buyers commission).  Previous prices included in this release are retrieved from data held by rare whisky analysts Rare Whisky 101.

Martin Cawley, Beatson Cancer Charity CEO said, “We have been absolutely overwhelmed by the success of this exciting initiative and extremely grateful to everyone involved in making it happen, whether they donated a bottle, helped with the organisation of the auction, or indeed purchased one of the vintage whiskies.  Everyone worked together to make this fundraising initiative such a wonderful success.  The amount raised exceeded all expectations and we are delighted at the outcome!  Our aim is to enhance the lives of people living with cancer and their families by providing practical care and support working closely with our colleagues at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre.  I can assure you this money will make a huge positive contribution to people’s lives.”

Commenting on the auction result, Ian Curle said, “We are delighted with the outcome of the auction, which wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration of all parties involved. The sum raised is testimony to the generosity and support of my former colleagues and friends across the Scotch Whisky industry. A special thanks must go to Whisky Auctioneer who provided their services free of charge and donated their commissions to Beatson Cancer Charity. We were proud to come together to support the exceptional work of Beatson Cancer Charity which supports people through their cancer journey every step of the way.”

Iain McClune, Whisky Auctioneer Founder, said “We are blown away by the results of the auction and could not be more delighted to see Beatson Cancer Charity receive £371,950 towards their vital work. The Scotch Whisky industry has been unreserved in their generosity, donating some truly incredible whiskies that have attracted interest from around the world, achieving deserved record prices. We are truly honoured to have been asked to host the auction and would like to thank everyone involved in making it such a huge success.”

Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, added, “It’s fabulous news that so much money has been raised for the Beatson Cancer Charity through the generosity of the Scotch Whisky industry and Whisky Auctioneer. The industry’s commitment to supporting organisations such as the Beatson in their provision of outstanding support to cancer patients in Scotland is testament to its spirit of generosity and collaboration.  Our congratulations go to everyone who was involved.”

The auction ran from 13 September and closed on 23 September.

Photographs can be found here (caption as below, and caption is also included in photograph information): https://whiskylink.co/swicapostauction

L to R, Alan Kilpatrick BEM, Kenneth Ferguson, Donna McLeod, Tom MacLaren, Ian Curle, Martin Cawley, Nathan Kaczmarski, Azmat Sadozye, David Glen, Jo Cook, Kirsty Nimmo, Lindsay McGarvie.

A link to the full auction is here:

https://www.whiskyauctioneer.com/scotch-whisky-industry-charity-auction

For more information about the auction or to register to participate in future auctions please visit https://www.whiskyauctioneer.com

For further information, please contact:

Nathan Kaczmarski, Whisky Auctioneer, nathan.kaczmarski@whiskyauctioneer.com 01738 245 576 or 07538 062 076

Graeme Littlejohn, Scotch Whisky Association, glittlejohn@swa.org.uk 0207 073 0544

Rosie Willmot, Scotch Whisky Association, rwillmot@swa.org.uk  0131 222 9225

About Beatson Cancer Charity

Beatson Cancer Charity supports people and families affected by cancer. From providing wellbeing and patient care services to funding pioneering research and specialist clinical posts, the Glasgow based charity reaches out to cancer patients across the West of Scotland and beyond. Working alongside the NHS and university partners, Beatson Cancer Charity strives to support The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre.

About The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre is an internationally renowned institution, one of the most innovative and modern cancer centres in the world and one of the busiest in terms of clinical activity and patient numbers. Each year The Beatson sees more than 8000 new patients and delivers more than 35,000 courses of chemotherapy and 6,800 courses of radiotherapy.

The Beatson has a catchment area of 2.5 million people, around 50% of the Scottish population. It is the primary centre for all radiotherapy and chemotherapy delivery to the population of the West of Scotland.

The Beatson is staffed by some 650 highly skilled and dedicated healthcare professionals across a range of disciplines.

About Whisky Auctioneer

Whisky Auctioneer is dedicated to the valuation and auctioning of fine and rare whiskies. We deal in whisky for the love of whisky, using our passion to support customers in valuing their collection, showcasing their whiskies to a wider audience and connecting it to those for whom whisky is also a passion – whether they be collectors, investors or connoisseurs.

 Whisky Auctioneer also looks for opportunities to support those undertaking charitable fundraising through our auctions and this has led to more than £7,000 being generated through auctions for causes including Islay Defibrillators, Street Soccer UK, Logan’s Fund, Leuchie House, the Feis Ile Committee and the Islay Pollinator Project.

Since 2013, Whisky Auctioneer has held regular monthly auctions. Each month our auctions feature over 5,000 whiskies and spirits. With a customer base of more than 30,000 registered users from 125 countries, sellers’ lots are shown to a truly global audience.

 Our easy-to-use and responsive site sees 60,000 bids each month.

 Our passion for whisky has gained us respect and authority from our customers, leading to world record hammer prices each month.

About Scotch Whisky Association

The Scotch Whisky Association is the trade body for the Scotch Whisky industry. With over 70 member companies, and more than a century’s experience of looking after the interests of this iconic industry, the SWA is recognised as one of the leading trade associations in the UK and is a respected and recognised voice in markets around the world.

The SWA strives to deliver the best possible global business environment for Scotch Whisky, in order to ensure Scotch Whisky continues to be the world’s premier whisky and consumers’ spirit of choice.

To achieve this, the Association works closely with members, with the UK and Scottish governments, international governments, and other partners to shape the future in favour of Scotch.

Award-Winning Whiskeys from a Thrilling New Distiller
“If New Riff is not on your radar, you need to follow them.
They’re one of the most exciting new distilleries in the world.” — Fred Minnick for Forbes

New Riff founders Ken Lewis and Jay Erisman have decades of experience in the spirits industry, specifically on the retail side of the business. Ken founded The Party Source—the largest independent retail shop in Kentucky. Jay was his spirits buyer—the man responsible for doing things like bottling single casks of Pappy back in the day. In 2014, eager to take the next step in their careers, Ken decided to sell the shop to his employees and build a brand new distillery in the parking lot. From day one, the vision has been to make quality whiskey. Jay and Ken, while two of the most knowledgeable people on the retail side of the spirits business, had in fact never made whiskey before. So, they hired Larry Ebersold and Brian Sprance to dial it in. Larry was the former master distiller at Seagram’s, known today as LDI and the source of the vast majority of “craft” whiskey on the market. Brian was a longtime brewing manager at Boston Beer Company. Together, these two guys have as much experience fermenting and distilling at the highest level as nearly anyone on the planet.

Available in California exclusively from K&L Wine Merchants, we are proud to partner with another fiercely independent family-owned spirits business to bring some of the best whiskey on the market to our customers.The result is a crack team of experts start to finish—production on through to marketing and sales—all with a palate for the good stuff. Their commitment to excellence goes well beyond hiring the best in the business. They have a few uncompromising values when it comes to their whiskey. It will always be unchillfiltered, and every drop is bottled-in-bond in accordance with the oldest and highest quality standard in American whiskey (unless it’s a single cask at full proof). Their first release came in the fall of 2018 when the youngest barrels were aged up to the minimum 4-year-old requirement to be bottled-in-bond. By March of 2019, they won Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits competition for all five of their entrants—the bourbon, rye, single barrel bourbon, and two fabulous gins. It is the most impressive haul by a new distillery we have ever seen.

New Riff Bottled-In-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) ($44.99)

Andrew Whiteley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 20, 2019

The importance of what New Riff has done can’t be stated in a single review. The true magnitude of their accomplishments can only be understood when looking at the larger picture of the American whiskey industry and where they fit into it. As with any whiskey though, the story isn’t fully told until you get it in your glass and judge for yourself. I love the combination of richness and spice in the bourbon. In particular, the high (30%) rye content really amps up the experience. While the sweet vanillins and caramels of the barrel create a base for the whiskey, it’s the high toned peaks of rye aromatics that make the pour sing. Pepper and cinnamon abound, but the touch of dried alfalfa adds the savor needed to make it a complete drinking experience, not just a sweet and spice bomb. The finish lingers, both long and well rounded. Perfect at 100 proof, as required by the Bottled-In-Bond Act of 1897, you have many options for enjoying this one. Neat is never a bad idea, but the savory notes play extremely well with vermouth if you want to mix up some cocktails. There is enough punch that a little water or ice isn’t going to dilute you past the point of intense aromatics and flavor either.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 26, 2019

Easily one of the most exciting new distillers in KY, and we’re proud to be the partner for these incredible products. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill craft distillery, this is a proper, modern Kentucky style distillery. It’s not a tiny capacity, working on experiments and trying to reinvent the wheel. They’re just cranking out great whisky and we’re along for the ride. The flagship BIB bourbon is extremely well balanced and proof positive that craft whiskey doesn’t need to be old to be delicious. I’m not sure if they’re heat-cycling these warehouses, but they are rubbing all the edges of this little gem. A soft nose of sweet tea, deep oak, caramelized orange peel, and hints of earthy maltiness. On the palate it’s somewhat tropical, with a strawberry candy front palate building into a strong spice toward the back. It’s not a slouch and definitely has a spice backbone that’s going to suit lovers of Four Roses or Wild Turkey just fine. Despite the name, New Riff isn’t new school at all. Just great classic bourbon from an independent distillery that we’re unbelievably lucky to be a part of.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 25, 2019

This is a medium bodied bourbon with a wonderful sweet nose with caramel notes. In the mouth there are caramel and honey flavors with a pleasing dry finish. I though that it was very good with and without the addition of water. It will be great alone or in cocktails.

Neal Fischer | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 20, 2019

Balsa wood, incense, and musky cologne emerge from the glass. Cinnamon, clove, and other earthy spices come to the fore and dominate the nose of this bottled-in-bond bourbon that’s woody and peppery enough to make one wonder if it’s a rye. There’s just enough caramel to keep things in bourbon territory though, with freshly sliced vanilla bean and nutmeg creeping in and making the nose a bit more rich and voluptuous. It’s woodier on the palate with more bold spice character as well. This is definitely a great whiskey for lovers of high-rye bourbons.

New Riff Bottled-In-Bond Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml) ($44.99)

Andrew Whiteley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 20, 2019

When you start a new distillery, it’s not uncommon (for the savvy operators) to hire a longtime industry pro to make sure the setup of the facility is up to snuff. If you’re really dedicated to making great whiskey, you hire the best. If you’re dedicated to making great rye, that means you find the man who has a reasonable claim to having distilled more rye whiskey than anyone on earth. Larry Ebersold spent 40+ years making whiskey at what is today known as MGP—at one time the largest whiskey distillery on the planet—and he is responsible for making an enormous portion of the bourbon and rye available on the market today. The investment in great people has paid off in a big way for New Riff. They let Larry order up the “small” distillery of his dreams and implemented a few new ideas he had that were not in the cards at a massive facility like MGP. A bit unusual in that it is 100% rye (95% rye and 5% malted rye) this is a dissertation on why rye is such a compelling distillation grain. It’s both spicy in flavor and plush on the palate. There is a small floral and grassy component that is intense but not perfumy or overly sweet. The cinnamon and pepper that is so clear in the high-rye bourbon, counterintuitively melts into the core of this 100% rye. Bottled-in-bond, this Fall 2019 bottling is a masterpiece and rightly deserves to be where New Riff hangs their hat.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 26, 2019

While everyone is talking about the New Riff bourbons, I think it’s the rye that’s secretly their most exciting product. New Riff bourbons are high rye already, but they follow sort of the standard Kentucky process. With the rye, New Riff is actually riffing a bit on the classic Larry Ebersold Seagram’s mashbill that’s made the rye from the distillery down river so famous. This is 100% rye with 5% of that being malted rye. The resulting whisky is earthy and complex. It doesn’t have the obvious mint qualities of some other 100% ryes, instead replacing those with a dark underbrush aroma that’s really appealing. Still, an evergreen quality and some sweet oak give this an obvious forest essence that I think will become a hallmark of New Riff’s wonderful ryes. The palate is very forgiving without relinquishing the savoriness, but offering tons of flambeed citrus, roasting herbs, Manuka honey and a round creamy texture. This one loves a bit of water.

Neal Fischer | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 20, 2019

This bottled-in-bond no chill-filtered Kentucky rye has a gorgeous and incredibly aromatic nose. It’s so floral at the start, but not without spicy and fruity notes. This is a bit of a slow-burner rye, where you almost expect it to be a softy push-over, but rest assured that this grows bolder the more you sniff. After the fresh-cut flowers, apple and cinnamon come out strong. But for me, it’s not like a friendly baked apple pie – no, this is fresh ground cinnamon powder dashed onto just-cut green apples. This is intense. There’s more spice on the palate that lights you up without blowing your head off. Charred oak meets fresh cut wood with incense before getting spicy again with a dose of cooling mint to spare your tongue from the burn. This is a fun little trip of a rye.

New Riff “Single Barrel #15-4076” Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) ($49.99)

Andrew Whiteley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 20, 2019

Distilled in the fall of 2015 and bottled in the fall of 2019, barrel #15-4076 clocks in at 112.4 proof. More than one of our staff members muttered impressed profanities under their breath upon tasting this barrel. It’s jammed with expanding flavors ranging from caramel, chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, to sandalwood, mint, tangy apples, cracked pepper and varnish. The proof is high, but the heat is remarkably restrained. It’s an easy sipper even at cask strength. Of course like all of their whisky – it’s bottled without chill filtration. Just raw, unadulterated whiskey goodness. Selected for exceptional quality and bottled one barrel at a time, the single barrel SKU never gets old. Each one is a unique, but complete expression of the quality New Riff produces every day.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 26, 2019

While the bottled in bond stuff has proved to be superlative at this new distillery in Northern Kentucky, it will surely be the wonderful single barrels that seal the deal with so many whisky fanatics. These barrels deliver so much depth and complexity, I’m always shocked that we’re able to sell them for so little. So few of Kentucky’s great distillers are offering us cask strength single barrel and going forward we’ll be scouring New Riffs warehouses for the very best cherries. This barrel shows a very different character than the standard BIB right now. The nose explodes out of the glass with exotic aromas: sandalwood and white flowers, grilled stone fruits, and surprisingly low spice on the nose. On the palate here comes the oak spice and vanilla! Long, warming cinnamon, and slight hints of roasted corn. A pretty tidy package filled with tons of flavor and wrapped in a silk ribbon.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 25, 2019

This barrel is elegant and layered. The nose is soft and inviting. In the mouth it is light and on the sweet side. With a splash of water it really opens up with the bright sweetness and delicate flavors coming together.

Neal Fischer | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 20, 2019

Cinnamon, clove, and burnt sugar waft up from the glass on this deceptively easy to drink cask strength bourbon. I’m pretty used to drinking high-proof whisk(e)y, but this is dang friendly and I’m not sure I would peg it as cask strength if it was handed to me blind. Spearmint and eucalyptus create a lovely relaxing balm with other herbal and medicinal notes. The palate is fairly earthy and herbal with tea notes that then go in a creme brulee direction. Adding water offers exciting changes to the whiskey with more florality emerging and snappy spices. Pepper, dark caramel, and toasted oak spice linger in the very long finish.

THE IAN HUNTER STORY
BOOK ONE: UNIQUE CHARACTER

“A Laphroaig for moments in your life
to be savoured and celebrated in style”
– John Campbell, Distillery Manager

LAPHROAIG 30 YEAR OLD
THE IAN HUNTER STORY
70cl | 46.7%

SHOP NOW

A series to celebrate the legacy of
Ian Hunter, the last man of the Johnston family
to own and manage this iconic distillery,
between 1908 and 1944.

Ian shaped the style of Laphroaig
making it the whisky it is today,
and we thank him for that.

TASTING NOTES

NOSE
Sweet and medicinal with manuka honey, light peat smoke, cooked apple and rosemary vanilla. Orgeat syrup and a hint of lemon peel complete the aroma.

PALATE
Peaty and peppery with notes of herbs, cedar, kumquat zest and gorse flower. A sweetness of custard cream and vanilla pods.

FINISH
Coastal with subtle iodine, sea salt and seaweed notes. A touch of coffee and oaky character.

Welcome to this weeks episode of the show. After a few weeks weeks of tantalizing and teasing I’m finally reviewing my bottling of Caol Ila and tasting it against a number of of its peers!

https://youtu.be/2A4b0RzT59Y