Archives for February 2024

Master Blenders Emma Walker and Eboni Major Celebrated In New Craftswomen Program

February 26, 2024 By Dow Scoggins

NEW YORK – Diageo, a global leader in beverage alcohol, is proud to support its Craftswomen program, celebrating the talented, bold and pioneering women who make some of the world’s most beloved spirits. From Johnnie Walker Master Blender Emma Walker to Bulleit Blender Eboni Major, Crown Royal Master Whisky Blender Joanna Scandella and Ron Zacapa Master Blender Lorena Vasquez, as well as Buchanan’s Master Blender Maureen Robinson, Cascade Hollow General Manager and Distiller Nicole Austin, and many others, these skilled Craftswomen are creating spirits enjoyed around the world and are among the diverse blenders leading the industry.

Coinciding with the launch of Craftswomen, Diageo will introduce two new limited-edition whisky innovations from Johnnie Walker and Bulleit that will hit shelves this Spring. Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker, a new blend from Master Blender Emma Walker and Bulleit Bourbon Blenders’ Select No. 001 from Blender Eboni Major highlight the skill and creativity of the fierce female blenders behind the brands and the range of flavor discovery to be had in Scotch whisky and bourbon. Each Craftswoman’s unique story will be featured a retail, on brand social channels and at key industry events across the country.

“We could not be prouder to debut this fantastic line up of limited-edition whiskies that will introduce more people to the incredibly skilled women behind these iconic brands. This is yet another step in our ongoing commitment to becoming an industry leader in equality and inclusivity through impact driving programming and product innovation,” shared Sophie Kelly, Senior Vice President of Whiskies, Diageo North America.

The new Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker limited edition blend follows the 2018 release of the Jane Walker Edition of our award winning Black Label. The new blend heroes whisky from Cardhu – a nearly 200-year-old distillery in the heart of Speyside that flourished under the leadership of Elizabeth Cumming. This pioneering woman ultimately sold Cardhu to the Walker family in 1893, but played a significant role in the brand’s history. Now, with access to more than ten million casks of maturing whisky from distilleries across Scotland, Emma Walker carries forward this tradition. Combining her extensive scientific research and spirits industry background with a precise palette and understanding of flavor, she brings to life a well-rounded and smooth whisky in Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker, featuring notes of ripe orchard fruit and white peaches, which develop into hints of baked apple and sweet cream, with a lingering dark chocolate finish.

“Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker is a celebration of the pioneering women who stretched boundaries throughout the history of Johnnie Walker, and the whisky is an excellent example of the depth of flavor and innovative blends we can create from our incredible reserves,” said Master Blender Emma Walker.

Created by Bulleit Blender Eboni Major, Bulleit Bourbon Blenders’ Select No. 001 is the latest innovation out of Bulleit Distilling Co. and features the thoughtful mingling of three out of the 10 whiskey types used to make the original Bulleit Bourbon. The exceptional blend includes distinct notes of vanilla bean, honey, dried fruit and toasted oak, as well as a smooth finish with a lingering of sweet cream and fruit wine decadence. This limited-edition offering showcases Eboni’s rich understanding of how the progression of aromas and balance of complimentary flavors elevate the sensory experience, as well as her commitment to innovation and expanding the Bulleit portfolio. Bulleit Bourbon Blenders’ Select No. 001 is the first offering in the new limited-edition Blenders’ Select series, which offers the blending team an opportunity to experiment and flex their creativity in the lab at Bulleit Distilling Co.

“Bulleit is a frontier whiskey, meaning we are always looking for new ways to challenge convention. Being given the creative freedom to take the traditionally higher rye experience that Bulleit is synonymous with and craft something brand new is an incredible honor and is also what makes my job so fun! Fruit-forward, rich and delightfully complex, Bulleit Bourbon Blenders’ Select No. 001 is a true expression of who I am as a blender. I am thrilled to be taking risks and pushing boundaries at Bulleit and in the world of whiskey alongside other women who are also making waves in the industry,” said Bulleit Blender Eboni Major.

To further champion and inspire pioneering women in the food and beverage industries, Johnnie Walker and Bulleit will also kick off a robust Craftswomen partnership with Cherry Bombe this spring. Through the biannual magazine’s Radio Cherry Bombe Podcast tour, and Jubilee conference, Johnnie Walker and Bulleit will connect with the platform’s community of trailblazing women making waves in the food and drink world to reinforce inclusivity, whisky education and responsible drinking.

For more information, please visit JohnnieWalker.com and Bulleit.com.

For Johnnie Walker, Hunter PR
whisky@hunterpr.com

For Bulleit, Taylor PR
bulleit@taylorstrategy.com

About Johnnie Walker
Johnnie Walker, the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky brand owned by Diageo, traces its origins to 1820 when founder John Walker opened a grocery store in Kilmarnock, Scotland, and began blending whiskies for consistent quality and flavor. His son Alexander expanded the business globally, introducing the iconic square bottle in 1860 and slanted label for better visibility, while grandson Alexander II and George launched the Striding Man logo in 1908 and officially named the range Johnnie Walker in 1909, with Red Label and Black Label leading the way. By 1920, the brand reached 120 countries, cementing its status through innovative marketing and masterful blending from Scotland’s finest malts and grains.

Today, Johnnie Walker’s award-winning portfolio spans vibrant expressions for every occasion, from the bold and spicy Johnnie Walker Red Label—perfect for mixing in cocktails—to the rich, smoky depth of Black Label and Double Black, the balanced vatted malt Green Label aged 15 years, the smooth Gold Label Reserve, the elegant Aged 18 Years, and the pinnacle Blue Label, crafted from rare casks for velvety honey, fruit, and spice notes. With ongoing innovations like limited-edition releases and a commitment to sustainability, Johnnie Walker continues to inspire progress and celebration in over 180 countries worldwide.

About Bulleit
Bulleit Distilling Co., located in Shelbyville, Kentucky, embodies a pioneering spirit rooted in American whiskey heritage. Revived in 1987 by Tom Bulleit, who drew inspiration from his great-great-grandfather Augustus Bulleit’s high-rye recipe from the 1830s, the brand has grown into one of the fastest-expanding whiskeys in the world under Diageo. The state-of-the-art distillery, opened in 2017 with a focus on sustainability—including water conservation, natural habitat protection, and local sourcing—produces bold, spicy expressions that honor frontier traditions while embracing modern innovation, welcoming visitors to experience the craftsmanship firsthand since 2019.

Renowned for its distinctive high-rye mash bills, Bulleit offers an award-winning portfolio featuring Bulleit Bourbon with its signature spicy yet smooth profile from 28% rye, the 95% rye Bulleit Rye for unparalleled complexity, aged staples like Bulleit Bourbon 10-Year-Old and Bulleit Rye 10-Year-Old, and innovative releases such as Barrel Strength and the 2025 Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. These whiskeys, distilled and aged with precision in charred American oak, deliver rich flavors of vanilla, oak, and spice, making Bulleit a favorite among bartenders and enthusiasts for sipping neat or crafting timeless cocktails.
Bulleit’s Visitor Center: 3464 Benson Pike Shelbyville, Kentucky 40065
Website: www.bulleit.com.

In 2019, a Visitor’s Centre at the Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville opened to share our modern, technological and sustainable approach to making great whiskey.
For more information, visit www.bulleit.com.

About Diageo
Diageo plc, a global leader in premium alcoholic beverages headquartered in London, stands at the forefront of the whisky industry with an unparalleled portfolio of iconic Scotch whisky brands. From the world’s best-selling Scotch, Johnnie Walker, to renowned single malts such as Lagavulin, Talisker, Cardhu, and The Singleton, Diageo operates over 30 distilleries across Scotland, producing nearly one-third of the nation’s malt whisky capacity. This rich heritage, combined with masterful blending and innovative maturation techniques, ensures that Diageo’s whiskies deliver exceptional quality and diversity, appealing to connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike in nearly 180 countries worldwide.

Committed to craftsmanship and sustainability, Diageo continues to pioneer in the whisky category through limited-edition releases like the annual Special Releases collection, showcasing rare and experimental expressions that push the boundaries of flavor. With a focus on responsible enjoyment and grain-to-glass excellence, Diageo not only preserves centuries-old traditions but also invests in the future of whisky, making it the trusted choice for celebrating life’s moments with timeless sophistication.

For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

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The Glenlivet unveils ultra-rare AI-enhanced whisky

February 16, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

If groundbreaking whisky sounds like your kind of dram, then The Glenlivet’s latest ultra-rare release ought to be on your radar.

Fusing tradition and technology, The Glenlivet: The Twelve Elements’ collection forms part of the brand’s 200th birthday celebrations.

We covered another of the brand’s limited-edition anniversary releases just the other week, with this fine bottle of 12-year-old Speyside single malt a delectable dram worth savouring.

Now, the brand’s latest tech-led release sees them venture into previously untrodden territory. More specifically, blockchain territory.

Harnessing both AI and blockchain technology, this limited-edition release sees the brand team up with The Whisky Exchange to release the AI-designed range through their all-new tech-enabled marketplace – The Whisky Exchange Cabinet.

Those who fancy gaining access ought to read on.

The first to be sold via the all-new platform, this 50-year-old, ultra-rare whisky collection melds the past with the present as far as whisky retailing is concerned.

So, how exactly does it work?

Buyers looking to purchase a bottle from the collection will be offered a digital certificate upon purchase to ensure authenticity and traceability, alongside 5cl samples of the rare cask liquid at 48, 49 and 50 years old, as well as the full bottle come release day.

The digital certificate is transferable, making resale and subsequent proof of ownership a seamless experience.

Each bottle in the collection is priced at €40,000 + VAT.

Plus, unlike most blockchain-enabled platforms, The Whisky Exchange Cabinet will also accept debit and credit cards, alongside digital currency.

It’s a range that pays homage to what the brand describes as ‘the twelve essential elements’ of The Glenlivet single malt – from the spiritual to the scientific.

Aged in two hand-selected casks, both have been undergoing maturation since 1974.

In no particular order, the releases are The Glenlivet: Air, Angel Share, Barley, Cooper, Copper, Distiller, Earth, Fire, Heritage, Time, Water and Wood.

The distinctive whisky combines caramel sweetness and honeycomb according to the whisky minds over at The Glenlivet, notes brought forth from the first-fill bourbon barrel.

The whisky then undergoes a stint in re-fill hogshead casks, which impart truly distinctive and warming toasted oak and ginger spice undertones.

Each of the 12 bottles will be exclusively available via The Whisky Exchange Cabinet, ahead of bottling in summer 2024.

Speaking of the 200th anniversary release, The Glenlivet’s cask expert, Kevin Balmforth, says: “This luxurious whisky showcases the art of balance, where nature and human elements combine to create a liquid of remarkable depth and character.

“This truly exceptional rare expression is a testament to the unique combination of the two hand-selected single malt casks, aged and crafted by a long line of makers presiding over the casks for half a century.

“As we commemorate 200 years of The Glenlivet, this ultra-rare collection represents a look to the future and offers whisky enthusiasts worldwide a foray into the evolution of luxury investments.”

Those wanting to get their paws on a bottle as part of the Twelve Elements release to celebrate the 200th anniversary can make a purchase from the The Whisky Exchange Cabinet.

Those looking to dig deep and purchase a €40,000+ bottle should contact the Whisky Exchange to secure pre-access to the site now.

The marketplace will go live to the public from 11.00am GMT on Wednesday 21st February 2024.

For more information please visit https://www.theglenlivet.com/en-us/

Woodford Reserve’s Limited Time New Bourbon

February 15, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

VERSAILLES, Ky. – Following the recent release of the acclaimed Double Double Oaked Bourbon, Woodford Reserve introduces its annual limited-edition Batch Proof—the 2024 expression bottled at a robust 121.2 proof (compared to the flagship’s 90.4 proof). This barrel-proof Kentucky straight bourbon celebrates the brand’s proprietary process, blending over 100 barrels from varying production dates, warehouse locations, and floor levels to capture the whiskey exactly as it emerges from the barrel. “Barrels from the upper floors of our heat-cycled warehouses often yield higher proofs, as seen in this batch,” said Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. “Batch Proof invites enthusiasts to experience Woodford Reserve in its purest, uncut form.”

Presenting a deep burnt umber hue, the 2024 bourbon offers an inviting nose of vanilla bean, brown sugar pecans, citrus fruits, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. On the palate, expect rich toasted oak, cocoa, pineapple, strawberry, and spiced berries, leading to a lingering finish of strawberry, toasted oak, and raw honey. Available in limited quantities at select U.S. and global markets, and at the distillery.

About Woodford Reserve Distillery
Woodford Reserve, a super-premium Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey from Brown-Forman, is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery—a National Historic Landmark in Versailles, Kentucky, with roots dating back to 1812. Under Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall and Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris, the brand exemplifies triple distillation and a unique blend of pot and column still spirits, delivering unparalleled complexity with over 200 detectable flavor notes in its flagship Distiller’s Select (90.4 proof). The acclaimed portfolio includes the richly caramel-forward Double Oaked, spicy Rye Whiskey, nutty Malt Whiskey, and fruit-forward Wheat Whiskey, alongside innovative releases like the 2025 Master’s Collection Sweet Oak Bourbon—aged in rare Chinkapin oak for bold sweetness—and limited Distillery Series expressions such as the high-proof Chocolate Whisper Redux. As the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve continues to redefine American whiskey excellence. For media inquiries, please visit brown-forman.com.
Address: 7785 McCracken Pike Versailles, KY 40383
Website: https://www.woodfordreserve.com/

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Maverick Distilling Releases Double Barrel Bourbon in Celebration of the Rodeo

February 15, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Maverick Distilling is releasing a limited-edition Samuel Maverick Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo Edition, a Certified Texas Whiskey in celebration of the San Antonio Rodeo. The Samuel Maverick Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo Edition is pot-distilled, aged in the Lone Star State steps from the Alamo, and finished for an additional 18 months in a barrel previously used to mature Samuel Maverick Private Reserve Bourbon Whiskey. A nod to cowboy culture, Samuel Maverick Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo Edition is an exclusive whiskey release with just 107 bottles available for purchase beginning February 8, 2024.

“With this special release, we are honoring the 75th Anniversary of the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo and the people who make it successful year after year,” said Dr. Kenneth Maverick, co-founder of Maverick Distilling. “The Rodeo gives so much to the people of San Antonio with bull riding, concerts, and excellent cuisine. It brings people together from all over Texas to celebrate and share this rich tradition. The Rodeo and western heritage have an important place in the fabric of San Antonio’s history, and we are paying homage to the cowboy and all of the Rodeo volunteers who keep this heritage alive.”

Samuel Maverick Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo Whiskey was distilled from a mash of 72% Texas-grown corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley. Maverick Distilling expertly selected the best barrels of Certified Texas Whiskey from a Texas distillery and aged it on-site for two to three years in new charred White Oak barrels. The team at Maverick Distilling skillfully blended the right barrels to bring out the sweet caramel flavors balanced with just the right pop of spice. This Barrel Proof Bourbon Whiskey was then finished in a Samuel Maverick Private Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey barrel for an additional 18 months for a unique flavor. Maverick Distilling’s Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo Whiskey is non-chill filtered and hand-bottled at barrel proof (57.5% alcohol by volume / 115 proof) ensuring bold flavor with a kick of its own.

The Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo whiskey has a velvety mouthfeel with creme brûlée, sweet caramel, and cola flavors highlighted on the palette. The charred oak gives the nose a deep earthiness with notes of vanilla and caramel. The palate is delightfully smooth. The finish is silky with hints of rye spiciness. To best enjoy, serve neat or with one large ice cube.

Pricing and Availability

Samuel Maverick Double Barrel Bourbon Rodeo Edition is available exclusively at the distillery in downtown San Antonio, Texas (115 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205) steps from the Alamo and next door to Paris Hatters, another San Antonio Rodeo tradition. Get your cowboy hat cleaned and blocked and stop by the distillery for a whiskey flight. Grab a bottle of this limited-edition release, which retails at $75 per bottle, while supplies last.

About Maverick

Maverick Whiskey located at 115 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205 is a distillery, brewery, tasting room, and event center dedicated to Sam and Mary Ann Maverick, one of San Antonio’s earliest families. Located just steps away from the historic Alamo in San Antonio on the original Maverick family homestead, native son Kenneth Maverick established Maverick Distilling as a nod to the Maverick family’s storied Texas roots and patriarch Sam Maverick—“solitary escapee” from the Alamo and for whom all other mavericks are named. The state-of-the-art distillery produces a variety of spirits distilled using Texas-grown grains on a copper hybrid pot still. Rich Texas history is imbued into the barrels as they age in the vault of this restored historic bank building. Visit the distillery tasting room to enjoy their spirits, beer brewed onsite, or enjoy a tasty craft cocktail.

For More Information:
https://www.prweb.com/releases/maverick-distilling-releases-limited-edition-samuel-maverick-double-barrel-bourbon-in-celebration-of-the-rodeo-302057068.html

Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey to Launch This Spring

February 14, 2024 By Dow Scoggins

Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey – the newest full-time member of the Yellowstone brand family and the latest inspiration from Limestone Branch Distillery Master Distiller Stephen Beam – is set to hit retail shelves in the coming months. Aged four years and bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV), Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey will be available nationwide starting in March at a suggested retail price of $54.99.

Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey boasts a 100% barley malt mash bill, which yields tasting notes that are a unique departure from its sister spirit, Yellowstone Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Consumers of Yellowstone American Single Malt can expect a nose of cereal malt and honey, with a hint of peach blossom; a sweet, medium body with notes of honey, pear, stone fruit, and dates; and a finish that contains notes of oak, with hints of cinnamon and English Walnuts.

“I’m proud of the success Yellowstone Select Bourbon has enjoyed since 2015 when I introduced my take on my family’s historic brand,” said Beam. “And I’m proud to once again continue my family’s tradition of innovation with the launch of Yellowstone American Single Malt. This is a brand-new category of American whiskey, and our offering is sure to become a favorite among Yellowstone Bourbon fans and fans of American Single Malt Whiskeys alike.”

Packaging of Yellowstone American Single Malt includes a more design-forward label featuring the brand’s iconic Lower Falls artwork and a more prominent version of the Yellowstone brand name, as well as blue top-wrap to differentiate Yellowstone American Single Malt from other Yellowstone variants.

The Yellowstone brand continues its tradition of supporting its namesake park through an ongoing partnership with the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), an independent organization working to strengthen and protect our national parks. To date, Yellowstone has donated nearly $370,000 to the organization, and the brand is committed to continuing the partnership.

About Limestone Branch Distillery

Limestone Branch Distillery, nestled in the rolling hills of Lebanon, Kentucky, was founded in 2011 by seventh-generation Beam family distillers Stephen and Paul Beam, continuing a remarkable legacy that traces back over 220 years to bourbon pioneer Jacob Beam and ancestors like Joseph Washington Dant and Minor Case Beam. Drawing on centuries of family expertise interrupted only by Prohibition, the brothers established this intimate craft distillery to honor their heritage while utilizing local limestone-filtered water and grains for authentic small-batch production. In 2015, they revived the iconic Yellowstone Bourbon brand—originally created in 1872 and named after America’s first national park—bringing it back into Beam family hands through a partnership that has since elevated its status among whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. Today, under Master Distiller Stephen Beam, Limestone Branch remains a beloved stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, offering hands-on experiences that celebrate tradition, innovation, and the enduring spirit of Kentucky distilling.

The portfolio at Limestone Branch Distillery showcases masterful Kentucky straight whiskeys crafted with precision and family-inspired recipes, appealing to both traditionalists and adventurous palates. Flagship Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a blend of 4- and 7-year-old stocks at 93 proof, delivers rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak spice, perfect for sipping neat or in classic cocktails. The acclaimed Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey, finished in cream sherry casks, pays tribute to pre-Prohibition styles with warm rye spice balanced by dried fruit and cherry undertones. Annual Yellowstone Limited Edition releases feature innovative finishes—like brandy, cognac, or Amarone casks—in extra-aged bourbons for complex, collectible expressions, while the newer Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey introduces a 100% malted barley profile with bold, floral, and citrus-forward character at 108 proof. These whiskeys embody craftsmanship and heritage, making Limestone Branch a standout in premium American spirits.
Address: 1280 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Lebanon, Kentucky 40033
Website: https://limestonebranch.com/

Breckenridge Distillery and Breckenridge Brewery Announce Fourth Edition of Sexy Motor Oil Whiskey

February 13, 2024 By Dow Scoggins

BRECKENRIDGE, Colorado— Breckenridge Distillery, one of the most-awarded craft distilleries in the U.S., and Breckenridge Brewery, two subsidiaries of Tilray Brands, announced the fourth edition of Sexy Motor Oil, a limited-release collaboration barrel-aged whiskey alongside a new collaboration, a whiskey-barrel aged beer, of the same name. The two iconic Colorado brands have come together to bring the two new releases of Sexy Motor Oil to lovers of both whiskey and beer this Valentine’s Day.

The ongoing Sexy Motor Oil collaboration between Breckenridge Distillery and Breckenridge Brewery, which are located three miles from one another, involves aging the brewery’s Imperial Oatmeal Stout in the distillery’s bourbon whiskey barrels. After the beer has been emptied from the barrels, the distillery fills the barrels with Breckenridge Bourbon Whiskey where it ages for more than a year to become Sexy Motor Oil whiskey.

This year’s Sexy Motor Oil whiskey is 107 proof, with delicious cherry and caramel cream notes, perfectly balanced with a cinnamon and oak backdrop; dry cacao envelopes the tongue after every sip. The Sexy Motor Oil beer plays up big warming notes of rich chocolate and robust coffee flavors.

The barrel-aged beer is an imperial oatmeal stout aged over six months in a Breckenridge Distillery Bourbon Barrel with a 13.1% abv. With a velvety mouthfeel, this enticing beer is a great cold-weather sipper. The Imperial Oatmeal Stout imparts notes of dark chocolate-covered cherries, espresso, and toffee; and its time in the Breckenridge Distillery’s high-rye bourbon barrels imparts hints of caramel sweetness layered with notes of vanilla. While the bourbon barrels impart bourbon characteristics, it’s the time in the barrel that makes a smooth, complex, and sexy beer.

Starting Valentine’s Day on Feb.14, 2024, the limited-edition Sexy Motor Oil whiskey will be available for purchase at Breckenridge Distillery and the Breckenridge Distillery Tasting Room on Main Street in Breckenridge, Colorado, and will retail for $200. The limited-edition Sexy Motor Oil beer will be available in Crowlers and single-serve 16 oz cans at the Breckenridge Brewery Brewpub for $9 and offer 10oz pours in-house for $8.

“Our collaboration with Breckenridge Brewery has deepened over the years, rooted in a mutual commitment to craftsmanship and innovation,” said Bryan Nolt, founder and CEO of Breckenridge Distillery. “Sexy Motor Oil represents the harmonious blend of our expertise and the embodiment of our shared values. We invite connoisseurs to savor a fusion of distinct flavors, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for creating exceptional libations.”

“Having both Breck Distillery and the Breck Brew Pub in the same town since the beginning has created a natural hometown partnership–allowing us the ability to talk shop over lunch and come up with creative collaborations like Sexy Motor Oil,” said Jimmy Walker, Head Brewer for Breckenridge Brewery. “Moreover, having them down the street allows us to exchange the freshest barrels possible which maximize the flavor impact on the barrel-aged beer, and the beer barrel-aged whiskey creating something extraordinary.”

Breckenridge Distillery and Breckenridge Brewery are no strangers to barrel aged collaboration projects. In previous years, the two iconic Breckenridge businesses have released Buddy Pass a similar collaborative concept featuring an Imperial Stout Cask Finished Whiskey and Whiskey-Barrel Aged Oatmeal Stout Beer–that is available in select states.

Visit Breckenridge Distillery and Breckenridge Brewery locations to pick up bottles of this year’s limited edition Sexy Motor Oil whiskey and beer to gift on Valentine’s Day.

About Breckenridge Distillery
Founded in Colorado in 2008, Breckenridge Distillery is the “World’s Highest Distillery,” and is best known for its award-winning blended bourbon whiskey, a high-rye mash American-style whiskey.

One of the most highly awarded distilleries in the U.S., the Breckenridge Distillery is proudly a 3x Icons of Whisky and 9x winner of Best American Blended winner at the World Whiskies Awards by Whisky Magazine (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 and 3x in 2023) and a 4x winner of Colorado Distillery of the Year by the New York International Spirits Competition. Most recently, their Breckenridge High Proof won World’s Best Blended Whiskey at the World Whiskies Awards joining Breckenridge Gin named 2021 World’s Best Compound Gin at the World Gin Awards by Gin Magazine.

The Breckenridge Distillery is more than award-winning spirits, offering an immersive guest experience. Named as one of the country’s Top Visitor Attractions by Whisky Magazine, guests can dine at their award-winning restaurant, enjoy show-stopping cocktails, learn about their highly awarded spirits with an in-depth tasting, and get an inside look at their active production facility. New to the distillery, guests have the opportunity to blend their own whiskey as they learn the inner workings of whiskey production.

About Breckenridge Brewery
Breckenridge Brewery opened its doors in 1990 in the ski town of Breckenridge, Colorado. What started as a small brewpub has grown into one of the largest breweries in the U.S. The original brewery still serves its craft beer and delicious pub fare at a high altitude. The production brewery outside of Denver sends beer to 49 states and offers tours, dining, and a welcoming Colorado beer garden experience. With a focus on balanced, approachable, and interesting beer, the brewery’s portfolio contains classics like Vanilla Porter, Avalanche Amber Ale, Agave Wheat, Strawberry Sky, and Hop Peak IPA, along with a variety of specialty beers that include seasonals, barrel-aged beers, the Brewery Lane Series, and a nitrogen-charged canned series. Visit www.breckbrew.com for more information.

Both Breckenridge Distillery and Breckenridge Brewery are subsidiaries of Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY and TSX: TLRY), a leading global cannabis-lifestyle and consumer packaged goods company inspiring and empowering the worldwide community to live their very best life.

50+ Fun Whiskey Trivia, Facts and History

Redwood Empire Just Released a Pair of New Whiskeys

February 5, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

California is famous for its wine, but there are far fewer craft whiskey distilleries making fantastic spirits there as well. One of the best is Redwood Empire, a Northern California distillery that just announced the launch of three new whiskeys as part of its Small Lot Series.

Redwood Empire is known for sourcing and blending whiskey from other distilleries as well as producing its own distillate in-house. There have been a few batches of the latter that have caught our attention, specifically a pair of bottled-in-bond (at least four years old, exactly 100 proof) bourbon and rye expressions. The term “small lot” used for these new whiskeys is a bit ambiguous, but it’s essentially similar to “small batch” meaning a smaller amount of whiskey was produced than usual. “Each whiskey in this series is a result of meticulous attention to detail, from grain selection and distillation to barrel aging and blending,” said master distiller Jeff Duckhorn in a statement. “We are excited to see how whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers alike react to these exceptional spirits.”

The first whiskey in the Small Lot Series, Foggy Burl Single Malt Whiskey, was named after a really tall tree in Redwood National Park (you’ll notice a theme here). It’s made from a mashbill of 100 percent malted barley composed of seven different types of malt. According to the distillery, the team has been laying down one barrel of single malt per quarter over the last seven years, and this release is a blend of 27 of those casks. It’s bottled at 94 proof, and has notes of dark chocolate and caramel. The second whiskey is called Devil’s Tower High Rye Bourbon (also named after a massive tree), made from a mashbill of 51 percent corn, 45 percent rye, 2 percent wheat, and 2 percent malted barley. It’s a blend of 25 barrels, bottled at 99 proof, and has sweet and spicy notes on the palate. The third whiskey in the trio is called Screaming Titan Wheated Bourbon (yep, another tree), but this one won’t arrive until March. The mashbill is at least 30 percent wheat, and this is the only one that has sourced whiskey in the blend.

For more information please visit https://redwoodempirewhiskey.com/

Hayner Releases Path of Totality Bourbon Whiskey

February 5, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

Hayner Distilling Co. — Photo Credit: Hayner Distilling

TROY, OHIO, UNITED STATES — Hayner Distilling, located in Troy, Ohio, has released Path of Totality Bourbon Whiskey. This limited statewide release celebrates the April 8th solar eclipse with Ohio’s first ever illuminated bourbon label.

Path of Totality Bourbon reflects Hayner’s commitment to offer premium whiskeys while also elevating the whiskey experience. Path is a 10-year-old Kentucky bourbon bottled at 100 proof. The bottle premiers Ohio’s first illuminated bourbon label. The label resembles the totality phase of the solar eclipse and the “sun” can be turned on and off with a click of a button.

“We began the design of the illuminated label over a year ago. By the end of 2023 we discovered an incredible rare bourbon that is perfect for this once in a lifetime event. This is a 10-year-old bourbon sourced from Kentucky with a unique 78% corn, 13% rye and 9 % malted barley mash bill,” states Greg Taylor from Hayner Distilling.

Hayner Distilling and its hometown of Troy, Ohio are inside the path of totality during the April 8th eclipse. The city of Troy is celebrating the eclipse with a 3-day festival called Eclipse on the Square. “If you’re seeking a location to view the eclipse, Troy should be on your short list. We have numerous events and bands playing in historic downtown all weekend. We are only a few blocks from downtown and of course encourage everyone to visit Hayner Distilling to pick up a bottle of Path,” stated Greg Taylor.

In addition to being the first ever illuminated bourbon label, the back label has a QR code that offers an augmented reality experience, also a first for a bourbon in the State of Ohio. After scanning the QR code or clicking the link on their website, a bottle virtually appears in your environment. This allows you to view and interact with the bottle before your purchase.

Path of Totality Bourbon goes on sale Saturday, February 3 at Hayner Distilling located at 619 Lincoln Avenue in Troy, Ohio. The bourbon will be available at 29 state liquor stores across Ohio. The 29 stores were intentionally selected as they all lie within the path of totality. The location of each store can be found by searching for Path of Totality at OHLQ.com. The bourbon retails for $89.95.

Hayner Distilling was founded in 1866 in Troy, Ohio along the banks of the Miami River. Hayner quickly grew into one of the largest distilleries in Ohio and became the largest mail order whiskey business in the United States. The distillery closed with prohibition in 1920 and was relaunched in 2021 by Greg Taylor and Andrew Wannemacher.

For more information, please visit https://www.hayner.com.

Longmorn Distillery Just Dropped a Fantastic New 18-Year-Old Whisky

February 5, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

In the world of single malt scotch whisky you got your top-tier, instantly recognizable names like The Glenlivet, The Macallan, Glenfiddich, and Laphroaig. Then there are the hidden gems from under-the-radar distilleries that have been cranking out excellent whisky for a century or more without much of a spotlight: The Glendronach, Aultmore, and Tamdhu are a few that come to mind. Add Longmorn to that list, but there’s a good chance this might change with the relaunch of a new 18-year-old single malt that is truly a fantastic whisky.

Longmorn is owned by parent company Pernod Ricard, which also owns better known distilleries like The Glenlivet and Aberlour. The distillery has been around since 1893, and like many others it has gone through several changes of ownership over the years. Although there have been some previous single malt releases since the 1990s, Longmorn has just never achieved the name recognition of some of its contemporaries—perhaps due in part to the whisky being a key component of Chivas Brothers blends. Interestingly, Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Japanese distillery Nikka, worked there for short spell in 1920 to learn the whisky-making trade, and is said to have modeled his distilleries’ stills after Longmorn’s.

Now Longmorn is getting a refresh with the launch of two new expressions that are aimed at the luxury market: 18- and 22-year-old whiskies anchoring the lineup instead of your typical 10- or 12-year-old. Both are very good, but the 18-year-old really hits the sweet spot of maturation. It’s aged in American oak ex-bourbon barrels and hogsheads, it’s non-chill filtered (which many believe enhances the flavor), and it’s bottled at cask strength of 57.6 percent ABV. Rich notes of honey and vanilla greet you on the nose, with a hint of cherry syrup and orange, and very little burn despite its high proof. According to Chivas Brothers cask expert Kevin Balmforth, toffee is the signature note of all of Longmorn whiskies. Balmforth has been working with Chivas (now Pernod) distilleries for a quarter of a century, and was involved with the actual distillation of the whisky in the 18-year-old, so it occupies a very special place for him. The toffee note he describes is certainly present here, along with hot honey, mulled cider, salted caramel, butterscotch, and pear flavors.

The 22-year-old is also very good, with those extra four years adding a bit more spice to the palate, but the 18-year-old is really where it’s at. According to Balmforth, these will be ongoing releases in different batches every year, so the makeup of the casks used could vary for future releases—which is something to look forward to based on this inaugural whisky. Longmorn 18 is a fantastic introduction to the distillery for those who are unfamiliar, and will be a welcome refresh of the core lineup for those already in the know. No cask finishing or other whisky gimmicks were used, just the careful selection and blending of some of the distillery’s best barrels resulting in yet another bottle for scotch fans to hunt down.

For more information please visit https://scotchwhisky.com/whiskypedia/1878/longmorn/

Four Gate Whiskey “Triple Oak” Limited Edition

February 3, 2024 By Dustin Scoggins

Four Gate Whiskey Company (Louisville, KY) is releasing their first whiskey of 2024, “Triple Oak”, a Kentucky Straight Whiskey finished in two different barrels from Kelvin Cooperage.

The underlying seven-year-old Kentucky Straight Whiskey was distilled with a mash bill of 80% corn, 11% rye, and 9% malted barley. It was initially aged 7 years in used barrels. Four Gate Whiskey re-barreled the whiskey into new charred barrels from Kelvin Cooperage and then again into new toasted casks, also from Kelvin, resulting in a whiskey that has been aged in three different barrels and aged a total of seven years, nine months.

The idea for a triple oaked whiskey was first proposed a several years ago by the late Kevin McLaughlin of Kelvin Cooperage. Four Gate Chief Barrel Officer, Bob D’Antoni, kept the idea in the back of his mind until the right whiskey came along to make McLaughlin’s idea reality. To honor the genesis of the Triple Oak idea, Four Gate has displayed the Kelvin Cooperage Logo on the sub label for the batch. It is the first straight whiskey Four Gate has bottled that doesn’t qualify as a bourbon or rye due to the initial again in previously used cooperage.

“This whiskey really turned out nicely. It’s a different flavor profile than a lot of our previous offerings,” said Chief Blending Officer Bill Straub. “There is a distinct semi-sweet pie crust note throughout with green orchard fruits and strong baking spice. I love the unique flavor of this. Our fans are really going to enjoy it.”

“We are just really thrilled to bring Kevin’s idea to life,” Said D’Antoni, “He was such a great friend to me and to our company and we are confident this whiskey is really worthy of his memory.”

The whiskey was bottled at 53.8% alcohol, or 107.6 proof. 3,798 bottles were produced at a SRP of $199.

PROOF: 107.6 proof (53.8% abv)

AGE: 7 years base

FINISH: 9 months total. 1st in charred oak then in toasted oak

MASHBILL: 80% corn, 11% rye, 9% malted barley

SRP: $199

For more information please visit www.thebourbonreview.com