Old Forester 117 Series – Scotch Cask Finish Tasting Notes

If you have read this blog at all, you know that I’m a big fan of Old Forester. When I got the press release for the new Old Forester 117 release, I wanted to drive down to Kentucky and try to find myself a bottle. But I was lucky enough to receive a sample from Old Forester, so I didn’t have to make the trip (but I still might want to after tasting it).

Old Forester Distilling Co Box

My Expectations

This is my first tasting from a company outside of Traverse City, so I wasn’t sure what to expect once I accepted the offer to taste a sample. I got a shipping confirmation from FedEx and I waited patiently for the sample to arrive.

When I think of my go to bourbon (Old Forester 100), I think of a wonderful blend of oak and baking spices. When thinking of a higher end version of Old Forester, I just assume I’m going to get a little more refined version of the classic. When you toss in the addition of a scotch barrel finish, I start thinking I’m going to get a more nuanced flavor that is a little more heavy on the malt side. Every time I have had a scotch, I am always amazed at the light taste that carries a ton of different flavors.

Just look at this beauty.

So before I even taste this, I assume I’m going to taste a nice blend of what I’m used to and scotch. I imagine I’m going to get a little bit of chocolate, grain, and baking spices. I have no idea if I’m on the right track, but it’s my take and I’m sticking to it before giving it a taste.

I would like to disclose that I have received a sample of the bourbon mentioned in this review at no cost. It is important to note that I have not been compensated for providing a positive or negative evaluation of the product. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own and reflect my personal experience with the bourbon.

This review is intended to be an honest and unbiased assessment of the product based on its taste, aroma, and overall characteristics. The fact that I received the bourbon as a sample does not influence my judgment or opinions in any way. I believe in providing genuine and transparent feedback to my audience.

I want to assure readers that my goal is to offer valuable insights into the product and to share my authentic thoughts. It is always my priority to maintain integrity and objectivity in my reviews, regardless of how the product was acquired.

Please consider this disclaimer when reading the following review, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions regarding the review process or the provided sample.

Before Tasting Notes

Honestly I forgot what the press release said and I have no idea what I’m about to taste. This is as true of an honest opinion as possible. I’m not being influenced by tasting notes.

I received my little 2 ounce sampler and poured myself an 1 ounce pour. I decided to save a small pour for a friend of mine since he is also a big Old Forester fan. I tasted this neat in a Glencairn.

The color of the pour was a nice mahogany. I feel like I’m on an episode of Anchorman as I type that sentence.

Old Forester 117 Scotch Finish

The nose is a nice caramel, oak, vanilla, plus that little twist of scotch (I describe this as an earthy tone). It smells like I want to give it a taste.

My first taste is way more scotch forward than I was expecting and I’m not mad. My second taste confirms my initial description and I’m tasting a nice blending of a mellow scotch with a sweet and smoky backbone. I’m also getting some chocolate and some of the baking spices in the finish. I’m also getting a small hint of cherry that is sneaking through on the front and the sides of my tongue. I could argue a little bit of a coffee and a biscuit taste as well, but I’m not refined enough to know if I’m just bullshitting or not.

The Official Tasting Notes

If you would like to see the full press release, you can take a look at it here. I pulled out the tasting notes below:

Nose- subtle hints of smoky char, milk chocolate drizzled over shortbread accompanied by mulled,
spiced fruit

Taste- baked apples and dried fruits with rich notes of toffee, cinnamon and chocolate rounded out by
toasted almonds and smoky char

Finish- silky and buttery with cocoa and baking spices lingering into an earthy and oaky finish

I’m not mad comparing my description to the “official” tasting notes. I agree with the little bit of smoke, chocolate, shortbread (or biscuit), fruits, and baking spices. After reading it, I could also agree with the almond a bit, but I wasn’t sure how to describe this taste.

My Opinion

The 117 series is a limited-expression lineup that debuted in Spring 2021 and focuses on innovation and experimentation. I think this is a perfect example of what is supposed to happen from this line. It’s a perfect blending of something familiar, yet very different that starts to bridge the gap between bourbon and scotch.

It reminds me a lot of Keeper’s Heart (from a trip that I took to Minnesota), but a lot better and richer in flavor. It’s a little bit scotch and a little bit bourbon and a lot of bit of a burst of flavor.

For the price point of $59.99 a bottle, I am a fan. I know the 117 series is in a 375ML, but this is good, especially like scotch at all. I think it’s a must have if you are a scotch fan and would be a great gift if you could pick it up as a gift.

I’ll keep my eyes out for a bottle when I head down to Kentucky. I most likely won’t find one, but I’ll be excited if I do.

Old Forester® Unveils New Product in 117 Series: Scotch Cask Finish

Louisville, KY, Dec. 12, 2023 – Today, Old Forester® announces the newest release in its 117 series –
Scotch Cask Finish, a 93-proof liquid that honors George Garvin Brown’s Scottish heritage.

This limited-edition bottle celebrates Brown’s Gaelic roots with the sherry and wine barrels sourced and
matured from the protected Speyside region around the River Spey in northeastern Scotland. The cask
finish highlights Old Forester’s natural fruit character which is a result of fermentation with the oldest
yeast strain.

“This release is special to the family history our brand was built on,” said Old Forester Master Taster
Melissa Rift. “We‘ve been creating top-quality, rare and innovative expressions for 150 years, and this
scotch whiskey captures our founder’s spirit in another rich and smooth liquid, which I recommend
serving neat.”

Scotch Cask Finish marks the latest installment in the 117 Series, a limited-expression lineup that
debuted in Spring 2021 and focuses on innovation and experimentation.

Old Forester 117 Series: Scotch Cask Finish is bottled at 93-proof and is available starting today
(December 12) at the retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. and at select Kentucky stores. The
suggested retail price is $59.99

Tasting Notes


Nose- subtle hints of smoky char, milk chocolate drizzled over shortbread accompanied by mulled,
spiced fruit

Taste- baked apples and dried fruits with rich notes of toffee, cinnamon and chocolate rounded out by
toasted almonds and smoky char

Finish- silky and buttery with cocoa and baking spices lingering into an earthy and oaky finish

Old Forester 117 Series: Scotch Cask Finish is bottled at 93-proof and is available starting today at the
retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. and in select states for direct-to-consumer sales for $59.99 in
limited quantities – and at select Kentucky stores.

For more information on Old Forester, please visit OldForester.com.


Old Forester Releases its Rarest Bottle Ever in its 150th Anniversary Offering

Old Forester is releasing the rarest bottle it has ever produced – a decanter to honor the brand’s 150 th anniversary filled with extraordinarily exquisite 12 ½ -year-old bourbon.

Five hundred (500) bottles were originally crafted for members of the Brown family, who own Brown-
Forman, and key partners of the company. One hundred and fifty (150) were set aside for special
tastings and events at the company.  

But the global pandemic in 2020 shuttered those plans – and those 150 bottles remained in storage.
 
Now, Old Forester is offering them to the public. 

The decanter, priced at $2,500, goes on sale today only at oldforester.com – no bottles will be sold at
the distillery itself. People who purchase the bottle can only pick them up on December 5, the
anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition.  The bottle purchase includes a private VIP tour of the Old Forester distillery, along with cocktails and appetizers with members of the Brown family.

On April 18, 2008, Master Distiller Chris Morris hand-selected six barrels for this special decanter.  It was
bottled 150 months later ( 12.5 years), in 2020. These barrels were matured in Warehouse J, top floor 8,
Rick 44, tier 1.

“Old Forester is the only bourbon to exist before, during, and after Prohibition – and what better way to
celebrate that legacy than offering to the public this rare decanter,” said Old Forester Master Taster
Meliss Rift.

The decanter is presented in a custom wooden handmade box – the wood was recovered from the fire
at Old Forester on Whiskey Row in 2015. The fire nearly destroyed the Whiskey Row block. 

The 150th decanter is a nod to the Old Forester historic holiday decanters in the 1950s and 1960s
designed by Raymond Loewy, the celebrated father of industrial design.

A special year-long exhibit, which opens this month at the Frazier Museum, tells the story of those mid-
century decanters. The Frazier, at 9th and Main, in downtown Louisville, is considered the start of the
Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

About Brown-Forman 

For more than 150 years, Brown-Forman Corporation has enriched the experience of life by responsibly
building fine-quality beverage alcohol brands, including Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s
Ready-to-Drinks, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee
Apple, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, Coopers’ Craft, The
GlenDronach, Benriach, Glenglassaugh, Slane, Herradura, el Jimador, New Mix, Korbel, Sonoma-Cutrer,
Chambord, Fords Gin, Gin Mare, and Diplomático Rum. Brown-Forman’s brands are supported by
approximately 5,600 employees globally and sold in more than 170 countries worldwide.

Bowmore® and Aston Martin announce the US debut of their newest bottle collaboration: Masters’ Selection Third Edition

NEW YORK, NY – November 1, 2023 – Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch is pleased to unveil the latest bottle in the storied collaboration with fellow iconic luxury brand partner, Aston Martin: Bowmore Masters’ Selection Third Edition.

The 22-year-old single malt is crafted in the spirit of intentionality by both brands’ creative masters: Bowmore Master Blender Ron Welsh and Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman. It has been double matured in purposefully selected European Oak, and Oloroso Sherry seasoned casks along with an optimal mix of American Oak hogsheads. The result yields the definitively constant character of Bowmore.

Now available in the US for an SRP of $400 per 750-ml. bottle, Bowmore Masters’ Selection Third Edition arrives to the US after a global rollout in markets including the UK, Germany, Canada, and China. Marking the fifth bottle collaboration in a series of marvellous releases since 2020, Masters’ Selection Third Edition represents a partnership driven by a constancy, inherent in each of the Masters’ own approach that comes to life, informed by beauty, knowledge, and inspiration.  Strength and depth unite, just as sweetness and intensity combine to create a powerfully rich and captivating symphony of flavors.

RonWelsh, Master Blender, Bowmore, said of the latest release: “In the creation of every individual Bowmore, we undertake an endless search for depth; of character, of flavour and with every step we capture the very essence of the past 240 years. This stunning whisky celebrates this defining constant which drives, inspires and immerses us in this quest. Working with Marek and his team has highlighted how this is fundamental to both our creative processes and outcomes.  It is my absolute pleasure to be able to work with Aston Martin as we challenge ourselves and our perceptions together, learning and growing as we go, this is without doubt the most exhilarating and rewarding of collaborations.”

Crafted with consideration over 240 years, Bowmore has an inherent appreciation as to how each moment comes to bear on the character of the whisky, and how time past has shaped today.  Rooted in intentionality, Bowmore’s whiskies are made with purpose, shaping every drop, adding depth and distinction of flavor to shape each single malt. It is this precise ethos which drives the collaboration: sharing the intention to manifest beautiful, timeless creations that define a collaborative legacy, with a firm eye on the future, inspiring what comes next.

For Aston Martin it is restless perpetuity which defines the ambition, the vision, and the focus in the creation of the world’s most desirable, ultra-luxury British performance sportscars, capable of unimaginable feats of engineering and breath-taking performance.

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin, said, “Our quest is without compromise and could be called obsessive, but that is what makes us relentless in our approach. Like Ron and his team, we push the bespoke nature of our craft to the limits in our pursuit of perfection. We never stop short or settle for anything but the best to achieve the beauty which defines us. This whisky is testament to their passion, talent and human skill.  I remain eternally inspired by the whisky making process and believe this masterpiece of flavour creation perfectly captures the spirit of Aston Martin.”

For more information, please visit:

www.bowmore.com

Facebook.com/BOWMORE
Twitter.com/BOWMORE
Instagram.com/BOWMORE

New Riff Fall 2023 Whiskey Club Releases- On Sale Begins 10/27

I wanted to share out the latest email I received from New Riff about their upcoming Fall 2023 Whiskey Club Releases.

We are so excited to announce our Fall 2023 Whiskey Club Releases – two 8-year-old whiskeys, the oldest products released by the distillery to date! An older expression of our award-winning 100% Malted Rye, and an inspired Wheated Bourbon will join the “High Note” limited edition lineup. 

These limited-edition bottles will go on sale at 12:00 pm EST on Friday, October 27th. 

Look out for your link to purchase and additional details on Wednesday, October 25th. We can’t wait to share these exciting new releases with you! 

New Riff High Note 8 Year Old 100% Malted Rye Whiskey

  • Barrel Proof
  • No Chill Filtration
  • Aged 8 Years
  • Mashbill: 100% Malted Rye
  • Tasting Notes: Wood-spiced stone fruits, dusted with cardamom, cedar and citrus zest.
  • MSRP $69.99

This rare release stems from several barrels held back for further aging from our first year of Malted Rye production, with barrels filled in December of 2014, and March and May of 2015. The December 2014 barrels are from batch #1 of Malted Rye. We used the same process as our usual Malted Rye Whiskey – Sour mashed, Kentucky Regimen, char #4. This offering stands out from our regular Mated Rye production as an older whiskey, obviously, but it is also barrel proof. 100% Malted Rye whiskeys are still a rare thing in Kentucky and in American whiskey more generally. This whiskey is perhaps the oldest Kentucky Malted Rye ever bottled, it bears the unmistakable savor of a fully matured whiskey, crossed with the delicate spice of Malted Rye. As with all of our whiskeys, we recommend enjoying neat, no ice, with a splash of water.

New Riff High Note 8 Year Old Bohemian Wheat Bourbon Whiskey

  • Barrel Proof 
  • No Chill Filtration
  • Aged 8 Years
  • Mashbill: 65% non-GMO corn, 18% Bohemian floor-malted wheat, 10% unmalted wheat, 7% dark wheat.
  • Tasting Notes: Honeyed dark fruits with a peppered, toasty-bread finish.
  • MSRP $69.99

This release stems from several barrels held back for further aging from our initial release of this recipe, under the “Maltster” label. Inspired by some of their favorite wheat beers, the distillers at New Riff created a Bavarian Dunkelweizen-style Bourbon mash bill, featuring floor-malted Bohemian wheat – the cornerstone of great wheat beer. Together with raw, unmalted wheat and a measure of roasted dark wheat, it creates a unique riff on one of the classic styles of Bourbon. New Riff Bohemian Wheat follows the New Riff production standards, namely, adherence to all the procedures in the Kentucky regimen, certainly including sour mashing, as well as New Riff’s unique step of boiling the unmalted small grains with the corn (here including the raw wheat). This Bourbon is unique from our core offerings because it is wheated, not a rye recipe. This “high wheat” recipe, with 35% of the mashbill comprised of wheat; is technically a “two grain” whiskey, just corn and wheat. It is safe to say there has never been anything like it in Kentucky- a Kentucky wheated Bourbon made with only corn and wheat, let alone inspired by a classic German wheat beer. As with all of our whiskeys, we recommend enjoying neat, no ice, with a splash of water. 

Frozen Gridiron Glory: Alaska-Themed Fantasy Football Team Names

While Alaska may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of football, it’s a land of rugged individualism, incredible wilderness, and a unique culture that can inspire some truly memorable fantasy football team names. In this blog post, we’ll explore creative and exciting Alaska-themed fantasy football team names that will help your squad stand out in the league.

  1. “Alaska Avalanche”

Much like an avalanche rushing down a mountain, your fantasy team will crush the competition and bury them in points.

  1. “Arctic Rushers”

Capture the essence of the Alaskan wilderness with this team name, signifying your team’s relentless pursuit of touchdowns and victories.

  1. “Kodiak Crushers”

Named after the mighty Kodiak bear, this name reflects the power and dominance your fantasy team aims to bring to the gridiron.

  1. “Midnight Sun Slingers”

Alaska’s famous midnight sun shines on your team’s victories as you dominate the fantasy league with your quarterback prowess.

  1. “Glacier Grapplers”

Alaska is known for its breathtaking glaciers, and your team can be just as cool under pressure, making strategic moves to secure wins.

  1. “Sled Dog Scorers”

Embrace the iconic sled dog culture of Alaska with this energetic team name. Your fantasy team will race to the end zone just like a team of huskies.

  1. “Aurora Athletes”

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a dazzling natural phenomenon in Alaska. Your team’s brilliance will shine just as brightly on the fantasy football field.

  1. “Denali Dominators”

Named after the highest peak in North America, Denali, this team name signifies your determination to reach the top of your fantasy football league.

  1. “Wilderness Warriors”

In a land as vast and untamed as Alaska, your fantasy team will prove it’s equally wild and relentless in its pursuit of victory.

  1. “Sourdough Survivors”

In Alaska, a “sourdough” is an old-timer who has weathered the harsh conditions. Show that you’re a fantasy football survivor with this rugged and enduring team name.

Conclusion

While Alaska may not be known as a football powerhouse, it offers a wealth of inspiration for creative fantasy football team names. Whether you’re inspired by the state’s natural wonders, wildlife, or its unique culture, there’s a team name that captures the spirit of the Last Frontier. So, embrace the wild beauty of Alaska, select a name that resonates with you, and aim for gridiron glory in your fantasy league just like the pioneers of the North.

Roll Tide to Victory: Alabama-Themed Fantasy Football Team Names

In the heart of the South, college football reigns supreme, and Alabama stands as a powerhouse in the sport. But what if you could channel the spirit of the Crimson Tide into your fantasy football team? In this blog post, we’ll dive into some creative and spirited Alabama-themed fantasy football team names that will have you shouting “Roll Tide” all season long.

  1. “Crimson Crusaders”

Show your allegiance to the Crimson Tide with this powerful team name. Just like the legendary Alabama football team, you’ll aim to conquer your fantasy league.

  1. “Bama Blitz”

Emulate Alabama’s relentless defense with this aggressive team name. Your opponents won’t know what hit them as you storm through the season.

  1. “Tuscaloosa Tornadoes”

Tuscaloosa is home to the University of Alabama, and this team name captures the energy and passion of the city’s football fans.

  1. “Saban’s Sultans”

Pay homage to the coaching greatness of Nick Saban, who has led Alabama to numerous championships. Your fantasy team will aim for the same level of success.

  1. “Bear Bryant’s Legacy”

Honor the iconic Bear Bryant, one of the most revered coaches in college football history, with this team name that reflects your pursuit of excellence.

  1. “Yellowhammer Yardage”

The yellowhammer is Alabama’s state bird, and this clever team name blends the state’s identity with your football aspirations.

  1. “Iron Bowl Warriors”

The Iron Bowl is one of the most famous rivalries in college football, pitting Alabama against Auburn. Show your dedication to Alabama with this fierce team name.

  1. “Tide Rollers”

Roll Tide is more than just a catchphrase; it’s a way of life for Alabama football fans. Roll over your fantasy opponents with this spirited team name.

  1. “Dixie Dominators”

Celebrate the Southern charm and dominance of Alabama football with this catchy and confident team name.

  1. “Sweet Home Touchdown Alabama”

A nod to the iconic song “Sweet Home Alabama,” this team name combines music and football to create a memorable and fun choice.

Conclusion

Choosing an Alabama-themed fantasy football team name is a fantastic way to showcase your love for the Crimson Tide and the state’s football legacy. Whether you’re inspired by legendary coaches, the Iron Bowl rivalry, or the vibrant culture of Alabama, there’s a team name that perfectly captures your spirit. So, rally your team, shout “Roll Tide” with pride, and chase victory on the fantasy gridiron just like Alabama does on the football field.

Hoosier Hysteria: Indiana-Themed Fantasy Football Team Names

Fantasy football brings fans from all walks of life together to celebrate the thrill of the game. If you’re a Hoosier at heart or simply want to pay homage to the great state of Indiana in your fantasy football league, you’re in luck. In this blog post, we’ll explore some creative and fun Indiana-themed fantasy football team names that will show your love for the state and make your opponents do a double take.

  1. “Indy Speedsters”

Pay tribute to the racing capital of the world with this team name. Just like the Indy 500 drivers, your fantasy team will zoom past the competition to victory.

  1. “Cornfield Crushers”

Indiana is known for its vast cornfields, and your team can be just as unstoppable as a combine harvester on game day.

  1. “Circle City Smashmouth”

Named after Indianapolis, the “Circle City,” this team name reflects a tough, no-nonsense approach to fantasy football.

  1. “Colts Nation”

Show your support for the Indianapolis Colts by adopting this team name. It’s a great choice if you believe your fantasy team can mirror the success of the Colts on the field.

  1. “Pacers Powerhouse”

Basketball fans in Indiana love their Pacers, and this name represents the resilience and strength your team brings to the fantasy gridiron.

  1. “Naptown Navigators”

“Naptown” is a nickname for Indianapolis, and your team can navigate its way to victory each week with this catchy name.

  1. “Hoosier Hogs”

Celebrate Indiana’s farming heritage with a nod to the hardworking hogs that roam its fields. Your team can be just as rugged and determined.

  1. “Larry Legend’s Legacy”

Indiana is home to basketball legend Larry Bird, and this team name pays homage to his iconic career and your fantasy team’s quest for glory.

  1. “Wabash Warriors”

The Wabash River flows through Indiana, and your team can be as mighty as the river itself, sweeping away opponents.

  1. “Indy Invincibles”

Channel the spirit of invincibility that often defines Indiana’s sports teams. With this team name, you’ll become the unstoppable force of your fantasy league.

Conclusion

Choosing an Indiana-themed fantasy football team name is a fun way to represent your state and bond with fellow football fans in your league. Whether you’re inspired by the Colts, Pacers, the racing culture, or the natural beauty of Indiana, there’s a team name that suits your style. So, embrace your Hoosier spirit, pick a name that resonates with you, and get ready to conquer the fantasy gridiron with pride!

Possible New Finds for The 2023 Holiday Season

From time to time, I get emails with new releases and products that will be coming to market. I wanted to share a few of the recent updates I received for this 2023 holiday season.

Clermont Steep American Single Malt Whiskey is the first American Single Malt Whiskey to be released from the James B. Beam Distilling Co. under Freddie Noe, 8th Generation Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery. As a formally undefined category, Freddie Noe purposefully developed his own guidelines and defining factors for American Single Malt Whiskey while operating under the ultimate creative constraint – using a single grain. Clermont Steep is a product of singular focus and results in a singularly focused whiskey experience.

47% ABV | SRP: $59.99

ARDRAY™ Blended Scotch Whisky – Developed by Beam Suntory’s Chief Blender for Scotch, Calum Fraser, and Suntory’s team of blenders from Japan, ARDRAY Blended Scotch Whisky presents a fresh perspective to Scotch Whisky. 

48% ABV | SRP: $85

Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series – This trilogy features three Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys and takes whiskey fans on a journey of ‘Kentucky Terroir’. All three expressions are aged for 17 years with the same mash bill — the only difference being the location of aging. This limited-edition collection of ultra-rare expressions includes Hardin’s Creek Clermont (released June 2023), Hardin’s Creek Frankfort (released August 2023), and Hardin’s Creek Boston (launching Sept 2023).

55% ABV | SRP: $169.99

House of Suntory 100th Anniversary Limited Edition Japanese Whiskies:

YAMAZAKI: Established in 1923 —Yamazaki is Japan’s oldest malt distillery. The House of Suntory celebrates a century of pioneering Japanese whisky with the launch of two limited-edition expressions in celebration of its centennial:

·      Yamazaki 12-Year-Old: The House of Suntory’s centennial edition of Yamazaki 12 Year Old is designed in special celebratory packaging, as an homage to “Monozukuri” craftsmanship. The expression is bottled at 43 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $185.00 (750ml).

·      Yamazaki 18-Year-Old:  Yamazaki® 18 Year Old Mizunara is crafted to honor Suntory’s masterful use of Mizunara through the decades. The expression is bottled at 48 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $1,500.00 (700ml).

HAKUSHU: For the House of Suntory, this year marks a century since founder Shinjiro Torii established Yamazaki Distillery, and fifty years since the Hakushu Distillery was formed. This year, The House of Suntory announces two limited edition bottlings for Suntory Whisky’s centennial:

·      Hakushu® 12-Year-Old: The House’s centennial Hakushu 12 Year Old packaging is designed as an homage to “Monozukuri” craftsmanship. The illustration on the bottle captures the Hakushu Distillery in soft hues of verdant green, representing the forest surrounding the distillery. This expression is bottled at 43 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of $185.00 (750ml).

·      Hakushu® 18-Year-Old:  Refined and elegant, this rare Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt brings a new angle to the world of peated whisky. Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt is presented at 48 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of $1,200.00 (700ml).

HIBIKI: As 2023 marks a momentous year for the House of Suntory, the founding House of Japanese whisky is thrilled to reveal the long-awaited centennial release of Hibiki 21-Year-Old and a limited-edition bottle design of Hibiki Japanese Harmony that honors the four seasons and is a nod to the past, present, and future:

·      Hibiki 21-Year-Old: The centennial anniversary label design on the Hibiki 21-Year-Old is a reminder to appreciate life and embrace the changes that come with each passing moment. The result is a long and deep finish with undertones of spiced Mizunara wood. Bottled at 43 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of $5,000.

·      Hibiki Japanese Harmony: The House of Suntory’s centennial Hibiki Japanese Harmony bottle features motifs of snow, moon and flowers representing Japan’s changing seasons. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is bottled at 43 percent ABV with a suggest retail price of $200.

Bowmore Master’s Selection Third Edition (SRP: $400): The 5th liquid collaboration between the two stories, ultra-luxury heritage brands. Double matured in purposefully selected European Oak, Oloroso Sherry seasoned casks along with the optimal mix of American Oak hogsheads, this 22-year-old single malt pays homage to the definitively constant character of Bowmore.

El Tesoro™ Mundial Collection: Knob Creek® Rye Edition (SRP: $175). is a unique expression of El Tesoro Añejo, aged for 12 months in genuine charred-oak Knob Creek Rye Whiskey barrels which held the liquid for 9 years, resulting in a delicious sipping tequila that is perfectly balanced with subtle sweetness and spice. As a special one-time release, this is the first and only time El Tesoro has been rested in Knob Creek Rye Barrels.

El Tesoro Mundial Collection: The Laphroaig Edition (SRP $175) is back by popular demand and the success of the 2021 release, the Camarenas are excited to be releasing another iteration of “Mundial” aged in Laphraoig casks. This year only, El Tesoro Mundial Collection: The Laphroaig Edition will also be available alongside the El Tesoro Mundial Collection: Knob Creek Rye Edition with updated premium gift packaging.

Ferrand Dry Curaçao Yuzu Late Harvest, a limited edition release from Alexandre Gabriel, owner of Maison Ferrand and Ferrand Cognac Master Blender, in consultation with spirits and cocktail historian David Wondrich, is made from the entire Yuzu and blended with brandy and Ferrand Cognac. The yuzu is harvested past peak maturity, a technique that concentrates the aromas of the yuzu, allowing Ferrand to capture incredible pastry notes which marry extremely well with the Ferrand Cognac base. (SRP: $35.99, 40% ABV).

Score Big with This Taylor Swift-Themed Football Watch Party Playlist

Are you ready for the ultimate fusion of pop music and pigskin action? It’s time to kick off your Taylor Swift-themed football watch party with a playlist that’ll have your guests dancing in their team jerseys. Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or just curious about what a Taylor Swift-themed football party sounds like, we’ve got you covered with the best playlist to set the mood for a memorable game day celebration.

  1. “Shake It Off” – Taylor Swift

Let’s start with the classic that’ll get everyone in the right mindset to shake off any pre-game jitters. “Shake It Off” is a feel-good anthem that will have your guests dancing and ready to enjoy the game.

  1. “22” – Taylor Swift

Celebrate touchdowns and big plays like you’re 22 with this catchy track. Its upbeat tempo and youthful lyrics make it perfect for a lively football party.

  1. “Blank Space” – Taylor Swift

During halftime or commercial breaks, serenade your guests with “Blank Space.” It’s a chance to catch your breath and sing along to one of Taylor’s iconic ballads.

  1. “Welcome to New York” – Taylor Swift

If you’re hosting a watch party for a New York team, this song is a must. It’s all about the city that never sleeps and the excitement of the big game.

  1. “Style” – Taylor Swift

Play “Style” as a nod to the fashion-forward athletes on the field. Plus, it’s a fun song that’ll keep the energy high.

  1. “Bad Blood” – Taylor Swift ft. Kendrick Lamar

Get your guests pumped up with this hit featuring Kendrick Lamar. It’s perfect for those intense moments in the game when tensions run high.

  1. “Delicate” – Taylor Swift

“Delicate” is a great choice for quieter moments during the party. Let your guests unwind and enjoy some chill time before the next touchdown.

  1. “You Belong with Me” – Taylor Swift

Sing along to this classic track with your fellow fans, and you’ll feel like you’re part of the team cheering for your favorite players.

  1. “End Game” – Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran & Future

“End Game” is an excellent choice for celebrating those game-winning touchdowns. It’s all about victory and celebration.

  1. “Love Story” – Taylor Swift

End your Taylor Swift-themed football watch party on a romantic note with “Love Story.” It’s a beautiful way to wrap up the evening, win or lose.

Bonus Tracks:

Feel free to add some football-themed tracks to your playlist, like “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor or “We Will Rock You” by Queen, to keep the football spirit alive.

Conclusion:

With this Taylor Swift-themed football watch party playlist, your gathering is sure to be a touchdown. Combine the excitement of the game with the magic of Taylor Swift’s music, and you’ll create an unforgettable experience for you and your fellow Swiftie football fans. Enjoy the game, the music, and the camaraderie – it’s a winning combination!