Elijah Craig Bourbon Introduces “The Mulligan” as Official Bourbon Cocktail of 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla

Posted on May 1, 2024 by Chris

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Monday, Elijah Craig introduced the Official Bourbon Cocktail of the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla, “The Elijah Craig Mulligan.” The cocktail debuted at a fundraiser partnership with First Tee – Louisville where hundreds of avid golfing fanatics from across the city vied for a chance to win $25,000. Although there were no big winners from the contest, the ultimate winner was First Tee – Louisville, who received a sponsorship check from Elijah Craig for $10,000.

The Elijah Craig Mulligan is a refreshing cocktail that utilizes lemonade, tea infused with Elijah Craig Small Batch or Straight Rye Whiskey, soda water, a mint and lemon wheel garnish. There are no do-overs in tournament play. Fortunately, we’re a little more forgiving with an Elijah Craig Mulligan.

“Elijah Craig is putting a spin on a golf classic with The Mulligan, a refreshing sip for a swing refresh,” said Max Stefka, Group Product Director, Elijah Craig Bourbon. “Mulligans may not be required in the official rule book, but we recommend this Bourbon-forward riff for your next rounds of golf.”

The Elijah Craig Mulligan will be available at the 2024 PGA Championship across the Valhalla Golf Club and at the Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy at the 14th hole of the course, aptly named “On The Rocks,” from May 16-19, and during practice rounds. Larger in size and scale than any previous championship, spectators visiting the Speakeasy can taste the distinctive warm spice & smooth flavor of Elijah Craig Small Batch, enjoy hand-crafted signature cocktails, and engage in photo opportunities after signing their name on an interactive signature wall.

Offsite, area consumers will find displays and engagement opportunities at retail and bar locations promoting Elijah Craig’s exclusive sponsorship. Travelers visiting the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, Kentucky will enjoy special Elijah Craig golf cocktails and co-branded merchandise to welcome those from near and far.

The Elijah Craig Hole-in-One challenge gave golf participants one free shot at the target, with a mulligan shot available with a donation of $5 or more to First Tee – Louisville. Elijah Craig and Heaven Hill Brands matched up to $10,000 of donations from the event. The $10,000 donation makes it possible for over 60 young, aspiring golfers to learn the sport. One hundred percent of these scholarships support youth who could not otherwise afford the cost of lessons. This year alone, First Tee – Louisville served over 657 unique youths, one third of those being female participants and one third being ethnically diverse participants.

“Elijah Craig, Heaven Hill Brands, and First Tee – Louisville, are a ‘hole in one’ partnership. We are proud to support activity-based programs for youth from underserved and under-represented communities,” said D’Shawn Johnson, Executive Director of First Tee – Louisville. “Today was a win-win for everyone involved.”

The Elijah Craig Mulligan

2 oz. Tea-Infused Elijah Craig Bourbon
4 oz. Lemonade
Splash of Soda Water
Garnish: Mint & Lemon Wheel

Steep one green tea bag in three ounces of Elijah Craig Bourbon for ten minutes. Fill highball glass with ice. Pour lemonade in a highball glass over ice. Top with soda water. Float tea-infused Bourbon on top. Stir & Sip.

About Elijah Craig Bourbon: Known as “The Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of up to $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine’s 2023 World Whiskies Awards. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

About First Tee – Louisville: First Tee – Louisville is a youth development organization that enables kids ages 6 to 18 the opportunity to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. First Tee is Building Game Changers through its junior golf programs. In 2023, First Tee – Louisville served nearly 1700 kids through its various programs and has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to Louisville Metro Youth. For more information, please visit www.firstteelouisville.org.

Hatozaki Whisky announces newest addition to limited “Omakase” series: Hatozaki Omakase Rye Third Edition Mizunara Cask Finish.

Posted on April 13, 2024 by Chris

New York, NY – (April 12, 2024) – Hatozaki Whisky is pleased to announce the third and latest addition to its “Omakase” Series – Hatozaki Omakase Rye Third Edition Mizunara Cask Finish. Now available in the US for a suggested retail price of $95 (750ml), the new limited-edition expression showcases the profound aging and finishing techniques of Kimio Yonezawa, 4^th generation Master Distiller & Blender.

Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, the Hatozaki Omakase collection was born of Yonezawa-san’s vision to create elegant and genuine whiskies that reflect the character of his family distillery’s unique terroir and maritime influences. Honoring the age-old Japanese concept of “Omakase,” known as “chef’s choice” in Japanese dining, the “Omakase” collection mirrors the idea of trusting the maker’s intuition – allowing for delightful experimentation of flavors and new exploration.

“I am honored to introduce the newest blend in our Omakase Collection to the US market,” says Yonezawa-san. “I was excited to experiment with the flavors of rye, a popular category with American whisky drinkers, and see how they would respond to native Japanese oak influence. We are thrilled with the final blend and confident it will be a surprising and rewarding choice for the seeker of exciting new whiskies to try.”

In that spirit, Kimio Yonezawa presents an innovative new blend consisting of rye whisky, that is aged in new charred oak and then finished in Japanese Mizunara casks, the rare Japanese white oak sourced from the Hokkaido and Tohoku forests. This expression will be limited to less than 3,000 bottles, each numbered and soldexclusively in the US market.

Hatozaki Omakase Rye Third Edition Mizunara Cask Finish is a testament to the seasoned artistry of the Yonezawa family aging tradition, crafted in small batches of no more than 10 casks. The blend, consisting of at least 51% rye, is aged in new charred oak and then finished in traditional Mizunara casks. This dual maturation allows the Mizunara to impart its distinctive character, resulting in notes of sandalwood, coconut, and Japanese incense – a refined encounter with Japanese elegance.

The new product joins Hatozaki’s core range including: Hatozaki Finest Whisky($45.99 ,750ml. bottle, 40% ABV) a blend of premium malt whiskies aged for up to 12 years in imported bourbon casks, imported sherry casks and native Sakura casks, the Japanese cherry wood; and Hatozaki Small Batch Whisky($65.99, 750ml., 46% ABV), a vatting of 100% malt whiskies aged in imported bourbon casks, imported sherry casks, and native Mizunara oak barrels, yielding a rich profile of sweet cereals and malty dried fruit, with a light touch of smoke and honey on the finish.

HATOZAKI OMAKASE RYE THIRD EDITION MIZUNARA CASK FINISH, 42% ABV:

Color: Amber

Nose: Immediate rye cereal notes lead, accompanied by fresh oak spice and a hint of menthol. Develops with honeycomb, sawn wood, and tropical fruit. Concludes with yeasty bread and oak.

Mouth: Soft entry with a tickle of fire, mint, and black pepper. Transforms into a robust oaky flavor, soft spice, and a rounded finish. Lingering hints of coconut, orange peel, and cloves.

Style: Harmonious, full-bodied palate with nuanced layers of flavor.

ABOUT HATOZAKI WHISKY

Produced at the Kaikyō Distillery on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea in Japan, Hatozaki is named for the Hatozaki Lighthouse sitting on the bay of coastline near the distillery, built in 1657 – a beacon of welcoming to all who visit and taste Hatozaki. The maritime climate and seaside terroir are ideal conditions for fine whisky maturing. Fourth-generation Master Distiller & Blender Kimio Yonezawa brings blending heritage from a long line of shochu distillers since 1917, and in 2017 he began producing Hatozaki whisky to honor the centennial of his family’s distillery and to carry on the tradition of Japanese distilling to a dynamic, evolving category he is most passionate about. The Hatozaki portfolio includes two permanent expressions, Hatozaki Finest Whisky and Hatozaki Small Batch Whisky, andaline of Limited Edition expressions, including the Hatozaki “Omakase” whiskies – hand-selected by Yonezawa-san to create unique cask finishes that have included Mizunara, Sakura and other Japanese oak influence. Hatozaki presents a portfolio of whiskies that are elegant, smooth, and easy to enjoy. Hatozaki appeals to everyone in a delightfully welcoming way with a selection of balanced, mellow, and delicate whisky.

ABOUT THE KAIKYŌ DISTILLERY

The Yonezawa family’s experimentation with distilling goes back more than a century and has been a part of their story ever since. Kimio Yonezawa is the fourth generation of this legacy, having taken a keen interest in whisky and embarking on a journey of discovery. He channeled his passion for fine spirits into establishing the Kaikyō distillery and did it all with a single goal in mind: to be instrumental in honoring the past and contributing to the future of Japanese whisky-making. In addition to whisky, the Kaikyō Distillery produces 135°East Japanese Gin and Akashi-Tai Sakes.

ABOUT MARUSSIA BEVERAGES USA

Marussia Beverages USA is a national importer of premium spirits, sake, and wines including brands such as Hatozaki Whiskies, Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs, Torabhaig Scotch Whiskies, Bärenjäger Honey Liqueurs, 135° East Japanese Gin, and Akashi Tai Sakes. Marussia Beverages USA is part of the global group Marussia Beverages, with 14 distribution companies and 16 production sites throughout the world, achieving a turnover of 294 million euros in 2022. In respect for the deep roots of tradition paired with a taste for innovation, Marussia Beverages mission is to create and distribute quality brands that elevate expectations and provide authentic consumer experiences.

OVERHOLT™, THE LONGEST-STANDING AMERICAN WHISKEY BRAND, LAUNCHES A. OVERHOLT STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY, REVITALIZING OVERHOLT’S ORIGINAL PENNSYLVANIA MONONGAHELA MASH WITH A CONTEMPORARY APPROACH

Posted on April 10, 2024 by Chris

Clermont, Kentucky (April 10, 2024) – Today,Overholt™, the longest-standing American whiskey brand maintained continuously since 1810, announced its newest release, A. Overholt shepherding the newest evolution of Pennsylvania Rye imbued with heritage and legacy. Reintroducing consumers to one of the first styles of American whiskey, Overholt™ is reclaiming its stature as one of the most iconic rye whiskey brands by redefining the breadth and future of rye. A. Overholt uses the same mashbill Overholt™ founder, Abraham Overholt used in 1810 – 80% rye grain and 20% soft malted barley – creating a fully warm yet deep spice, similar to rye whiskey from the 1800’s.

Since inception, Overholt™ has forged forward through every era, including being one of the only spirits brands to survive prohibition, with the same clarity and tenacity Abraham Overholt had when crafting in 1810. Today, Freddie Noe, 8^th Generation Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery at The James B. Beam Distilling Co. champions the legacy, propelling the brand forward through the rebirth of this whiskey’s iconic legacy liquid, A. Overholt – Pennsylvania born, Kentucky made.

“With over 200 years of exceptional craftmanship, Overholt™ is engrained in American history with its industrial roots and as a spirit that has set the industry standard since inception,” said Freddie Noe. “The newest launch of A. Overholt is the result of highly crafted whiskey, informed and inspired by generational expertise, and I’m honored to steward this brand forward while paying homage to its past and our shared commitment to American whiskey innovation.”

The Overholt™ brand is known as A Keystone of American Rye Whiskey because of the shared qualities between Abe and The Keystone State itself: hard work, steely grit, big ideas, firm conviction, and its long-standing industrious spirit. It’s this conviction that drove Abraham Overholt forward – through wars, prohibition, cultural strife, and plenty of double shifts. Its indomitable spirit has remained resilient despite various changes in ownership and production throughout the years, including a change in hands to Abraham’s own grandson, American industrialist Henry Clay Frick. Today, the Pennsylvania-born whiskey of the Industrial Revolution is produced in Clermont, Kentucky at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., where the rich tradition of American production lives on.

A. Overholt joins the ranks of this beloved, and trade favorite portfolio currently consisting of Old Overholt 4YO, Old Overholt 4YO Bottled in Bond, and Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength. Enjoy A. Overholt neat or on the rocks or in a cocktail such as the Perfect Manhattan or Scofflaw to experience the boldness and versatility of the newest expression. A. Overholt will be available nationwide across the U.S., in-store and find a bottle near you on OverholtRye.com bottle locator, beginning April 2024. For real-time information about A. Overholt follow along on Instagram @BeamDistilling and www.beamdistilling.com.

A. OVERHOLT STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY | 47.5% ABV | SRP: $39.99

· COLOR – Clover Honey

· AROMA – Caramel, subtle layers of sandalwood and caraway

· TASTE – Brown butter, honeysuckle, clove, seasoned oak

· FINISH – Pleasant, Lingering notes of warm rich baking spice

About Overholt™

Overholt™ is one of the longest-standing US whiskey brands in American history. Originally created in West Overton, Pennsylvania and established in 1810 by its namesake Abraham Overholt, the brand pays homage with its new A. Overholt Monongahela Mash – our first foray back to our roots with a Pennsylvania Style-inspired classic rye. As A Keystone of American Whiskey, its tenacious spirit has remained resilient throughout history’s changing landscape and consumer tastes with an unbroken chain of ownership and sale since its inception. Today, the Pennsylvania-born whiskey that’s existed for more than two centuries is produced in Clermont, Kentucky at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., where its rich tradition of American production lives on.

About Beam Suntory

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker’s Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory’s core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.

Heaven Hill Distillery Wins Back-to-Back Whisky Magazine Distiller of the Year Awards

Posted on February 18, 2024 by Chris

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (February 15, 2024)– The Whisky Magazine American Icons of Whisky Awards announced Heaven Hill Distillery, the world’s largest, independent American Whiskey distillery, as the 2024 Distiller of the Year at their annual awards banquet in Louisville, Ky. last Thursday. The award marks back-to-back wins for Heaven Hill in this globally acclaimed category. Sustainability Director Rachel Nally was also recognized as Highly Commended in the Sustainability Officer category. This was on top of being named as Sustainable Distiller of the Year in 2023.

The sequential wins emphasize Heaven Hill’s stature in the industry as the largest, independent distillery dedicated to quality and heritage. With more than two million barrels aging across 70 rickhouses, the distillery’s Bernheim facility in Louisville produces over 440,000 barrels of whiskey per year, in excess of 29 million proof gallons. The recognition also showcases Heaven Hill’s continued commitment to the whiskey industry, investing more than $200 million in the new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in Bardstown, Ky. slated for operation by the end of 2024. Initial production is slated for 10 million proof gallons (over 150,000 barrels) a year and will have capacity to increase production to 450,000 barrels annually. This will be in addition to the company’s current distilling capacity at Bernheim in Louisville.

The new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery celebrated a major milestone last August with the installation of the first of three stills, crafted in Louisville by Vendome Copper. At 60 feet tall and weighing more than 22,000 pounds, this still is capable of producing 35,500 proof-gallons per day which is equal to more than 500 barrels per day. Crafted from copper, a material celebrated for its role in distillation due to its exceptional heat conductivity, the still represents a marriage of traditional and modern technology. Three Vendome stills of similar size have been operational at Bernheim since the last expansion of the distillery in 2017.

“As the largest, independent distillery, Heaven Hill is proud to carry forth the tradition of distilling American Whiskey and has been since 1935,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Heaven Hill Master Distiller. “The back-to-back Distiller of the Year award is emblematic of our distilling legacy and commitment to producing the best American Whiskeys across all styles.”

The World Whiskies Awards are the global awards selecting the very best in all the international recognized styles, awarding and promoting the world’s best whiskies to consumers and trade across the globe. In 2023, Heaven Hill was honored to win Distiller of the Year, Sustainable Distiller of the Year, and saw National Spirits Special Lynn House recognized as American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year. Also in 2023, Master Distiller Connor O’Driscoll was recognized as Highly Commended Master Distiller along with wins in the categories of World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon for Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C922. In 2022 the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience won Visitor Attraction of the Year along with Director of Kentucky Visitor Experiences Jeff Crowe winning Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year. National Brand Ambassador Bernie Lubbers is also a past winner having taken home the prize for American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year three previous times.

“Being recognized as the best in the industry is an immense honor for Heaven Hill as the largest, independent distillery,” said Chief Marketing Officer Matt Blevins. “We congratulate our colleagues in the industry on their awards and wish everyone the best at the World’s Best competition later this year.”

Sustainability Director Rachel Nally joined Heaven Hill in 2019 and leads the company’s Environmental and Sustainability Team. An expert in the areas of cultivating sustainable practices and creating highly efficient and compliant operations, Rachel works tirelessly to ensure Heaven Hill is on track to reach milestones in the company’s 2030 Sustainability Goals. Most recently, Rachel’s efforts lead to Heaven Hill achieving not one, but two of the Environmental Protection Agency’s first ever ENERGY STAR certifications for the Bernheim Distillery and the Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery in Buda, Texas.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the newly-acquired Samson & Surrey portfolio.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

Old Forester® Debuts 1924: The Newest Expression in the Whiskey Row Series

Posted on January 17, 2024 by Chris

Louisville, KY, Jan. 17, 2024 – Today, Old Forester® announces the newest release in its coveted
and award-winning Whiskey Row Series – 1924. This 10-year-old age-stated bourbon is 100
proof and comprises a new mash bill for the brand.

Available nationwide, this marks the fifth installment in the Whiskey Row Series. Rather than
the traditional Old Forester recipe (72% corn; 18% rye and 10% malted barley), 1924 debuts a
new mash bill (79% corn; 11% rye and 10% malted barley).

The bottle marks an important point in Old Forester’s 153-year history.

During Prohibition, more than 200 distilleries in Kentucky alone were forced to close. Old
Forester, however, continued operations because the federal government issued it one of six
permits to bottle existing whiskey stocks as medicine. In 1924, Old Forester acquired barrels
from closed distillers, with different mash bills, and bottled that liquid as Old Forester. This
special release commemorates that moment in time.

This release honors the 100 th anniversary of that whiskey innovation. Old Forester is the only
bourbon brand produced before, during and after Prohibition.

“We are honored to commemorate this historical milestone with a new featured mash bill and
a beautiful 10-year age statement,’ Master Taster Melissa Rift said. “It allows whisky lovers to
taste just how dynamic our brand can be while staying rooted in our rich history.”

The Whiskey Row series now includes:
● 1870 Original Batch
● 1897 Bottled in Bond
● 1910 Old Fine Whisky
● 1920 Prohibition Style
● 1924 10-year-old

Each highlights a distinguishable moment in the brand’s 153-year history garnering its place in
the series and standing among Old Forester’s legacy.

Taste notes:

Color: Dark graham cracker.
Aroma: Soft notes of fudge, cocoa, marzipan, and cured tobacco layered over
hints of rich oak and warm cinnamon.
Flavor: Chocolate-covered graham cracker dusted with cinnamon.
Finish: Hints of spice and graham cracker crumbles.

Old Forester 1924 is 50% ABV (100-proof) and is available nationwide starting today at
participating retailers and at Old Forester Distilling Co. for $115.

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

About Old Forester Bourbon:

Old Forester is Brown-Forman’s founding brand, founded in 1870 by George Garvin Brown.
Brown believed Old Forester was so pure and consistent that he sealed it, signed it, and
pledged, “There is nothing better in the market.”

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 Tennessee RTDs, 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, and Gin Mare.
Brown-Forman’s brands are supported by approximately 5,200 employees globally and sold in
more than 170 countries worldwide. For more information about the company, please visit
brown-forman.com. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Please sip responsibly.

Old Forester 117 Series – Scotch Cask Finish Tasting Notes

Posted on December 18, 2023 by Chris

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).

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.

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:

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

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Chris

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

Posted on November 16, 2023 by Chris

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

Posted on November 6, 2023 by Chris

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

Posted on October 17, 2023 by Chris

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.