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

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

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

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. 

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).

Jack Daniel’s Goes Global with New American Single Malt Whiskey 

The brand’s first permanent expression crafted from 100% malted barley is available now at duty-free outlets worldwide

Lynchburg, Tennessee (September 26, 2023) – The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey as the brand’s first permanent expression crafted from 100% malted barley. Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is offered in a 1-liter size packaging at 90 proof for a suggested retail price of $99.99 and is available now exclusively in select duty-free retail locations across the globe. 

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is the latest innovation from the Jack Daniel Distillery, featuring a 100% malted barley mash bill that is ground, fermented and distilled in Lynchburg, Tennessee. The special whiskey is charcoal mellowed and then aged in new, charred American oak barrels before being finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks. 

“When we began experimenting with a 100% malt grain bill back in 2012, we knew it would be critical to put our own stamp on timeless Single Malt traditions and craft something that was uniquely Jack Daniel’s,” said Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Chris Fletcher. “There was a lot of excitement surrounding our limited edition American Single Malt Special Release last year, and we are thrilled to now offer Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt to our friends around the world.”

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is rich and complex with aromas of soft oak, fruit and cocoa and notes of dark chocolate-covered nuts and berries with a subtle, sweet Oloroso Sherry finish. Distinctive packaging features a cork stopper and an embossed distillery stamp of America’s First Registered Distillery.

Offered in a 1-liter size at 90 proof (45% abv), Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is available in select duty-free outlets worldwide beginning this month. To mark the launch, Jack Daniel’s is hosting more than 40 activations at airports across the globe, reaching an estimated 13 million shoppers and offering 60,000 tastings. 

 For more information, visit www.jackdaniels.com

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Bonded, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.

Please Drink Responsibly.

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey, 45% alc. by vol. Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee. JACK DANIEL’S is a registered trademark. ©2023 Jack Daniel’s. All rights reserved.

The House of Suntory Launches Limited-Edition Hibiki 21-Year-Old Whisky and Hibiki Japanese Harmony Bottle Design in Honor of Centennial Anniversary

NEW YORK, NY, September 18, 2023 – 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. The two limited releases mark the latest centennial whisky offerings from the House of Suntory’s anniversary celebration, honoring a century since founder Shinjiro Torii established Japan’s very first malt whisky distillery in 1923.

Originally making its debut in 1989, Hibiki is considered among the most prestigious whiskies in the world and has become one of the most sought-after Japanese blended whiskies. Hibiki is a harmonious blend of various malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. The limited-edition Hibiki 21-Year-Old is a delicate marriage of malt and grain whiskies that are meticulously blended to create an orchestra of flavors and aromas. For this special centennial edition, rare Mizunara oak is placed at the forefront, profoundly influencing the blend while still maintaining Hibiki’s character and essence.

“For the limited-edition Hibiki 21-Year–Old, our team took on the challenge of crafting a new blend to celebrate our centennial,” says Chief Blender of Suntory Shinji Fukuyo. “With meticulous precision, we managed to harness the challenging-yet-rewarding characteristics of Japanese Mizunara oak to accentuate the unique flavor profile for which our Hibiki whiskies are known. This special whisky showcases our continued dedication to craftsmanship at the House of Suntory.”

The centennial anniversary label design on the Hibiki 21-Year-Old bottle artfully displays a gradual transition of colors that evoke the sunrise in Japan, a symbol of life, vitality and the ever-flowing passage of time. In Japanese culture, the sun holds deep meaning, as it nurtures the surrounding nature and provides essential energy. It stands as a reminder to appreciate life and embrace the changes that come with each passing moment.

Tender gold in color, this extraordinary whisky embodies the spirit of “Wa,” or oneness, with enticing aromas. It offers refined and elegant notes of kumquat and jasmine with Japanese incense. The palate is subtly sweet and floral combined with spiced sandalwood and agarwood. The result is a long and deep finish with undertones of spiced Mizunara wood. Hibiki 21-Year-Old is bottled at 43 percent ABV. It is available globally in select markets with a suggested retail price of $5,000 a 700-ml. bottle.   

The House of Suntory’s centennial Hibiki Japanese Harmony bottle design brings the art of “Monozukuri” craftsmanship to life—it’s this same relentless pursuit for quality, ingenuity, and expressiveness that has inspired the design of each of the house’s centennial limited editions. The Hibiki Japanese Harmony centennial edition packaging features motifs of snow, moon and flowers representing Japan’s changing seasons. The ‘Kakehashi’ (bridge) depicted on the bottle links Japan and the world to the past, present and future. The water flowing underneath is pure and clear, symbolizing the cleansing of hardships and calamity. The ‘Kakehashi’ symbolizes the emotional connection of the Japanese people to their country’s unique seasonality and its significance in everyday life, fostering an appreciation for time that deeply resonates and inspires Hibiki.

Amber in color, this luminous and delicate whisky presents notes of rose, lychee, a hint of rosemary, mature woodiness and sandalwood on the nose. On the palate, it offers aromas of honey-like sweetness, candied orange peel and white chocolate. The finish is both subtle and tender with a hint of Mizunara. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is bottled at 43 percent ABV. It is available globally in select markets with a suggested retail price of $200 a 750-ml. bottle.

Earlier this year, the House unveiled its centennial edition Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara and Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt whiskies. Limited 100th anniversary labels of the flagship Yamazaki 12 Year Old and Hakushu 12 Year Old were also released for the centennial. All four are available in select markets around the world.

The House of Suntory invites fans to join its new global membership program, offering exclusive benefits such as early access to new releases, priority invitations to consumer experiences*, distillery news, cultural insights and more. To sign up and learn more about the House of Suntory, please visit us online here

*Limited number of invitations in key cities.

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About The House of Suntory

Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as a pioneer of Japanese Whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son and Suntory’s second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu Distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014). Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku Japanese Gin and Haku Japanese Vodka. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at the House of Suntory, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka represent the nature and spirit of Japan. This year, Suntory Whisky celebrates one hundred years of whisky innovation—a major milestone not only for the brand’s history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, the House of Suntory will be rolling out its centennial campaign throughout 2023.

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 inform consumers as they make 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.