LOUISVILLE, KY – June 17, 2025 – Old Forester Distilling Co. today announced the national release of its new Old Forester Cocktail Cherries, a premium addition designed to complement the brand’s distinguished portfolio of American whiskeys.

These cherries offer a sophisticated garnish, bringing the quality and heritage of Old Forester directly to home bars across the country. They are crafted from amarena-style cherries in a velvety bourbon-infused syrup.

Each cherry is steeped in a luxurious syrup, providing a delightful burst of sweetness and a hint of classic bourbon character, ensuring a truly elevated drinking experience. The cherries join an existing line-up of Old Forester Cocktail Provisions, including bitters and cocktail syrups.

“For over 154 years, Old Forester has been synonymous with quality and the art of American whisky,” Master Taster Melissa Rift said. “Our new Cocktail Cherries are a natural extension of that commitment, providing enthusiasts with the finest ingredient to complete their Old Forester cocktails. “

The cherries, retailing for $19.99, are available nationally at select retailers and liquor stores. They are also sold at Old Forster Distillery on Main Street in Louisville and via Bourbon Barrel Foods (bourbonbarrelfoods.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.”

Please sip responsibly.
Old Forester Whisky, 43%  Alc. by Vol., Old Forester Distilling Company at Louisville in Kentucky. OLD FORESTER is a registered trademark. ©2025 Brown-Forman Distillery, Inc. All rights reserved.

Midway, KY — June 12, 2025 — Bluegrass Distillers officially opened the doors to its new home at Elkwood Farm with a ribbon cutting celebration that brought together community members, state leaders, and industry partners. The 62-acre farm, located in Midway, Kentucky, now serves as the distillery’s headquarters and production facility.

The event included remarks from Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, Midway Mayor Grayson Vandegrift, Kentucky Distillers’ Association President Eric Gregory, and Bluegrass Distillers co-founders Ben Franzini and Sam Rock. Guests enjoyed a celebratory toast, ceremonial barrel fill, lite bites, and guided facility tours.

Founded in 2012, Bluegrass Distillers has earned a reputation for award-winning small-batch and single-barrel bourbons. The move to Elkwood Farm represents a more than 1,000% increase in production capacity, laying the groundwork for expanded distribution while staying rooted in the heritage of Kentucky craft bourbon.

Owned by Lexington natives Sam Rock and Ben Franzini, the $8 million facility features six massive 18,000-gallon fermentation tanks and a 36-inch by 45-foot column still custom-built by Specific Mechanical. The distillery is located just across from the historic Elkwood Farm mansion, a landmark listed on the National Historic Register since 1994.

The new campus also includes a barrel warehouse, a fully automated bottling line, and an on-site limestone spring water well—essential to the distillation process. Staying true to their farm-to-bottle commitment, Bluegrass Distillers even grows their own corn on-site.

In keeping with their ground-to-glass philosophy, the distillery uses local, non-GMO, heirloom blue corn to create bourbon that embodies the rich flavor and tradition of the Bluegrass region. Elkwood Farm is also making an economic impact—creating 15 new jobs with plans to hire 10 more over the next two years.

“The past four years have been an incredible journey bringing Elkwood Farm Distillery to life,” said Sam Rock, Co-Owner and Co-Founder of Bluegrass Distillers. “While we’ve already begun distilling and welcoming visitors, this ribbon cutting marks a monumental moment for our team—and we couldn’t be more proud to share it with our community.”

Already a part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, the new Elkwood Farm location was officially added as a stop last month. With over 40,000 visitors expected in the next year, the distillery is set to offer guided tours, tastings, and a full-service bourbon bar. Future plans include food-focused experiences that will further elevate the visitor journey.

Now open seven days a week, Bluegrass Distillers invites bourbon lovers to experience the spirit of Kentucky—right where it starts—on the farm.

Visit Us:
158 W Leestown Road, Midway, KY 40347
www.bluegrassdistillers.com

Louisville, KY, June 5, 2025 – Today, Old Forester® announces the national debut of one of its most coveted and rarest expressions, President’s Choice. Previously available only at the Old Forester Distillery in Louisville, this marks the first time President’s Choice Bourbon and a new expression – President’s Choice Rye – will be offered at select retailers nationwide in limited quantities.

Inspired by private single barrels offered in 1964 by former Old Forester president George Garvin Brown II, this modern offering is specifically selected from matured barrels with exquisite quality and distinct characteristics. 

“President’s Choice has always been an incredibly rare and cherished bottle, and most consumers have never seen it, let alone tasted the whisky,” Master Taster Melissa Rift said.  “We are honored to bring it to a wider audience.”

To celebrate the national debut, beginning at 10am ET on Saturday, June 14, Old Forester Distillery will be releasing a limited number of bottles for in-person purchase at the distillery and in our online store at shop.oldforester.com for shipping to states where it is legal (D.C., KY, NE, NH, ND only).  

This year’s release includes both President’s Choice Bourbon and, for the first time, President’s Choice Rye, offering whiskey enthusiasts a new way to experience Old Forester’s most exceptional barrels pulled from its historic brick warehouses in Louisville.

“Every barrel selected for President’s Choice tells a story,” Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo said. “These are the barrels that showcase an extraordinary depth of character. Whether it’s the bourbon or our new rye, each bottle represents the pinnacle of Old Forester’s craftsmanship.”

Each President’s Choice barrel is aged between 7 – 9 years, and bottled at proof points selected by Caleb and Melissa highlighting their unique flavor profile, traditionally ranging from 110 to 125 proof. Every bottle reflects the highest standards of selection, with only the finest barrels deemed worthy of carrying the President’s Choice name. President’s Choice Bourbon and President’s Choice Rye each have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $225.

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

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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.”

BARDSTOWN, KY — Heaven Hill Brands is proud to celebrate the contributions of Bernie Lubbers, who is transitioning from his day-to-day role as National Whiskey Ambassador effective May 1, 2025. Lubbers will continue his long-standing relationship with Heaven Hill as Whiskey Ambassador Emeritus, supporting the company’s ongoing whiskey education and advocacy efforts.

Known industry wide as The Whiskey Professor, Bernie has spent nearly two decades bringing Heaven Hill’s award-winning portfolio to life through education, storytelling, and his signature wit. A former stand-up comedian turned whiskey authority, he is widely credited with helping lead the resurgence of Bottled-in-Bond whiskey, reintroducing a new generation of consumers to one of the category’s most historic and trusted designations.

“Bernie’s passion for whiskey, people, and history is unmatched,” said Matt Blevins, Chief Marketing Officer at Heaven Hill Brands. “He’s not just a champion for our brands—he’s helped shape how the entire industry educates and engages. We’re thrilled that Bernie will continue to be part of the Heaven Hill family in this next chapter.”

As Whiskey Ambassador Emeritus, Bernie will remain a trusted advocate and educator for Heaven Hill’s American Whiskey portfolio—supporting select consumer and trade engagements while continuing to share his deep knowledge and passion for the craft. His impact has been recognized industry-wide, including being named Global Whiskey Ambassador of the Year by Whisky Magazine at Whisky Live in 2009, 2012, and 2016.

“Being part of Heaven Hill has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Lubbers. “I’ve always believed that whiskey is more than a drink—it’s a story, a tradition, a bond between people. I’m proud of what we’ve built together, and I look forward to continuing to share that spirit in new ways as Whiskey Ambassador Emeritus.”

Over the course of his career, Bernie traveled more than 100,000 miles a year to educate both the trade and consumers. His one-of-a-kind presentation, The Evolution of Bourbon, combines music, storytelling, and history to connect audiences to the roots of America’s native spirit. He is also the author of Bourbon Whiskey: Our Native Spirit, which remains a staple resource for whiskey lovers and industry professionals alike.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is one of the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producers and marketers, as well as the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, and a 2024 Best Managed Company as appointed by Deloitte Private and the Wall Street Journal. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Heaven Hill, Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Widow Jane, Larceny, Old Fitzgerald, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye and FEW Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul and Ocho Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur.

 (Louisville, KY) March 18, 2025 – Today, Old Forester® releases its latest expression in the 117 Series: Bottled in Bond Rye – This release marks the first Bottled in Bond Rye Whisky handcrafted by Old Forester. 

The 1897 Bottled in Bond Act required that each bottling be composed of barrels filled during a single distillation season. This small batch of Rye Whisky reflects the unique flavor of the unusually cool and wet Spring of 2015. 

117 Series Bottled in Bond Rye is bottled at 100-proof in a 375 mL bottle. 

“This 117 Series release is unique because it holds a tie to our 1897 Bottled in Bond, our tribute to the Bottled in Bond Act,” said Old Forester Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo. “This release is a first for Old Forester, and stays true to our historical promise of quality, consistency and balance.”  

Bottled in Bond Rye marks the latest expression in the 117 Series, which launched in 2021. 

Old Forester 117 Series: Bottled in Bond Rye is available starting today at the retail shop at Old Forester Distillery Co. and will be available for shipping (to D.C., KY, NE, NH, ND only) in our online store at shop.oldforester.com. The suggested retail price for the 375 ml bottle is $64.99. 

The product is also available at select Kentucky retailers. 

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

LOUISVILLE, KY, December 5, 2024 – Today marks the 91 th Anniversary of
Repeal Day and Old Forester is celebrating the end of Prohibition with the
release of a new, limited-edition expression: Warehouse I.
The latest addition to the 117 series features 11-year-old
bourbon that brings a unique flavor profile to capture the
holiday spirit.

Each bottle of the limited-edition whisky comes from
barrels aged in Old Forester’s Warehouse I, resulting in a
flavor profile distinct to the warehouse’s unique
maturation environment. These Warehouse I barrels were
heat-cycled since 2013 and chosen exclusively from the
hottest floors, Old Forester Assistant Master Distiller Caleb
Trigo.
“Our 117 series is all about experimentation, and the
characteristics of Warehouse I make it perfect for this
innovative series,” Master Taster Melissa Rift added. “This one-of-a-kind
bourbon is a great way to celebrate the holidays.”
Warehouse I is bottled at 95-proof (47.5% ABV) in a 375 ml bottle. A very
limited quantity will be available at Old Forester Distillery starting at 10 a.m.

Confidential – Not for Public Consumption or
Distribution
EST on December 5, 2024 and is available for shipping in states where it is
legal (KY, ND, NE, ND, D.C. only) in our online store at shop.oldforester.com and
at select Kentucky retailers. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is
$64.99.
For more information on Old Forester, please visit OldForester.com
Tasting notes:
Aroma – sweet aromatics abound with notes of dark honey, peanut brittle, and
toasted oak as hints of spiced pear and stone fruit are complimented by clove and
light-roasted coffee
Taste – juicy apricot and orchard fruit lead the palate with butterscotch, clove, and
nutmeg offering a sweet and spiced profile, and white pepper adds a bit of texture
Finish – Slightly dry and oaky with pear and white pepper persisting through a long
but balanced finish

#

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.”  
 
Please sip responsibly. 
Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 47.5% Alc. by Vol., Old Forester
Distilling Company at Louisville in Kentucky. OLD FORESTER is a registered
trademark. ©2024 Brown-Forman Distillery, Inc. All rights reserved.

Midway, KY — Bluegrass Distillers proudly announces the release of Elkwood 15-Year Single Barrel Bourbon. Part of the Elkwood Reserve line, this release honors Bluegrass’ historic Elkwood Farm Distillery in Midway, KY. Bottled at cask strength and hand-selected, this 15-year-old bourbon embodies the complex, rich flavors achieved through careful aging. Uncut, unfiltered, and 100% unique, Elkwood 15-Year offers an exclusive tasting experience.

This bourbon, aged over 15 years, showcases a depth of flavor unique to extended aging. At 113 proof, its profile opens with notes of vanilla and honey, followed by ripe stone fruit—primarily plum and cherry—and a mid-palate of clove and orange zest. The finish reveals rich layers of black pepper, leather, and tobacco, hallmarks of well-aged bourbon.

“Our first Elkwood Reserve release two years ago showcased our oldest and most exclusive barrels, and we’re honored that Elkwood was named USA Spirits 2024 Small Batch Bourbon of the Year,” said Ben Franzini, co-owner. “This Elkwood Reserve 15-Year single barrel is our oldest release to date and builds on our previous offerings with remarkable complexity. It’s a tribute to our historic Elkwood Farm, and the exceptional character that comes from the perfect blend of patience and premium craftsmanship.”

Availability and Pricing

Due to its limited release, Elkwood 15-Year Single Barrel Bourbon is available online via Bourbon Outfitter and at Bluegrass Distillers’ tasting rooms in Midway and Lexington, KY. The suggested retail price is $225, with only 133 bottles of this 113-proof, 15-year bourbon offered in the initial release. Other Elkwood 15 Year Single Barrels can be purchased through our Single Barrel Program. 

About Bluegrass Distillers

Founded in Lexington, KY, in 2012, Bluegrass Distillers has mastered its craft by blending traditional bourbon-making methods with innovative mash bills, unique distillation techniques, and advanced barrel finishing. The recent expansion to Elkwood Farm—a historic 62-acre estate in Midway, KY—marks a major milestone for the company. This new site features a complete “grain-to-glass” operation, including a 36” column still, expanded bottling line, multiple barrel warehouses, and new visitor experiences. With production set to start in late 2024, this growth allows Bluegrass Distillers to elevate their craft while honoring Kentucky’s bourbon heritage. To learn more visit: bluegrassdistillers.com. 

LOUISVILLE, KY, August 15, 2024 – Today, Old Forester announces the highly- anticipated return of its most coveted expression, Birthday Bourbon. This year the bourbon is 12 years old and 107 proof – and consumers can earn the opportunity to purchase this rare bottle via a national sweepstakes. Hand-selected by Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris and Master Taster Melissa Rift, with aid from Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo, the liquid came from 209 total barrels.

“Twelve years of maturation in Warehouses G and L has produced a rich and unique flavor profile perfect for this sought-after annual release,” Trigo said. Old Forester releases the limited-edition, vintage-dated bottle each September 2 to celebrate the birthday of the brand’s founder, George Garvin Brown. (Please note: Birthday Bourbon will NOT be sold at the distillery on September 2.)

Fans nationwide have the chance to join this year’s birthday festivities.

Old Forester Birthday Bourbon will be available through an online sweepstakes running on OldForester.com August 15 through August 21, 2024.

Anyone winning the opportunity to purchase a bottle through the sweepstakes must purchase and pick it up at the Old Forester Distillery in Louisville between September 5, 2024 and December 14, 2024 (see official rules for all terms and conditions). Each bottle of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon will retail for a suggested $199.99. Limit one per customer and credit card only.

“There’s no better way to celebrate our founder and longstanding history than by getting our rarest expression in the hands of bourbon lovers across the country,” Rift said.

The annual release of Birthday Bourbon is sold at retailers nationwide.

Taste notes:

● Nose – A bright fruit medley with accents of apricot and apple are complemented by rich spice cake and buttercream icing with undertones of sweet tobacco and warm oak
● Taste – Juicy fruits jump out on the front of the palate with toasted oak and warm cinnamon spice rounding out the flavor to follow
● Finish – hints of caramel apple lead the finish with a long and flavorful mix of sweet tobacco, ground cinnamon and cacao

For more information on how to enter the sweepstakes and official rules and regulations, please visit the website.
  

Ticket and General Information: https://bourbonbaronbash.org/

Cincinnati, OH | June 2024 – On Saturday, Sept 7^th, 2024, Bourbon fans who enjoy live music have a MUST ATTEND evening on hand as the 2^nd annual Bourbon Baron Bash presented by The Party Source returns to The MegaCorp Pavilion.  Live bourbon tasting with some of the top distillers in the region along with live music from the iconic Kelly Willis and Grammy award-winning Town Mountain.  Local food vendors will also be on-site providing delicious fare.  The event is scheduled from 6pm-10pm in Newport, KY. 

Seven award winning bourbon distillers will be on hand with tasting samples of their amazing products.  Distillers include: Augusta, New Riff, Old Pogue, Boone County, Pensive, Castle & Key and McBrayer.

Live music from the legendary Kelly Willis who has 7 albums to her credit and arriving directly from her appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.  She will be in addition to bluegrass pioneers and International Bluegrass Music Assoc Band of the Year – Town Mountain.  “The combination of the two artists should provide a magical musical evening for all those who enjoy live country and bluegrass music” stated Keith Desserich | Co-Founder The Cure Starts Now Foundation (#1 Childhood Cancer Foundation in Tri-State).

Emcees include: WCPO’s Michelle Hopkins and Pete Scalia alongside 94.1 Cat Country Radio’s own Amanda Valentine

Tasting tickets for this entertaining evening are $60 and now on sale.  Ticket price includes: 4x tastings from the exclusive distillers along with 2x additional drink tickets.  Non alcoholic tickets are also available for $30 and include 2x tickets for non-alcoholic beverages.  Proceeds from the event will benefit The Cure Starts Now Foundation and their worldwide effort to cure all cancer with a focus on pediatric brain cancer research and support.    

About The Cure Starts Now

The Cure Starts Now Foundation, founded in Cincinnati, has over 48 chapters in three countries and is dedicated to finding the Homerun Cure for cancer by focusing on one of the rarest, most aggressive forms of cancer. Believing in more than just awareness, The Cure Starts Now has funded over $34 million in cancer research and support, resulting in over 117 cutting edge research grants in 17 countries since 2007. Learn more about The Cure Starts Now mission at https://www.thecurestartsnow.org.

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Ticket and General Information: https://bourbonbaronbash.org/

Follow Us: https://www.facebook.com/csncincinnati/

Kelly Willis:  https://www.kellywillis.com/

Town Mountain:  https://www.townmountain.net/

BARDSTOWN, KY (July 18, 2024) – Heaven Hill Brands today announced the appointment of Elayne Duff as the new Global Director of Advocacy. In this pivotal role, Duff will lead Heaven Hill’s strategic efforts to influence the trade on behalf of its brands through education, relationship building and strategic trade and consumer activations in key markets around the world.

Duff, previously the Director of Advocacy for Samson and Surrey, brings over 20 years of experience in the spirits industry to, now, the full Heaven Hill portfolio of beloved brands. Renowned for her expertise, Duff was the first head mixologist and luxury spirits ambassador at Diageo U.S.A. She has also showcased her talents on the popular TV show, Bar Rescue, and achieved notable milestones such as graduating from the rigorous W.S.E.T. Level 3 & B.A.R 5 Day program.

Duff’s impressive career includes serving as the Global Manager of experiential events and education at Ab-InBev’s Craft Beer Division, Z.X. Ventures. As an entrepreneur, she founded the highly successful “Beverage B.A. Academy,” an in-demand online training program for Brand Ambassadors. She also hosts the podcast “Celebrating the Brand Ambassador.”

“Elayne is a force within the hospitality industry and we are thrilled to expand her oversight across the full Heaven Hill portfolio,” said Kate Latts, Co-President of Heaven Hill Brands. “Her extensive experience and remarkable achievements in the spirits industry make her the perfect fit for leading our advocacy efforts. We are confident that her leadership will further strengthen our relationships within the industry and drive our brands to new heights.”

As the Global Director of Advocacy, Duff will work closely across the functions of brand teams, sales and operations to align efforts for advocacy. Duff will supervise the brand ambassador and commercial specialist teams based around the US and key international cities. Her role will focus on building strong relationships with key industry influencers and executing both trade and consumer-facing events on behalf of Heaven Hill’s beloved brands.

“Heaven Hill has a rich history and an exceptional portfolio of brands,” said Duff. “I am excited to bring the full depth of the portfolio under our advocacy strategy and look forward to working with the team to continue building strong programs that will elevate our brands and engage our partners around the world.”