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Every season brings a slew of whiskey releases that generate more noise than heat. With summer upon us, let’s focus on the ones that bring the heat.
There are a handful of long-awaited debuts—E.H. Taylor Four Grain is back after years away, Wild Turkey's Gold Foil answers a decades-old collector wish—alongside new ideas, like Virginia Distilling's effort to build a bridge for bourbon drinkers to dive into American single malt.
Scotch is contributing too, with Lagavulin entering its first new permanent expression in nine years, Glengoyne doing something rare with mizunara oak, and Ardbeg making its annual Fèis Ìle release one of the more compelling in recent memory.
A number of these inclusions have already earned high marks from our tasting panel. The rest are simply too interesting to pass up. Prices range from under $50 to well over $100, and availability swings from nationwide to a handful of bottles per state, so the hunt looks different...

The pace of new releases has picked up this week, with many distillers announcing new whiskies out this month and others releasing in July to coincide with the nation’s 250th birthday. Leading the charge is Booker’s, which has a new batch inspired by Booker Noe’s beloved malted chocolate milkshakes, and Penelope, which released its first-ever Kentucky bourbon and flagship rye as part of the new Classic Series. There’s also a toasted version of Barrell’s Seagrass rye blend, a follow-up batch for Hard Truth’s Double Oaked rye, a bourbon/malt whiskey blend from Union Horse, two bottles from country singer Lee Greenwood, a colonial-style four-grain rye from Stoll & Wolfe, and a patriotic bourbon from Florida-based St. Petersburg. Scotland also chimes in with two well-aged malts, including a single-vintage peated 31 year old from Benriach and GlenAllachie’s latest Masters of Wood expression.
Booker’s “The Milkshake Batch”...

The first day of spring has brought with it five new limited edition bourbons. Among them is the year’s first batch of Booker’s, which pays homage to New Orleans, and a 15 year old single barrel from Elijah Craig. Elsewhere, Peerless celebrates a major milestone with its first 10 year old release, Bardstown Bourbon Co. brings a little Pacific Northwest flair to Kentucky, and Blue Note debuts the third batch of its annual Special Reserve.
Booker’s “Big Easy” Batch Bourbon (2026-01)
ABV:  64.55%
SRP: $100
Availability: Nationwide
The first batch of Booker’s for 2026 takes its name from New Orleans, which was one of Booker Noe's favorite cities to visit. The “Big Easy” batch has an age statement of 7 years, 2 months, and 15 days, and is a blend of five parcels aged in different warehouses:

24% comes from the sixth floor of Warehouse G
22% comes from the third floor of Warehouse J
22% comes from...

Midway through the first month of the year, the pace of new releases has picked right up, especially for bourbon. High West has debuted a blend of sourced straight bourbons that range in age from 6 to 20 years, while Penelope has partnered with a southern furniture company on a bespoke bourbon blend. In single barrel bourbon, Knob Creek has launched the second whiskey in its Bold Pick collection, Still 630 has kick-started its celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. with a line of 12 bottled in bond single barrels, and Wyoming Whiskey has unveiled the latest edition of its annually released single barrel. And calling all Woodford fans: This week brings the return of Double Double Oaked, now in its second year of nationwide availability. 
That’s it for bourbon! Elsewhere in American whiskey, New Riff is back with this year's batch of Balboa rye, and Rebel Bourbon is trotting out its discontinued root beer-flavored whiskey once more. And from overseas, Royal...

We’ve got just two releases this week as things quiet down before the holidays. From Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, Isle of Harris Distillery has two single cask offerings, both limited-release retailer exclusives. In American whiskey, Chattanooga Whiskey has unveiled its third annual Vault Series , featuring three creatively finished bourbons—in terms of the finishing choices and the length of time (4 to 5 years) spent in that secondary maturation. And we would have liked to report on the new 21 year old Toasted Single Barrel bourbon from Barrell Craft Spirits, announced this past Tuesday, but that one sold out almost immediately. Who says there's no excitement out there in the whisky world? Witness too the crowds that gathered at Stranahan's distillery in Denver last weekend for the annual release of its Snowflake limited edition single malt, which draws bigger numbers each year.
The Hearach Cask No. 1281 Scotch Single Malt
ABV: 56%
SRP...

Earlier in the week, we saw the release of the new Sazerac Full Proof. Here, we cover the release of Booker’s fourth and final batch of 2025, Phantom Pipes, as well as two new expressions from Barrell—its New Year edition and a 21 year old. In scotch, Johnnie Walker Blue is out with its annual Lunar New Year expression. From Bardstown, Kentucky, veteran-owned Four Branches has a new bourbon. And from New York’s Hudson Valley, Tenmile Distillery is calling all history buffs with a collection commemorating next year's 250th anniversary of the United States, which has already begun releasing. 
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the Horse Blended Scotch
SRP: $264
ABV: 46%
Availability: Limited-edition design, imported by Diageo, New York
Johnnie Walker has released its 2026 Lunar New Year edition, a limited-edition design of Blue Label. The Year of the Horse edition was created by fashion designer Robert Wun, known for...

After several high-octane weeks, where the pace of new releases seldom faltered, we have a quieter week here, with just five new whiskies. Aberfeldy, the sole new scotch, has continued its exploration of wine casks, releasing a 15 year old single malt finished in Bolgheri red wine barrels. In Tennessee, Jack Daniel Distillery has added another whiskey to its coveted Single Barrel Special Release Series, this one a rye. Kentucky is well represented with five new whiskeys: three are from Beam, which has launched the latest terroir-driven series under its Hardin's Creek label; another comes from blender Frank August, which has a new Case Study bourbon; and the last is a blend of bourbons and ryes from independent bottler High n' Wicked. 
Aberfeldy 15 year old Bolgheri Red Wine Cask Finish Highland Single Malt Scotch
ABV: 46%
SRP: $85
Availability: Limited; specialist retailers; imported by Bacardi
Tuscany is known for its breathtaking landscapes...

Diageo’s prestigious whisky program, The Twelve by Casks of Distinction, has unveiled a cask of Mortlach 1984 as the pinnacle of its 2025 collection. The launch in Singapore, in front of elite whisky collectors and luxury connoisseurs, marked the global unveiling of this year’s 12 exceptional casks
Casks of Distinction is an annual private cask sale program, with Diageo’s team of master whisky makers sourcing and evaluating rare casks from the company’s reserves of more than 10 million casks. Casks are available from £150,000 (approx. $200,000) and up.
The coveted twelfth cask, Mortlach 1984 Cask No. 4155, has been maturing in an American oak hogshead for 41 years. In a statement, master blender Dr. Craig Wilson said, “Despite its age, a fresh maltiness still comes through and as black pepper and clove build on the palate, the unmistakable Mortlach meatiness and a dry woodiness carry through to an exceptionally long finish.”
The...

In each issue of Whisky Advocate, our Buying Guide includes stand-out expressions selected by our editors based on scores, availability, and price. For the Fall issue, the tasting panel selected a variety of expressions, including bourbon, scotch, rye, Japanese blended malt, and American single malt. Most of them hover around $75, with the highest-ticket whiskies sitting at $150.  
94 Points - Booker's “Barry's Batch” 7 year old (Batch 2025-01) bourbon, 62.85%, $100 
The palate starts sweet, with frosting, maple syrup, and dark chocolate. Rounding out the sip are walnuts, caramel candies, and a touch of overripe bananas. This has real depth and, despite the proof, ample finesse.
94 Points - Glendronach Ode to the Embers Sherry & Smoke single malt scotch, 48.4%, $91 
 The palate dials back the peat and lets the cask influence shine: Ripe berries, apples, and heather honey blend into a slightly...

The Fred. B. Noe Distillery, on the sprawling grounds of James Beam’s Clermont, Kentucky, campus, is Freddie Noe’s innovation playground. It’s where the Beam family’s eighth-generation master distiller gets to experiment on a smaller version of Jim Beam’s big still—in a building a stone’s throw away—and unlock new flavors, production enhancements, and more. It’s also where Booker’s and other higher-end, smaller batch Beam whiskeys are made.
It’s a bit of a shrine to the Booker’s brand itself. Enter and look left to see a bottle of every batch ever made, including the first one Booker Noe (Freddie’s grandfather) made back in 1979 as a gift for his distributors. The distributors loved the uncut, unfiltered, high-proof bourbon so much that the response was, “Why aren’t you just selling this?”
Booker began doing precisely that—and sending a delightfully pointed rejection letter to...

There’s a lot to consider this week, with two familiar annual releases—Parker’s Heritage from Heaven Hill and Garrison Brothers Laguna Madre—as well as new entries from Macallan, New Riff, High West, A. Smith Bowman (that very underrated whiskey from Sazerac), and Blue Note, among others. Off the beaten path are Penelope's pre-mixed Old Fashioned in a 750-ml. bottle, and a new blackberry entry from Jack Daniel's—technically not a whiskey since it’s below 40% ABV.
Heaven Hill Parker’s Heritage Collection 11 year old Kentucky Straight Whiskey (2025 Edition)
ABV: 61.25%
SRP: $180
Availability: Limited
Now in its 19th year, Heaven Hill’s Parker’s Heritage Collection showcases the distillery’s innovative side, as a tribute to late master distiller emeritus Parker Beam’s legacy. The latest Parker’s Heritage whiskey is a blend of three distinct whiskeys: 15 year old Kentucky straight...

Bourbons, blends, and compelling finishes set the tone for this week's new whiskies. The year's second batch of Booker's is here, blending whiskeys from seven different production dates that aged in eight separate warehouses. Peerless has debuted the second iteration of its Toasted Rye, which aged first in new oak before being finished in barrels with a medium toast. From Bardstown Bourbon Co. comes the latest Distillery Reserve Series release, this one a blend of bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey finished in mizunara oak; World Whiskey Society has gone with a different Japanese finish for its new bourbon, putting it in shochu casks. Castle & Key, Wheel Horse, and Rebel each have new bourbons, while Uncle Nearest unveils its newest Master Blend. Rounding out the U.S. contingent are an imperial stout cask-finished straight rye from Old Potrero, a new single cask American single malt from Copperworks, and a Kentucky whiskey aged in Scotland from...

Happy Birthday, America! For this 4th of July weekend, we've rounded up 15 American whiskeys to celebrate the day. The selection spans the great American whiskey landscape to include bourbons, ryes, wheat whiskeys, and American single malts. Sip them neat, with ice, or in cocktails, enjoy the fireworks and cookouts, and have a great weekend!
95 points - Bernheim Original Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey (Batch A225), 62.7%, $67 
The first of two annual batches, the palate offers a mouthwatering combination of cinnamon spice, vanilla soft serve ice cream, Rolo candy, dark chocolate, and a hint of nutmeg.
94 points - Booker's "Barry's Batch" 7 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon (Batch 2025-01), 62.85%, $100
"Barry's Batch" is named in memory of former Jim Beam chairman and CEO, Barry Berish, who is credited with holding the company together during bourbon's downturn of the 1970s and 1980s.  The nose starts with fragrant dryness of burlap, corn seed...

Memorial Day is about honoring our fallen soldiers, but the holiday weekend also represents the unofficial start of summer, when the season's gatherings begin. While the weather can sometimes interfere with our outdoor plans, it's often a time for backyard cookouts and parties. Here we add whiskey to the occasion, with a selection of 10 American expressions that are perfect for barbecue sipping. 
 
 
94 points - Booker's "Springfield Batch" Straight Bourbon (Batch 2024-01), 62.25%, $90
Booker's is a longtime barbecue favorite—back in 2018 it even gave one of its releases the name "Backyard Barbecue." The Springfield Batch edition, released last year, was exceptional, finishing at No.-6 on our Top 20 and offering caramel, dark chocolate, baking spice, and a finish that catapults it into greatness. While each batch is different, all are highly flavorful with proof levels and structures giving them plenty of...

There are just a few whiskeys included among this week’s new rollouts, but those comprise some of the most highly anticipated bourbons on the market. Booker’s leads the way with its first batch of the year, while we also have a new release of Michter’s 10 year old bourbon, and the 11th annual release from Blood Oath. New Riff, meanwhile, has its very limited bourbon and rye labels, both under the Silver Grove name, available at the distillery’s gift shop only, with a portion of sales going to a local charity in nearby Silver Grove, Kentucky. Also new are a double oak bourbon from Buzzard's Roost, and two offerings from the World Whiskey Society.
 
Booker’s “Barry’s Batch” Bourbon (Batch 2025-01)
ABV: 62.85%
SRP: $100
Availability: Limited
The first Booker’s batch of the year has arrived. Named in honor of Barry Berish, a former Jim Beam chairman and CEO (and dear friend of master...

This week, Texas distiller Garrison Bros. announced the arrival of its Lady Bird limited annual release, which uses the same recipe as previous expressions—4 year old cask-strength Garrison Bros. Honeydew bourbon with a long cognac cask finish. Yellowstone, meanwhile, is out with a 6 year old that’s the first age-stated whiskey ever for the label.
Elsewhere, Chattanooga has a new pre-Prohibition-style bourbon, while Virginia Distillery Co. adds yet another stout cask-finished whiskey to its lineup. In scotch, Tobermory has unveiled the final release in its five-part Hebridean Series, this one a 27 year old oloroso cask-finished expression. Among world whiskies, Taiwan distiller Kavalan has two 2009 vintage whiskies—ultra-aged in Taiwan’s sub-tropical climate, which is no easy feat.
Yellowstone 6 year old Small Batch 107 Proof Bourbon
ABV: 53.5%
SRP: $45
Availability: Nationwide
Yellowstone, the whiskey brand made by Limestone...

It’s no secret that 2024 was a challenging year in various quarters of the whisky world. Still, through it all, the scene continued to churn with dynamic and exciting change—new distillery and visitor center openings, master distillers taking on new roles, and an increasingly creative surge of sought-after releases. Here's our look at the year in whisky.
Not Used to This
After declining in 2023 for the first time in memory, total American whiskey sales were projected to decrease again this year, according to our research arm Impact Databank. Within that big picture, the leading higher-end American whiskeys generally still saw healthy sales, while scotch faced a slightly different scenario. In late December, UK trade group the Food and Drinks  Federation (FDF) reported that whisky export sales (mostly scotch) fell by 36.4% by value in the first three quarters of 2024. But the most notable headwinds came in the American craft...

Earlier this year, Wild Turkey released a limited-edition bourbon in celebration of longtime master distiller Jimmy Russell’s 70th year on the job (which went on to land at No. 9 on our Top 20 list this year). Now, Booker’s Bourbon is also paying tribute to the legendary master distiller with its final batch of 2024.
Booker’s “Jimmy’s Batch” blends bourbons stored in four different seven-story warehouses. The warehouse breakdown is as follows:

12% came from the 5th floor of warehouse Z
20% came from the 5th floor of warehouse 1
22% came from the 4th floor of warehouse Q
46% came from the 3rd floor of warehouse 3

The bourbon is bottled at 62.9% ABV and is precisely 7 years, 9 months, and 19 days old. As with all batches of Booker’s this one is available on a limited basis, and it has a suggested retail price of $100. It follows three other 2024 releases: “Springfield Batch,” (our No...

Suddenly it's quite a time for aged whiskies, at least compared to the past 10 or 15 years. The days of drastic shortages and non-age statement releases have faded as whisky inventories swing back into full supply—and possible oversupply going forward. But putting industry prognostications aside, what we know for sure is that it's all good news for people who appreciate fine whisky, because there are more aged whiskeys that weren't available only a short time ago. Knob Creek is back once again with its 18 year old, while Sagamore has a 7 year old Bottled in Bond, as does Brother's Bond. The most sought-after labels are still offering their best aged expressions in fairly limited fashion, but it's still a noticeable change from previous years, and a great opportunity to try some new—or should we say old—whiskies.
Orphan Barrel Woven Honor 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch 
ABV: 46.3%
SRP: $185

Mellow aged oak and faint hints of barrel char, vanilla birthday cake, and tobacco leaf on the nose. The palate is beautifully soft and mellow yet powerful all at once, spicy up front with chocolate, cinnamon, chai turmeric tea, and drizzled caramel. The finish is long, with backdrops of tobacco and honeyed peanuts. This is a superb one, with great depth of flavor and an explosiveness on the finish that sets it apart. No. 6 in our Top 20 of 2024. 

Glen Scotia is out with the second release in its Icons of Campbeltown series, but the rest of the scotch whisky world is somewhat quiet, although Glenmorangie will soon hit our shores with another installment in its “Tale” series—this one called A Tale of Ice Cream, matured in bourbon barrels as well as “high vanillin” casks that received a special heat treatment to bring our as much vanillin as possible in the wood. We’ll have more next week, but pricing is at around $100 and it’s expected to hit the market on October 1.
On the bourbon front, we have news that Basil Hayden is offering its 10 year old as a permanent member of the lineup—graduating from its previous role as a limited annual release. We’ve been seeing many more aged whiskies lately, a far cry from a decade ago, when the good stuff was in very short supply—indeed, greater age seems to be the message far more than it used to be. Pinhook has a...

Booker’s bourbon has long been a distinguished member of the Beam portfolio. When Booker Noe launched the brand in 1988, it was a daring thing. The release not only popularized the term “small-batch,” but it was a barrel-proof bourbon in an era when it didn’t even have a fraction of the fan base it boasts today. Now, Booker’s grandson and master distiller Freddie Noe has added another notch to the Booker’s belt: The Reserves, the first extension since 2018. Unlike the brand’s customary quarterly released batches, The Reserves will be an annual release that’s comprised of far older (and fewer) barrels.
For this inaugural expression, Freddie took eight barrels of straight bourbon, each from a different production date and warehouse, and blended them together. The exact barrel breakdown is as follows:
Barrel 1: aged 8 years, 2 months, 12 days on the 4th floor of warehouse G
Barrel 2: aged 8 years, 5 months, 19...

Booker's is out with its second release of the year, while Elijah Craiig makes a splash during this quiet summer season with its new toasted barrel rye. Jack Daniel's is now on the 13th iteration in its Distillery Series, the experimental annual releases that give the distilling team a chance to tinker with new ideas. This one has Jack Daniel's rye getting a secondary maturation in a new oak barrel. As with the other whiskeys in the Distillery Series, it's being sold only at the Jack Daniel's Distillery gift shop and at selected Tennessee retailers, so enjoy it if you get the chance. From Scotland, single malt whisky Aultmore, which is one of the malts in Dewar's blended scotch stable, gets to shine on its own with the release of 4 cask finished expressions. Elsewhere, Three Chord's Backstage Series, which partners with rock brands, is now live with an Allman Brothers whiskey, while Seattle-based Copperworks has three new American single...

Booker’s has released its first batch of 2024. Called Springfield Batch, it’s named for a small town in central Kentucky where Booker Noe was born and raised. The whiskey’s age is 7 years, 7 months, and 8 days, and it was matured entirely in new oak barrels and bottled at 62% ABV.
Booker’s Springfield Batch carries a suggested retail price of $90, the same price as last year’s releases. While pricing on Booker’s has crept up a bit from the $70-$75 mark back in 2018, for example, it has done a decent job of holding the line on price, and it remains one of American whiskey’s best price/value propositions.
Springfield Batch is composed of whiskeys with five different production dates, whose barrels were all aged at Beam’s Clermont campus, in four different warehouses. The barrels were pulled from the following Clermont locations:

7% from the 4th floor of 9-story warehouse H
17% from 5th floor of 9-story warehouse...

While the tried and true whiskies might be a distillery’s bread and butter, experimental and celebratory releases offer a chance at exploration—not just for whisky fans, but for distillers, too. Look to Balcones' new single malt Cataleja, which is a toast to the Texas distiller's 15th anniversary, and testament to its non-stop creativity. It blends three batches of whiskey, which head distiller Jared Himstedt led through three separate maturation journeys. Similarly, over at Ardbeg there's always plenty of experimentation from whisky creator Dr. Bill Lumsden, whose latest Ardbeg Committee release delves deep into the effects of cask charring.
As for other new whiskies, Wild Turkey has debuted Generations, a collaborative effort between three generations of the Russell family: Jimmy, Eddie, and Bruce. In Maryland, Sagamore Spirit has cooked up two ryes, the latest iterations of its Penny's Proof and Bottled in Bond whiskeys. There's...

Today Louisville is a modern whiskey mecca, but when Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar opened there in 1972, it was way ahead of its time. More than 50 years later, it remains a beloved local institution, Located in The Galt House Hotel, Jockey Silks celebrates the city’s two signature pastimes, horse racing and bourbon.
The ambiance at Jockey Silks feels like it’s Derby Day every day, with historic horse photos, jockey statues, and more than 100 whiskies on offer. Not surprisingly, there’s a heavy emphasis on Kentucky and an ample selection of ryes. But the racing vibe doesn’t hit you over the head—the atmosphere is more like a spacious, open living room with contemporary and comfortable couches, wingback chairs, low tables, and of course the bar itself. Even if you’re not staying at The Galt House, Jockey Silks is a great place to take a break after sightseeing, as it fronts the Ohio River in the heart of the city’s tourist area, close...

Summer is getaway time, and if London is on your radar screen, check out our London travel guide. If Ireland is in the plan, consider a side trip to Northern Ireland, where Belfast is reviving its old reputation as a whiskey city and other parts of the north are in renaissance mode as well. Read all about it in our profile of the distilleries of Northern Ireland. Of course, if you're staying close to home, you'll have a chance to keep an eye on the latest new releases. This week marked the arrival of two new single malt scotches from Benromach, a new bonded bourbon has joined the Old Forester 117 Series,  Lux Row is offering a new four-grain bourbon, and new American Single Malts are out from Dogfish Head, Copperworks, and Old Line. Meanwhile, Lost Lantern is unveiling its Summer of Bourbon, a collection of eight bourbons from distilleries around the country. Read on for further details.
Old Forester...

Happy 4th of July! If you're entertaining this weekend—or even if you're not—consider our selection of cool, refreshing American whiskey cocktails that are a perfect complement. If barbecue is on the menu, we've mapped out some great pairing ideas. And if you're looking to crack open something new, two stars of American whiskey are out this week, with Booker’s releasing its second bourbon batch of 2023 and Wild Turkey unveiling the latest Master's Keep expression, a rum-finished bourbon. From Scotland come cask-finished whiskies aplenty by Kilchoman, Old Pulteney, and Glenmorangie. Read on for more details. 
 
Booker’s Batch 2023-02 Apprentice Batch
Style: Bourbon
Origin: Kentucky
Age: 7 year old
ABV: 62.75%
Price: $90
Release: June 2023
Availability: Limited 
Need to know:
Apprentice Batch is the newest limited release from Booker’s. It comes from barrels selected...

Before there was Diageo, there was United Distillers, a company with major holdings in scotch and American whiskey. While United Distillers owned Stitzel Weller and many other whiskey assets in the United States, in the early 1990s American whiskey wasn't nearly as popular as it is today, making it a tough sell. In an effort to change that scenario, the company created a luxury subsidiary called The Classic Kentucky Bourbon Company, whose first project was The Rare American Whiskey Selection. This was to be an annual release of five different barrel proof, ultra-aged whiskeys from some names you’re likely very familiar with today (Stitzel Weller of course, as well as George T. Stagg, Taylor Williams, and others). But that project never saw the light of day—until now, in a record-setting sale.
There’s less rarefied new whisky to enjoy this week, including a new barbecue-inspired single malt from Ardbeg, the first batch of Booker's this year...

Veteran whiskey drinkers tend to embrace higher proof bottlings for the full flavor and experience they deliver. These are whiskies straight from the barrel, with no water added prior to bottling. The heat can be overwhelming in some instances, but time—and yes, a few drops of water—allow these whiskeys to take on a new life, flavors changing and emerging as the proof is gradually lowered to the drinkers’ preference.
That’s not to say that low ABV whiskies don’t have their time and place. In fact, a smart connoisseur learns to keep a range of ABVs at hand for any and all occasions. You don’t want to serve the wine lover in your life something that will scorch their palate, and sometimes, a low proof spirit makes a perfect aperitif.  
Our Winter 2022 issue contains our Top 20 whiskies of the year—a list where cask-strength whisky is well represented—and there are even more cask strength whiskeys reviewed in the Buying Guide...

Looking for a gift for the whisky lover in your life this holiday season? We've got you covered with these 14 recommendations, ranging from specialty bottles to sweet treats, to unforgettable whisky and cigar experiences. Check out our 12 Whiskies of Christmas for more selections to gift or share this holiday season. And of course, our annual Top 20 list is a great resource if you are looking to gift a bottle, with this year's selections ranging in price from $30 to $275, and covering a range of styles.
New releases this week represent a wide range of styles as well. Old Forester adds to its 117 series with Extra Extra Old; Orphan Barrel releases the final installment in its Muckety-Muck range, a 26 year old single grain whisky; Booker's announces the fourth batch of this year's bourbon; and Mortlach and Talisker each have new aged expressions. Read on for full details. 

Old Forester 117 Series: Extra Extra...

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Yes, the holiday season is upon us, but we've also spent the week counting down our annual Top 20 list, with the full list officially out today. Check out our pick for Whisky of the Year, a bonded Tennessee whiskey priced at just $30, and see if any of these exciting whiskies catch your eye or look right for the whisky lover in your life.
New releases this week include the latest iteration of High West's High Country single malt, the third release in the Bushmills Rare cask series, and the 2023 bottling of Barrell's New Year blend. Read on for full details. 

High West High Country
Style: Single malt Origin: Utah Age: Not stated ABV: 44% Price: $80 Release: December 2022 Availability: Limited
Need to know: 
High Country is High West’s ode to Scottish single malts, and as such it blends single malt scotch techniques with American whiskey making. Its 100% malt mashbill...

We cover new releases here every week, but we also like to ask distillers and blenders what they're working on that's yet to be announced. Case in point, we recently spoke to Owen Martin, the new master distiller at Angel's Envy, about what cask finishes excite him as he settles into his new role with the Louisville distiller. 
As for this week's new releases, we have a debut scotch and a number of American whiskeys. Lochlea Our Barley, the new flagship single malt scotch from Lochlea Distillery, hits shelves in the U.S., albeit in limited quantities. Lochlea, a Lowlands distillery that has been producing since only 2018, is run by former Laphroaig distillery manager John Campbell, who moved from Laphroaig last November after a 25 year career there.  Barrell Craft Spirits announces the latest additions to Stellum Black, its line of specialty blends, Jack Daniel adds a whiskey finished with toasted pecan wood chips to its Distillery...

Last Friday, we kicked off the fall WhiskyFest season with WhiskyFest San Francisco, where throngs of whisky lovers came together to enjoy over 400 different whiskies. And last night, the fun continued with WhiskyFest New York, an event that drew even more fans and had plenty of top-tier whisky names in attendance. If you’ve missed out on these events, or want to get in on some superb sipping once more, WhiskyFest Las Vegas is on December 2nd at Resorts World Las Vegas; for now, tickets are still available.
In new whisky this week, there are plenty of limited releases coming out ahead of the holiday season. Angel’s Envy returns with the 11th edition of its cask strength port wine barrel-finished straight bourbon, Booker’s has released its third whiskey of 2022, and Balvenie adds three new rarefied single malts to its Stories lineup. Read on for full details.



ANGEL’S ENVY CASK STRENGTH (2022...

It’s mid-October, which means we’re drawing ever closer to the spookiest time of year: Halloween. This year, match your favorite sweet treat to a whisky—take Raisinets, for instance, which are a fantastic complement to George Dickel 11 year old Bottled in Bond given the lush, deep, dark fruit qualities of that whiskey. Of course, it's not just chocolate treats that suit whisky, and this guide offers up our favorite Halloween candy-and-whisky pairings.
As for new whisky, being in the thick of fall also means that new releases continue to flood in. Aberfeldy is back with an 18 year old whisky aged in red wine casks—this one from a Tuscan winery. Kentucky Peerless brings back its absinthe-finished rye, while Michter's returns with its 20 year old straight bourbon. Read on for full details.

Aberfeldy 18 year old Tuscan Red Wine Cask
Style: Single maltOrigin: Scotland (Highland)Age: 18 year oldABV: 43%Price: $130Release: October 2022Availability...

The Fall 2022 issue is all about the many wonders Scotland has to offer, from gorgeous golf courses, to hospitable hotels, and of course, unforgettable whiskies. It should come as no surprise then, that the issue contains reviews for a number of high-scoring single malt scotches. Most notably, we highlight 15 single malts that bear a 30 year age statement, all of which scored between 90 and 96 points. Two of those whiskies, Macallan 30 year old Sherry Oak (2021 Release) and Springbank 30 year old, were named among the issue's most collectible whiskies reviewed. At 30 years old, all of the bottles included would make for a special toast and treat.The below list, however, aims to provide a bit more diversity, and there is something for everyone here, from cask strength bourbon, to inventive single pot still finishes, to peated American single malt. But that's not to say that these are all expensive. Blue Note Juke Joint Uncut scored 92 points and will set you back just $45. We have...

When touring northern California, it's not grain that comes to mind, but grapes. A mere hour north of San Francisco lie Sonoma and Napa Counties—home to over 1,700 wineries and the crown jewel of American wine, Napa Valley. While picturesque wineries and verdant vineyards are the main draw, craft distillers have staked their claim in wine country too, and are offering up something different for the wine-loving masses.
Making your way to Sonoma, Napa, or beyond from San Francisco, the closest major transportation hub, is not too difficult—just hop in a car and hit Highway 101, wine country's main artery. In an hour's time, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush expanses of vineyards, and quick trips off the highway will also take you to a number of distilleries. One of the first is Sonoma Distilling Co. in Rohnert Park, a small city with redwoods, creeks, and distant mountain views located on the doorstep of Sonoma County. The distillery is housed in a modern...

Good news for stateside scotch lovers: The pound recently fell to its lowest position against the dollar in 37 years (dropping below $1.14 at times), meaning that whisky aficionados can benefit from substantial savings at retail, in duty-free, and the auction market abroad. In UK travel retail, savings can soar as high as 59%; a 1-liter bottle of Caol Ila 12 year old, for example, will set you back just $39 at Heathrow, compared to $97 in U.S. stores. If you're visiting the UK in the near future, it will be well worth it to do some whisky shopping—either in duty free or local stores—to score some whisky at prices below U.S. retail prices. Meanwhile, there's plenty on offer among this week's new releases. Metallica's Blackened has collaborated with Angel's Envy co-founder Wes Henderson on a port cask-finished bourbon, Glenfiddich has added a sherry cask-finished single malt to its core range, and Dewar’s has reintroduced its flagship 12 year old blended scotch...

If you hold regular whisky nights with your friends or tasting club, chances are there's some food, and maybe even a little music on hand to enhance the experience. Take the revelry a step further with one of these whisky-themed games, which will test your whisky knowledge or add a touch of bourbon to your usual game of cards or chess.New whiskey releases this week all come from the U.S. Old Overholt is raising the age of its flagship straight rye to 4 years, Barrell Craft Spirits is adding a Dovetail expression to its Grey Label line, and Daviess County kicks off its range of toasted barrel finishes with a Lightly Toasted straight bourbon. Read on for full details.

Old Overholt 4 year old
Style: Straight ryeOrigin: KentuckyAge: 4 year oldABV: 43%Price: $20Release: August 2022Availability: Nationwide
Need to know:
Old Overholt is raising the age of its flagship straight rye from 3 to 4 years old. The change comes just a few years after the proof was...

As blazing hot temperatures linger on, refreshing sippers tend to take the edge off. While you could certainly head to a bar, why not make a drink at home—and one with your very own homemade shrub at that? A mixture of fruit, sugar, and vinegar, shrubs is perfect for preserving summer flavors, and go wonderfully in whisky cocktails, too. Try your hand at one of these four whisky-and-shrub cocktails in our new guide, and beat the summer heat.
There’s plenty of new whisky this week, much of it is American-made. Heaven's Door, the Nashville-based brand co-founded by Bob Dylan, has debuted the first release in its new Decade Series, a collection of whiskeys aged 10 years or older; Woodford Reserve has unveiled the latest edition of Batch Proof; and Booker's is back with its second release of the year. Read on for full details.

Heaven’s Door Decade Series Release #01
Style: Straight bourbonOrigin: TennesseeAge: 10 year oldABV: 50%Price: $99Release: July...

Happy 4th of July! Like us, you’re probably looking forward to a few celebratory days that include grilling, great drinks, and good company. We have some favorite summertime whiskies to suggest as well as the ideal whisky pairings for barbecue and grilled meats and vegetables. If you're hosting a party, here's some useful equipment that will make your life easier, and for the beach crowd and the partygoers among us, consider tossing one of these ready-to-drink cocktails into your bag to crank up the fun this weekend.
As far as new whisky goes, Redbreast debuts the first expression in its new American Oak series; Jack Daniel's  is releasing its highest proof whiskey to date; and Michter's is back with its beloved 10 year old rye. Read on for full details.

Redbreast Kentucky Oak Edition
Style: Single pot still Origin: IrelandAge: Not statedABV: 50.5%Price: $96Release: June 2022Availability: U.S. exclusive; limited release
Need to know:
Redbreast is...

When is a whisky not a whisky? It's a topic we've explored before when discussing whisky specialties, liqueurs, and flavored whisky, with most containing additives or failing to meet the minimum 40% ABV requirement. The latest Cascade Moon release technically isn't a whiskey either, as it clocks in at 39.9% ABV, but general manager and distiller Nicole Austin found the barrels—all aged a minimum of 15 years—too interesting to blend away. We spoke with Austin earlier this week about the low-proof spirit and how she approaches the Cascade Moon line differently than George Dickel.As for legally recognized whiskies, there are plenty of new ones out this week. Wild Turkey brings back its exceptionally popular Russell's Reserve 13 year old, Jim Beam drops the first Booker's of the year, Laphroaig unveils its annual Càirdeas release, and Balvenie adds a 25 year old to its Rare Marriages range. Read on for full details.

Russell’s Reserve 13 year...

Regardless of style, cask strength bottlings are prized by whisky drinkers for the forceful flavor from the high proof. In some cases, distillers offer whisky drinkers a chance to experience a core expression straight from the barrel, like our 2017 Whisky of the Year, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. Rather than add water at the time of bottling to bring the proof down, the distiller empowers the drinker to add water or ice as they see fit, or not at all, finding the ABV that best suits their palate. Sometimes, these whiskies even offer better values than their lower-proof counterparts.Those who choose to add water to these heavy-strength whiskies may find new flavors and complexities emerge as the proof changes. These six whiskies from the Winter 2021 Buying Guide span five different styles— single pot still, single malt scotch, straight bourbon, wheat whiskey, and American single malt—proving that there is more choice than ever when it comes to cask strength.High Proof Whiskies From...

The Winter 2021 issue of Whisky Advocateis all about connecting you with great whisky. There areover 150 whisky reviews inside, including our annualTop 20 list, which celebrates an exciting year of high-quality and affordable drams. Our Whisky of the Year is a stout-finished Islay single malt scotch, but the full list includes value bourbons, surprising world whiskies, complex blended malts, and more.Elsewhere in the issue, we help you plan a year of whisky spending based on four different budgets and interest levels, and survey the rich landscape of 21 year old scotch. Of course, there is perhaps no greater resource than our Buying Guide, which spans multiple styles and continents to deliver well-considered tasting notes. In each issue we provide Editors' Choice, Best Values, and Collectibles picks, but beyond those, there is still plenty of whisky to consider. The highest-scoring whiskies from the Winter issue, include familiar names like Laphroaig and Booker's as well as a few...

It’s that time of year again—our Top 20 whiskies of 2021 have been revealed! This year the list is led by a single malt Scotch, Lagavulin 11 year old Offerman Edition Guinness Cask Finish, a whisky we first included in this very roundup back in May. The rest of the list spans the globe, offering up a little something for everyone.There are plenty of new releases to enjoy alongside these gems. Booker’s unveils its final release of the year, Barrell Craft Spirits adds some older bourbon and rye to its Stellum line, and Cascade Hollow debuts a 13 year old rye in its Moon series. Read on for full details.Booker’s 2021-04 “Noe Strangers Batch”Style: Straight bourbonOrigin: KentuckyAge: 6 years, 6 months, 12 daysABV: 62.2%Price: $90Release: December 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:The fourth and final batch of Booker’s for 2021 celebrates Booker Noe’s social nature. It is said that the 6th generation Beam master distiller could turn any stranger into a friend, and...

When whisky comes straight from the barrel, it often means big flavor. Because of the higher concentration of ethanol in the glass, your nose and palate can pick up more intense notes, and when the whisky is distilled and aged correctly, there's not too much alcohol burn—even at the highest proof levels. If you're looking for a bold dram that brings the heat, you'll want to seek out one of these top-scoring cask strength whiskeys.Barrel Proof Whiskies With Top Marks
Writers' Tears Cask Strength Blended Irish (2021 Release)93 points, 54.2%, $145Rich, malty, and bursting with pot still spices, time enables the appearance of deeper layers of toffee, Brazil nut, cherry, sultana cake, espresso foam, and the aromas of a dark cigar wrapper. Mouth-filling flavors of dark caramel, nuts, orange, clove, milk chocolate, and toasted almond, with firecracker pot still spices. A drying finish with malt, amaretti, and espresso. This is epic stuff. (1,500 bottles for the U.S.)—Jonny...

In our Summer 2021 issue, we featured the rise of heavy metal rock musicians who collaborate with craft distillers to make their own whiskeys. That feature is now online, and as you'll find, this is more than a case of musicians jumping on the celebrity whisky bandwagon. In the story, members of Metallica, Slipknot, GWAR, and others explain their motivation for the move from drinking whisky to making it.As for this week's new whiskies, Michter's is bringing back its highly coveted 20 year old bourbon, Compass Box closes out its No Name series with its third and final edition, and Blue Run adds a high-rye bourbon to its lineup. Read on for full details.Compass Box No Name (No. 3)Style: Blended maltOrigin: ScotlandAge: Not statedABV: 48.9%Price: $130Release: November 2021Availability: 10,794 bottles worldwideNeed to know:The third and final release in the No Name series is comprised of Laphroaig single malt aged in re-charred hogsheads, Bowmore single malt, and Compass Box’s own...

Our Fall 2021 issue includes over 130 whisky reviews, covering a wide variety of styles. This week, we highlighted the 10 highest-scoring whiskies from the issue's Buying Guide, representing the very best from the whisky world and highlighting both familiar names and more obscure labels.As we move further into October, the exciting new rollouts continue. There’s a fresh release of Booker’s, the latest from Johnnie Walker Blue Label’s Ghost and Rare, WhistlePig’s Boss Hog series, and new wheated bourbons from New Riff and Wyoming Whiskey. Read on for full details.Booker’s 2021-03 “Bardstown Batch”Style: Straight bourbonOrigin: KentuckyAge: 6 years, 5 monthsABV: 62.75%Price: $90Release: October 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:The third batch of Booker’s released this year is named after Bardstown, Kentucky, the town where Jim Beam master distillers past and present have lived. Booker Noe, for whom this whiskey is named, lived in Bardstown for more than 50 years...

Bourbon from Stitzel-Weller Distillery and labels carrying the Van Winkle name were the leading bottles at Whisky Auctioneer's Century of American Whiskey auction. The auction topped $1 million, galloping past the total from Sotheby's Thoroughbred Collection, and more than doubling the total from Pat's Whiskey Collection Heart & Soul sale. A bidder based in the U.S. placed the highest bid at nearly $30,000 to win the Corti Brothers Van Winkle 19 year old Special Reserve 1975. It's a substantial increase in the record price: this rarity has never previously sold for more than $10,000.“We were confident that this curation of America's most historic and important whiskeys would elicit a
lot of interest, but the appetite for these bottles far surpassed our expectations,” said Joe Wilson, head of auction content at Whisky Auctioneer, in a statement which confirmed the auction raised £768,462, equivalent to $1,054,089. “The combination of historic...

Whether it's labeled cask strength, barrel proof, batch proof, or something similar, whisky straight from the barrel provides potent flavor and loads of possibilities. With a higher alcohol content there is simply more whisky to taste, and if the heat gets to be too much, you don't run the risk of overdiluting when adding water or an ice cube.Our Fall 2020 issue examined how barrel proof whiskey means big flavor and we listed 14 of our favorite barrel proof bourbons (and one rye), but there always new whiskies to try, including these from the Summer 2021 Buying Guide. While familiar names like Elijah Craig and Booker's appear, so too do lesser-known producers like Backbone and Black Button. No matter the proof or province, these whiskies all pack a punch and earned high scores to boot.These Whiskies Are Strong in Proof and Score
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight bourbon (Batch A121)94 points, 61.8%, $60A generous nose, with chocolate-covered cherries, candied orange...

For big, bold flavor, one needs to look no further than barrel-proof whisky—especially American whiskey. Some of distillers' best bourbon and rye come straight out of the barrel, and they pack a punch, given that in hot, dry climates, proof rises over time thanks to barrels losing water at a faster rate than alcohol.At higher proofs, flavors are concentrated, and bottling at barrel proof more or less showcases the whiskey's recipe and the distiller's intent. The following bourbons (and one rye) range in proof from 53.89% ABV to a whopping 68.35% ABV, and they all scored 90 points or more with our tasting panel.The best barrel-proof bourbons to try right now
Barrell Cask-Strength bourbon (Batch 23)92 points, 53.89%, $90Caramel, baked marshmallow, dark cherry, and candied peanuts 
Maker's Mark Cask Strength Kentucky straight bourbon (Batch 19-01)92 points, 54.4%, $40Chocolate, almonds, shortbread, and tobacco 
Belle Meade Cask Strength Reserve(Batch No. 5)92...

Father’s Day is fast approaching, and distillers are offering special items for the occasion. Teeling has a gift set that includes a bottle of Teeling single malt, two leather coasters, two rocks glasses, and a set of whisky stones for $80. Blackened has released The Black Album Whiskey Pack, comprised of a bottle of Blackened Batch 114, a collectible whiskey coin, and a Snakebyte cocktail booklet named after James Hetfield’s signature guitar, all for $50. Aberfeldy is offering personalized hand-dipped gold wax bottles for their 12, 16, and 21 year old whiskies, with the bottles stamped by hand with the initials of your choosing. Pricing starts at $60.Perhaps a new release might make a perfect gift. This week’s lineup includes cask strength offerings from Booker’s and Writers’ Tears, as well as limited editions from Dewar’s and Midleton. Read on for full details.Dewar’s 19 year old The Champions EditionStyle: Blended whiskyOrigin: ScotlandAge: 19 year oldABV: 43%Price...

The Summer 2021 issue of Whisky Advocate features over 100 whisky reviews, covering scotch, bourbon, Irish, Japanese, and many other styles. Below, check out 10 of the bottles (excluding Editors' Choice and Collectibles) that scored highest, netting 93 points and above.These top-scoring bottles represent a wide array of spectacular whiskies, some of which bear advanced age statements, others that boast big proof. Our 2017 Whisky of the Year Elijah Craig Barrel Proof makes an appearance with the first batch of 2021, as do other trusted names like Booker's, Barrell, and Bardstown. Rounding out the list is a single barrel offering from Nashville Barrel Company. We are always delighted when a new brand impresses our tasting panel.There are plenty of other high-scoring whiskies in the Summer 2021 Buying Guide, and lots to discover. Check out the full slate of new reviews!
TOP SCORES FROM WHISKY ADVOCATE'S Summer 2021 ISSUE

Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Chapter 2...

Whisky Advocate’s Summer 2021 issue hit the newsstands this week, featuring the latest on Ireland’s whiskey renaissance, a look at Japan’s distillers under the country’s new classification guidelines, and a tour of heavy metal rockers who are making whiskey in collaboration with craft distillers. There’s also a feature on home whisky rooms and the folks who’ve created these elaborate spaces. Pick up a copy of our Summer issue today, or order a subscription here.This week’s new releases include a single barrel rye from Old Forester, a 13 year old bourbon from Wild Turkey, a light and sweet single malt from Glenmorangie, a pair of single barrel whiskeys from WhistlePig, and more. Read on for full details.

Old Forester Barrel Strength Single Barrel Rye
Style: Straight ryeOrigin: KentuckyAge: Not statedABV: VariesPrice: $80Release: June 2021Availability: Limited
Need to know:
After introducing its straight rye in 2019, Old...

When you think of the place where whisky is born, a factory floor may not spring to mind, but the truth is that industrial-sized distilleries make most of the whisky in the world—and it's almost always extremely high quality. Size—or, really, scale—does matter when it comes to turning out enough great whisky to satisfy millions of thirsty drinkers, and the measures that these mega-producers take to ensure a delicious final outcome are impressive at every turn.In most of the world, distillery capacity is measured in liters of pure alcohol (lpa) or liters of absolute alcohol (laa), though U.S. distillers favor proof gallons as the unit. Capacity measures how much whisky a distillery can make, not necessarily how much it is making—though it's safe to say that producers at this scale are making a whole lot. Check out the world's largest whisky distilleries below, and keep reading for recommendations on the best industrial-scale whiskies to try.
The World's...

Though it's not a new whiskey release, the latest Ben & Jerry's ice cream flavor is worth reporting here as it incorporates whiskey—in this case, WhistlePig 6 year old Piggyback rye. (The distillery and ice cream manufacturer are Vermont neighbors.) Ben & Jerry's Whiskey Biz flavor has a brown butter-bourbon ice cream base and incorporates blonde brownies, Piggyback-infused caramel swirls, white fudge chunks, and white chocolate ganache. It's kosher, which means Piggyback is now certified kosher, as are all WhistlePig whiskeys with the exception of 12 year old Old World.On to new whisky releases, starting with The 117 Series from Old Forester. This limited-edition collection debuts with High Angels' Share bourbon, priced at $50 for 375 ml.Dalmore Distillery's 12 year old Sherry Cask Select is landing on U.S. shores. Priced at $80, the single malt is initially for sale only at Total Wine & More stores, with expanded availability starting in September.Jefferson's is...

Few names hold as much weight in the world of Kentucky bourbon as Noe, and that's a reflection of the family's deep roots and profound influence at Jim Beam. Fred Noe, seventh-generation master distiller at the mammoth whiskey producer, joined Whisky Advocate's Instagram live series #TasteWithSpace on Jan. 8 to talk about what it was like to learn whiskey making from his legendary father, Booker, and how he's now passing those lessons on to his son, Freddie.“We bounce stuff off each other,” Noe said of working with his boy. “He's hands on. He wants to be right in the middle of it. I see a lot of Booker in Freddie.”Noe compared his approach to whiskey making with his father's, saying that Booker was always striving for consistency and was opposed to bottling single barrels, which have become a part of Fred's stewardship. “I'm more open-minded, I guess, than my father and Freddie is probably even taking it a step further than me,” he said. “Dad wanted me to be my own...

We're getting ever closer to the holidays and the new whisky releases are starting to slow—but they aren't letting up too much!Barton 1792 Distillery has debuted a new line of cask-finished bourbons under the Thomas S. Moore name. The whiskeys (all $70) include cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, and port finishes and are limited edition.Catoctin Creek Distilling has partnered with space metal band GWAR on Ragnarök rye, coming out in February. Priced at $99 each, the first batch has 2,000 bottles, with potentially more to come.Proof and Wood Ventures is rolling out Vertigo, a blend of whiskeys from MGP Distillery. There are 1,000 bottles available, priced at $150.Ireland's Boann Distillery is adding two single malts to The Whistler range in the U.S., both priced at $45: P.X. I Love You and Bodega Cask. Both are initially available in three Midwest states.The final batch of Booker's for 2020 is hitting shelves. Bookers 2020-03 "Pigskin Batch" is priced at $90 and available in limited...

With one of Japan's most legendary distilleries being revived, there'll soon be new whisky on the way—but we don't have to wait. Plenty of bottles are hitting shelves right now!First up, GlenDronach is launching a new expression of Port Wood as part of its core lineup. The whisky is priced at $90 and widely available.Jack Daniel's has announced its 2020 limited-edition single barrel, this year a barrel-proof rye. Priced at $65, the whiskey is available in limited amounts.The Spot Whiskeys range has a new member, Blue Spot, a 7 year old cask-strength single pot still whiskey. U.S. pricing hasn't yet been set, but it will likely be around $95, with the whiskey widely available.Heaven Hill has bottled a 13 year old single-barrel bourbon to celebrate its 85th anniversary. The whiskey is extremely limited, with just 146 bottles for sale mainly at the visitor center, and priced at $300.Chicken Cock is releasing its oldest whiskey to date, a 15 year old bourbon. Priced at $300, there are...

There are loads of new releases to dive into this week, as well as news of another brand revamping its look. Heaven Hill is rolling out restyled packaging for Evan Williams straight bourbon and bottled in bond bourbon, as well as the line of flavored whiskeys. Look for the new bottles to hit shelves starting this month.On to new whiskey! Glenmorangie is launching a special single malt finished in tokaji dessert wine casks. Glenmorangie A Tale of Cake is priced at $99 and available in limited amounts.WhistlePig's newest Boss Hog is rolling out, and it has an unusual finish. WhistlePig Boss Hog VII: Magellan's Atlantic is available in limited amounts, priced at $500.Three special batches of Old Forester bourbon have been created in honor of the brand's 150th anniversary. All are quite limited, with bottles priced at $150.Macallan is wrapping up its Edition series with Edition No. 6. The single malt scotch is available in limited amounts and priced at $150.Bruichladdich Distillery has...

Cask-strength whisky—straight from the barrel, uncut, and with minimal filtration—is tough to beat. But there's something truly special about sipping barrel-proof bourbon outside in the summertime. As the last of the season's balmy nights fade into fall, look to Whisky Advocate's Summer 2020 Buying Guide for reviews of several new bottles that showcase bourbon at its brawniest, including the four highlighted below.Because these whiskeys pack a punch in terms of both flavor and proof, you may want to try enjoying them with water or even ice. Dilute slowly to find your ideal proof, or add a large rock and discover additional flavors that emerge as the ice melts.Given their high proof, these bourbons offer excellent value too. Even Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Batch Proof—which carries the heftiest price tag of the bunch at $130—could be considered a steal given its exceptional quality. Alternatively, you won't go wrong with Tumblin' Dice 4 year old Single Barrel...

The summer days are growing hotter and if you're like us, you're mixing some cocktails into your whisky regimen. But this week also brings a diverse array of options for those seeking a new dram to try neat.Japan's Nikka Whisky is bringing their Nikka Days blend stateside. The 40% ABV whisky, priced at $50, is intended to be sipped during casual everyday drinking occasions, and available in a handful of states with expansion planned next year.The second Booker's release of the year is here. Named "Boston Batch," it is limited and listed for $90.Michter's is rolling out their 10 year old Single Barrel rye for $160. This will be the only release of the 10 year old rye this year, with limited availability.Milk & Honey Distillery in Israel has two new whiskies: their flagship Classic ($60) and the partially sherry-matured Elements ($70). Both are available in more than a dozen states.Kilchoman has a 14 year old single cask on the way, that is one of—if not the—oldest releases...

It's been another week of ever-increasing changes due to the spread of COVID-19. Dozens of distilleries stepped up to produce hand sanitizer instead of whiskey, scrambling to get all the necessary supplies. Others have begun hosting virtual tours, giving fans entry even when visitor centers are closed. Legendary Washington, D.C. whisky bar Jack Rose is selling off its entire collection to pay its staff, and I hear other venues are following suit.Even in this week of immense upheaval, new releases march on. First up, Ardbeg is debuting a new, permanent addition to its range. Ardbeg 5 year old Wee Beastie is priced at $47 and widely available.The 2020 release of Blood Oath bourbon is rolling out. There are 51,000 bottles of Blood Oath Pact No. 6 available, priced at $100.Finally, Old Elk is launching three new whiskeys, all part of its core range, as detailed earlier this week: straight rye ($90), straight wheat whiskey ($65), and a straight wheated bourbon ($65). All three whiskeys are...

There are many ways to toast St. Patrick's Day with whiskey—whipping up cocktails like a Whiskey Ginger or Hot Toddy with your favorite Irish whiskey, creating your own Irish cream, indulging in some Irish Coffee, or keeping it simple by sipping your spirit neat. And to that end, there are lots of new Irish whiskeys to choose from this year and plenty of ways to celebrate.Just as it did last year, Jameson is teaming up with music artist Anderson .Paak to host a free St. Patrick's Day concert in California. For details on how to attend, sign up for updates from Jameson. Meanwhile, Tullamore D.E.W. is bringing back its O'Everyone campaign, which allows fans to order a commemorative shirt featuring their own last name transformed with an O-apostrophe to sound Irish. This year, O'Everyone will also feature Irish pub pop-ups close to St. Patrick's Day in Chicago, Denver, New York City, and Los Angeles. Update 3/16/2020: The Jameson x Meet Me At The Bar concert in Los Angeles, scheduled...

New month, new whisky!Woodford Reserve is rolling out its special Kentucky Derby bottle ($50 for 1 liter) ahead of the big race on May 2. The label features a watercolor by Louisville artist and former Atlanta Braves baseball player Richard Sullivan that depicts horses racing toward the finish line at Churchill Downs.Bulleit has unveiled Blenders' Select No. 001, the first in a series of planned limited-edition releases crafted by the distillery's blending team; this one was created by Eboni Major. The straight bourbon is $50, available in limited amounts.Johnnie Walker has reintroduced Jane Walker as a new blended malt, rather than simply repackaging Johnnie Walker Black with a special label. The limited-edition whisky is $38 and available nationwide.Dewar's is launching Ilegal Smooth, an 8 year old blended scotch finished in Ilegal mezcal casks. The whisky is widely available for $22.Redbreast has added a 27 year old single pot still whiskey to its permanent range. It's available...

Happy New Year—again! The Lunar New Year happens on Saturday, Jan. 25 and commences the Year of the Rat. Both Johnnie Walker and Macallan have rolled out limited-edition packages of existing whiskies in celebration. The special Johnnie Walker Blue Label ($250) features an intricate design by Shirley Gong, while Macallan's two-pack of 12 year old Double Cask ($140) includes knot symbols that represent longevity and eternity. Both are available in limited amounts.Also limited, but in this case, new and novel, is the latest Jack Daniel's Tennessee Tasters' Collection release, a Tennessee whiskey finished in oatmeal stout casks. Priced at $40 for a 375-ml bottle, the whiskey is mainly for sale at the distillery in Lynchburg.Colorado-based Tincup is launching its first rye whiskey, distilled in Indiana. Tincup straight rye is widely available, priced at $30.Two new barrel-proof bourbons, also made in Indiana, are hitting shelves: The Justice 14 year old ($99) and Tumblin' Dice 4 year old...

Thanksgiving is less than a week away, and if you're panicking about what whisky to serve, take a breath: We've got you covered, with recommended pours, party-ready punches, and a guide to pairing whisky and pie. (Speaking of which—we can also teach you how to make pie-inspired whisky cocktails.) But if you're looking for brand-new bottles to pop, keep reading.For the high rollers, Michter's is rolling out its aptly-named Celebration just ahead of the holidays. The blend of straight bourbon and rye is priced at $5,000, with just 277 bottles available.At 20% less than Celebration, Glenrothes 40 year old is still a luxury buy. The single malt scotch costs $4,000, with just 66 out of 594 bottles coming to the U.S.Can't let the Americans and Scots corner the high-end whisky market though; Ireland's Chapelgate Whiskey Co. has unveiled J.J. Corry The Chosen, a £6,500 ($8,393) single malt. There are just 100 bottles available.Bardstown Bourbon Co. is releasing the latest batches of its...

Jack Daniel's announced the launch of Tennessee Apple this week, if you like flavored whiskey—but if you prefer the unadulterated stuff, there are plenty of great options from Scotland, Kentucky, and elsewhere, all rolling out now.First up, there's a half-century scotch at a remarkably fair price, all things considered. There are 125 decanters of Benromach 50 year old available, priced at $10,000 each.Much more affordable, but no less exciting, Ardbeg is bringing back its super-peaty Supernova for the fifth time. Limited quantities are available at $180; expect it to sell fast.More limited-edition peaty goodness is coming from Bruichladdich, which is releasing the tenth Octomore series. Four different Octomores of varying ages and availabilities are hitting shelves, priced at $190 to $250.Booker's is rolling out its third release for this year. Booker's 2019-03 "Country Ham" is, as always, available in limited amounts, with a recommended price of $80.Sagamore Spirit has a cognac...

Many whiskeys have a good story behind them, but for Rabbit Hole's newest bourbon, that story takes on particular poignancy. In an exclusive interview with Whisky Advocate, Rabbit Hole founder Kaveh Zamanian revealed why he chose the name Heigold, and what inspired the new names he's given to the rest of the brand's whiskeys. Heigold ($70) and the rebranded line roll out next month, first at the distillery and later more widely.Other new whiskies are coming out as well. Kentucky Owl is releasing the third batch of its rye, this time with a 10 year old age statement. Priced at $200, Kentucky Owl Rye is available in limited amounts.Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay is adding two new vintage releases to its core range. Bruichladdich 2010 Bere Barley is made with an ancient strain, while Bruichladdich 2010 The Organic is, as you might have guessed, distilled from organic barley. Both whiskies are $100, with 18,000 bottles of each available.Eighth-generation Jim Beam distiller Freddie Noe...

It seems like high season for distillery openings, with two new facilities opening and a major project announced. Kansas City's J. Rieger & Co. has officially opened its new distillery, featuring a 40-foot slide for visitors, while over in Scotland, Holyrood Distillery in Edinburgh is now welcoming guests to observe its innovative production. Meanwhile, Beam Suntory announced that it's building a 1.2 million proof gallon "craft" distillery at its Clermont, Kentucky Jim Beam plant. We spoke with master distiller Fred Noe to get details about the facility, which is slated to open in 2021.For whisky that's ready to buy now, however, there are plenty of options, starting with a super-aged Macallan single cask. The Exceptional Single Cask 1950 is nearly 68 years old, with just 336 bottles available and a price befitting its ultra-rare status: $58,000.Much more easy to access is Glenlivet's new 14 year old, finished in cognac casks. The whisky is exclusively available in the U.S. for...

Missouri has joined Kentucky and Tennessee in regulating specific rules for its own style of whiskey—in this case, Missouri bourbon. We spoke to distillers about the measure, which includes an unusual requirement for barrels made of Missouri-grown oak. But for those of you heading to the liquor store (which you should be doing every time you travel, by the way), there are several new whiskies to seek out.Laphroaig is rolling out the 2019 Cairdeas. This year, it's a cask-strength (59.5% ABV) version of the distillery's Triple Wood expression. It's available in limited amounts for $80.Shortly after confirming that its Quinta Ruban expression is going from 12 to 14 years old, Glenmorangie has revealed that it's dropping the age statement for Nectar D'Or, which was previously bottled at 12 years old. The whisky's price ($77) and availability remain the same.Loch Lomond Distillery has released a special-edition 2002 vintage single malt in partnership with pro golfer Cristie Kerr...

New distillery visitors centers are springing up all over: Last week it was Woodford Reserve, and this week, Bulleit opened the doors to a new experience at its Shelbyville distillery. Plus, Lagg Distillery on Scotland's Isle of Arran is also now welcoming visitors and churning out heavily peated spirit. In a few years, it will be mature enough to call whisky.There's plenty of already-mature whisky now though. Maker's Mark has expanded availability of its 101 expression. Previously for sale at travel retail only, Maker's 101 is now available at the distillery and select Kentucky retailers, priced at $50 for a 1-liter bottle.Glenlivet has unveiled its latest mystery malt; called Enigma, the whisky's details are deliberately being withheld so that drinkers can make up their own minds about the flavor. Available in the U.S. only, Enigma costs $149.Meanwhile, there's a lot going on in bourbon country. Heaven Hill is launching a 7 year old bottled in bond bourbon this fall. While the...

[caption id="attachment_14487" align="alignright" width="300"] Jack Daniel's Legacy Edition 1[/caption]Have you noticed any new Jack Daniel's packaging lately? You may have seen a green-and-gold bottle on shelves, and soon there will be another special-edition design. Jack Daniel's Legacy Edition features Old No. 7 Tennessee whiskey bottled at 43% ABV and priced at $30. It's available for a limited time nationwide.JD's Tennessee neighbor, George Dickel, has announced a new product. George Dickel Bottled in Bond 13 year old is just what it says: 13 year old bourbon, made according to the strictures of the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897. It's for sale at Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. starting today, with expansion to California, New York, Texas, and the Southeast starting at the end of the month. And you're not going to believe the price (keep reading).Meanwhile, over in Kentucky, Woodford Reserve is releasing the 2019 edition of Batch Proof. The barrel-proof bourbon comes in at 61.6% ABV...

Our Spring issue is all about rye, a whiskey that seems to increase in popularity with each passing day. Take it as a sign of the times that Wild Turkey's next limited-edition Master's Keep is the first rye whiskey in the collection. Wild Turkey Master's Keep Cornerstone Rye is priced at $175 and will hit shelves in August. There are 15,000 bottles available.Meanwhile, The Last Drop is rolling out two single casks of Glenrothes distilled in 1969. Just 271 bottles of the nearly-50 year old whisky are available, priced at $6,250.More widely available are new bourbons from Bardstown Bourbon Co. (BBC), including the first whiskey that includes the distillery's own straight bourbon. Fusion Series #1 combines sourced 11 year old Kentucky straight bourbon with 2 year old wheated and high-rye bourbons distilled at BBC and costs $60. Meanwhile, Discovery Series #1 blends four Kentucky straight bourbons, ranging in age from 5 to 11 years, and costs $130. Finally, Collaboration Series #1...

In every issue of Whisky Advocate, we select three bottles to recommend as collectibles: whiskies that are generally limited releases and show the most potential to gain in value. For Spring 2019, the top choices come from Ireland, Kentucky, and Scotland.For all whiskies reviewed in the Spring 2019 issue, check out the full Buying Guide.Midleton Very Rare 2018 Blended Irish Whiskey94 points, 40% ABV, $200Each MVR vintage has its own character, and the latest version has a sweet motif coddled in a soft, fruity bounty. Orange tartlets, white pepper, cantaloupe, nectarine, pear, malt, and rounded oak greet the nose. Honey and caramel with citrus, pulped fruit, and spice, before a sweeter phase of tablet, toffee, and vanilla flavors on the palate. Spices only nibble at the sweet and comforting finish.—Jonny McCormickBooker's 30thAnniversary93 points, 62.9% ABV, $200This is a whiskey that knows exactly what it wants to be, a rambunctious bourbon that throws the full weight of its barrel...

There are plenty of new whiskies to look for this week—although not all will be accessible to the average drinker. After announcing it last fall, Jack Daniel's has released Reunion Barrel, part of its Tennessee Tasters selection. The red wine barrel-finished whiskey is $40 for a 375-ml. bottle and for sale mainly at the distillery.Mortlach is the latest scotch brand to unveil a super-aged edition, this one 47 years old and available only online via ballot. The cost is £10,000, and if you want a chance to snag one of the 94 bottles, you can register on the Justerini & Brooks website.The first Booker's bourbon release of 2019 is upon us: Booker's 2019-01 "Teresa's Batch" is hitting shelves now. As always, it's at barrel proof, uncut and unfiltered, and will go for a recommended price of $80.Another barrel-proof whiskey is rolling out as well: Michter's US*1 Barrel Strength rye. Available in limited amounts, the whiskey has a suggested price of $75.Blood Oath Pact No. 5 will...

It's a great week for scotch fans with some well-aged malts hitting shelves.Speyburn is rolling out an 18 year old, the next step up from Speyburn 15, which was released a couple of years ago. This whisky used American and Spanish oak casks for aging. It's $120 and will be available annually in limited amounts.Bladnoch is debuting a 17 year old, aged in ex-bourbon and finished in California red wine casks. Less than 1,000 bottles are coming to the U.S., priced at $100 each.Compass Box has unveiled a mature homage to Eleuthera, a blended malt it released many years ago. Like that whisky, Tobias & The Angel is a blend of Clynelish and Caol Ila; the Clynelish is 24 years old, while the Caol Ila is "considerably" older. Tobias & The Angel is $500, with 3,900 bottles available.Infuse Spirits is set to roll out Cabernet Cask bourbon, which is made by mingling Kentucky bourbon with pieces from Cabernet Sauvignon barrels. The whiskey costs $30 and is widely available.Michigan's...

There's a whole lot of new bourbon coming your way—in a few years, that is. Diageo announced yesterday that it plans to construct a massive new distillery in Kentucky to produce Bulleit and several other American whiskeys, potentially including new brands, although construction will take a couple of years at least.In the meantime, there are plenty of new bourbons and other whiskies to fill your glass right now. Booker's is rolling out its fourth release for 2018, "Kitchen Table," as well as a special 30th anniversary bourbon. While Booker's 2018-04 retails for $70-$80 and is available in its usual, limited-but-not-crazy-limited amounts, Booker's 30th Anniversary will cost $200 and be much more limited.Also very limited: Wyoming Whiskey's Barrel Strength bourbon, which is coming out for the second time. Just 50 bottles are available at $199 apiece.Barrell Craft Spirits has unveiled Dovetail, a blend of whiskey and bourbon sourced from Indiana and Tennessee and finished in Cabernet...

There's so much new whisky coming out, it's hard to know where to start! First things first: Blood Oath is releasing its first three "pacts"—annual batches—in a special gift pack for the holidays. Just 900 of the trilogy packs will be for sale nationwide for $599. Whisky Advocate's Buying Guide scored Pact No. 1 82 points, Pact No. 2 88 points, and Pact No. 3 89 points.Buffalo Trace Distillery has unveiled a new range of experimental bourbons as part of its Old Charter brand. The distillery has been experimenting with different types of oak for years, and the Old Charter Oak range will showcase some of the biggest successes, starting with Mongolian Oak. Different releases will have different availability, but in general, the whiskeys will be distributed nationwide. Mongolian Oak is priced at $70.The Heaven's Door brand—created in partnership with Bob Dylan—is releasing a 10 year old Tennessee straight bourbon. Available in limited amounts, it costs $130.Two new single malt...

WhiskyFest's fall season kicked off in San Francisco on November 2nd with a night of exciting conversations, fascinating seminars, and hundreds of amazing whiskies from the farthest reaches of the globe to the city's own backyard.
Of course, Pappy Van Winkle was on hand.
WhiskyFest offered hundreds of options for eager whisky lovers.The crowd at San Francisco's Marriott Marquis was greeted by hundreds of whiskies from Scotland and Kentucky to Tennessee, Ireland, Canada, Japan, and beyond. Among many rare pours, whisky lovers were treated to Pappy Van Winkle, the 2018 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare, Four Roses 130th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch, Macallan Edition No. 4, and Wild Turkey Master's Keep Revival.Those looking for something completely new found many whiskies not yet available in U.S. stores: Old Pulteney 15 year old, 18 year old, and Huddart, the Soleo Collection from The Glenrothes, Highland Park Valknut, the...

At Whisky Advocate, we don't often have to look far for a good reason to raise a glass, although the calendar has plenty to offer by way of whisky-themed holidays. While some may seem generated by marketing departments (National Hot Toddy Day, anyone?), others have real, historic roots. December 5 marks the anniversary of the passage of the 21st Amendment in 1933, which brought an end to 13 years of U.S. Prohibition, when all recreational alcohol was banned.Prohibition sought to curtail public drunkenness, crime, and domestic violence, but it had some unintended consequences as well. Bootlegging—the production, distribution, and sale of illicit alcohol—led to a rise in organized crime, and the country missed out on hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue, instead spending millions to enforce Prohibition laws.Repeal Day, as it is now known, resuscitated America's whiskey industry, leading to the vast array of bourbons, ryes and other domestically made spirits that we get to...

WhiskyFest San Francisco is coming up on Friday, November 2nd, and it's the perfect way to kick off your weekend. Offering over 425 whiskies from all over the world, there will be something for even the most seasoned whisky drinkers—including exciting new releases, rarities like Pappy Van Winkle, and drams poured by the people who make them. Be sure to get your tickets before they sell out!If it's your first WhiskyFest—or even your fifth, or fifteenth—you might want to prepare for the night with a strategy for making the most of the exciting drams on offer. Plan to attend one of the evening's seminars as well; they're included in the cost of your ticket and may feature some of the most exciting whiskies of the night.Although the editors of Whisky Advocate taste just about everything, even at WhiskyFest there are numerous drams we're excited to try for the first time, or to enjoy again. Here are our recommendations.Blackened American WhiskeyRock out with this whiskey blended by...

It's been another big week for whisky lovers. Westward Whiskey announced a partnership with Diageo's Distill Ventures unit, a move that allows the American single malt brand to expand its production and availability.Diageo also unveiled full details of its 2018 Special Releases, including pricing. While some information was previously available, the company announced that its tenth Special Release whisky this year is a blended malt called Cladach. Not every whisky will be available in the U.S. We got all the details.Meanwhile, there are many other new whiskies coming out now and in the next few weeks. The third 2018 batch of Booker's is hitting shelves. Called "Kentucky Chew," it was aged 6 years, 4 months, and 12 days and clocks in at 63.35% ABV. It has the usual price tag of $70-$75.Bowmore has unveiled the third and final whisky in its Vintner's Trilogy, a 27 year old that matured first in ex-bourbon barrels and then in port pipes. The second maturation actually exceeded the first...

Update April 6, 2023: Edrington has increased its stake in Wyoming Whiskey from 35% to 80% making it the majority shareholder of the distillery.
Edrington Group, the parent company of Macallan, Glenrothes, and Highland Park scotch, announced that it has formed a “strategic partnership” with Wyoming Whiskey. The Kirby, Wyoming craft distiller's bourbon and other whiskeys will become part of Edrington's portfolio, which also includes The Famous Grouse and Cutty Sark blended scotches, Brugal rum, Partida tequila, and Snow Leopard vodka; Edrington will handle all sales, marketing, and distribution. Other terms of the deal—such as the size of the stake, price, or whether it includes the potential for full acquisition in the future—were not disclosed, although president and CEO of Edrington North America Chris Spalding says that the partnership is long-term. The two companies spent about two years in discussions before reaching an agreement.
Other than two...

Crank up the subwoofers and get ready to rock and roll: Metallica has its own whiskey, and it was created in part by the band's music. A blend of straight American whiskeys selected and blended by master distiller Dave Pickerell, Blackened was put through a proprietary "sonic enhancement" process that used Metallica songs to create sound waves that impact chemical reactions taking place in the aging whiskey. Coming out in late September, the whiskey will be available in a handful of states and online for $43.Less glitzy but equally exciting: Four Roses has announced its 2018 Limited-Edition Small Batch. This year's release celebrates the distillery's 130th anniversary. With just over 13,000 bottles available and priced at $140, expect it to be in high demand among both Four Roses fans and collectors.Speaking of collecting, Highland Park has unveiled its second-ever 50 year old whisky. A mere 274 bottles, packaged with a custom crystal decanter, will be available at $15,000 apiece.Back...

Summer is officially upon us, as of June 21, and there are lots of new whiskies to celebrate that occasion. In fact, Highland Park's latest release specifically honors the longest day of the year, and the lengthy daylight hours that occur in the Orkney Islands during the summer months. Highland Park The Light is a counterpart to The Dark, which came out last December. Aged only in refill American oak sherry casks, it is 17 years old and costs $300, with 4,500 bottles available in the U.S.Meanwhile, the newest Booker's bourbon is named Backyard BBQ, commemorating the cookouts Booker Noe would host for friends and family. Available in limited amounts around the country, it costs $70-$75.Michter's is rolling out the 2018 batch of its 10 year old single barrel rye, a consistently high-scoring whiskey that can be tough to find. At $160 a bottle, it frequently shows up on the secondary market at higher prices; if you find one on the shelf at recommended retail price, consider yourself...

Whisky: it's so hot right now. Especially if it's finished in Tabasco hot sauce barrels, which is the case with a new flavored whiskey from Tennessee's George Dickel. In fact, "Hot Dickel" takes things even further by blending in distilled Tabasco, creating a spicy spirit with a capsaicin kick. If you're into it, the whiskey is a permanent part of Dickel's lineup and will cost $25.For those who don't like to mingle condiments and whisky, there's a new blended American whiskey from Hotaling & Co. (formerly Anchor Distilling), makers of Old Potrero. The blend includes Old Potrero 18th-Century Style Whiskey, Old Potrero Straight Malt Whiskey Finished in Port Casks, and Kentucky bourbon. Called J.H. Cutter after a historic whiskey brand, the 48% ABV whiskey costs $50 and is available in a handful of states.From Scotland come two new single malts in the Port Askaig line: an 8 year old and a 14 year old. Each sourced from a different, undisclosed single malt distillery on Islay, the...

WhiskyFest descends on the nation's capital on April 17th, giving local whisky lovers the chance to taste from among hundreds of scotches, bourbons and ryes,craft whiskey, and more. One of the best reasons to attend? The opportunity to try brand-new whiskies, practically fresh from the barrel. These are seven of our top picks, but there are many, many more—check out the full pour list.Haven't gotten your tickets yet? Sort that out first, then read up on how to make the most your evening. See you on the 17th!Glenmorangie SpìosGlenmorangie releases a unique single malt each year as part of its Private Edition Series. The 2018 whisky, Spìos (Gaelic for “spice”), was matured entirely in Kentucky rye casks, lending it a spicy, full flavor. Get a taste for yourself alongside Glenmorangie's core range, from Original all the way up to Signet.Blood Oath Pact No. 4Growing in popularity as a collector's bourbon, Blood Oath isn't just a cool name and sleek package—it's tasty too. Stop...

While many whisky lovers will be enjoying a drop of the Irish this week (and if you need some suggestions, here are 17 new Irish whiskeys to try), there are still plenty of bourbons, scotches, and other whiskies to get your hands on.Booker's is rolling out the first of four 2018 releases. Kathleen's Batch, named for longtime brand ambassador and friend of Booker Noe Kathleen DiBenedetto, was aged for 6 years, 3 months, and 14 days, and is bottled at 63.7% ABV. Having tasted it myself during the selection process, I can say with confidence that this will please avid Booker's fans.Another limited-edition bourbon, Blood Oath has released Pact No. 4. This year, the whiskey—whose formula changes with each "pact"—combines three bourbons, including one finished in toasted oak.A whole slew of new single malts from BenRiach and its sister distillery, GlenDronach, are hitting shelves, including BenRiach Classic Cask Strength Batch 2 and a duo of 21 year olds—the unpeated Classic and the...

A diverse selection of new whiskies is rolling out this month. For scotch fans, there are new limited editions from Glenfiddich and Compass Box. Bourbon aficionados can begin the hunt for the latest batch of Booker's bourbon and the new Knob Creek 25th Anniversary Edition, along with Lone Whisker, a new 12 year old bourbon. Brown-Forman has also rolled out the first release from Slane, its new Irish whiskey label. Also, don't miss out on the top 10 whiskies from our Summer Buying Guide.Glenfiddich Project XXStyle: Single maltOrigin: SpeysideAge: Not statedProof: 47% ABVPrice: $80Release: June 2017Availability: Nationwide Need to know:The non-chill filtered whisky is a collaboration between Glenfiddich malt master Brian Kinsman and 20 whisky experts from 16 countries, each of whom selected one of the casks that went into the final blend. The casks included first-fill bourbon barrels, port pipes, sherry butts, and more.Whisky Advocate says:This is the second release in Glenfiddich’s...