2578 Searched for sable bourbon

Great news for bourbon, rye, and American single malt fans, as new whiskeys from U.S. distillers are in full swing. Creative finishes, high age statements, and interesting blends are leading the way, offering excellent opportunities for exploration. In even better news, Wes Henderson—the Angel's Envy co-founder and one of the pioneers of finished bourbons—has now officially unretired. His return to whiskey includes a new brand set to launch next month, as well as plans for a new distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, not far down the road from Woodford Reserve, Wild Turkey, and Four Roses.
Scotch lovers, on the other hand, aren't getting quite the love compared to the current tidal wave of new American whiskey releases. This situation comes amid the sobering news that scotch exports to the States (and elsewhere) showed a decline in the first half of the year. But superstar single malts and blends are still at the fore, led by the...

Whiskey isn’t just for drinking—it’s a perfect ingredient for a tasty snack especially when it’s immersed in a creamy chocolate ganache that’s nestled between two buttery sable cookies. The ideal anytime treat, the sable is the French’s answer to shortbread. This version gets an upgrade with ganache, an easy pastry staple of emulsified chocolate and cream that is elevated with a punch of whiskey and the moreish sweetness of malted milk powder. A high-malt whisky, such as the sweet, chocolate-forward Westward American single malt is the natural choice for complementing the signature caramelized and toasted notes of the malted milk powder. Old Pulteney single malt scotch is a less expensive option, bringing a distinctly salty note to the ganache. A toasted barrel or port barrel-finished bourbon would be fitting for this recipe as well.
Delicate in texture, but sturdy enough for transport, these cookies are a great picnic dessert or adult lunch box...

I've got to leave Chi-town.This old town keeps knocking me down.It's like a whirlwind of unhappinessKeeping me on the ground.­—Lurrie BellWhat, you were expecting “Sweet Home Chicago,” the toddling town's sappy-sweet blues anthem? Chicago is more than its clichés, like “The City that Works.” Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't, but it is never boring.You can still hear live blues in dingy dives decorated with Christmas tree lights any night of the week, but you can also see the world's best live theater. Chicago contains the world's most influential architecture, such as the Sullivan Center, formerly known as the Carson, Pirie, Scott and Company building, and architect Mies van der Rohe's Federal Plaza. With its Cubs now baseball champions, anything seems possible in Chicago.One thing that works is public transportation. By choosing buses, trains, cabs, or ride shares it is easy to avoid the trials of operating a motor vehicle. Chicago supplies the designated drivers...

Shrouded in the woods in an unincorporated town outside of Frankfort, Kentucky, a 19th-century distillery rumbles back to life. Abandoned in 1972, the workers walked out, leaving coffee mugs and office memos on their desks, not knowing when or if they might return. In the passing decades, the Old Taylor Distillery, with its “Sleeping Beauty” castle, was crumbling, cloaked in ivy, an unintended casualty of an unloved spirit.Now the sprawling compound stands resurrected as Castle & Key, a massive and mercurial passion project of former Kentucky lawyer Will Arvin and hedge funder Wesley Murry. The reborn distillery began producing bourbon and gin in November under the energetic oversight of Marianne Barnes, the first female master distiller in bourbon country since Prohibition. “Since the first time I laid eyes on the historic site that would become Castle & Key, I knew that it was important,” she says. “It is a lost bourbon icon, built by a man who was not shy to say...

To say “the state of bourbon is strong” is an understatement. The state of bourbon in 2016 is, especially to long-time observers, astonishing.To understand why, consider where bourbon was 25 years ago. Back in 1991, American whiskey sales were flat and that was an improvement. Sales had finally bottomed out after a brutal 20-year decline, during which bourbon lost half of its volume and comparable market share.By 1991, the bleeding had stopped. Instead, sales from year to year were up 1 or 2 percent one year, down a similar amount the next, essentially flat.Outside of the South, young Americans were drinking everything but bourbon. Without the traditional ‘Bourbon Belt,' bourbon might have gone extinct.Moving OutAfter receiving so much bad news for so long, the industry had given up on bourbon. Consolidation had just about eliminated the bourbon-only companies. Every company still standing had valuable assets outside the whiskey category and that's where they put their attention...

Once bourbon is ready to move from barrel to bottle, that barrel is up for grabs—since under U.S. law bourbon can be aged only in new oak. There's a long tradition of distillers in Scotland, Japan, and Ireland buying used bourbon barrels to mature their whiskies, but more recently a bourbon barrel's life has expanded well beyond whisky. “The great thing about bourbon barrels is their versatility,” says national educator for Don Julio tequila Jorge Raptis. “They've become popular for aging a variety of products—even cooking sauces and chocolates—but most notably other spirits outside of whisky.”Indeed, oak-aged expressions can be found for nearly every spirits type. In rum, there's Don Papa from the Philippines, Santa Teresa 1796 from Venezuela, and Mount Gay from Barbados, to name just a few. Tequila is similarly abundant in oak-aged expressions from brands including Don Julio, Lunazul, Ocho, Espolòn, and more. Even typically unaged spirits are getting in the game...

Waiting for a flight in the Minneapolis airport last July, Julie Kirkpatrick started talking to a group of men who, like her, were Cincinnati-bound. It wasn't just idle chitchat; as vice president of sales and marketing for meetNKY, Kirkpatrick likes to know what brings people to Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. She was delighted to learn they were coming for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. “I said, ‘So you're staying in Cincinnati?'” she recounts. They weren't, instead flying into Cincinnati, then renting a car and driving to Lexington.That's when Kirkpatrick knew she was on the right track.Kirkpatrick and meetNKY were in the midst of creating The B Line (short for The Bourbon Line), a tourism initiative launching in February 2018. The B Line aims to boost bourbon tourism in Northern Kentucky, making it a destination in and of itself, and not just a stop along the way to the more famous “Amber Triangle” of Lexington, Bardstown, and Louisville.“I would love to see 10 or 20...

Bourbon balls have everything going for them—whiskey! chocolate! pecans!—yet they've remained a regional delicacy, found mainly in Kentucky, for close to a century. But over the past decade or so, hundreds of bourbon distilleries have opened well outside the borders of the Bluegrass State, and the delicious treats are now gaining a foothold far and wide.It makes sense: Bourbon balls are a sweet that even non-whiskey drinkers can appreciate. There are as many variations on the classic as there are chefs and home cooks who make them, but as a rule, all bourbon balls feature some combination of chocolate, nuts (usually pecans), and whiskey. Beyond that, however, it's up to the cook.“I think what makes bourbon balls a local favorite, and the reason for their ever-increasing popularity, is the nuance,” explains Matthew Bell, executive chef at Gray & Dudley at downtown Nashville's 21c Museum Hotel. “Bourbon balls can be so simple and so specific to each region, town, or...

The term ‘flipper' sounds so bad,” Paul H* groans after I casually refer to him as such. As the midday sun streams in through his kitchen window, he leans back against a folding table that's overflowing with whiskey-shipping supplies, running a hand through his bed-head hair. “I sell high-end whiskey as a middleman,” he clarifies. My eyes drift to ogle another table full of enviable whiskies—Hirsch Select 25, Sazerac 18, and Hibiki 21 year olds. Paul's makeshift processing center is not what you'd call tidy. Children's books, plastic bags, and crumpled cash fill the occasional voids between the rare bottles packed upon the stained table.[*Several sources for this story spoke on the condition of anonymity. They are indicated by abbreviated surnames.]“But I never feel bad about selling whiskey,” Paul admits. “It's like walking into a store, seeing 10 lotto tickets, one of which is a winner, and taking any of the nine losers. You don't...

The key to pairing food and whisky lies in matching flavors. Food is simple enough—cherries are fruity, nuts are, well, nutty. But bourbon can have a whole array of flavors: fruit, caramel, peanuts, cloves, tobacco, root beer—the list goes on. Each individual bourbon has its own unique flavor profile. Throw in barrel finishes and it gets even more complicated.That might sound a bit overwhelming, but when pairing bourbon with food, focusing on just one or two factors is all you need to do. These principles from some of Bourbon Country's leading chefs will get you started on the path to fool-proof pairings.1. Complement or ContrastEvery pairing goes in one of two directions: complementing or contrasting flavors. “When you complement, the flavors of the bourbon and the food melt into each other,” says chef Annie Pettry of Decca Restaurant in Louisville, KY. “This experience gives you the feeling that you have just tasted the perfect match and you cannot tell where one ends and...

Bourbon cream liqueurs lend a distinctly indulgent feel to your whiskey repertoire, and they’re beloved by those of us with a sweet tooth. It’s a luscious tipple nuanced with the oaky, vanilla-leaning flavors of bourbon, mingled with cream and a healthy dose of sugar. But bourbon is still the star of the show, imparting deep whiskey flavor thanks to its time spent in new charred oak. Though some mainstream bourbon brands offer cream liqueurs, this sweet tipple flies mostly under the radar, certainly when compared to its better-known Irish cream counterparts.
The combination of coffee and whiskey is a great place for bourbon cream to shine. Laura Thompson, bar manager at Prohibition Pig in Vermont, uses it in a bourbon riff on Irish Coffee called Kentucky Coffee, composed of bourbon, drip coffee, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream. Jordon Honeycutt, general manager at The Crunkleton in Charlotte, North Carolina, finds it a natural addition to an Espresso Martini, lending a...

Want to buy a $20 single malt scotch? Good luck. Desire a quality $30 Cognac? Yeah, right. Even vodka, which can be made in an instant, places its premium products north of $30. Fortunately, we do not need to settle for cheap beer or two-dollar jug wine. Hope awaits us penny-pinching spirits lovers: sitting in new charred oak barrels, resting in Kentucky rickhouses are copious amounts of delicious bourbon that will be bottled in the $9 to $30 range, delivering plenty of satisfying flavor, while still leaving some coin in our pockets.The recent interest in bourbon has priced once-hidden gems like Elijah Craig 18 year old out of the everyday drinking conversation for many of us. Lavish media attention made others, like Pappy Van Winkle, nearly impossible to find, but the bourbon standbys that so often go unappreciated are waiting on the shelves to offer solace.The Best Bourbons for $20 or LessJust ask Ernie Smith, a western Massachusetts resident who's been drinking bourbon so long his...

Fall is the most exciting time for whisky—lots of new and limited-edition releases hit shelves during the months leading up to the holiday season. And even though we're still weeks away from autumn leaves, and temperatures, the first of the 2018 special bottles is about to roll out. Old Forester always kicks off the season with its Birthday Bourbon, which is released each year on September 2, the birthday of founder George Garvin Brown. Bottled for the first time at Old Forester's new distillery in downtown Louisville, this year's Birthday Bourbon is 50.5% ABV and has a recommended price of $100.Macallan is releasing the seventh limited-edition whisky in its Masters of Photography series, collaborating with multiple artists for the first time. This edition, called Magnum, celebrates Macallan's new distillery. It costs $3,500 and 2,000 packages are available worldwide.Another limited-edition bourbon that is sure to be in high demand: Kentucky Owl Batch #8. Clocking in at its highest...

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...

Earlier this week, we spoke with distilleries in the U.S. and Scotland about the implications of coronavirus-related operations changes for the future availability of their whiskies. Most big companies are optimistic that current interruptions aren't going to impact the availability of bottles down the road, but that's not the case for everyone. Read more about the situation, and what it means for whisky lovers, in our in-depth report.Of course, COVID-19 has changed the way people are drinking whisky right now. With more virtual tastings and Zoom events popping up every week, a couple of whiskey companies are getting extra creative to keep fans engaged, opening up their blending processes to input from the public. Ireland's Chapel Gate Whiskey Co., which makes J.J. Corry, will create a crowd-sourced blend called The Lock In, sending blend samples to participants who will vote on their favorite. Once bottled, the whiskey will be available widely for sale. If you're interested in taking...

This year’s annual Birthday Bourbon release from Old Forester is a 12 year old whiskey at a robust 53.5% ABV, which will please fans hungry for more proof, as the last two years have seen it at a mere 48%. The 12 year old age statement will also be reassuring, as some recent releases have seen it slip to 11 years. This year’s expression again will be sold via national lottery—the ritual of lining up the distillery ended after 2021, as the crowds were becoming too big to handle. (Old Forester owner Brown-Forman also saw the lottery as a better way to keep tabs on the secondary market.) This year’s lottery will be held on September 2: register by August 21, and you’re in with a chance.
In scotch whisky, Talisker is out with the annual release of its 30 year old, while Royal Salute has expanded its  62 Gun Salute with the addition of two more expressions, making it a three-part collection. Back in America, Remus Repeal Reserve is...

We first reported on Brother's Bond bourbon, the new whiskey from actors Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, back in January, and as of this month, the four grain whiskey has wider availability. We spoke to Somerhalder and Wesley about the friendship that led to this whiskey's creation.As for new whiskies this week, there are plenty from all around the globe. Michter's is releasing its annual 10 year old bourbon. Priced at $150, it is highly limited.Kentucky's New Riff Distilling has a 6 year old malted rye available in-state for now at $60.The Singleton is releasing its oldest whisky to date. There are just 235 bottles of 54 year old single malt available worldwide, priced at $40,100.Even more limited is Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Chapter 2 with just 70 bottles going for $45,000.Tullibardine is introducing two new single malts to the U.S., a 12 year old for $45 and the no age statement Artisan for $30. Both are widely available.Independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail has...

Twenty years after being distilled, most bourbons have long since been bottled and, hopefully, consumed. If the whiskey is still in the barrel and hasn't completely evaporated or taken on the flavor profile of an oak stave, it's a small miracle. Yet the appeal of the high age statement endures, embodied by the most desired bottle of all, Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 23 year old. And, despite Pappy's recommended retail price of $270, its actual shelf price is almost always several times more than that.Accordingly, more and more super-aged bourbons have hit high-end back bars and store shelves in recent years, with prices to match their age statements—from the increasing series of ages for Orphan Barrel Rhetoric ($140 for the 25 year old) to Heaven Hill 27 year old ($400) to Michter's 20 year old ($700) and 25 year old ($800). Boutique independent bottler The Last Drop sourced a Buffalo Trace bourbon that was distilled in 1982 and aged for 20 years before being transferred to...

It's a big week of new releases for bourbon and other American whiskeys, with announcements from major stars including Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch (covered earlier this week), as well as Maker's Mark Cellar Aged, Michter's US*1 Toasted Barrel Sour Mash,  Baker's 13 year old, and numerous others detailed below. In scotch, Glenfiddich has a new 16 year old in partnership with Aston Martin's Formula One racing team, while the Tormore single malt brand has a trio of new whiskies as it prepares for a broader U.S. introduction in 2026.
Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged (2025 Edition) Bourbon
ABV: 56.45%
SRP: $175
Availability: Limited
Since its debut in 2023, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged has represented a dramatic departure from the distillery’s standard bourbon, which is ready at around 7 to 8 years old. While Cellar Aged, like the flagship Maker’s, bears no age statement, it has featured whiskey 11 years or older. The barrels used...

Kentucky bourbon is prized for its bold flavors and authenticity. Like an old-school steakhouse, it harnesses tradition and authority to deliver a rarified experience, a process and product that have been perfected over time. But whiskey drinkers, like gourmands, have ever-expanding palates, and as much as the old ways work, and work well, there is no denying the excitement of new ideas and perspectives on something as universally beloved as bourbon.
“Kentucky bourbon is a unique product unto its own. And frankly, it's a very good one,” says Bill Welter, owner and head distiller at Journeyman Distillery in Michigan. As for Journeyman's Featherbone bourbon, which uses an all-organic mashbill of 70% corn, 25 % wheat, and 5% rye, Welter states, “We weren't really setting out to try and replicate something that was already being done very well.”
Welter and Journeyman are among a crop of new distillers reimagining what great bourbon can taste like; stepping...

While much of the U.S. is in a deep freeze, whisky news is heating up. This week, we received an email from Meta in response to this story, apologizing for the problems a technical update caused whisky (and other spirits) brands’ Facebook pages. Detroit Pistons fans will be happy to hear the NBA team now has a bourbon sponsor. On the sales front: The top-selling whisky brands in the U.S. see a slump, yet there's a Kentucky brand seeing sales soar. Plus, Bardstown Bourbon’s labels get a new look;  the Kentucky Bourbon Trail added new stops; four distillers contribute to a barrel for charity; and more.
Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction’s Military Barrel
Next month is the inaugural Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration, running from February 13th-15th. The event will honor the state’s bourbon heritage and U.S. military members, and include a charity auction of a “United We Stand” military...

Barrel finishing is a long-established practice in scotch, but a far more recent phenomenon in American whiskey. That's mainly because bourbon, by definition, must be matured in new charred oak barrels. Put bourbon into a barrel that isn't new and charred and it technically becomes a whisky specialty, more commonly called finished bourbon.A few weeks or months in a secondary cask can elevate the bourbon, transforming it in subtle ways. “It changes [the bourbon], and we think it changes it for the better,” says Bob D'Antoni, chief barrel officer at Four Gate Whiskey Co. The blender and bottler releases cask-finished whiskey almost exclusively, with secondary vessels ranging from sherry, port, and rum, to custom barrels made by Kelvin Cooperage.The enjoyment of finished bourbon has gained steam in the decade since Angel's Envy debuted as the first widely available example of the style. Today dozens of finishes, from port, tequila, and armagnac, to chardonnay and rhum agricole, offer...

Age is the thing in this week’s lineup of American whiskey releases, with Michter’s unveiling the latest release of its 25 year old bourbon—always an occasion to be noted. The 25 year old hasn’t appeared since 2020, and it's a rare pour indeed that can be tough to procure at retail, though it can be found on the best whisky lists in bars and restaurants throughout the land. Either way, it's quite the holiday treat. Then there is Old Forester, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary—not with a 150 year old bourbon, but with a 150-month old bourbon, bottled in throwback holiday decanters, with just 150 bottles available. This is the good stuff that was once bottled only for the owner's family, and this one comes with quite the package of perks, as you'll read below. Elsewhere, Dickel is out with its first 18 year old bourbon, while Barrell gets a jump on things with its Bourbon New Year 2024. There's more to...

If you missed our big announcement on Monday, check it out: We're bidding a grateful farewell to executive editor Jeffery Lindenmuth and welcoming in his place David Fleming, a longtime member of the Whisky Advocate blind tasting panel and experienced whisky writer. This doesn't mean any big changes are coming to Whisky Advocate; we'll still be bringing you the latest news, insights, reviews, and other whisky content in print and online.Speaking of latest news, on to the week's new releases. First up, The Last Drop has unveiled its second bourbon release, a whiskey distilled in 1980 at what is now Buffalo Trace Distillery. There are 240 bottles of the 20 year old bourbon available, with a recommended price of $4,600.Islay's Bruichladdich is rolling out the latest edition of Black Art, distilled in 1994. The single malt scotch is priced at $450, with 12,000 bottles available.Bruichladdich neighbor Kilchoman Distillery is launching two new single malts: Fino Sherry Matured ($130;...

Bourbon and barbecue go together like moonshine and mason jars. Go to any barbecue contest; you'll find many pitmasters smoking meat over bourbon-soaked chips or barrel wood.And now, bourbon is gracing menus in concert with regional barbecue flavors across the U.S. From ubiquitous bourbon sauces to inventive oyster toppers and egg rolls, this all-American couple is showing up in national chains and chef-driven restaurants alike.Check out these eight dining destinations using flavors of bourbon and barbecue to add flair to their fare.Fred's Smokehouse, Clermont, Ky.TRY: Devil's Cut Pulled PorkYes, at Jim Beam's main distillery you'll find this pork barbecue dish, dripping in homemade bourbon barbecue sauce using its namesake Beam whiskey. Perfect after a tour!Feast BBQ, Louisville, Ky., andNew Albany, Ind.TRY: SaucesFeast showcases some of Bourbon Country's best bourbon cooking. Mop up your smoked meat in one of two Western Kentucky- style black barbecue sauces where bourbon is the...

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...

Fans of The Walking Dead can look forward to a special bourbon coming out sometime later this year, but if you're looking for new whisky to drink now, keep reading.Two years after releasing its acclaimed straight rye, Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. in Louisville is debuting its first straight bourbon, aged for four years. It will be priced at $70 and initially available in Kentucky before rolling out more widely.Buffalo Trace Distillery has unveiled the second release in its Old Charter Oak collection. Old Charter Oak French Oak has a recommended price of $70 and will be available in limited amounts.A 12 year old straight bourbon produced at Bardstown Bourbon Co. is hitting shelves. The second batch of Sam Houston 12 year old is available in a handful of states, priced at $100.Meanwhile, Four Gate 11 year old bourbon, finished in a sherry-rum cask (keep reading—it's explained below), was recently released in Kentucky and Tennessee. The company aims to produce several different...

Burgers and bourbon are two of the all-time great pairing partners. “The sweetness of bourbon and the savoriness of a burger go hand in hand,” explains chef David Gross of The Standard, East Village, in New York City. Beyond that, there’s generally enough sweet spice in each sip to stand up to whatever toppings and accompaniments you want to add into the mix.
To take full advantage of bourbon’s innate friendliness with burgers, we enlisted the help of chef Gross to create a full, bourbon-friendly menu of dips, sides, dessert, and, of course, a seriously delicious hamburger. We’ve also included his preferred bourbons to enjoy alongside each course, as well as cocktails created by bar manager Ben Guber and the rest of the bar team. The results, as expected, are fantastic.

COCKTAIL OF CHOICE
Apple Upgrade
Serves 4

4 oz. Wild Turkey (or other bourbon)
3 oz. Luxardo Amaro Abano
3 oz. apple...

Blends and cask finishes are here, there, and everywhere in this week's new releases. Both Barrell Craft Spirits and Bardstown Bourbon Co. have not one, but two new whiskeys out: From Barrel, its latest Cask Finish series, an armagnac-finished blend of straight bourbons, and a new single barrel line of microblends, while Bardstown Bourbon has collaborated with Maison Ferrand for a second cognac-finished blend and also introduced the 13th bottle in its Discovery Series. Elsewhere in the U.S., independent bottler Lost Lantern has unveiled its latest Far-Flung blend of bourbons, Chattanooga Whiskey explores maple syrup cask finishing, and Pursuit Spirits has an 11 year old cask strength bourbon. Across the pond, Bunnahabhain has revealed the first single malt in a new three-part annual series.
Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series: Armagnac
ABV: 56.5%
SRP: $85
Availability: Limited
Barrell Foundation Single Barrels
ABV: Varies
SRP: $TBD
Availability...

So, you're a bourbon fan? It's time to take that fandom to the next level. These bourbon bars are packing their shelves tight with more than 100 bourbons.
Jack Rose Dining Saloon, Washington, DC
Bottles: 2,500 total whiskies; 400 bourbons and 100 vintage ryes and bourbons
When you walk into Jack Rose Dining Saloon, you're stepping into whiskey heaven, surrounded by Prohibition-era bourbons and contemporary unicorns. Jack Rose has led the way in bourbon's national resurgence, finding the hidden Willett gems and privately bottling them; stocking the bar with true Stitzel-Weller products, not those just piling on the marketing power of Pappy Van Winkle. In fact, today you'll still find vintage Stitzel-Weller bourbons on the Jack Rose menu, as well as vintage Brown-Forman, Wild Turkey, Four Roses, and just about every other distillery. If they run out, don't worry, they'll get more. jackrosediningsaloon.com

Canon, Seattle
Bottles: Usually about...

It's a mixed bag of whisky and whiskey this week.First up, MGP Distillery has unveiled a new brand called Eight & Sand. The whiskey is a blended bourbon, which includes both straight bourbon and other unspecified American whiskeys. It's hitting shelves in a dozen states for $30.Want to taste whisky from a long-dead distillery? Littlemill 40 year old, distilled in the waning days of the 1970s, is available from Loch Lomond Group. Just 250 bottles are being released, including 23 coming to the U.S. for the hefty, but round, price of $10,000.Two new whiskies from Germany are hitting U.S. shelves for the first time: Eifel single malt and Eifel rye are made in the western part of the country, distilled in both a column and a pot still, and aged in a variety of cask types. The single malt is $60, while the rye is $55, and both are bottled with no chill-filtration at 46% ABV.The Redneck Riviera brand, co-created by country music star John Rich of Big & Rich, has added a second...

With the July 4 holiday coming up, there's no better time for new bourbon, and this week's latest releases include several great options.Special bottles of Evan Williams Black honoring military veterans are rolling out now. Each bottle features the story of one of five veterans, chosen from 6,500 nominations. Concurrently, the Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Foundation has donated $5,000 to each of the veterans' preferred charities. More than 360,000 American Hero bottles of Evan Williams are available, priced at $13 for a 750 ml and $25 for a 1.75 liter.Knob Creek is debuting its oldest whiskey to date, a 15 year old bourbon. Priced at $100, the bourbon is available nationwide in limited quantities.Also limited—probably a lot more limited—is Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, which will officially launch in September. Retail-priced at $130, it's likely to go for more than that, if it can be found at all.Old Tub Bottled in Bond bourbon, which up to now has been available only in...

Updated 9/30/25: Wyoming Whiskey's Buffalo Bill Cody (see details below), originally released as a Wyoming exclusive, is now available nationwide. The ABV is 48%, compared to the Wyoming-only release's 48.5%.
A mixture of bourbons, ryes, and American blends leads the week’s new releases. High West brings back its The Prisoner Wine Co. red wine-finished blend of bourbon and rye, while Penelope has a blend that includes straight bourbon, American single malt, and American light whiskey. Woodinville has upped the age on its flagship rye, while 15 Stars introduces its oldest blend of rye yet; new bourbons include the fourth chapter of Castle & Key’s Untold Story series, a wheater from Great Jones, and a tribute to Buffalo Bill Cody from Wyoming Whiskey. Overseas, Tomatin, Loch Lomond, and Gordon & MacPhail all have new single malt scotch whiskies.
 
High West The Prisoner’s Share (2025 Edition) American blend
ABV: 51%
SRP: $175

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...

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a mecca for whiskey tourism in the United States, has kicked off summer with a revamp that includes an expanded trail, now encompassing 46 Kentucky distilleries, and a major upgrade to the digital side offered by the group’s website. The Bourbon Trail, which launched in 1999 and celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, has attracted millions of tourists to Kentucky over the years.
This new expansion of the Bourbon Trail, which previously included 18 core distilleries, will encompass what was previously called the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, a separate leg spanning 28 craft distilleries. By combining both trails, Kentucky now has one statewide Bourbon Trail experience that includes 46 distilleries.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries include Angel’s Envy, Evan Williams, and Stitzel-Weller in Louisville, plus Bardstown Bourbon Co. in Bardstown, Four Roses in Lawrenceburg, James B. Beam in Clermont, and Woodford Reserve in...

When distillers sold their bourbon in New Orleans, they'd want to avoid pirates stealing their money on the way home,” says Steve Wilson, recounting a highly plausible legend behind the Bluegrass State's twin legacies. “So they'd ride back to Kentucky on the fastest horse they could buy." We're strolling the grounds of Hermitage Farm, owned by Steve and his wife, Laura Lee Brown—700 acres in the elite enclave of Goshen, Kentucky. Outside of a day at the races, Kentucky offers limited opportunities to experience both thoroughbreds and bourbon in one place, but Wilson and Brown aim to change that with Hermitage Farm, where visitors can get up close and personal with champion racehorses before sitting down to sip some of the state's best whiskeys.Ideal for day-trippers from Louisville, a 30-minute drive away, Hermitage Farm—which opens to the public in phases beginning May 22—offers no shortage of custom experiences. At its heart, it's still a working broodmare farm...

In the thick of summer, country-strong Buffalo Trace workers are sweating through their shirts, rolling newly filled barrels from a truck into a stone warehouse. The whiff of new make spirit in charred oak cuts through the subtle breeze, wafting rich bourbon aromas. It's a typical hot and humid Kentucky day, but something's wrong.The Buffalo Trace Distillery's barrelhead stencil markings look a little unusual. Instead of the smeared black ink upon wood grain, these barrelheads don a bright green.This may seem like no big deal to a casual observer, but in the whiskey business, where every detail counts and small changes reverberate across decades, this green ink on the outside of a barrel is the mark of something profound on the inside: wheated bourbon.Buffalo Trace switched its wheated bourbon stenciling from black to green, while the ryed bourbons remain black, so warehouse crews can differentiate the two. With the growing demand for wheated bourbon, this simple green stenciling...

Lots of new whiskies are coming out this week, but first, some quick updates on existing brands: Fistful of Bourbon, the blend of straight bourbons produced by William Grant & Sons master blender Brian Kinsman and blender Kelsey McKechnie, is now available nationwide. It launched two years ago and up to now was limited to Texas.George Remus bourbon, which is made by MGP, is now offering a single-barrel program for retailers. There's a list of participating stores if you'd like to find one near you.O.Z. Tyler Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky has rebranded as Green River Distilling Co., the historic name connected with the company's DSP (distilled spirits permit). When the distillery launches its own-make whiskeys at 4 years old, they'll bear the Green River name.On to this week's new releases. First up, Hudson Whiskey has rebranded its core lineup and launched new packaging, and a new finished rye. Prices are lower than they used to be, and the liquid is apparently more...

Bourbon was born on the American frontier and came of age on Madison Avenue—and everything about its history reflects the nation that invented it. The story is cast with immigrants, industrialists, farmers, and hustlers, and set in fields, factories, boardrooms, and back rooms. Inextricably intertwined, America shaped bourbon and bourbon shaped America. And no matter how hard marketers try to embellish the history, they'll never top the real thing.7000BC—A-maize-ingEarly Native Americans domesticate a weedy Mexican grass called teosinte, ultimately transforming it into the primary ingredient of bourbon and a grain that feeds and fuels the United States.1622—Dying for a DrinkGeorge Thorpe, a colonist who had been experimenting with making alcohol beverages from corn, is killed during the Powhatan Uprising in Virginia.1776—Revolting DevelopmentsAs the war with the British hinders the sugar trade, and therefore rum production, Americans resort to distilling from native grains...

There are still two full shopping days before Chanukah, and four before Christmas, and if you're looking for the newest whisky to gift, keep reading.The Fall 2019 release of Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond is hitting shelves now, this time at 15 years old. It's priced at $150 and available in limited quantities.Bardstown Bourbon Co.'s latest Collaboration series release is a Tennessee bourbon finished in The Prisoner red wine barrels. There are 10,000 bottles of the whiskey rolling out in more states than ever before, priced at $125.Barrell has unveiled its New Year 2020 whiskey, a blend of straight bourbons from five states. Priced at $90, Barrell New Year 2020 is available in limited amounts.Oak & Eden has debuted its newest whiskey, a wheated bourbon "finished" with a toasted French oak spiral in the bottle. Oak & Eden Wheat & Spire is $39 and available in several states.The oldest single malt ever released from Wales' Penderyn Distillery is coming exclusively to the...

Strap in, because there's a whole lot of new whisky headed your way.First up, Four Roses has unveiled the 2020 Limited Edition Small Batch. Details on the recipes used are below. With a recommended price of $150, there are 14,040 bottles available.Buffalo Trace will release limited amounts of Blanton's Straight From The Barrel starting this fall. Previously only available overseas, the whiskey has a recommended retail price of $150.Ardbeg is rolling out the 2020 release of 19 year old Traigh Bhan. The whisky is priced at $300 and available in limited quantities.GlenDronach's latest whisky in partnership with the Kingsman movie franchise is a 1989 vintage. It's priced at $1,299, with just 3,052 bottles available worldwide.Bardstown Bourbon Co. is releasing a bourbon finished in Copper & Kings Destillaré orange curaçao barrels. There are 3,000 bottles available, priced at $125.Pinhook is launching its flagship Bohemian bourbon, distilled at Castle & Key. The whiskey is widely...

Let's say you've tasted your way through some basic bourbons that have given you a foundation in flavor appreciation. You're no longer a newbie; you have some real bourbon knowledge, and a desire for more. For you, bourbon is becoming a bonafide hobby, but you need guidance on the next few bottles to continue expanding your palate.These key examples will help usher you into an intermediate level of expertise. They offer more complexity—some might even call them challenging—and are different in their own ways.Bourbon 201: Intermediate-Level Bottles You Must TasteColonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch Bourbon—90 points, $40One of the few Buffalo Trace whiskeys that can easily be found on shelves (shhh!), this bottled-in-bond offering showcases the excellence of the distillery's low-rye mashbill. With strong corn aromas on the nose, the palate offers a candy-like sweetness, with hints of butterscotch and caramel corn—though the finish is long and spicy, almost a bit minty. E.H...

Whisky lovers have one more reason to hit the hallowed Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Bardstown Bourbon Co. opened its new visitors center on Sept. 9, offering tours, cocktail classes, and tastings geared toward every level of bourbon drinker, from novice to connoisseur. The facility features a sleek, modern vibe, with glass paneling, moss art walls, and an open design that's meant to highlight the company's focus on transparency and collaboration, while celebrating both the art and science of whiskey making.It wasn't long ago that now-former chief executive David Mandell, who co-founded Bardstown Bourbon Co. back in 2014, had grand plans for its visitors center; the company was part of a wave of next-generation distillers building their enterprises from the ground up with the guest experience in mind. “We're trying to create a Napa Valley experience on the Bourbon Trail,” Mandell told Whisky Advocate in 2017, before the distillery had even opened its restaurant. Bardstown Bourbon Co...

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...

Bottled in bond bourbon has been around for more than a century, yet the style has undergone a full-on renaissance in recent years. Newer distilleries are finally seeing their stocks reach the 4-year minimum age requirement outlined by the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897; coupled with the steady stream of big-name producers releasing new and revived bottled in bond labels, it seems like every week there's a new option on the shelf. The Bottled in Bond Act was meant to ensure one very important thing: the integrity of the whiskey.
Prior to its enforcement, there was no telling what kind of liquid was in the bottle. It could have been adulterated, flavored, colored, diluted—and so the government intervened. To be labeled bottled in bond, a whiskey must be the product of a single distiller in a single season—spring (January to June) or fall (July to December)—aged for a minimum of 4 years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at 50% ABV.Beyond a quality...

Among this week's new whiskies, Heaven's Door has released its first bourbon that includes distillate from its own backyard. Earlier this year, Heaven's Door announced plans to open a Kentucky distillery in the scenic town of Pleasureville, the heart of bourbon country. The Pleasureville distillery has actually been in development since 2017 and making small batches there since 2018 on a custom Vendome still. But in September the place will open its doors to the public, to reveal a campus with two separate stillhouses, a visitor center, tasting rooms, and other amenities. Back in 2019, Heaven's Door was mapping plans to open a distillery and brand center in a 160 year old church in Nashville, which it acquired in 2016. That site will now be used as the headquarters of The Heaven's Door Foundation, the company's philanthropy arm supporting charities and the arts. 
Among other new releases, Kentucky distiller New Riff and Idaho-based Grand Teton Distillery...

In order to bag a rare bourbon, Ricky Nash endured ridicule. The Georgia native walked into liquor stores and asked for “Elmer T. Lee.” The store associates laughed. He asked for “Pappy,” and they teased the whiskey enthusiast like he was stalking a unicorn.Nash tracked Internet rumors and the online secondary market, drove across several states, and looked inside more than two dozen liquor stores in search of any limited edition or hard-to-find bourbon. Then, one day in late November, it happened. He stepped inside one of the stores he'd been eyeing and there was the entire Van Winkle line, ranging from the 23 year old for $2,900 to the 10 year old for $400. After negotiating it down to $350, Nash finally owned 10 year old Old Rip Van Winkle and gleefully commented on a bourbon Facebook group, “Today was a good day!! My first bottle of ORVW10!!!.”He shopped, he scored.Like many whiskey lovers, Nash realized it's much more difficult to buy limited edition bourbon now than...

The official announcement for Spirits of the Apocaplypse, the Walking Dead bourbon, came out this week. Whisky Advocate reported this bottle's imminent arrival back in May, and we're excited to bring you a review in an upcoming Buying Guide.More new whiskies are on their way or hitting shelves now, like the newest limited-edition bourbon from Jim Beam. Knob Creek Quarter Oak includes bourbon was finished for 4 years in a quarter cask; it's priced at $50 and available nationwide for a limited time.Kentucky Owl is rolling out Batch 9 of its bourbon, blended from a number of different whiskeys. There are just over 10,300 bottles available, with a suggested retail price of $300.Dogfish Head has launched its third whiskey, a limited-edition single malt finished in ale casks from the Delaware brewery. Alternate Takes: Vol. 2, Whiskey Finished in Palo Santo Marron Ale Barrels is priced at $50, and there are roughly 6,000 bottles available.Four Gate Whiskey Co. is launching its second...

Updated May 30, 2024: Effective May 28, 2024, Golden Moon Distillery ceased operations.
Denver began as a mining town in 1858 with a whisper that gold had been found in the Rocky Mountains. Prospectors and fortune-hunters set up tents and shacks on the banks of the Platte river, and in their wake came entrepreneurs—gamblers, prostitutes, and saloonkeepers—ready to help “mine” the miners of whatever they might find. Though not much gold was found, there was plenty of whiskey to help wash away their troubles.160 years later, Denver is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States and the residents have not lost their taste for whiskey and other spirits. Craft distilleries are opening at a remarkable rate; the recently launched Colorado Spirits Trail includes more than 50 distillers around the state creating a wide variety of spirits, from whiskey to brandy. Denver alone has nine distilleries as of August 2018, plus several more in the greater metro...

There's a pricey new book about "impossible" whiskies that you might want to peruse if you have a spare grand—but for everyone else, check out the week's newest releases (even though a couple of these are just as spendy).Speyside's Glenrothes Distillery is releasing its oldest single malt ever. Distilled in 1968, Glenrothes 50 year old is priced according to its rarity, with just 50 bottles available at $35,000 each.Michter's is bringing back its 25 year old straight bourbon after a three-year absence. The 2020 release is priced at $1,000 and, needless to say, is very limited.Blackened has launched its first barrel-proof whiskey. Blackened Cask Strength debuts with Batch 106, priced at $55, and available in Florida and Kentucky, with expansion planned.Barrell Craft Spirits is rolling out the 2020 release of BCS bourbon, a higher-end blend than the core Barrell bourbon expression. There are 12,000 bottles available, priced at $250.Ireland's The Shed Distillery is debuting its first...

This week’s new releases include three scotch whiskies—a 16 year old from Highland Park, and 12 year olds from Bunnahabhain and Glenlivet. On the American side, Heaven Hill has three new extensions to its Grain to Glass Series: a bourbon, rye, and wheated bourbon aged 6 years in chinquapin oak. Old Overholt rye has a new cask strength 12 year old, while Whisky del Bac continues to branch out from its single malt roots with a new bourbon, this one with mesquite-smoke staves inserted into the barrels. Elsewhere, we have two new whiskeys from Barrell, the oldest whiskey yet from Pinhook, a stout cask-finished expression from Virginia Distillery Co., and much more.
 
Bunnahabhain 12 year old Cask Strength (2025 Edition) scotch single malt
ABV: 56.4%
SRP: $149
Availability: Limited
The 2025 edition of Bunnahabhain 12 year old cask strength is an unpeated Islay whisky created by Bunnahabhain master blender Julieann Fernandez. The series was...

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...

August has started off with a bang, with plenty of new whiskies ripe for drinking. From Japan (and America) comes a new iteration of Legent from Beam Suntory, this one with a Yamazaki cask finish. Another intercontinental effort is Campfire from High West, that ingenious blend of rye, bourbon, and scotch whisky, whose annual release was announced this week. And pop icon Rod Stewart becomes the latest rocker to release a whisky—but if you're inclined to skip past it, note that it's made at Loch Lomond Distillery, so it definitely seems worth a look. Also from Scotland, Gordon & Macphail has released six new single malt bottlings, with vintage statements ranging from 1976–1997. There's a 1997 Imperial in there for $550—yes, that's the cheapest one—and things get very pricey from there.
On our side of the Atlantic, McCarthy's is back with its 6 year old expression, this one finished in Oloroso sherry casks. Barrell Craft Spirits...

Angel’s Envy is creating excitement with today’s official unveiling of a new addition to the range, its first in many years. Elsewhere in the bourbon world, Jim Rutledge, formerly of Four Roses fame, continues his revival of Cream of Kentucky, the legacy brand acquired in 2019, with two new releases. Rutledge's whiskeys are still sourced for now as he moves toward opening his own distillery. Meanwhile, Lux Row has a new sherry cask-finished bourbon, and WhistlePig revs it up with another Formula 1-themed release.
There’s much more on offer, including new bourbons from Hidden Barn, Wyoming Whiskey, and O.H. Ingram, as well as a new cask finished scotch from Speyside single malt maker Speyburn. On the collectibles side, scotch distiller Benromach has a 50 year old single malt, made before Benromach was acquired by its current owner, Scottish independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, in 1993. Alas, the price for this precious liquid falls into the...

As I walk into the liquor store, my eyes immediately focus on a shiny sign hanging above—“25% off”—then move away as soon as I see the word “vodka.” There's a stack of cheap beer, a discounted bin of wine, and promotions for tobacco goods. All the pricing, all the point-of-purchase material, and all the signage suggest this liquor store is about affordable goods for a frugal consumer. Sounds like a deal, right?Well, that may be the case if you desire Skinnygirl margarita mix or $5 gin. But when I walk down the small bourbon aisle, I see brands marked up. Every brand is just a few dollars more than I'm accustomed to paying. I travel to another store, with “discounted liquors” in the signage, and it's selling basic Elmer T. Lee for more than $200 and the limited editions for more than $300. This must be a Kentucky trend, I surmise, and look for national online liquor stores selling bourbon, only to find everyday products far above the manufacturer's suggested retail...

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...

The Internet is like the whisky world in that there's always something new to check out. Once you've read all of Whisky Advocate's features, how-to guides, and other stories—and watched all our videos—if you're still looking for more whisky media, check out these podcasts, YouTube channels, and streaming-service content from distilleries, brands, and fellow whisky lovers. We'll continuously update this list as we learn about new content—if we've missed your favorite show, let us know!Podcasts About WhiskyA Story of Irish WhiskeyThe title says it all—this is a journey through the history of the Emerald Isle's whiskey business.Blue Collar BourbonThis podcast puts an emphasis on affordable whiskies, which the hosts taste blind in each episode.Bourbon and BloodshedWith new episodes every other week, this podcast pairs whisky with true crime stories.The Bourbon DailyLighthearted and informative chat about bourbon abounds on this podcast, with episodes released every day of the...

In“What's It Worth?”our resident auction expert examines the collectibility of a distillery, brand, or series. Here he examines the fortunes of Parker's Heritage Collection.Among the hotly anticipated limited-edition whiskeys released every fall is Parker's Heritage Collection from Heaven Hill Distillery. The series, which spans multiple styles, was launched in 2007 by master distiller Parker Beam, who passed away from ALS in 2017 at the age of 75. Many of these offerings feature among Whisky Advocate's highest-ever scores for American whiskeys. With over 14 releases to date,* the Parker's Heritage Collection has explored everything from well-aged bourbon, rye, malt, and wheat whiskeys, to single-cask releases, innovative cask finishes, and the flavor impact of heavily charred barrels.Given the diversity of age statements and whiskey styles the series encompasses, it's unsurprising that auction values do not run chronologically. While prospective buyers will find recent releases...

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...

Sazerac, owner of Buffalo Trace, Barton 1792, The Last Drop, and A. Smith Bowman, has placed some of its most prized whiskeys on the auction block to aid the victims of Hurricanes Milton and Helene. In a partnership with Blockbar, the company is offering a rare chance to score bottles and collections of Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, W.L. Weller, E.H. Taylor, 1792, A. Smith Bowman, and The Last Drop—all for a worthy cause.
The auction started this morning and continues through 10 a.m. on November 1st. Unlike other charity efforts where only a portion of the funding goes to the intended recipient, Sazerac is donating 100% of the proceeds—all going to the American Red Cross to aid in its hurricane recovery efforts.
The auction is being held on  Blockbar.com. This is a “no reserve” auction, meaning there’s no minimum price for a bottle or collection, although, bidding starts at $100, and no buyer premiums are...

What a week for new releases! There’s no shortage of new whiskies as we transition from summer into fall, and they range from highly allocated collectible single malts and experimental limited editions to widely available permanent expressions.
Scotch lovers have plenty to be excited about, with new malts and blends coming from all over the country. Laphroaig has debuted the third edition of its experimental Elements series; Single Cask Nation has bottled three new single malts; Buchanan’s has added a luxurious new blend; and Johnnie Walker has launched a limited-edition Blue Label bottle and box that celebrates the Indian festive season. In bourbon, there’s cask finishes galore. Both Barton 1792 and Hirsch have introduced cognac-finished bourbons, while Widow Jane is back with its maple syrup-finished Decadence, and Steph Curry’s Gentleman’s Cut has a Pedro Ximénez sherry-finished bourbon, made in collaboration with chef José...

Lots of new whiskies are hitting stores this week, including a galactic bourbon, limited-edition Canadian whisky, and more.Straight off the Starship Enterprise comes James T. Kirk bourbon, named for the ship's fearless leader. The sourced whiskey is 10 years old, distilled in Tennessee, and will be featured at San Diego Comic Con next month. It's available for pre-order now for $60, with bottles shipping in the fall, at jamestkirkbourbon.com. Update 10/3/18: Future batches of James T. Kirk bourbon will vary in origin and age, from 4 to 12 years old.Back down on earth, Crown Royal has unveiled the 2018 release in its Noble Collection, a 13 year old version of the recently released Blenders' Mash. The whisky was distilled from corn, rye, and malted barley and aged entirely in new charred oak barrels. It will be available in limited amounts for $60.In Kentucky, Wild Turkey Distillery has released the latest Russell's Reserve vintage, this one comprised of whiskey from 25 barrels filled...

These days, a new whisky comes out practically every day—sometimes a dozen or more a week (all reported each Friday in Whisky Weekend). Store shelves are crowded with more bottles than ever before. New releases make a splash, but when a whisky disappears, it usually happens quietly.That was the case with Old Scout, a popular whiskey sourced from MGP and bottled by Smooth Ambler. Just a few years ago, the West Virginia distillery was selling every bottle of Old Scout bourbon and rye that it could ship—so much that it ran out of mature whiskey altogether. So since September 2016, Smooth Ambler has bottled only a few barrels of Old Scout bourbon, usually limited to gift shop sales. But now Old Scout's 99-proof (49.5% ABV) bourbon is coming back for good.“It was really dumb, what we did,” says Smooth Ambler CEO and master distiller John Little, explaining how the well dried up. The company had bought its first barrels of bourbon and rye for Old Scout in 2011, and continued to buy...

It’s Father’s Day weekend, and earlier in the week we posted a piece that covered a wide range of Father's Day gift choices to suit nearly every dad. We follow here with an array of new whiskeys, many of which could also be in the running—notably a just-released Father’s Day Bourbon Collection from Woodford Reserve. Among other noteworthy new items, Old Forester is offering a new batch of its President’s Choice single barrel bourbon, while Blue Run is back with Flight Series II, featuring six micro-batch whiskeys. Texas whiskey maker Still Austin has a summer release of its Bottled in Bond red corn, and the Penelope Cooper Series has a new release of its bourbon finished in grenache rosé wine casks from the Southern Rhône.
For scotch lovers, the U.S. Open golf championship is in full swing this weekend, and Dewar’s is out with this year’s release of its 19 year old Champion’s Edition...

As we move full-on into fall, we are loaded up with high-profile whiskies this week. King of Kentucky is out with its eighth annual release, while Widow Jane drops its seventh annual bottling of The Vaults, the series highlighting ultra-aged bourbons made with unusual cask finishes. Woodford Reserve has a new barrel strength rye, while Baltimore rye specialist Sagamore Spirit has released its first bourbon, a high-rye expression made entirely at the distillery. Among other whiskies, scotch whisky blender Compass Box has tapped into the dessert lover’s palate with a new expression called Crème Brulée Royale, while India’s Rampur Distillery has a new single malt. Meanwhile, college football is in the air: Teeling is back with another expression honoring the legacy of Notre Dame's legendary team, and former Rutgers University football star Eric LeGrand toasts his alma mater with a new bourbon saluting its mascot, the...

It's common to give the whisky lover in your life a special bottle for Christmas or Hanukkah—but how about 35 special bottles? The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) is about to give one lucky person the chance to take home a slew of rare, in-demand, and hard-to-find whiskies, from Pappy Van Winkle to Old Forester Birthday Bourbon to O.F.C. 1994.Following up on its successful Buddy-Up! raffle of Van Winkle, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, and other high-end whiskeys, which raised $200,000 for Best Buddies New Hampshire, the NHLC is now upping the ante in a bid to raise half a million dollars for the New Hampshire Food Bank and Easterseals New Hampshire. The Cheers for Charity! raffle includes 35 whiskies, offered as a single package, and mainly comprising Kentucky bourbons and ryes, with a smattering of scotch and Irish whiskey. Not every whisky on the list is rare or hard to find, but most are, and no matter what, winning the package on a $100 ticket is the deal of a...

So many new releases this week! We decided that we can’t possibly fit them all without creating a post that resembles a whisky encyclopedia, so today’s Whisky Weekend will feature only the  latest American whiskey offerings. On Monday, we’ll post a second run of new releases, and those will feature Scotland, Ireland, and other places beyond our shores.
Here at home, multiple bottle releases seem to be the thing these days. We posted Lost Lantern’s Summer of Bourbon range a few weeks back, a lineup of eight whiskeys in all, and this week we feature Tennessee’s Old Dominick Distillery, which offers six new expressions. Elsewhere, there’s a new bonded Jack Daniel’s in town, and this time it’s a rye. Meanwhile, the explosion in cask-finished bourbons continues, with Barrel’s new rum cask and amburana finished whiskeys, as well as a new stout-cask finished expression from...

Angel's Envy is the the distllery that launched the finished bourbon phenomenon back in 2011, and now it's gone a different route with its first-ever release of a non-finished bourbon.  And speaking of different routes, Isle of Arran-based Lagg DIstillery launched in 2019 as the peated sibling of the more famous Isle of Arran distillery, Lochranza; now its whiskies are finally reaching U.S. shores, with two expressions hitting the market. Elsewhere, Widow Jane has a new release that features its heirloom corn Baby Jane, while Laws has launched a new collection called the Headwaters Series, and Lost Lantern is back with the second edition of its Summer of Bourbon Series.
Angel’s Envy Cask Strength Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon 
ABV: 50%
SRP: $55/375 ml
Availability: Distillery exclusive; 12,000 bottles 
From the jump, Angel’s Envy has emphasized cask finishes, with its core bourbon finished in port casks for up to 6...

Woodford Reserve this week released its annual Derby bottle ahead of the 2025 Kentucky Derby, which takes place on May 3. This year’s label was created by Cuban-American artist Humberto Lahera, who’s based in Louisville. The one-liter bottle retails at $50 and can be purchased on Reservebar, on Woodford’s online store, at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, and selected retailers nationwide.
Among other new releases, Orphan Barrel is out with a 17 year old, while Old Elk has a new flagship bourbon called Slow Cut. Penelope Rio, the amburana cask-finished bourbon, is back with its third iteration, while High West returns with the annual release of Bourye, its rye-bourbon blend. There's plenty more, with new offerings from Buzzard's Roost, Remus, and Westward, among others, including a noteworthy release from Bushmills, which has unveiled the oldest Irish single malt ever—a 46 year old with a limited global release of just 300 bottles, priced at a cool...

Who doesn’t love to add a bottle to their bar? And if you read Whisky Weekend regularly, you know there’s no shortage of new releases to track down. But once you’ve invested in your whisky, you want to display it as artfully as possible. This week, we spoke to HGTV star Orlando Soria about how to make your home bar look its very best. Read some of his tips and tricks and add a dash of style to the bar this weekend.New releases this week include bourbons from Heaven Hill and George Dickel, a collaboration between Scottie Pippen and Dave Phinney's Savage & Cooke and more. Read on for full details.Heaven Hill Five Brothers BourbonStyle: Straight bourbonOrigin: KentuckyAge: 5 year old ABV: 45%Price: $60Release: June 2021Availability: Kentucky onlyNeed to know:Heaven Hill's new small-batch bourbon is a blend of whiskeys aged five to nine years old, representing the distillery's five founding brothers. Made from Heaven Hill's traditional bourbon mashbill, this whiskey will be...

St. Patrick's Day may have passed, but that doesn't mean you need to abandon your Irish whiskey altogether. We have some simple cocktail recipes and a list of high-scoring bottles that will serve you well throughout the year. And of course, you can always work on making the perfect Irish coffee ahead of next year's festivities.The top new releases this week mostly hail from Kentucky, as Castle & Key debuts its small batch bourbon. The first batch is coming this month, and the second will arrive in May. Meanwhile, Barton 1792 is extending its Thomas S. Moore line of finished bourbons with finishes in madeira, sherry, cognac, and merlot casks, and Japan's Kaiyō adds two blended malts to its range. Read on for full details.Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon 2022 Release (Batch 1) Style: Straight bourbonOrigin: KentuckyABV: 49%Age: 4 year oldPrice: $50Release: March 2022Availability: 18,564 bottles in AZ, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, NJ, NY, OK, SC, TN, TX, WA, and WICastle & Key...

Weller 12 year old surged in popularity after Pappy Van Winkle took off in the mid-aughts, thanks its use of the same wheated mashbill, but being more affordable than its cousin, Van Winkle 12 year old. (And, at the time, somewhat easier to obtain at retail pricing.) Age statements for bourbon were rarer when Weller 12 was first released in 2001, though the market’s now flooded with similarly aged offerings, but being one of the originators, Weller 12 still stands out among the crowd. Here’s our report on Weller 12 year old bourbon 2023 release.            
Weller 12 Year Old Bourbon At a Glance:
Distillery Name: Buffalo Trace
Age: 12 year old
Mashbill: 51% corn, undisclosed wheat, undisclosed barley
Proof: 90/45% ABV
Cask: New, charred American oak barrels
SRP: $70
Quick Tasting Notes: Vanilla and caramel abound, as do candied orange zest and dark chocolate.
Overall Thoughts: A sublime daily...

Other distillers have done it, but Knob Creek never blended its bourbon and rye whiskeys for any of its expressions—until this summer’s launch of Bourbon X Rye, a blend of 9 year old bourbon and 7 year old rye. The final product was formulated by James B. Beam father/son master distillers Fred and Freddie Noe (Knob Creek is part of Beam) with the goal of finding the perfect bourbon-rye balance. But it isn’t a straightforward 1:1 mix of the two whiskeys, instead it plays far more heavily into its rye component, which accounts for 70% of the blend.
A precursor for Bourbon x Rye can be found in another Beam-owned whiskey, Basil Hayden’s Two by Two Rye, a bourbon/rye blend released in July 2018. But the new Knob Creek blend has two whiskeys, whereas Basil Hayden’s was a blend of four.  There’s also a tighter age range for Bourbon x Rye: It’s 7–9 years old compared to Basil Hayden’s 5–13 years. In terms of similarities...

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...

A bounty of new whiskies is on offer this week, with American whiskey weighing in heavily as usual. Blackened and Rabbit Hole have teamed up on a collaborative bourbon, while Russell’s Reserve offers its second single rickhouse release. Still Austin has a new bottled in bond high-rye bourbon, and Ross & Squibb is asking a cool $200 for its 15 year old limited edition Remus Gatsby Reserve. In scotch whisky, we all received great news with the return of Glenglassaugh. This distillery was acquired by Jack Daniel's owner Brown-Forman back in 2016, and that purchase also included Benriach and GlenDronach. While we've seen master blender Rachel Barrie turn her formidable talents to Benriach and GlenDronach, it's been a quiet time for Glenglassaugh. But now it's back and with a troika of new releases that should delight single malt scotch drinkers. Also from Scotland, Johnnie Walker Blue has a new collaborative effort...

There’s a wintry feel in this latest round of new releases, led by New Riff’s latest Winter Whisky offering, as well as two new stout cask finished expressions—one from Nelson’s Green Brier in Nashville and the other from distiller-brewer Town Branch in Lexington, Kentucky. Then we have a honey barrel-finished bourbon from North Carolina distiller Southern Star, inaugural releases from Distillery of Modern Art, based in Chamblee, Georgia, another shot to get your hands on World Whiskey Society's 13 year old Wyatt Earp Hazmat Edition, and whiskey-based liqueurs. Plenty to add to your Black Friday shopping list!
New Riff Winter Whiskey Kentucky Straight Bourbon
ABV: 50%
SRP: $55
Availability: Limited
A seasonal release first introduced in 2020, New Riff Winter Wheat is made from a mashbill of 65% corn, 20% malted oats, 7% pale ale malt, 5% steel-cut raw oats, and 3% chocolate malt. As with many of New Riff’s whiskeys...

Michter’s 20 year old, Garrison Brothers’ Cowboy, and Cedar Ridge Double Barrel are just some of the new offerings in this week's parade of new American whiskeys, while in scotch, Highland Park is out with a new bottling in its cask strength series. Among world whiskies, Nikka celebrates the 40th anniversary of its Nikka From The Barrel whisky with a commemorative release, and Paul John has unveiled its annual Christmas Edition. Somewhat related is news that Bobby Garg, the U.S. importer of Indian whisky label Rampur, has released his own bourbon. 
 
Michter’s 20 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
ABV: 57.1%
SRP: $1,200
Availability: Limited
While Michter’s 20 year old bourbon is an infrequent release, fans of this coveted whiskey are in luck: for the second year in a row, the distillery is releasing the 20 year old bourbon next month. The 2025 bottling is selling at the same $1,200 price tag as...

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...

Nobody ever wants to look like a beginner, even when it comes to drinking whiskey. Folks have their first sip of whiskey—and fall in love with it, of course—and all of the sudden they want to drink the rarest and most sought-after bottles, like Pappy Van Winkle or the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. But in order for a new bourbon drinker to understand why certain whiskeys are so highly regarded by connoisseurs he or she must lay the groundwork first.Just like you don't start college in a 400 level course, you shouldn't start a bourbon hobby without first learning about, and drinking, the classics. These recommendations are essential bourbons for neophytes—not just in their crowd-pleasing, iconic flavors, but also in the history and cultural significance each displays. Knowing about and appreciating both characteristics are an important first step in your bourbon education.Bourbon 101: Start Your Education With These WhiskeysWild Turkey 101—86 points, $25The “kickin'...

There’s no denying the power of whisky tourism and travel. Perhaps you’ve visited a distillery while on vacation or even planned a trip around distillery visits. Bourbon specifically brought flocks of fans out in 2022, with the Kentucky Distillers Association (KDA) reporting this week that the Kentucky Bourbon Trail had a total of 2,135,555 visitors, setting a new record for the organization. That is a 38% increase from the 1.7 million visitors in 2019, and a 370% increase over the past 10 years. 
Brands have responded to this influx over the years by investing in elevated visitor experiences. Angel’s Envy, which sits on downtown Louisville’s Whiskey Row, completed an $8.2 million expansion in 2022, adding five tasting rooms and doubling its annual guest capacity. General Manager Gigi DaDan says they saw 163,827 guests in 2022, a 16% increase from last year.
“Because we are located right in the heart of downtown Louisville, we often get...

Former football player Eric LeGrand is not like most whiskey makers. LeGrand was a successful defensive tackle at Rutgers University when, during a game in his junior year in 2010, he suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the neck down. LeGrand had aspired to be in the NFL and eventually become a sports broadcaster, and the injury changed the trajectory of his life. But his resilience is astounding, and in the years since the injury, he’s become an inspirational public speaker. He’s also a bourbon maker, with an eye toward increasing awareness and acceptance of people living with paralysis disabilities.
LeGrand launched his first whiskey, Eric LeGrand Kentucky straight bourbon, in 2023 with Brian Axelrod and Green River Distillery, which is now owned by Bardstown Bourbon Co. Axelrod has a traditional spirits background, having previously helped launch Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey with MMA fighter and boxer Conor McGregor, and he has also...

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...

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...

The week’s rolling announcement of our Top 20 Whiskies of the Year is completed today, with the unveiling of whiskies 11-20. As always, the drumroll began on Monday with Nos. 10, 9, and 8, followed by 7, 6, and 5 on Tuesday, and 4,3, and 2 on Wednesday. Yesterday came the big day, with the reveal of our Whisky of the Year,  and we finished up today with the rest of the list. With due congratulations and celebration for the winners, we will soon begin the quest for next year’s winners. It all starts here, on the pages of our Whisky Weekend new releases.
In keeping with the ways of the modern whisky world, this year’s Top 20 features a number of international collaborations, notably Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage, whose rum barrel finish is a joint effort with Jamaica’s Appleton Estate. In this week's new rollouts, we have Puncher’s Chance whose latest, The Unified Belt, blends Irish whiskey and bourbon. Meanwhile...

Back in 19th-century Scotland and Ireland, whisky merchants also sold wine, bringing in popular fortified wines like port and sherry. Casks filled with wine were shipped across the sea from Spain and Portugal, and once they were emptied, the merchants would often refill them with whisky from a nearby distillery rather than discard them and pay for new casks. Eventually, people came to see that a whisky’s maturation in wine casks contributed some very nice flavors. Ireland’s whiskey merchants, famously Dublin’s J.A. Mitchell & Son with its Spot whiskeys, were particularly renowned.
But those days were more about cost expedience, and generally involved full maturation rather than finishing per se. It was in Scotland during the early 1980s that cask finishing as a modern art form was born. In 1982, David Stewart, former malt master at Speyside distillery Balvenie, decided to see what would happen when a whisky aged in American oak casks was transferred to a...

Without barrels from the U.S., Scotch whisky as we know it could not exist. Nine out of ten casks used to mature whisky in Scotland today initially matured bourbon or Tennessee whiskey. By law, barrels can be used only once for bourbon, but they still have plenty of flavor to give. Thousands of empty used vessels are shipped to Scotland every year to impart delicious sweetness, scented vanilla, and golden honey flavors to whisky destined for the bourbon barrel. Yet, finding scotch aged in only bourbon requires a keen eye.Try It: Bourbon Cask-Matured Scotches That Cost $100 or LessNew American oak barrels are toasted and charred to break down the uppermost layers and prepare them for their first job of maturing bourbon whiskey. Toasting and charring enhances the vanillin present in the seasoned wood. The cask contributes oak extractives and color, and its char layer helps to modify the characteristics of the new make American spirit. When new-make single malt is filled into a once-used...

Did you see Monday's reveal of the full Top 20 list? Check out all 20 of the most exciting whiskies of 2017, including Whisky of the Year.Beyond the Top 20 list, there's more excitement to be had in this week's new whisky releases. Glen Moray—whose 18 year old was number 10 on our list—is launching a sherry cask-finished, NAS single malt. For only $30, it's worth picking up if you've never gotten acquainted with this Speyside distillery.Higher up the pricing ladder, Macallan has a new line of single cask whiskies ranging in age from 12 to 22 years old—and priced from $250 to $1,300. There's not much other information available about these seven single cask bottlings.If you prefer peatier scotch at a lower price, Bowmore has a new 18 year old ($127) partly matured in manzanilla sherry casks and a 26 year old ($540) that spent half its life in wine barriques. Both are limited in quantity.Meanwhile, the Big Peat blended malt brand is launching its first age-statement whisky. Only...

The biggest whiskey news of the week was the launch of Sweetens Cove, a new bourbon backed by NFL star Peyton Manning and tennis great Andy Roddick, among others. We spoke to both Manning and Roddick, as well as master blender Marianne Eaves, about the whiskey and its links (pun completely intended) to the beloved golf course of the same name. Check out the in-depth article, and then keep reading for the hard stats and some analysis below.The latest Port Ellen single malt from Diageo is coming out now, priced at a cool £6,500 (about $8,000). It's 40 years old, a vatting of nine "rogue" casks. There are 1,380 bottles available, though none are being sold in the U.S.Kentucky-based blender Barrell announced its Private Select whiskey series, a collection of unique "micro-blends" that are each finished in a different barrel type. Each offering is limited to 150-180 bottles, priced at $109. Barrell is also set to release Batch 024 of its bourbon, priced at $90 and available in limited...

Love scotch, bourbon, or American single malt? Then pay attention—this week's new whiskies should make you very happy.Balvenie is releasing a 25 year old edition of its DoubleWood single malt, matured first in ex-bourbon casks and then in Spanish oak oloroso sherry casks. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first Balvenie DoubleWood 12 year old, just 3,600 bottles will be available at a price of $599. Meanwhile, Balvenie's parent company William Grant & Sons has unveiled a blended straight bourbon. Fistful of Bourbon combines five straight bourbons from undisclosed sources, blended to balance five unique flavor profiles. The whiskey is initially launching in Texas for $25, and is expected to become more widely available in the future.Michter's is re-releasing a bourbon that was last available in 2015. Michter's US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish will be available nationwide with a recommended price of $60, but expect it to sell out—like the previous releases, this is available in...

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...

Whiskeys of great age are in evidence once again this week, with Old Grand-Dad releasing its first-ever 16 year old bourbon, Stranahan’s dropping one of the oldest American single malt ever in its new 12 year old  Mountain Angel, and Barrell Craft Spirits releasing a far older version of its New Year Blend than last year's expression. Whatever the reason for all this aging up, it’s certainly good news for whiskey lovers, as older whiskeys are usually, though not always, a better sip.
Elsewhere, J. Mattingly and Jeptha Creed once again honor our veterans—Mattingly with the fifth release of its 1845 Combat Infantry Badge Bourbon, and Jeptha with the third batch of its Red White and Blue bourbon, with a portion of sales for both going to military-related non-profits. Finally, The Hearach, the single malt scotch made on the remote island of Lewis and Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides and founded in 2015, has added a new...

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...

It’s a great week for American whiskey lovers, with new releases from Beam, Heaven Hill, Michter’s, Barrell, Kentucky Owl, and more. Freddie Noe has introduced another chapter of Little Book, which spotlights unique blends; this release is no different, combining five unique bourbon and rye components. Heaven Hill has followed up the May release of its Grain-to-Glass bourbon with the second iteration of its Grain-to-Glass rye. Elsewhere, Michter’s returns with its two Legacy Series brands, Shenk’s Homestead and Bomberger’s, which honor key figures in the distillery’s history. Rounding out the week in new releases are fresh bourbon batches from Barrell and Kentucky Owl, a rye from Wigle Distillery, a high-rye straight malt from Root Shoot Spirits, and an Irish single grain from Two Stacks.
Little Book Chapter 9: “None For Granted” Blend
ABV: 60.9%
SRP: $160
Availability: Limited
Fred B. Noe master distiller...

Just a week after announcing its seventh batch of limited-edition bourbon, Kentucky Owl has revealed plans to roll out a rye whiskey for the first time. The 11 year old sourced whiskey will be available in much larger quantities than Kentucky Owl's bourbon—and will cost less, though it's by no means inexpensive at $130 a bottle. About half the country will have access to Kentucky Owl rye.Meanwhile, New York-based Hillrock Estate has a new bourbon from its solera, finished in California Cabernet Sauvignon barrels. The distillery says the 6 to 8 week finish gives the nose and finish of red wine, but preserves the core bourbon flavors on the palate.Finally, FEW Spirits is launching its latest collaboration with Chicago-area record label Bloodshot Records. White Lightning is a whisky (no E) that is distilled from five types of malt and rested for a short period of time in FEW bourbon and rye barrels. There are only 150 bottles, available at the distillery starting on September 9th at...

With gift-giving season upon us, there's no better time for new whisky. First up, Maker's Mark has a very special Private Edition coming out in December—a custom bourbon created by the competitors on Bravo's Top Chef. Just a few hundred bottles are available for $80 each, going on sale after the second episode of season 16 airs on December 13.Islay distillery Bowmore has unveiled a single malt distilled in 1965 and aged a whopping 52 years. There are just 232 bottles available, but at a cost of $30,000, the list of eligible purchasers isn't going to be too long.Meanwhile, boutique independent bottler The Last Drop is also rolling out a very aged whiskey—this one a bourbon distilled in 1982 at what is now called Buffalo Trace, but was then the George T. Stagg Distillery. It was moved out of barrel in 2002 to avoid becoming over-oaked. At 20 years old, with just 44 bottles available, the whiskey costs $4,000.Another bourbon from the George T. Stagg era is being released by Buffalo...

Who doesn’t like apples? The ripe, luscious peach is now a distant memory of summer, and so it’s apple season—meaning fresh apples, apple pie, and perhaps even a warm spicy rye finished in apple brandy casks. Hudson Rye Calvados Cask Finish is 7 year old whiskey first aged in new oak before a long, secondary maturation in calvados casks from Normandy, France. 
Meanwhile, we're pleased to see that Castle & Key is out with another branded expression, this one a wheated bourbon. We all were very excited when restoration began on this historic distillery back in 2014, forgetting that the process would take a while. In the ensuing years, Castle & Key was relying exclusively on contract distilling, but its first whiskey under the Castle & Key name finally appeared in 2022. Slowly but surely, Castle & Key is starting to develop a true portfolio of expressions.
Uncle Nearest, having already built a successful...

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...

A comeback is an exciting thing—especially when it involves a beloved whiskey. In addition to the return of Smooth Ambler's Old Scout 99 Proof Bourbon (more on that below and in this article), Old Forester has brought back its 1910 Old Fine Whisky. Initially released in October 2018, the bourbon was such a success that it sold out quickly—but Old Forester now has plans in place to ensure that won't happen again. Similarly, Old Forester's sister brand Woodford Reserve is rolling out more bottles of its straight malt whiskey which sold out shortly after launching in June 2018.Many brand-new whiskies are also hitting shelves now. First up, Maker's Mark is debuting the first in a series of limited-edition bourbons finished with unique wood staves. Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series: Stave Profile RC6 is available in limited amounts for $60.Meanwhile, the extremely limited Macallan Fine & Rare 1979 Vintage is now available. The single malt is 40 years old and costs $14,500.More...

That familiar scent—like sweet, tangy sourdough—fills the nostrils upon crossing the threshold of Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery on West Main Street. The interior features a fresh, white steel skeleton, designed to hold the aging brick building erect, and deep within lies the aroma's source: twin cypress tanks where a secret whiskey mash ferments. The tanks were reassembled on-site and, along with their companion copper stills, belonged to Pennsylvania's Michter's Distillery, closed since 1990. Originally manufactured by Louisville's Vendome Copper & Brass Works, this is a homecoming.The scent of bourbon permeates Kentucky's largest city—literally and figuratively—drifting along Louisville's wide sidewalks fronting historic buildings, then flowing into low-key, brick-backed bars. This is bourbon country, after all—where three-quarters of a million proud Louisvillians are eager to welcome visitors, divulge favorite sipping spots, and swap barstool stories.A Southern...

Kentucky is bourbon country, and Louisville is the capital. Home to distilleries and brand experiences from the likes of Jim Beam, Old Forester, and Evan Williams—all part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail—the birthplace of the Old Fashioned, and the setting for the most exciting two minutes in sports and a bonafide cocktail holiday, the Kentucky Derby. Whether it's a Mint Julep in your hand, a decadent Coffee & Donut cocktail from Whiskey Dry or simply a neat pour made down the block, Louisville is a bourbon drinker's paradise and one of the greatest whiskey cities in the world.
Getting Around
Uber or Lyft are your best bets. Taxis can be scarce and the municipal bus system, TARC, isn't conducive to a proper urban expedition. The major distillery visitor centers outside of town can require an hour's drive, so a car rental and non-drinking driver are necessary unless you utilize an organized tour company.
When to Go
Kentucky Derby Festival begins in April...

Many drinkers are quick to inspect the back label of a whiskey bottle to determine the origin of the liquid inside—whether it was actually distilled by the people who sell it or if it was sourced from elsewhere.Often, the answer is both.That's the approach taken by Smooth Ambler Spirits and its aptly named Contradiction bourbon—a blend of straight bourbons combining about one-third house-distilled whiskey with the balance sourced from another distiller.While a popular approach now, this was once a novel idea, says national sales and marketing director John Foster, who has been with Smooth Ambler since 2009. “At first there were two camps,” he says. “You either made everything from scratch and everybody else was a poser, or you sourced everything and pretended you made it.” Sourcing was not part of Smooth Ambler's original plan.How Open Should Brands Be About Sourcing? Our Editors DebateSometimes however, serendipity leads to success. “Contradiction is our most popular...

With one notable exception, American whiskeys are the stars this week’s new releases. Most are limited edition and experimental, such as the two distillery exclusives from Angel’s Envy—one a bourbon that explores grain and the other a rye that features flavors of peat smoke—and the latest Master’s Collection bourbon from Woodford, which does a deep dive into just how American oak can influence whiskey. Heaven Hill has also introduced this year's Grain-to-Glass wheated bourbon, while O.H. Ingram, the brand best known for aging its whiskeys on the Mississippi River, is back with a wheater of its own. From outside Kentucky, there’s even more bourbon to mine. The Peyton Manning and Andy Roddick-owned Sweetens Cove returns with not one but two new Tennessee bourbons, Texas-based Garrison Brothers has debuted a bourbon finished in rye barrels, and Colorado’s Laws has added another bourbon to its Four Grain lineup. From Seattle...

Around 2010, the realization that bourbon does not have to be made in Kentucky took hold; bourbon was being produced in nearly every U.S. state. The topics of sourced whiskey, no age statement, and transparency were hot. Whisky lovers pursued knowledge about whisky and their favorite brands. Innovation and experimentation have become a norm unlike ever before.
2010
❖ The number of craft distillery openings begins to explode, with some of the more high-profile ones being Woodinville and Westland in Washington, Dad’s Hat reviving rye whiskey in Pennsylvania, Santa Fe Spirits in New Mexico, Breuckelen and King’s County in New York, Mississippi River in Iowa, Union Horse in Kansas, Rock Town in Arkansas, Ole Smoky in Tennessee, and Firestone & Robertson in Texas.

❖ Malt Advocate magazine, which launched in 1997, is acquired by M. Shanken Communications. The magazine would be redesigned in the following year and rebranded...

New whiskies are coming from all corners and in all styles this week.First up, Crown Royal is launching a new range of whiskies called the Blenders' Series, celebrating the art of blending. The first release, Blenders' Mash, showcases the corn-forward whisky that makes up one of Crown Royal's five key blend components. It was originally released a few weeks ago as Crown Royal Bourbon Mash, but that name didn't sit well with American distillers or the TTB, since Crown Royal is Canadian and bourbon can only be made in the U.S. Eagle-eyed whisky drinkers may still be able to spot the old label on shelves, but for the rest of us, Blenders' Mash will be widely available and cost $28.Meanwhile, Kentucky's Wilderness Trail Distillery releases its very first bourbon and rye tomorrow. The distillery was founded by two scientists who use precise and forward-thinking techniques to create whiskey—from using sweet mash to going chemical-free. The bourbon and rye—both aged at least four...

Another million-dollar Macallan has just sold at auction, but if your wallet can't handle seven figures, never fear—there's plenty of new, much more affordable whisky rolling out.Evan Williams is releasing a special 2012 vintage of its single-barrel bourbon in honor of the Kentucky Derby Festival. Evan Williams Single Barrel 2012 Vintage is 56.5% ABV and $75, and includes a 2020 Gold Pegasus pin—good for admission to many Derby events—sealed in the wax on the neck. Just 600 bottles are for sale at the Evan Williams Experience in Louisville, Kentucky.Four Gate Whiskey Co. is releasing another batch of Foundation, its 9 year, 9 month old Kentucky straight bourbon. Just 590 bottles are available, all at 60.1% ABV and $200. Details on the original release can be found here.Ardbeg has unveiled its 2020 limited-edition Committee Bottling, Ardbeg Blaaack. The pinot noir cask-finished whisky will be available in the U.S. in June, priced at $140.Luxco, parent company of Lux Row...

Change is in the air, and we aren't just talking about the seasons. Major brands are losing some of their top whiskey makers, as distillers and blenders are leaving corporate comforts to create a legacy of their own. We spoke to Jane Bowie and Denny Potter, formerly of Maker's Mark, and Jackie Zykan, formerly of Old Forester, about their decisions to forge their own paths and the whiskeys we can expect from them in the future.As for whiskies you can search for now, there are plenty to choose from this week. Wild Turkey adds to its Master's Keep line with Unforgotten, while Maker's Mark unveils the latest release in its stave finishing series, a pair of whiskeys labeled BRT-01 and 02. As for single malt scotch, Benriach is bringing back its limited Smoke and Malting Season whiskies. We also covered the 2022 Diageo Special Releases, dubbed the "Elusive Expressions," earlier this week. Read on for full details.

Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten
Style: Blend of...

The drumbeat of craft distillery acquisitions continues, as this week brought news of Maryland rye maker Sagamore Spirit being acquired by Illva Saronno, the Italian drinks company best known for its Disaronno amaretto liqueur brand. Sagamore's story is one that any whisky lover can appreciate: it was founded by the deep-pocketed Kevin Plank, famous for his Under Armour sportswear brand, who spared no expense in launching Sagamore's distillery on Baltimore's waterfront back in 2017. From the start, the company has been serious about its mission to restore Maryland rye's reputation, and its own-make whiskey is just now starting to come of age. In an interesting twist, yesterday Illva Saronno also unveiled a new amaro label called Sagamore Spirit Amaro, which includes Sagamore Spirit rye distillate.
Earlier this week, Diageo announced the fourth release of its coveted Prima & Ultima whiskies. This year's edition marks the first time this collection of...

It's not quite ready to roll, but, there's an upcoming new release of an annual expression that's always an occasion for its distillery and its fans. Lady Bird, made by Texas distiller Garrison Brothers, is a honey-infused, cognac-finished bourbon made from a mashbill of 75% corn, 15% soft winter red wheat, and 10% barley. It’s released once a year at the distillery in the town of Hye, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, west of Austin, and this year’s release date has just been revealed as May 11. Some 7,002 bottles of Lady Bird’s 2024 edition are being made available: the first 1,000 bottles will be sold on May 11 at the distillery, and the remainder will be released at retail nationwide. Lady Bird is bottled at 57% ABV and carries a retail price of $180. The waiting line at the distillery on selling day starts at around 5 a.m. and usually stretches for a couple of miles. In the meantime, there are plenty of new releases here to...

Style diversity is a key characteristic of American craft whiskey, but most have one thing in common: youth. They are generally young compared to what the legacy producers deliver, lacking the years in a barrel that lead to mature-tasting whisky. No one has solved the aging puzzle either. Young whiskeys taste young.Unlike most other countries, there is no minimum wood aging duration for American whiskey. Any amount of wood contact will suffice. One type of whiskey, corn whiskey, doesn't need to be aged at all.American whiskey making tradition has deep roots. Fifty years ago, when bourbon sales slumped, several large producers petitioned federal regulators to change certain whiskey labeling rules. One proposal, in imitation of foreign practice, would have imposed a minimum age requirement.The regulators demurred, stating that, “No need was established for a minimum age requirement for current domestic types of whisky.” The ruling further observed that, “there are no appreciable...

Thanksgiving is next week, and with it comes a prime opportunity to share some drams with family and friends. While we’ve previously covered the best cocktails and crowd-pleasers to serve when hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, or how to best optimize particular whisky styles, this year we compiled a list of American whiskeys that are sure to please longtime whisky lovers and newer fans alike. Cheers to the start of the holiday season, and happy sipping! 
With the holidays now upon us, the onslaught of new whiskies is in full swing. This week, there's a new finished rye from Kentucky Peerless, a bourbon and a rum cask-finished rye from Kentucky Owl, and a new collaborative blend from High West and The Prisoner Wine Co. Read on for full details.

Kentucky Peerless Double Oak 
Style: Finished rye Origin: Kentucky Age: Not stated ABV: 54.65% Price: $150 Release: November 2022 Availability: Limited
Need to...

Some people love whisky, but most everyone loves dogs, and when vacation time comes, nowadays people are increasingly inclined to bring along the family pooch. Indeed, demand for dog travel is so high these days that many hotels, restaurants, and attractions that once catered only to humans have opened their doors to pets. The trend fueled the recent record use of private jets, and NetJets now even provides its staff with canine training. But you don’t need a private jet to have a great vacation with your best buddy in Kentucky, where the nation’s richest whiskey culture offers an extraordinary level of dog-friendly amenities. Call it Southern hospitality, canine-style.

Day One
Welcome to Louisville! Start your trip in Kentucky’s biggest city with a visit to something few other cities boast: a “dog park bar.” PG&J is a full-blown, indoor/outdoor off-leash dog park and bar, and like all the best fur-friendly spots, it’s named for...

Father’s Day is on the near horizon (June 16th), and that means the new whisky releases are coming fast and furious. Rye and bourbon dominate the scene, including Wild Turkey's latest Master's Keep edition and the latest ultra-aged, and ultra-expensive expression from  W.L. Weller, Weller Miillenium. But we were particularly interested to see some big news from Sagamore Spirit. When its waterfront distillery in Baltimore, Maryland opened its doors in 2017, Sagamore was redoubling its mission to restore Maryland’s once-great reputation for rye whiskey. Focused entirely on rye, Sagamore initially used sourced liquid while its whiskey matured, gradually blending in its own make. But now comes the moment we’ve been waiting for: the release of its first 100% own-make, permanent rye edition. Things are actually ahead of schedule, as Sagamore originally projected that its first own-make rye wouldn’t be ready until 2025. Our...

Visitors headed home from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail now have a reason to get to the airport early. Both Louisville International Airport and Lexington's Blue Grass Airport are opening new bourbon-centric venues to allow travelers to enjoy one last taste of the good stuff before boarding their planes.At Louisville's airport, Book & Bourbon Southern Kitchen recently opened, taking the place of a restaurant that focused on the Woodford Reserve brand. The new bar and restaurant features a wide array of Kentucky-made whiskeys. It's designed to have the look and feel of a library, from leather-bound books on display to “library cards,” featuring classic cocktail recipes, which guests can take with them. In keeping with that theme, Book & Bourbon also aims to provide education about whiskey and distilling. Guests can peruse books about bourbon and Kentucky history, as well as explore different bourbons on iPads. The restaurant's servers are trained to answer questions about...

Whisky is largely defined by its place of origin. Scotch wouldn't be scotch, after all, were it not made in Scotland. Bourbon must be made in America. But as the world of whisky expands, blenders are crossing borders to craft unique whiskies—just look at these bottles, for example.Beyond melding distinct liquids into totally new whisky styles, distillers are also stepping outside their home turf to learn from each other and take inspiration from other cultures. The majority of today's big distilleries are owned by a handful of multinational drinks companies, which often collect expert whisky makers in Scotland, Ireland, the United States, Canada, Japan, and elsewhere under the same corporate umbrella. Rémy Cointreau, for example, owns Bruichladdich Distillery in Scotland, as well as Seattle's Westland Distillery. The master distillers for those two brands—Adam Hannett and Matt Hofmann, respectively—have traveled to each other's distilleries to learn and to teach.Even longtime...

With the calendar turning a new page, there are plenty of new whiskies too.First up, Buffalo Trace has bottled a single barrel of Col. E.H. Taylor, Jr. bourbon in honor of the 124th anniversary of the Bottled in Bond Act and benefiting the nonprofit Outlaw State of Kind, which was founded by musician Chris Stapleton. There are less than 100 bottles available, with the first ones auctioned through Charitybuzz.A new blended Irish whiskey is hitting shores in not just bottles, but cans too. Two Stacks comes in 4-packs of 100 ml cans for $19, as well as a traditional 750 ml bottle ($40). There's also a cask-strength version called Blender's Cut for $60.Old Elk is debuting Sour Mash Reserve straight bourbon. Priced at $90, there are just over 5,000 bottles available in the first batch.Sagamore Spirit is rolling out its latest Distiller's Select rye, finished in tequila casks. The limited-edition whiskey is $69.Proof and Wood has partnered with bar owner Rob Morton to release Idle Hands...

Jamar Mack has bourbon in his bones. He recalls “smelling mash being fermented before I even knew what bourbon was,” while growing up three blocks from Brown-Forman's Louisville headquarters. He's since developed a passion for Kentucky's famed spirit, continuing the tradition of his grandfather who “drank Early Times ‘til the day he died.”
In 2017, Mack and a couple of fellow bourbon lovers banded together to form Kentucky's Original Black Bourbon Enthusiasts (KOBBE), looking to fulfill a need: In Kentucky at the time, “there was no group that was truly welcoming people of color,” Mack explains. KOBBE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing African American participation in the bourbon community. Their philanthropic endeavors include giving back to low-income Louisville communities and raising funds by auctioning prized bottles. The group's stated mission—“Drink good bourbon, keep good company, do good...

America's bourbon barrels, which can be used to age whiskey here only once, are the globetrotting alchemical vessels that keep many of the world's spirits flowing, crossing the Atlantic to house scotch or sailing to the Caribbean to cradle rum. Brewers have also embraced these barrels to create complex and robust beers, like Goose Island Beer Co.'s Bourbon County Stout and its many imitators. Now, with the current fervor for American whiskey, barrel aging includes much more than just alcohol beverages, expanding its footprint in the wider culinary world with bold steps and new techniques that promise to bring the magic of barrel-aged flavor to fine dining, or your breakfast table.How Sweet It IsSteven Stallard, a professional chef and whiskey lover, founded Blis Gourmet in Grand Rapids, Mich. in 2004 to put his chef's penchant for ingredient sourcing and flavor construction to work, creating specialty foods like salmon and arctic char cured over whiskey barrel staves. Struck by the...

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...

In order to give us all a chance to consider this latest round of new releases as closely as possible, we've decided to separate them into two installments. Today we'll cover the landscape of new expressions in American whiskey, and on Monday we'll report on the latest from Scotland, Japan, and elsewhere in the world. For the American side, there's much ado about the barrel, as so many of these releases feature a variety of cask finishings and longer barrel agings, some of them unusual. Also, Widow Jane digs into the cellars for some of its most aged liquid, and we note with interest that Frey Ranch is out with an American single malt. We haven't scored that one yet but can confirm from preliminary tastings that it's a good one, though unfortunately its volumes are tiny, and are sold only at the distillery and on their website.  There's plenty more to take in here, so enjoy.
Widow Jane Decadence
Style: Blend of straight bourbons
Origin: Tennessee...

Knob Creek age statements are returning with a vengeance, as many of us can remember the days of 2009 when Knob Creek ran out of aged juice altogether. Of course, Knob Creek was hardly the only one caught off guard by the whisky boom—the years between 2010 and 2020 were filled with non-age statement releases and other measures as distillers scrambled to meet demand. Now, thankfully, the age-statement whiskey scene appears to be back in full bloom.
Elsewhere Crown Royal is getting into the single malt act, which adds another big distiller to a space, once the province of craft distillers. The space now also includes Jack Daniel’s, and Jim Beam. Can Heaven Hill be far behind?
Lots more is doing, including a high-proof bottling from the rapidly rising Green River Distillery, whose Owensboro, Kentucky distillery received 10,000 visitors last year. Quietly inserted in the most recent new product information from Kentucky’s Frank August was news that Potter Jane...

Heaven Hill’s Grain-to-Glass bourbon returns after its successful debut last year, which also featured a rye and wheated bourbon. Thus far, the 2025 edition includes only the bourbon, with the other two labels in the trio due out later in the year. Elsewhere in bourbon, Old Fitzgerald’s Spring Edition is right on time this year, in contrast with some previous years where this seasonal release was delayed by a few months, and Chattanooga Whiskey has a 2021 vintage bottled in bond expression. In scotch, Speyside distiller Glenrothes has a new 15 year old, which joins the permanent portfolio, while Dalmore is out with a new Luminary expression. From the Lowlands, the innovative InchDairnie Distillery has two new expressions, both flying under the  KinGlassie name.
Heaven Hill Grain-to-Glass Kentucky Straight Bourbon (2025 Edition)
ABV: 52.5%
SRP: $100
Availability: Limited
The second edition of Heaven Hill’s grain-to-glass bourbon—a...

Whiskies come and go, and while new releases are always heralded, expressions that are phased out get much less attention. But earlier this week, High West announced plans to discontinue Yippee Ki-Yay, its blend of ryes finished in vermouth and syrah barrels. Bottles can still be found on shelves, so if you're a fan, snatch them up when you see them.Moving on to new releases, which this week all come from these United States.Westland Distillery announced a new series called the Outpost Collection, which will encompass the existing Garryana expression ($150) as well as two new single malt whiskeys: Colere ($150), coming in the spring of 2021, and Solum, which won't be ready until 2023. All of these whiskeys will be released annually in limited amounts.Sagamore Spirit is also launching a new range called Distiller's Select, starting with Manhattan Finish, a rye finished in select barrel types to impart the classic cocktail's flavors. The whiskey is available in limited amounts, priced...

Some people add to their whisky collection by tracking new releases, while others scour auction sites for rare bottlings. On September 23, Sotheby's New York will auction what it is calling The Timeless Whisky Collection, with lots that include a complete six-bottle set of the Macallan Six Pillars Collection, and a major crop of independently bottled scotch whiskies, as well as other aged expressions from Glenfiddich, Bowmore, and others. Get the details from our auction preview, including the 10 most expensive lots by estimate.Among this week's new releases, Dewar's adds to its Cask Series line with a calvados cask finish, and Woodford Reserve is offering a new honey barrel-finished bourbon as a distillery and Kentucky exclusive, while Jefferson's has an interesting new Ocean: Aged at Sea bourbon expression made with New York City water. Read on for full details.

Dewar’s 8 year old French Smooth
Style: BlendOrigin: ScotlandAge: 8 year oldABV: 40%Price: $25Release...

Among the American whiskey releases this week, Angel's Envy, which rose to fame on its barrel-finished expressions, now has a new tequila cask-finished rye, and Washington State's Woodinville Whiskey has a new tequila cask-finished bourbon. Barrell has unveiled its first full-proof bourbon, bottled at 61.5%, while Maryland rye specialist Sagamore Spirit is out with the annual edition of its Cask Strength rye. New Riff, best known for its bottled in bond bourbons and ryes, is back with another release of its American single malt. This is New Riff's first single malt release since 2023, and it contains liquid that's 10 years old, dating back to its founding days. There's also new whiskey from Chicken Cock and Calumet Farm, as well as an unaged expression from California's Sespe Creek, where ex-Laphroaig master distiller John Campbell now creates the whiskeys since joining the company last year.
Angel’s Envy Cellar...

It's a great week for single malt scotch lovers. After teasing four new whiskies just a few weeks ago, Old Pulteney has revealed a brand-new lineup for its core range, including the non-age statement (and slightly peated) Huddart, a 15 year old, and an 18 year old. The flagship Old Pulteney 12 year old will continue to be available as well, but with revamped packaging to match its new brethren. Old Pulteney discontinued its 17 year old and 21 year old expressions in 2017 (although eagle-eyed hunters may still spot them on store shelves as back stock gets sold through), and now with the rollout of these three new single malts, the distillery is discontinuing Old Pulteney Navigator. Huddart, 15 year old, and 18 year old are currently available in the UK, and will hit the U.S. in early 2019.Meanwhile, two new craft whiskeys are being released. Pennington Distilling Co. in Nashville, Tennessee has unveiled the second batch of its Four Grain whiskey. Each batch is unique in barrel makeup...

Whisky can be transportive, evoking memories of places you've been and trips you've taken. Distillers know this well and sometimes use it to great effect. Look to Dr. Bill Lumsden, the director of whisky creation for Glenmorangie and Ardbeg, who has time and again used his own experiences as inspiration for his creations. In the Glenmorangie "A Tale Of" series, he's explored Scottish forests and the delights of enjoying a dram by the fire, and now he's fathoming Tokyo through a glass with Glenmorangie's A Tale of Tokyo release. And while only the most adventurous among us have been to the  Isle of Harris, this tiny island in the Outer Hebrides has a distillery. This week it introduces The Hearach, its very first single malt—a  gently peated Islands expression that arrived on the eighth anniversary of the distillery's opening. That one seems likely to be a transportive experience of its own.
Isle of Harris isn't...

We’d wager that for most people, it’s only natural to think first of Kentucky, and then perhaps Tennessee, when thinking of American whiskey. After all, the two southern states possess rich distilling histories that stretch back hundreds of years, and today Kentucky makes about 95% of all bourbon on the market. But there’s another state right next door with a rich whiskey history of its own: Indiana.
The Hoosier State is home to the city of Lawrenceburg, once known as Whiskey City, USA thanks to its prolific rye production from the mid-19th century up to Prohibition. The city, which lies just west of Cincinnati, and under 2 hours northeast of Louisville, built its first distillery in 1847. Originally called Rossville, it has gone through a series of name changes over the years—from Rossville to Jos. E. Seagram Lawrenceburg, then Lawrenceburg Distillers, more recently MGP, and currently Ross & Squibb. It’s a distillery that has supplied whiskey for...

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...

If you have extra Halloween candy lying around (or you're raiding the kids' stash), take advantage of the excellent pairing opportunity by matching it with some whisky. (Check out our suggestions here.) Then read all about this week's new releases, starting with some old bourbons.Michter's is rolling out the 2019 batch of its 20 year old bourbon. Retail-priced at $700, it's available in limited amounts.Meanwhile, Buffalo Trace has debuted the 1994 vintage of O.F.C. bourbon. The limited-edition whiskey is priced at $2,500, with 1,085 bottles available.GlenDronach Distillery is also releasing a 1993 vintage whisky, although this is, of course, a single malt scotch, priced at $350. Concurrently, GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 8 is rolling out, priced at $95. Both whiskies are available in limited amounts.Westward Whiskey from Portland, Oregon is launching a stout cask-finished single malt. Priced at $90, the whiskey will be available as a permanent line extension.Scotland's Glencadam...

There is a lot of new whisky this week, but the biggest release has been out for a while. Lagavulin 8 year old first debuted in 2016 as a special edition whisky celebrating the distillery's 200th anniversary. It has now officially been added to the Lagavulin range permanently, joining the 16 year old and Distiller's Edition.While more bourbon will soon be made in Bardstown at Kentucky Owl Park, this week's new bourbons all come from outside the state. Virginia's A. Smith Bowman is releasing a $40 port-finished bourbon as part of its permanent lineup. Isaac Bowman Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Casks is available in Virginia only right now, but will expand to other states in the near future. And FEW Spirits in Illinois has three new whiskeys with unusual finishes as well: FEW Bourbon and Rye finished in Copper & Kings brandy barrels, and FEW Bourbon finished in Sicilian wine casks. There are limited amounts of each whiskey, available mostly in Illinois and, for the wine cask...

There's a brand-new issue of Whisky Advocate out now, and it's all about BIG whisky: big proof, big prices, big production, and more. Pick up a copy today, and subscribe to receive new issues even before they hit newsstands.On to the week's new releases. Wild Turkey has unveiled its latest limited-edition bourbon, a 2003 vintage of Russell's Reserve. Priced at $250, there are just 3,600 bottles available.Macallan is launching the newest entry in its Fine & Rare series, distilled in 1993. Just 256 bottles are available, priced at $18,000 each.Jack Daniel's has unveiled the latest Tennessee Tasters' Selection, a Tennessee whiskey finished in Jamaican allspice barrels. With 24,000 half-size bottles for sale mainly at the distillery, the price is $40.Compass Box has created a limited-edition version of Peat Monster to celebrate the company's 20th anniversary. Peat Monster Arcana is priced at $95, with just over 8,300 bottles available.Aberfeldy is launching another limited-edition...

College students at New Mexico State can now buy a whiskey with their mascot on it, but for everyone else, there are plenty of other new releases to look for.First up, Buffalo Trace is releasing a new vintage O.F.C. bourbon, this one distilled in 1995. There are 1,500 bottles, each priced at $2,500.Kentucky Owl is launching its 10th batch of bourbon, as well as the fourth and final release of its rye. Both whiskeys are priced at $300 and available in limited amounts.Scotch giant Diageo is rolling out the 2020 Distillers Edition bottlings for six of its distilleries: Cragganmore, Dalwhinnie, Glenkinchie, Lagavulin, Oban, and Talisker. The limited-edition single malts range in price from $85 to $110.Craigellachie has bottled a single sherry butt at 24 years old. Just 474 bottles of the whisky are available, priced at $300 each.Loch Lomond Distillery has unveiled 21 ($300) and 30 year old ($800) expressions. While joining the core lineup, annual allocations are limited.Portland, Oregon's...

High-profile distillers are on the move: Former Jameson master distiller Brian Nation is taking on the American Midwest at Minnesota craft venture O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co., while Jeff Arnett walked away from his master distiller’s role at Jack Daniel Distillery last year and just announced the launch of his new venture, Company Distilling, which is situated by the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in eastern Tennessee.While we’ll have to wait patiently for the whiskeys from Nation and Arnett, there are plenty of new releases to sip in the meantime. First up, Jura is adding a 12 year old single malt to its core lineup. The whisky is widely available, at a buyer-friendly price of $50.From North Texas, Garrison Bros. is also rolling out one of their oldest, rarest expressions to date: Laguna Madre. There are 2,000 bottles of the bourbon available, and it’ll set you back $299.Buffalo Trace has added a new whiskey to its experimental collection that pays homage to Chinese...

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...

The torrent of new whiskies continues, and the many highlights include the return of A Midwinter Night’s Dram, the eleventh release in this annual series from High West Distillery in Utah. The High West annual releases were always among the most anticipated bottlings of the year, and fans were disappointed a few years ago when High West discontinued another cherished annual affair, Yippee Ki Yay. But Midwinter lives on, and we’ll have to see whether this year’s expression can still capture the old magic.
Elsewhere, there’s a new edition of Benriach Malting Season, the third release in the annual series that celebrates Scotland’s long history of floor malting. There’s a touch of romance in seeing a distillery’s floor maltings—alas, only eight whisky makers in Scotland still use this very enchanting (and very expensive) process. Benriach is one of them. Elsewhere from Scotland, young distiller Torabhaig from the Isle of...

On Monday, December 4, our countdown of the Top 20 Whiskies of 2023 begins! The reveal kicks off with whiskies 10, 9, and 8, followed by whiskies 7, 6, and 5 on Tuesday, December 5; whiskies 4, 3, and 2 on Wednesday, December 6; and the unveiling of our Whisky of the Year on Thursday, December 7. The entire Top 20 list, detailing the most exciting whiskies of the year, will be published on our site next Friday, December 8.
As for this week's new releases, perhaps a future Top 20 candidate is in their midst: Read on for full details of all the week has to offer, including the latest Diageo's Distillers Edition, Fuji Whisky's 30 year old Single Grain, Jack Daniel's Distillery Series Selection #12, and more.
SCOTCH
Diageo Distillers Edition 2023
Each year, Diageo releases its Distillers Edition versions of some of its most popular single malts. Generally speaking, they’re the same whiskies as the core expressions, but they all receive varying amounts of...

For American whiskey lovers, there’s no place quite like Louisville, Kentucky. A true whiskey playground, it offers distilleries and tasting rooms galore along Whiskey Row, a historic 12-block stretch in the heart of the city that has been revived over recent years and has come to symbolize Louisville’s whiskey-led renaissance.
The area’s past is rooted in the 1840s, when distilleries, warehouses, distributors, and sales agents all operated right on Main Street until Prohibition fractured the area’s economy. By the mid-20th century all the distillers were gone, and the area was just a shell of its former self. In 2013, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience opened its doors and sparked the revival of Whiskey Row. Today the area has exploded with whiskey makers, and is back bigger than it ever was in terms of brand representation. At last count, some 11 whiskey makers are in residence on Whiskey Row.
Modern-day Whiskey Row is more vibrant than ever, and it...

There are quite a few well-aged whiskies in this week's roundup, including a 12 year old from Barrell, and 10 year olds from Michter's, Sagamore Spirit, Bernheim, and Wyoming Whiskey, while Yellowstone's 8 year old bourbon revives the Yellowstone label from the 19th century (a bottle previously available only at its Limestone Branch Distillery). Elsewhere, Johnnie Walker seeks to woo American drinkers with a new bourbon cask-centric expression, and this year’s edition of Macallan Distil Your World is an ode to Paris.

Johnnie Walker Black Cask Blended Scotch
ABV: 43%
SRP: $35
Availability: Nationwide
Black Cask is a new permanent Johnnie Walker expression designed to appeal to both scotch and American whiskey fans. Crafted exclusively from whiskies aged in bourbon casks, the recipe features whiskies from distilleries used in Black Label, including Cameronbridge, Glen Elgin, and Roseisle. It's the latest Johnnie Walker expression introduced this...

Do you miss Game of Thrones? Johnnie Walker—which previously released White Walker—is here to help assuage your woes with two new special-edition blends: Song of Ice and Song of Fire. Few details are available, but even a casual GoT fan will recognize that the Song of Ice packaging features direwolves, the sigil of House Stark, while the Song of Fire packaging shows House Targaryen's dragons. Both whiskies are available for pre-order at Reservebar.com, priced at $43. A full U.S. rollout will happen in August.Also coming out at the end of the summer, Old Forester's 2019 Birthday Bourbon. The whiskey is bottled at its highest proof yet—52.5% ABV—and carries a suggested price of $100, with 13,200 bottles available.Meanwhile, the latest limited-edition Crown Royal is rolling out now. Crown Royal Noble Collection French Oak Cask Finished is, as you probably guessed, finished in French oak casks. It's available in limited amounts for $60.Compass Box has unveiled a new blended malt...

Normally at this time of year, there would be lots of new bourbons to share, as the Kentucky Derby kicks off summertime sipping season on the first Saturday of May. But with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, new releases have slowed down, and even the Derby has been postponed until September. (There are still a ton of "Virtual Derby" events happening tomorrow, including cocktail and bourbon education from the folks at Woodford Reserve. And you can still make a delicious Mint Julep at home.)Nevertheless, even a handful of new whiskies is better than none at all, and there are several exciting offerings to look for now. First up, a new brand called The Clover, honoring golfer Bobby Jones, is launching widely. The lineup features single-barrel bourbon ($50), rye ($50), and 10 year old Tennessee whiskey ($70), available in about 20 states.Baltimore-based Sagamore Spirit has unveiled a new range of beer barrel-finished ryes, starting with one finished in Sierra Nevada casks. Sagamore Spirit...

Walk into a trendy bar and you’re bound to find a cocktail touting “fat-washed” as a seductive descriptor, and for a good reason. Fat-washing, popular with mixologists, yields incredibly rich flavors in cocktails. Infusing fats such as coconut oil, bacon, or butter into a liquor lends incredible depth and mouthfeel and can do the same for desserts.
This recipe incorporates both the fat-washed bourbon and the residual bourbon-infused browned butter in a moist almond-based cake. Enrobed in a silky bourbon-vanilla bean buttercream, this richly flavored but lightly textured dessert exhibits subtle toffee and caramel notes. It also acts as a blank canvas for other flavor combinations to highlight fat-washing as an approachable method to elevate the humble layer cake. This cake is a great backdrop for a variety of fall flavors and fillings: Homemade or store-bought pumpkin butter marries beautifully with the toffee notes of browned butter and brown sugar and mellows...

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...

Shopping for your favorite whisky lover can be a tough mission even when you know their personal whisky preferences—especially if you’re looking to surprise them. Thus every year, we scour the planet to bring you some fun gift options to suit the whisky fan in your life. 
We’ve included a few special bottles on this year’s list, but note that we recommend whiskies all year long, topped by our annual Top 20 list, which weighs quality, affordability, accessibility, and x-factor. You can also check out the magazine and website, where the Buying Guide offers scores and reviews. Each issue also our includes our Best Value, Editors’ Choice, and Collectible picks.
It’s a big whisky world out there. If you want to gift something other than whisky, or if your special someone keeps the whisky bar well-stocked on their own, consider these items and experiences this holiday season.
Whisky Gifts to Suit the...

Whether you’re a casual whiskey drinker who values readily available brands or a serious enthusiast seeking out the most compelling expressions in allocated quantities, there are ample hot options on the open market. The 12 whiskeys that follow represent the full spectrum of desirability, from those with exceptional quality and scarcity to those with wider availability.
Culled by scouring secondary markets, fan forums, sub-Reddits, and online chat groups, this list comprises bottles at the top of their class, whether from legendary Kentucky rickhouses or emerging craft distilleries. Here they are:
Redemption 18 year old bourbon (2025), 51.7%, $400
Redemption first launched its Ancients series of ultra-aged Indiana-distilled bourbon in 2017. (First, an 18 year old rye, next, a 36 year old bourbon.) Then…nothing further. Until now. Redemption’s Ancients series makes a triumphant return with an 18 old year blend of 69 barrels, or about 2,400 bottles. It...

As leaves turn and temperatures drop, whisky enthusiasts turn their attention to fall's most anticipated releases. This season's landscape spans the spectrum, from coveted Kentucky bourbons to scotch single malts to American whiskey with experimental cask finishes. While there are a lot of bottles generating much-deserved buzz in 2025, these 16 (presented in no particular order) represent what collectors, enthusiasts, and bar professionals are hunting, pouring, and enjoying.
Old Cassidy Bourbon (2025 Release), 60.5%, $199
This indulgent blend from Rare Character Whiskey Company melds several “exceptional barrels ranging in age,” hand-selected by co-founder Pablo Moix, including 18 year old Kentucky bourbon. Blended by Chad Watson, the final batch comes in at 123 proof, though it noses and drinks far lower. Flavors of sweet cherry syrup and cinnamon buns abound, and the protracted finish is decadent.
Stranahan’s Diamond Peak American Single Malt (2025...

Bardstown, Kentucky, the undisputed bourbon capital of the world, is a treasure trove for whiskey lovers. Heaven Hill was founded in Bardstown in 1935, and just opened its new Heaven Hill Springs Distillery here in September. Willett has been a Bardstown fixture since 1936, while Bardstown Bourbon Co., distilling since 2017, and Lux Row Distillers (since 2018) represent the new guard. About 15 miles away in various directions are James B. Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Log Still. But amid the thrill of visiting so many famous distillers on your trip to Kentucky, don’t overlook the charm of Bardstown itself.

First things first: Where should you stay? There are hotel options from historic to modern. Perhaps the most traditional is the Old Talbott Tavern, nestled in Bardstown’s Historic District. The building, home to just six guest rooms, dates back to 1779 and lays claim to being the oldest western stagecoach stop in the U.S. Each room is named for a famous patron...

We pour Irish whiskey year-round, but St Patrick’s Day is a great occasion to look at what’s doing well. There are new brands like Skellig Six 18, Clan Colla, and Garavogue, but established names aren’t standing still either, as this year we’re hearing about fresh releases from Redbreast, Proper No. Twelve, Shortcross, and The Whistler—all showing that despite the global slump, Ireland’s whiskey revival is alive and well.
For collectors, Bushmills recently showcased its 26 year old Crystal Malt, while Midleton Very Rare Vintage 2026 will land this spring. Irish whiskey bonder Two Stacks is elevating its blends with older components and a packaging refresh, while Dingle returns with a retooled single malt at a different ABV and friendlier price, while a core range single pot still and its first 10 year old single malt are set to come later in the year. Whether you plan to cheer on the parade, join the celebration at your local Irish...

Missouri is joining the ranks of Kentucky and Tennessee with a new measure that declares specific rules for its own style of whiskey—in this case, bourbon. According to House Bill 266, signed on Thursday, July 11, any whiskey labeled as Missouri bourbon must not only meet the federal standards for bourbon, but also be mashed, fermented, distilled, aged and bottled in the state; aged in oak barrels manufactured in the state; and—beginning January 1, 2020—made with corn exclusively grown in the state. The law goes into effect on August 28.The Missouri Craft Distillers Guild, which formed in 2018 and now has 35 members, pushed the measure heavily. “The whole point of the bill was to tie agriculture and tourism together in Missouri,” says Don Gosen, owner of Copper Mule Distillery and a member of the Guild. “Being able to make a high-class bourbon and make it truly a Missouri product—not just made in Missouri, but made from Missouri raw materials.” The bill, which was...

Kentucky distillers are known for camaraderie, sharing special bottles and helping each other out when in need. In many cases, their relationships run deeper than simply being colleagues or even good friends; Fred Noe, master distiller at James B. Beam Distilling Co., has said that he has regarded Wild Turkey master distiller Jimmy Russell as a father figure, especially in the years since his own dad, Booker, passed away. But rarely do bourbon makers come together on whiskey releases—after all, they're competitors when bottles hit the shelf.A new project centered in Bardstown, Kentucky is taking a significant step toward collaboration, however. The 12.25-square-mile town of around 12,000 people boasts 11 distilleries or distillery experiences within about 16 miles of its central Court Square, and five of them are joining together to create the Bardstown Collection, a lineup of special releases benefiting the community. Each distillery will launch a limited-edition bourbon in...

The Summer 2020 issue of Whisky Advocate dropped earlier this week, with over 130 whisky reviews in the Buying Guide. Peruse for a few minutes and find a new bottle to try! For even more new whisky (to be reviewed soon!), keep reading.Wild Turkey is rounding out its rye portfolio with the launch of Rare Breed Rye. Always bottled at barrel proof, the initial batch is 56.1% ABV and priced at $60, available nationwide.Glenmorangie has launched the newest limited-edition single malt in its Bond House No. 1 collection. Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996 is 23 years old, aged entirely in first-fill "bespoke" bourbon casks, and priced at $825.MGP is set to release the 2020 bottling of Remus Repeal Reserve bourbon in September. The 12 year old bourbon is priced at $85 and available in limited amounts.Walsh Whiskey is rolling out the 12th batch of The Irishman Vintage Cask. There are 3,500 bottles of the high-proof blended Irish whiskey available, with 750 coming to the U.S. at $140 each.A...

It's a big weekend for whisky lovers out west. For the first time in three years, Stranahan's is staging its Snowflake Festival at the distillery in Denver to celebrate the latest release of its Snowflake single malt. The festivities kick off today, and bottles will go on sale tomorrow morning. Tonight is the first-ever WhiskyFest Las Vegas, with whiskies being poured by Bruichladdich, WhistlePig, Hibiki, and many others, and seminars by whisky makers including Dewar's, Maker's Mark, and Suntory.
WhiskyFest is a great way to taste whiskies as soon as they're released, and this week there are some notable names with new expressions. George Dickel brings back its 17 year old Tennessee whiskey, now with wider distribution, and Heaven Hill announces the latest Parker's Heritage release, a blend of aged bourbons. Meanwhile, Johnnie Walker has debuted its latest bottling for the Lunar New Year, which celebrates the Year of the...

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...

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

Barrell is back with two releases in its ultra-aged Grey Label series, a bourbon and a rye, the latter being a blend of two whiskies with 100% rye mashbills from an undisclosed Canadian distiller (most likely Alberta Distillers, which is known for its high rye mashbills.) That Canadian entry is the only non-U.S. whiskey on today’s list, which also includes a new 7 year old, high-rye expression from Baker’s—a welcome new addition for Baker's fans, who always want more from this somewhat sparsely available label. Louisville distiller Rabbit Hole, meanwhile, has a limited edition 8 year old rye from its Boxergrail label.
Elsewhere, Blue Note is offering a new honey barrel expression, while Log Still Distillery has a new rye, and Lost Lantern is out with a new collection of 10 year old single cask whiskeys.  Although Halloween and Thanksgiving still await, some whiskey makers are already unveiling their holiday whiskeys. Old Potrero...

The return of Michter’s 20 year old bourbon after being away for two years was certainly the highlight of the week, although getting hold of a bottle of this limited release will prove to be a challenge as always. The 20 year old's arrival came just in time for WhiskyFest New York on Wednesday night, where it was in high demand. Elsewhere among the new  American whiskey releases, Tattersall has two limited edition bottled in bond expressions, while Colorado’s Laws offers two cask-finished bourbons. Other new announcements feature Pendleton, Hidden Barn, and Wyoming Whiskey.
In scotch, Johnnie Walker Blue is out with its Lunar New Year release to commemorate the Year of the Snake, while Macallan has two new whiskies in the fourth edition of its Harmony Series, which this year celebrates Macallan’s use of oak. And finally, from Ireland, Teeling has released another of its aged whiskeys, this one a 24 year old.
Michter’s 20 year old...

Among the latest rollouts, Heaven Hill honors its Deatsville warehousing campus with a new 13 year old bourbon, High West has unveiled the annual release of its Bourye expression, Chicken Cock has a new wheater, and Bulleit has a new bourbon whose mashbill contains a high share of mesquite-smoked malt. With Formula 1 racing season upon us, Jack Daniel’s has unveiled its latest collaborative effort with the McLaren F1 racing team, and there's much more.
 
Heaven Hill Deatsville 13 year old Bourbon
ABV: 54.5%
SRP: $200
Availability: Limited
This well-aged bourbon honors Heaven Hill’s Deatsville warehouse campus and represents a blend of 17 barrels that were matured on the third floor of Heaven Hill’s Rickhouse AA. It has a mashbill of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley, the recipe Heaven Hill uses for many of its bourbons, including Elijah Craig, Evan Williams, and others. Heaven Hill acquired the warehouses in the early 1980s...

While Buffalo Trace Distillery announced the 2019 release of the Old Rip Van Winkle whiskeys yesterday, the real new product upset of the week was Glenlivet's cocktail pods—an innovation that isn't even coming to retail shelves, but nevertheless caused quite a stir. My take? Do not fear the scotch pods.Beyond the unobtainable, there are plenty of new whiskies to look for now. Jim Beam has revealed an overhaul of its Baker's brand. The bourbon will remain at least 7 years old and 107 proof, but is now bottled as a single barrel for $70. In addition, there's a limited-edition 13 year old Baker's available in small amounts for $100.Beam's Kentucky neighbor, Heaven Hill, has debuted Larceny Barrel Proof. The cask-strength version of the distillery's wheated bourbon is priced at $50 and will be released in three batches a year.Balvenie Distillery is rolling out Batch 6 of Tun 1509. The limited-edition single malt costs $400.Wyoming Whiskey is bringing back Outryder at 7 years old. The...

Joining the ranks of Scotland, Ireland, the U.S., and several other whisky-making nations, New Zealand has published guidelines setting out the standards for its native whisky styles. Though the country's exports to the U.S. have been tiny thus far, the new rules could help.There's plenty of new whisky hitting shelves now, however. First up, the folks behind Barrell Craft Spirits have unveiled Stellum, a line of bourbon and rye, including single barrels. The whiskeys are all priced at $55 and widely available.Highland Park is rolling out its third 50 year old single malt, priced at $30,000. There are just 274 bottles available.The Spring 2021 release of Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond is hitting shelves, this time at 8 years old and with a suggested price of $85. As always, it's available in limited amounts.The latest offering in Jack Daniel's Tennessee Tasters' Selection line is called 14E19 Twin Blend—a combination of Tennessee whiskey and rye. There are 24,000 375 ml bottles...

As the 20th century came to a close, the page was turned on an era of historic lows in whisky’s popularity. At that point, the “buzz” surrounding whisky—to use a now-dated term of the ’90s—was nearly at zero. But as the years moved into the 2000s, a sea change began as the whisky world awakened from its decades-long slumber. Few people realized this was the dawn of a new era that would soar beyond everyone’s wildest expectations—where master distillers became rock stars, whisky lovers lined up all night for the latest releases, and distilleries became tourist destinations. Here’s a look at how we got here, year by year.

2000


❖ The Glencairn whisky glass makes its debut, with a wider introduction starting the following year. The glass had been designed in 1981 by Raymond Davidson at his crystal studio just outside Glasgow, but he saw no future in it. His prototype sat on the shelf for nearly 20 years...

It's been quite a week for Michter's, which announced that master distiller Pamela Heilmann is stepping back and distiller Dan McKee will be taking her place. On top of that, the distillery is rolling out the newest release of its 10 year old single barrel bourbon. Priced at $130, it's available in limited amounts.Rebel Yell also has a new whiskey coming, a 50% ABV straight bourbon. Rebel Yell 100 Proof is the first in the brand's lineup to sport new packaging. It's widely available for $20. Simultaneously, the 2019 batch of Rebel Yell 10 year old Single Barrel bourbon is also rolling out.A new trio of blended malt scotches are about to launch in the U.S. MacNair's Lum Reek includes non-age-statement ($50), 12 year old ($60), and 21 year old expressions ($150), all of which are peated. The whiskies will be widely available starting this summer.Finally, independent bottler Mossburn has seven new single malt scotches, each available in limited amounts. The whiskies include 10 year old...

No matter how you prefer your whisky, there's no denying the benefit of adding a bit of water. Some drams open up with a splash, and we have a handy calculator to help you determine exactly how much to add. A dropper is an ideal tool to add a precise amount of water; check out these stylish and sleek droppers, including one from glassware company Glencairn.If you are looking for a whisky for adding water, we have those as well. Old Forester has released the details for this year’s highly sought after Birthday Bourbon, Dewar's adds to its Smooth line with a mizunara finish, and Uncle Nearest commemorates the opening of its distillery visitors center with a special release. Read on for full details.Old Forester Birthday Bourbon (2021 Release)Style: Straight bourbonOrigin: KentuckyAge: 12 year oldABV: 52%Price: $130Release: September 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:This year’s batch of Birthday Bourbon, the 21st edition from Old Forester, comes from 119 barrels that were filled...

There were quite a few interesting releases in the whisky world this week, notably a new 12 year old Eagle Rare and Diageo’s resurrection of the Stitzel Weller name with a new 24 year old.  The rest of the week is rounded out by two high-profile annual releases—the new Dewar’s Champion’s Edition 19 year old to mark the U.S. Open golf tournament, and Garrison Brothers’ annual release of the tawny port-finished Guadalupe, which always draws a crowd at the distillery in Texas. There's also a new edition of Rieger Monogram, this one with a bit of 15 year old sherry added as a tribute to blenders past, and a Widow Jane bourbon blend, which is a New York exclusive.  Buzzard's Roost has its most loyal fans pick the barrels for its latest whiskey, and Four Branches commemorates our military with a 9 year old bourbon.
Dewar’s The Champion’s Edition 19 year old (2025 Release) Blended Scotch
ABV: 43%
SRP: $80

Game of Thrones might be over, but it lives on in Scotland as Johnnie Walker is launching two new limited-edition blends in honor of the series. Johnnie Walker A Song of Ice honors House Stark, while Johnnie Walker A Song of Fire salutes House Targaryen. Both whiskies are available nationwide for $36.Meanwhile, Glen Moray has debuted a 21 year old single malt finished in port casks. There are 1,200 bottles of the whisky coming to the U.S. this year, priced at $180. Glen Moray announced today that master distiller Graham Coull is leaving to join Ireland's Dingle Distillery—which also has a new whiskey out this week (keep reading).Jameson Caskmates has made two special editions in partnership with Chicago's Revolution Brewing and Bale Breaker Brewing Co. in Yakima, Washington. Both priced at $30, the whiskeys are available within and close to the breweries' home states.Widow Jane is releasing a limited-edition 14 year old blend of straight bourbons sourced from Indiana and Tennessee...

No matter what's going on in the world, the certainty that there will be new whiskies to look for stands firm. And so it is this week!First up, Crown Royal is rolling out the latest release in the Noble Collection, a 16 year old rye. The limited-edition whisky is priced at $70.Nikka has overhauled the recipe for Taketsuru Pure Malt while also updating the bottle. Priced at $80, the blended malt is widely available.Indian single malt brand Rampur has a new release, finished in Indian cabernet sauvignon casks. Rampur Asava is priced at $90 and widely available.Widow Jane is offering a higher-proof version of its 10 year old blended straight bourbon, with proceeds going to support hospitality workers and their families. Called "You'll Never Walk Alone," the whiskey is priced at $90, with 3,300 bottles available.Barrell has unveiled a Private Release series of single-cask bourbons, each with a unique microblend. The whiskeys are limited edition, with a recommended price of...

Last weekend, our sister publication Cigar Aficionado's Big Smoke event teamed up with WhiskyFest to stage "Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest", a combined extravaganza at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. It was a day filled with exquisite cigars, world-class whisky, and great company, with over two thousand cigar and whisky fans in attendance. Tonight, WhiskyFest will be held in Chicago, then hit New York on November 11 before wrapping in San Francisco on December 3.As for this week's new whiskies, Johnnie Walker offers a blend made with a sky-high percentage of rye in the mashbill, Jack Daniel's has a new expression from its single barrel series, and Angel's Envy celebrates the 10th anniversary of its annual cask-strength port-finished bourbon release.Johnnie Walker High RyeStyle: Blended whiskyOrigin: ScotlandAge: Not statedABV: 45%Price: $35Release: November 2021Availability: NationwideNeed to know:This whisky, which will be a core offering from Johnnie...

While aromas of cinnamon spice, powdered sugar, honey, and the like can certainly be appealing to the nose, sometimes whisky smells straight up like a barnyard—and that’s not a bad thing. The scents that tell a story of life on a farm are unusual and intriguing, conjuring up images of hay bales, weathered planks, dried corn, and more. We dive into what sort of whiskies deliver such barn-adjacent scents here, and offer up three bottles in particular that are certainly worth trying for yourself, whether you are a barnyard fan or not.
This week in new whisky, there's plenty to enjoy. Glenfiddich has launched an entirely new line of luxury single malts, George Dickel 13 year old is the latest release in its Bottled in Bond Series, Kentucky Owl is back with the second edition of its International Collaboration Series, and Sagamore Spirit has a new añejo mezcal cask-finished rye. Read on for more details.

Glenfiddich Time Re:Imagined Collection
Style...

As we roll toward the July 4th weekend, there's plenty of Americana among this current crop of new releases. Separately, we've also put together a list of whiskeys that capture the spirit of July 4th, many through their part in the American story. As for this group, we have new expressions of the long-standing Michter's Legacy Series, a toasted barrel whiskey from Old Potrero and a toasted barrel bourbon from Peerless, a barrel proof rye from E.H. Taylor, and a new Babe Ruth commemorative edition from George Remus. From Scotland, we have another wine cask finished item from Glenmorangie, this one aged 23  years.
Not listed here is the partnership between Oregon-based Pendleton Whisky and the Bob Woodruff Foundation, a collaboration that began in 2021 and has just released a new Military Edition label to honor and support our veterans. A portion of every bottle sold (up to $100,000) will go to support veterans programs around the nation. The Bob...

Selecting a gift for the whisky lover in your life can be tricky, given the range of styles and whether their bar cart is already fully stocked with their favorite bottles. So, we’ve rounded up an array of accessories, gadgets, sweet treats, and cocktail kits (whiskey included) to make for some unique gifts this year. There’s even a Western-themed gift for the tequila lover. Of course, you can always check online stores of your recipient's favorite distillery.
If it's a great whisky you’re after, there is no shortage of excellent options in our Top 20 list. An ultimate gift guide of our favorite whiskies this year, it considers affordability, availability, and special appeal. 
Gifts With a Personal Touch
Elijah Craig Char No. 3 Cologne
Elijah Craig is extending its bourbon beyond sipping, crossing into the realm of men’s fragrance. No. 3 Cologne was designed to emulate the sensory experience of the label’s bourbon. Crafted from...

When we gave Amrut Spectrum our World Whisky of the Year award in 2016, the Indian single malt wasn't yet available in the U.S. But as of this month, that's no longer the case—though the limited-edition whisky will still be tough to find. There are plenty of other new whiskies to try though: a brace of unique ryes from Woodford Reserve (available at the distillery only), bourbons from Redemption and George Remus (both made at MGP Distillery), single-cask scotches from the Exclusive Malts, and two bottled in bond whiskeys made by Laws Whiskey House.Amrut Spectrum 004Style: Single maltOrigin: IndiaAge: Not statedProof: 50% ABVPrice: $160Release: June 2017Availability: 1,800 bottles for the world, including 600 bottles for the U.S.Need to know:This Indian single malt whisky was matured in a cask made with four different types of staves: new American oak with a No.3 char level, lightly toasted new French oak, and ex-oloroso and ex-Pedro Ximénez sherry. The 004 is latest batch of...

New whisky abounds from all across America this week—plus a couple of scotches.First up, Ardbeg’s annual limited-edition bottling has been revealed. Ardbeg Grooves includes whisky matured in red wine barrels with heavily charred, grooved staves, which allow for increased wood contact. As in years past, the whisky is first available to Ardbeg Committee members outside the U.S. at a higher proof, with a 46% ABV version rolling out to coincide with Ardbeg Day (this year on June 2nd).Several new craft whiskeys are launching. Colorado’s Woody Creek Distillers is debuting its first bourbon, a 4 year old whiskey that will be widely available wherever Woody Creek is sold. Also four years old: a new bottled in bond rye whiskey from Spirit Works Distillery in Sebastopol, California. We tip our hats to craft distillers that can release 4 year old whiskey!Not yet 4 years old, but still on theme: Pennington Distilling Co. in Nashville has a new "four-grain" whiskey that blends its bourbon...

Apple cider isn't just a delicious cocktail ingredient—it's great for some whiskey-infused baking too. Apple cider donuts (or muffins) dipped in luscious maple-bourbon glaze make a perfect seasonal treat, and are surprisingly simple to bake at home. In addition to the cider itself, spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg meld together to create a mouthwatering flavor profile that perfectly matches the whiskey topping.Maple and bourbon have long been a perfect pairing—maple flavors are often found in bourbon, and many of the whiskey's other common notes, such as pecan and vanilla, seamlessly blend with the syrup as well. When combined with the apple and spice flavors of the donut, you get an end product that perfectly captures the taste of autumn and early winter. The bourbon flavor in this glaze is potent, so make sure to choose something you like—and since less than two tablespoons are needed, don't be afraid to reach for the good stuff. We tested this recipe with both...

Food pairings can elevate any drinking experience, whether you are tasting as a group or enjoying a dram on your own. Cheese is a good choice, with a wide array of styles offering a multitude of pairing options. Get started with our guide to matching whisky and cheese and see which combination works best for you.If you're looking for a new whisky to crack open, we have plenty to choose from this week. Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is back, this time with an online lottery; Ross & Squibb unveils the latest batch of its Remus Repeal Reserve series; and Jefferson's adds a new wheated bourbon to its Aged at Sea series. For scotch lovers, Ardbeg is out with the fourth edition of Traigh Bhan, its 19 year old annual release. Meanwhile, for collectors, we also have all the details on the new Littlemill bottling, as the lost Lowland distillery releases its oldest whisky ever. Read on for full details.

Old Forester Birthday Bourbon (2022 Release)
Style: Straight bourbonOrigin...

On June 24, 1889, on Main Street in Telluride, Colorado, Butch Cassidy robbed his very first bank. Skiing had not come to town yet, but whiskey certainly had, and the famed outlaw was known to partake. The story goes that he holed up in the tiny nearby mining hamlet of Dunton Hot Springs, where he carved his name into the bar of the town’s saloon. Dunton became a ghost town, but was purchased in 1994 and the entire town and its Old West buildings were transformed into one of the nation’s most luxurious all-inclusive boutique resorts. Today the saloon is the resort’s main bar, and Dunton Hot Springs has a nice selection of scotch and bourbon, and guests can sit at the bar etched with Cassidy’s signature for a dram. The house label is George Dickel, an old case of which was discovered beneath the floor during renovation. The owner took this as a sign and now leaves a bottle out in the library for guests to enjoy at their leisure. That’s taking après...

While Rick and Ricky Johnson knew the ins and outs of their own family business when they launched 15 Stars in 2019—the Johnson family has owned Black Jewel Popcorn since 2011, and operated a number of other businesses under the Johnson Ventures umbrella—the father-son duo was less familiar with whiskey. Rick counted himself an occasional bourbon drinker, and Ricky was freshly 21, only aware of whiskey to the degree that his father was. That soon changed, however, when Rick approached his son, then a college student, with a proposal for a summer project: Why not distill the corn they used for Black Jewell and make some whiskey? “In the beginning, that was really what it was supposed to be—a cool project,” says Ricky. “I was a business student; it was going to be a great learning experience. But at the end of the summer, it turns out my business plan was compelling enough that we wanted to move forward with it.” And with that, 15 Stars was...

Memorial Day is on Monday, May 28, and if you're looking to show your support of our nation's armed services through whisky, look into some of the distilleries founded and run by veterans. You may just find your new favorite bourbon, rye, or corn whiskey.Or check out this week's newest whiskies. Smooth Ambler has unveiled Big Level, a 5 year old wheated bourbon made entirely at the West Virginia Distllery. Smooth Ambler had previously released a wheater, and this whiskey is made with the same mashbill, process, and barrels, but, according to director of sales John Foster, the team has "gotten better at divining the best of our own-make." Big Level—which is named for the area of West Virginia where Smooth Ambler is located—is 100 proof and costs $55. It's distributed in around 26 states currently.Next up, Old Carter Whiskey Co. is rolling out its second batch of rye, after Batch 1 (released in early March) sold out. Founded by Mark and Sherri Carter—who were previously partners...

Generations ago, the U.S. whiskey landscape was rich with farm distillery rye whiskeys, but modern American producers tend to use giant suppliers to source their rye grains. The past decade has seen a growing contingent of American craft distillers move the focus back to heirloom rye grains, aiming to revive long-forgotten styles. We look at some of these distillers and the trials, tribulations, and triumphs they’ve experienced along the road to a rye renaissance in this story from our Spring 2022 issue.
For fans of American whiskey, and bourbon in particular, this week's new releases should be  tantalizing. Barrell Craft Spirits has debuted its latest finished blend of straight bourbons, Four Roses has announced details for this year's Limited Edition Small Batch, and Michter's is back with US*1 Toasted Barrel bourbon. Read on for full details.

Barrell Vantage
Style: Blend of straight bourbonsOrigin: Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee Age: Not statedABV...

Fall is in full swing, and so are new whisky launches. In a burst of good news for Pappy fans, the 2022 Van Winkle lineup has been announced, and with it the word that more bottles than usual are available this year. Does that mean it'll be easier to get your hands on one ahead of the holiday season? Not necessarily, but here's to staying optimistic.The Van Winkle whiskeys aren't the only specialty releases making their debut this week. There are two new whiskies from Hibiki—a cherrywood-finished blend and a 30 year old whisky—both of which are highly limited. Knob Creek, meanwhile, has introduced a rarity of its own, an 18 year old bourbon that marks its oldest release to date, and High West has unveiled the 10th edition of A Midwinter Night's Dram, along with a distillery-exclusive special to commemorate the 10th anniversary. From Scotland, Glendronach has debuted Grandeur Batch 11—aged for 28 years—while Gordon & Macphail is offering three new...

Whether you’re a fan of neat bourbon or scotch on the rocks, there’s a great whiskey (or whisky) cocktail you’ll love. We’ve got variations on classics including the Old Fashioned, Sazarac, Manhattan, Irish Coffee, this spin on the Rob Roy, and more, plus newer cocktails, like this Paper Plane makeover. 
Whether your whiskey preference is bourbon, rye, Irish, scotch, Japanese, or a world whisky, there’s something on our list for every palate. There are plenty of options for refreshing summer whisky drinks as well as fireside sippers and cocktails that are perfect for the holidays or winter months when you want to warm up with whiskey. Looking for special occasion whiskies? We have you covered with suggestions for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and beyond. Or check out these entertaining with whisky ideas.
Our list spans the flavor gamut, too, with options for those who like cocktails sweet or floral to spicy and complex...

Bourbon leads this week with a swarm of “B's”, as Bernheim, Baker’s, and Bardstown all weigh in with new releases. Bernheim Barrel Proof, appropriately enough for this list, is offering Batch B, the second and final installment of 2024 for this expression. We’ve yet to taste Batch B, but Batch A has been one of our favorite whiskeys so far this year. There’s also a welcome return for Baker’s, the single barrel gem whose appearances are all too infrequent. Based on previous tastings, we’d recommend that you snag a bottle. Elsewhere, Bardstown’s new super-wheater is serious business—check out that 39% wheat share in the mashbill. In comparison to other wheaters, Larceny’s is a mere 20%, as is Old Fitzgerald, while Maker’s hovers at around 15%.
Cask-finished whiskeys also feature prominently this week, as Old Elk continues its finishing work with a cognac barrel-finished wheater. Virginia Distillery Co. has a new...

The Paper Plane cocktail is rapidly moving from a deep cut, rarely ordered imbibe to a menu mainstay. And for good reason: It’s positively delicious and has infinite riffs.
When I stumbled upon the Paper Plane a few years back, I sought a refreshing cocktail that was bourbon-forward, but not so much that it overpowered the glass, and something that I could have several rounds of without burning out my palate or overdosing on cloying sweetness. It was love at first sip. A punch of bourbon, a fair amount of tartness, and just a soupçon of sweetness; heaven in a coupe.
The fun part about this equal-parts drink? Due to the endless customization options, you can keep tweaking the recipe to suit any desired flavor profile. You’ll never get tired of trying another iteration, seeing how those new additions move the overall flavor of the cocktail.
I’ve spent the last few years trying Paper Planes at every bar I visit, across seven countries and more...

Located in the woods of Western Massachusetts, Berkshire Mountain Distillers first made a name for itself with its acclaimed Greylock gin. But in the last few years, the company has begun to experiment with unique and innovative whiskey releases. The latest, Berkshire Bourbon Smoke and Peat, is a new twist on a barrel-finished bourbon. Smoke and Peat is made by finishing fully mature 4 year old Berkshire Bourbon (72% corn, 18% rye, 10% barley) in Islay single malt casks for 3 to 8 months. The whisky is an unusual crossover, a fusion of sweet, spicy bourbon and the flavors of smoky, peaty scotch.“I'd been looking for Islay casks for nine years and hadn't found them,” says Chris Weld, founder, owner and distiller at Berkshire. “It's the first time in ten years that these casks became available. All the rest went to breweries, and as far as I know we're the only distillery to get them.” Weld wanted to experiment with creating a whiskey that blended elements of both bourbon and...

Whiskies are released for all sorts of special occasions, including weddings, coronations, and of course, birthdays. But in a real first, Wyoming Whiskey is debuting a bourbon celebrating the solar eclipse, which takes place on August 21st. Also new this week: Early Times is launching a limited-edition bottled in bond bourbon, while Clyde May's has a 9 year old cask strength whiskey. And a new "hybrid" blend of bourbon and rye called Copper Cross is hitting store shelves. Early Times Bottled in Bond BourbonStyle: Straight bourbonOrigin: KentuckyAge: 4 years oldProof: 50% ABVPrice: $23 (1 liter)Release: Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, and OregonAvailability: Limited editionNeed to know:This bourbon has a mashbill of 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley. As a bonded bourbon, it was aged for at least four years and is bottled at 100 proof.Whisky Advocate says:Because Early Times has long been aged in used barrels, it hasn't been able to call itself a bourbon; it's...

Whisky lovers longing to spend eternity steeped in the aroma of their favorite spirit can do just that, thanks to the Forever Aging urn—a small cask made from the whiskey-soaked wood of bourbon barrels, designed specifically to hold the ashes of the dead, further moistened by a drop or two of their dram of choice.The Forever Aging urn was designed by William Elam, a retired attorney and native Kentuckian, who, ironically, isn't big on bourbon. “I enjoy a strawberry Daiquiri around the pool,” he says. “Bourbon itself is a little hard, a little strong.” But Elam nevertheless enjoys the heady aromas of bourbon that waft over from nearby distilleries to the backyard of his Frankfort home, in the heart of bourbon country. “I can frequently smell the mash if I inhale deeply and the wind is right,” Elam says. “It is a beautiful flavor.”In late 2018, Elam was musing over the fact that bourbon must be aged in new charred oak containers, leaving a lot of perfectly good barrels...

With the warmth and beauty of summer now upon us, there aren’t many good excuses to stay indoors. For some of us, however, baking is one of them. These three breezy dessert recipes are good for a summertime indulgence and made even better by a carefully chosen accompanying bourbon. Two of the desserts offer a double dose of whiskey, both infused into the core components of the desserts and alongside.
Mississippi Mud Pie with Woodford Reserve Chocolate Custard and Woodford Double Double Oaked

Recipe and pairing courtesy of executive chef, DJ Jackson at The Southern Gentleman, Atlanta.
Mississippi Mud pie is a Deep South delight made popular in the 1970s, likely gaining its name from a resemblance to the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. This one features a fudgy custard enrobed in a fluffy whipped cream sitting atop a nostalgic and sweet crumbled Oreo crust. It’s ideal enjoyed alongside Woodford Double Double Oaked bourbon, available nationwide since...

While Louisville welcomed Old Forester Distillery back to its original location this week, new whiskies from Kentucky, Scotland, and beyond are rolling out to store shelves.Macallan just can't stay still. After opening its stunning new distillery, unveiling a packaging revamp, and announcing its oldest-ever single malt, the company is releasing two new limited-edition whiskies: Macallan M Black follows up in the M series, making a dramatic entrance in a black crystal Lalique decanter and with a price—$6,995—to match. Meanwhile, Macallan Edition No. 4 will hit shelves next month at $100 a bottle, showcasing the concept of structure in whisky.Revival is the name of the game for three Kentucky straight bourbons this week—literally so, in the case of Wild Turkey Master's Keep Revival. The newest iteration of master distiller Eddie Russell's blending genius, Revival was inspired by Wild Turkey Sherry Signature, a sherry-finished bourbon created by Eddie's father, master distiller...

Before getting into the week's new whiskies, there's an update on the recently released "Star Trek" whiskey, James T. Kirk straight bourbon. Announced in June, the bourbon's initial price was $60 a bottle, and the website for the bourbon stated it was between 4 and 12 years old. When I asked for clarification, the bottling company's representative told me the bourbon was 10 years old and sourced from Tennessee. A Whisky Advocate reader who pre-ordered the whiskey recently emailed to say he had received it, and what he got was actually a 12 year old. When I asked the company, Silver Screen Bottling Company, about the discrepancy, it further clarified that James T. Kirk will be bottled in batches, with each batch varying in age from 4 to 12 years old. Meanwhile, the whiskey's price has shot up from $60-$70 to $300 for the 12 year old batch.For those who aren't interested in Star Trek whiskey, there are plenty of other new releases to anticipate. Old Forester has announced the fourth and...

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...

Last November, the Alcohol and Tobacco Trade and Tax Bureau, better known as the TTB, released Notice No. 176, a 132-page set of proposed regulations. Like many government documents, it's as good a sleep aid as a handful of Ambien. One small section, however, buried deep within the proposal, has woken up the bourbon community, particularly small distilleries that stand to be affected by it.There's already a set of rules in place about what type of whiskey can be labeled as bourbon. It has to be distilled from a mashbill of at least 51% corn, it must be distilled to no more than 80% ABV, it has to be bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV, and it has to be produced in the United States, to name a few. (Read up on the complete set of requirements for bourbon and other American whiskeys with our Instant Expert primer).Chief among the requirements for bourbon (as well as rye, malt, and wheat whiskey) is that it be aged in new charred oak containers—in other words, barrels. This is where the...

As craft distilleries across the country find new ways to welcome visitors safely, many whisky lovers are looking for new bottles to try. There's plenty to satisfy on that front this week, with fresh releases celebrating big moments and others pioneering novel flavors.First up, Heaven Hill Distillery has debuted Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel, a bourbon finished in a second, new, charred, and heavily toasted cask. It's available nationwide, priced at $50.Heaven Hill is also rolling out the Spring 2020 release of Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond, this time at 9 years old. The bourbon is priced at $90 and available in limited amounts.Jack Daniel's has partnered with country singer Eric Church on a limited-edition single-barrel release. Roughly 60,000 bottles of the Tennessee whiskey are available, priced at $50.Johnnie Walker has created a trio of special blended scotches to celebrate its 200th anniversary this year. John Walker & Sons Celebratory Blend is inspired by the brand's...

Fall is in full swing, and so are distilleries, with all manner of releases coming out practically by the minute. In a burst of good news for Pappy fans, the 2022 Van Winkle lineup has been announced, and along with it the revelation that more bottles than usual are available this year. Does that mean it'll be easier to get your hands on one ahead of the holiday season, be it for yourself or a loved one? Not necessarily, but here's to staying optimistic.As mentioned, the Van Winkle whiskeys are hardly the only specialty releases to debut this week. There are two new whiskies from Hibiki—a cherrywood-finished blend and a 30 year old whisky—both of which are very limited in nature. Knob Creek, meanwhile, has introduced a rarity of its own, an 18 year old bourbon that marks its oldest release to date. From Scotland, Glendronach has debuted Grandeur Batch 11—aged for 28 years—and there are three new ultra-limited, ultra-aged bottlings from the Gordon &...

The whisky world was abuzz with news this week. WhiskyFest took place in Chicago last Friday, May 12th, drawing in newcomers and returnees to the Windy City’s marquee whisky event. Bourbon heavyweight James B. Beam Distilling Co. has thrown its hat into the American single malt ring with the release of Clermont Steep—its first official ASM expression, and a permanent addition to its whiskey family. In an exclusive interview with Whisky Advocate, Justin Sloan and Justin Thompson of Washington, D.C. retail outfit Justins’ House of Bourbon have responded to the TTB dropping its counterfeiting claims.
As far as new expressions go, whisky fans are spoiled for choice this week. Newcomer Forbidden has debuted with a small batch bourbon expression, Chattanooga Whiskey has added a new bourbon to its Experimental Batch series, Jack Daniel’s has a new barrel proof rye, and Kilchoman released its 2023 edition of Loch Gorm. Read on for full...

Amid all the razzmatazz of new releases, we note with some nostalgia that Cutty Sark, that grand old scotch, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and it just rolled out a limited anniversary edition to mark the occasion. Cutty has been dressed up in a festive bottle and gift box that is hitting retail across the U.S., and there will be 100 celebratory events around the country in its honor. Named for the fastest clipper ship in the 19th century, during Prohibition years Cutty became a favorite of rum runners plying the Caribbean and the eastern seaboard. This light-tasting blend was a very popular choice for cocktails, and for years Cutty Sark  was America’s number-one scotch whisky, peaking in 1980 at an astounding 22 million bottles annually, according to our research arm Impact Databank. Today it's far smaller, selling just under a milllion bottles a year.
But on to the business at hand. Halloween is not quite here yet, but we have some...

No dog days of summer this week, as whisky lovers are being treated to lots of exciting news. In American whiskey, Seattle's Westland Distillery,  whose co-founder Matt Hofmann moved on last year, continues its reset with the release of  two new expressions—one finished in beer casks and the other in wine casks. Knob Creek, always among the most traditional of whiskey makers, gets creative with a new blend of bourbon and rye, while Woodford Reserve has blended two malt whiskeys for the latest edition in its Distillery Series. Dixon Dedman, who made his name with the Kentucky Owl whiskeys back in 2014, continues to see his star rise with 2XO, whose latest release is a bourbon finished in French oak casks.
Not to be outdone, the scotch side has some very interesting news. Compass Box, whose celebrated founder John Glaser departed the company earlier this year, is ready for its next act with two entirely new labels...

The aged whiskies just keep on coming: Colorado-based Stranahan’s is celebrating American single malt’s official classification with the release of a 12 year old, while Penelope is offering a 17 year old American light whiskey, and single malt scotch Aberfeldy has a 26 and a 39 year old—all of them being limited editions, of course. Meanwhile, Kentucky newcomer Garrard County Distilling Co., which filled its first barrel in January of 2024 at a new distillery in Lancaster, about 35 miles south of Lexington, is relaunching its All Nations brand using sourced liquid. Among other releases, Elijah Craig is out with its first barrel proof batch of the year, while Redwood Empire has a higher-proof version of its Pipe Dream expression. From across the pond, Irish single malt Dingle has the second release in its Celtic Wheel of the Year series
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch A125)
ABV: 59.1%
SRP: $75
Availability: Nationwide
Each January...

This week's new releases see several whisky makers take familiar concepts and flip them on their heads. First up is Woodford, which has reinvented its Chocolate Malt Whisper bourbon into a whiskey that, at 69.7% ABV, is the highest-proof expression it has ever released. Elsewhere in Kentucky, Peerless has taken two whiskeys it’s executed well in the past—rye and toasted barrel—and combined them for its first toasted barrel-finished rye. Frey Ranch is also bringing something fresh to the table with the introduction of a whiskey made entirely from unmalted barley. Overseas, Bushmills has had its hands full with cask finishes, while Macallan has debuted the 8th release in its nostalgia-evoking Archival Series. 
Woodford Reserve Chocolate Whisper Redux 139.4 Bourbon
ABV: 69.7%
SRP: $100/375 ml
Availability: Limited; woodfordreserve.com, distillery tasting room, and KY
To understand this new Woodford whiskey, we must first look back to 2021...

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...

Gifting a bottle seems easy enough, but finding the right bottle for a whisky lover is where the difficulty lies. You could play it safe by buying a bottle of their usual pour, but that isn't very exciting. Alternatively, you could surprise them with something completely new—but then you run the risk of buying something they won't like. 
A great way to start is to focus on flavors. The best approach is to look for whiskies with profiles your giftee likes—focusing on familiar foods like chocolate and barbecue, beverages like coffee or wine, or certain things like cigars—that you know will hit the spot. To cut out the work for you, we've assembled a list of 26 high-scoring whiskies that will please your whisky lover's palate and put a big smile on their face.
Dessert Lovers
For whisky lovers with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of options to choose from, including well-aged bourbons, inventive blends, light-bodied Irish whiskeys, and beyond. The...

The biggest whiskey news of the week came yesterday when Beam Suntory announced the debut of Legent, a new bourbon made by master distiller Fred Noe and master blender Shinji Fukuyo. We have full details below and in an in-depth article where both men discuss how they created the special blend.[caption id="attachment_13597" align="alignleft" width="300"] New packaging for Knob Creek[/caption]Beam Suntory also unveiled new packaging for Knob Creek. The updated look is a bit sleeker and more polished than before, but the whiskey is the same big, bold bourbon and rye.Diageo announced that it will release whiskies from the shuttered Port Ellen Distillery in the new Untold Stories series. The first bottling, Port Ellen Untold Stories: The Spirit Safe, is 39 years old. Just 1,500 bottles are available, priced at at £4,500; none are coming to the U.S., although online ordering is available through The Whisky Exchange.An aged single malt scotch you can actually get stateside—although it...

It was late night hunger that lured Samara Rivers into a New Orleans convenience store during a family vacation in 2015—but what she discovered was whiskey. As she waited for an order of fried chicken, the store clerk suggested a bottle of bourbon to go with the bird. Not just any bourbon, however. “My first whiskey I fell in love with was 100-proof,” Four Roses Single Barrel, she recalls. She never imagined how life-changing it would be—not just for her, but for more than 10,000 whisky enthusiasts who know Rivers as the founder and chief executive of Black Bourbon Society.From its inception not long after that pivotal dram, Black Bourbon Society has expanded to more than 65 cities across the U.S., as well as Canada, Mexico, France, England, and Japan, Rivers says. She started the group to bring together a far-flung network of African American bourbon enthusiasts through whisky events and distillery visits where they meet master distillers and brand ambassadors, and, of...

WHERE IT’S FROM
American whiskey comes in many forms. Bourbon, the most recognized type of American whiskey, can be produced only in the United States, but—contrary to popular belief—does not have to be produced in Kentucky, though most of it is. Tennessee whiskey, however, must be made in Tennessee.
Rye whiskey, on the other hand, doesn’t necessarily have to be made in the United States; it’s also widely produced in Canada (see Instant Expert: Canadian Whisky for more information), and elsewhere. Rye that’s made in America is American whiskey, but rye made elsewhere is not.
WHAT IT’S MADE OF
American Whiskey
The United States requires all whiskey to be produced from a fermented mash of grain. Specific categories of whiskey have more exacting requirements.
Bourbon
Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, although it often contains substantially...

Bourbons head up this latest crop of new releases, with Lux Row dropping its annual edition of Blood Oath, marking 10 years for the series. Shelbyville, Kentucky-based farm distiller Jeptha Creed, owned and operated by the dynamic mother-and-daughter team of Joyce and  Autumn Nethery, has a new wheated bourbon in its repertoire, with a mashbill based on Jeptha’s signature Bloody Butcher corn.
Smaller releases follow, including two new bourbons from Bardstown, Kentucky-based independent bottler Vincero Spirits, available in Kentucky only. Portland, Oregon-based Westward Distillery has a new club release, and ultra-aged whisky purveyor The Last Drop has two scotches, ages 40 and 55, released in tiny quantities and at four-figure prices.
Blood Oath Pact 10 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
ABV: 49.3%
SRP: $130
Availability: 51,000 bottles; available nationwide in late April
Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers has released the...

We made it! January is over, and as the calendar turns to its shortest month, there are new whiskies to anticipate.Glenmorangie has unveiled the tenth release in its Private Edition series. Allta ("wild") is a whisky whose barley was fermented from wild yeast found in the fields near the distillery—a first for Glenmorangie. Cultivating and using wild yeast is an unusual step for modern scotch distillers generally, although custom yeasts are very common in American whiskey. Glenmorangie Allta is priced at $99 and available in limited amounts.Angel's Envy has announced a new bourbon finished in oloroso sherry casks. There are just 3,600 bottles of the bourbon, priced at $200 each, and they're going on sale first to members of the distillery's 500 Main group. After that, the remaining bottles will be for sale at the distillery and select Kentucky retailers.Buffalo Trace is releasing the next two whiskeys in its Experimental Collection, a pair of bourbons aged in barrels whose wood was...

It's a big week for bourbon lovers. Four Roses announced a new, permanently available bourbon that's non-chill filtered and bottled at a solid 52% ABV. Four Roses Small Batch Select is made with six of the distillery's recipes and is the first core bourbon to prominently feature the F yeast strain. Priced around $55-$60, it will eventually be available nationwide, but is starting off in five states: California, Georgia, Kentucky, New York, and Texas. Whisky Advocate spoke with master distiller Brent Elliott to get more details about the whiskey; keep reading to find out how he developed the formula, and which specific recipes he used.Meanwhile, Buffalo Trace has debuted a 20 year old version of Eagle Rare. Double Eagle Very Rare is packaged in a crystal decanter and fancy box, and has a recommended price of $1,999. Just 299 bottles are available.The Whiskey Barons collection, which is made at Wild Turkey Distillery, has unveiled its latest bourbon, W.B. Saffell, as well as the second...

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...

Rare whisky season is in full swing with the annual Van Winkle releases announced earlier this week.Meanwhile, more luxury than rare, after first launching it at Travel Retail last year, Woodford Reserve is releasing its Baccarat Edition in select liquor stores. The cognac cask-finished bourbon is priced at $2,000 and packaged in a custom Baccarat decanter (of course).On to new releases. Ireland's Teeling Whiskey is unveiling its first peated single malt. Blackpitts Batch 1 will hit the states in early 2021 with 6,000 bottles available at $75.Cascade Hollow Distilling, home to George Dickel, has a new blended whiskey. Cascade Moon Edition No. 1 will cost $90 and is available in California, Tennessee, and Texas.Balvenie has released the seventh batch in its Tun 1509 series. There are a limited number of bottles available for $420 each.Renowned blender Barrell Craft Spirits has a new finished bourbon that includes three Tennessee bourbons, each finished separately in Jamaican rum, pear...

From Scotland this week, Macallan is out with the third edition in its Harmony Collection, this one created in collaboration with two of Paul McCartney's daughters—fashion designer Stella McCartney and photographer Mary McCartney. Compass Box has a new creation, Art & Decadence, blended from a rich, malty array of cask finishings. On the American whiskey scene, the very prolific Barrell Craft Spirits has a nicely affordable item in Barrell Foundation at $60, its first non-cask strength whiskey.  Pinhook,  meanwhile, has a truly unique concept in its Vertical Series, which follows the progress of 1,350 barrels of high-rye, MGP bourbons as they age over the course of time. First launched in 2019, the project will conclude in 2027, and this week we're greeted with Pinhook Vertical 8. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Verticals seem to be improving with each release, though opinions will vary on that, which is all part of the fun. Plenty of...

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...

A compact but very interesting array of whiskies populate this round of new releases. Larceny Barrel Proof is out with its first batch of the year, while Memphis, Tennessee-based B. R. Distilling has unveiled the 2025 edition of its Special Reserve bourbon blend. Single malt maker Virginia Distillery Co. (VDC) has another stout cask-finished expression, this one timed especially for Valentine’s Day. From Scotland, blended scotch house Compass Box has announced the 2025 edition of its Hedonism label. And if Derby Day is in your sights, consider the Evan Williams Kentucky Derby Festival single barrel annual release, though it’s only on sale at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Louisville and at some Kentucky retailers. 
Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch A125)
ABV: 62.5%
SRP: $65
Availability: Nationwide
Just a few weeks ago, Kentucky’s Heaven Hill Distillery unveiled the newest version of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. Now it’s...

Among the more interesting news items this week was the introduction of Old Forester’s first bottled in bond rye, released as part of the distillery’s 117 Series. We have deeper coverage on that here, including an interview with assistant master distiller Caleb Trigo. Elsewhere in the whiskey world, there are new releases from Barrel Craft Spirits, 15 Stars, Elijah Craig, Kentucky Senator, and Old Potrero, as well as the latest Gentleman’s Cut expression from NBA superstar Stephen Curry, and a new addition to the Wildlife Collection from Milam & Greene.
 
Elijah Craig Limited Edition Toasted Barrel Small Batch Bourbon
 
ABV: 63.3%
Price: $100
Availability: California Exclusive; less than 200 bottles; presale signup available here
Bourbon and golf fans should enjoy Heaven Hill’s new Elijah Craig limited-edition private barrel bourbon, selected in partnership with golf pro and six-time PGA Tour winner Max Homa. This...

While they’re already serving up robust cocktails in inviting atmospheres, these distilleries are getting a makeover this holiday season—transformed into pop-up bars with festive lights, holiday decor, and playful themes to bring holiday cheer. We’ve rounded up 13 distilleries that are pulling out all the stops, with looks ranging from winter wonderlands to iconic Christmas movie-themed makeovers. There’s plenty of yule-themed fun at these distilleries.
Artisan Distillery & Craft Bar – The Elf Bar
San Antonio, Texas
Open through December 24th
Artisan Distillery and Craft Bar in downtown San Antonio mainly makes vodka, though it also produces a handful of whiskeys. This holiday season, its downtown location has been turned into a North Pole-themed wonderland inspired by the film “Elf”. Book a table and enjoy an interactive experience filled with surprises, karaoke, Christmas trivia, and of course, specialty cocktails to sip...

Tomorrow is the 2018 Kentucky Derby, the biggest day in horse-racing and a pretty great excuse to pull out your favorite bourbon for a Mint Julep or two—or even to throw a whole party centered around the most exciting two minutes in sports.But if that's not your thing, there's plenty more to get excited about this week, with new releases from Maker's Mark, Jefferson's, and even Bob Dylan. In fact, the acclaimed folk musician and Nobel Prize winner is rolling out a brand new line of bourbon, whiskey, and rye called Heaven's Door. (If you don't know where the name comes from, take a listen to this.) The bottles feature ironwork designs Dylan crafted himself. While the whiskeys are currently sourced, there are plans to open a distillery for Heaven's Door in Nashville in 2019. This project has legs: one of the founding partners of Angel's Envy is backing it. The bourbon and whiskey will sell for $50, while the rye is $80.Meanwhile, Maker's Mark is offering a new, very limited Private...

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...

It might be a holiday week, but new releases do not pause just because the rest of us get the day off. Earlier in the week, we announced the exclusive news that MGP Distillery will launch its first bottled in bond bourbon in November. Remus Volstead Reserve is a limited-edition whiskey, priced at $200, and will be for sale in 14 states. Get the full details in our in-depth article.Although we first reported it back in April, Glenmorangie's newest Bond House No. 1 release is hitting shelves now. Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1991 costs $750 and is available in limited amounts.There are several new scotches launching at travel retail stores, including four special editions of Johnnie Walker Black and 15 rarely-seen single malts from Speyside. While they're only for sale at duty-free stores for now, the whiskies are noteworthy enough to seek out if you're traveling through the right airport.But what about whiskies that are readily available now? WhistlePig is rolling out the third...

Scotch whisky fans were celebrating this week as the long-silent Brora Distillery in the Scottish Highlands opened its doors for the first time since 1983. We covered the historic reopening ceremony, and Whisky Advocate auction expert Jonny McCormick took the opportunity to study some of the distillery’s rarest expressions in our “What’s It Worth?” series.For those looking for a more accessible dram, this week’s roundup of new whiskies has plenty on offer. Cask finishing and brand collaborations are the main events, with Lagavulin teaming up with Guinness for a new release and Heaven’s Door working with Redbreast on a new bourbon with an Irish touch. Read on for full details.Lagavulin Offerman Edition: Guinness Cask FinishStyle: Single maltOrigin: Scotland (Islay)Age: 11 year oldABV: 46%Price: $80Release: June 2021Availability: Limited editionNeed to know:Lagavulin Offerman Edition first debuted in October 2019. This iteration, created in collaboration with actor Nick...

Happy St. Patrick's Day! If you're looking to celebrate with an Irish whiskey, we've got you covered. This list captures all of the current excitement around Irish whiskey, with a new 100% rye from Powers, an affordable single pot still from The Busker, a showcase of Ireland's terroir from Waterford, and much more. And lest you think Irish whiskey is meant only for March, the style is showing sustained growth, with shipments to our shores rising by 28% last year to a whopping 72 million bottles.
In other whisky news, Uncle Nearest is opening a new experiential space dedicated to elevated drinks, food, and live music on its Tennessee campus; Michter's is adding new barrel houses and running additional distillation to increase availability; and Oak & Eden has announced that six of its permanent whiskeys are now kosher certified. As for new whiskies this week, Jack Daniel's is bringing back its 10 year old Tennessee whiskey and...

We're set to kick off the season—no, not football, although there is that too. The season for big-time whisky releases is upon us. From Kentucky, Four Roses just announced its annual Limited Edition Small Batch, this one a celebration of its 135th anniversary, while Michter's is back with US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish rye. Both will drop in September. Meanwhile, Parker's Heritage has unveiled its annual release, and it's a 10 year old cask-strength rye. And Little Book is out with Chapter 7, an intriguing retrospective blending one component each from Chapters 1-6 and then adding a new whiskey for Chapter 7.
From Islay, Ardbeg's Dr. Bill Lumsden is at it again with the new Ardbeg Anthology series, the inaugural release highlighted by Sauternes cask finishing in the mix. The Sauternes cask is not often seen on  Islay, though it has been used by Kilchoman and  Bunnahabhain. From Speyside, Balvenie has another...

The holiday season is swiftly approaching, and with it, a slew of extra-special releases that would make interesting end-of-year gifts. For the car lover in your life, there is Bowmore's latest opus in partnership with luxury British automaker Aston Martin. Also out is a new edition from the Heaven's Door Bootleg series—the crème de la crème of the brand, which was created in partnership with Bob Dylan. Of great interest to us is the new release from Old Overholt, a 10 year old, cask strength rye priced at $100. That seems like quite a departure for this price-friendly label that has long been a favorite of rye lovers, though this release is in fact a throwback to Old Overholt ryes of the previous century. 
Elsewhere in new whisky, High West returns with a fresh edition of The Prisoner's Share, this one using no sourced whiskey, as it's 100% made at High West's Wanship...

Today, we unveiled our 2025 Whisky of the Year, capping off a week of Top 20 reveals. The list features whiskies from around the globe, all of which came out over the past year. As we celebrate our 2025 winners, let’s look at the whiskies rolling out this week—who knows, maybe one of these bottles will appear in next year's Top 20.
Still Austin is back with its second edition of Tanager, a bourbon series that's intended for pairing with cigars. Wilderness Trail has three new single barrel whiskeys, all 6 years old; elsewhere in Kentucky, Buzzard's Roost has debuted a single barrel bourbon of its own, this one celebrating Repeal Day. Bourbon-armagnac blend Hogsworth is back with its oldest releases yet, and on the collectible side, Glenlivet has released a 56 year old single malt. 
Still Austin Tanager Cigar Blend Bourbon (2025 Release)
ABV: 53.75%
SRP: $150
Availability: Limited
Texas craft distillery Still Austin has...

Rye is a traditional grain in both American and Canadian whiskies, notable for adding spice-like complexity even when used in small quantities. Some whisky renditions using rye are legally defined, like American rye whiskey with its minimum 51% rye. Others, like high-rye bourbon, are more generally accepted styles. Whether you prefer just a faint hint of rye or the jolt of 100% rye whiskey, this spectrum of lively rye-laced whiskeys will get your palate racing.
Bourbon
While corn is always the primary ingredient in bourbon, rye is a traditional flavoring grain. Bourbons that don't include any rye often feature wheat instead.
10% rye—Evan Williams Black Straight Bourbon—84 points, $15
13% rye—Wild Turkey 81 Proof Bourbon—82 points, $21
18% rye—Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon—89 points, $35
High-Rye Bourbon
Rye grain is a popular flavoring component in bourbon, which is made primarily from corn. Although not legally...

Country music and whiskey often go hand-in-hand, both of them emblematic of American culture, and perfect for enjoying together. Several country singers and groups have launched their own whiskeys, including Florida Georgia Line (Wolf Moon), John Rich of Big & Rich (Redneck Riviera), and Darius Rucker (Backstage Southern Whiskey). But none of them bring together the ultimate American matchup quite like Lee Greenwood, who's preparing to launch an eponymous whiskey this spring in partnership with Omaha, Nebraska's Soldier Valley Spirits.The writer and singer of the popular patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA” says that he was drawn to work with Soldier Valley because its military connections align with his values. “If you look at the history of my career, you won't find my name associated with anything else other than something military,” Greenwood says. “I met these two guys, and I would say David [Young, Soldier Valley's president] and Jeff [Hadden, founder] are just the...

Big flavors abound in this week's new releases. First up, Basil Hayden's is launching Dark Rye, a new whiskey that will be a part of the core line. Read the label closely and you'll notice a few things that stand out: this is a blend of Kentucky and Canadian ryes, and it includes port-style wine from California. Huh? Don't feel silly for being confused—it is unusual. According to the Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB), which regulates these things, a non-straight rye whiskey can include up to 2.5% wine by volume and still be labeled as a rye. But Dark Rye is classified as a “whisky speciality,” so the wine probably exceeds that amount.Tullamore D.E.W. is bringing in apple flavors to its latest release, a blended Irish whiskey finished in hard cider casks. The whiskey is seasonally available and will return each year, and it's being sold in 1-liter bottles—great news if you plan to host a Halloween party and want to serve whiskey in volume. (And if you are...

This week, we covered yet another distillery opening, this one on the Glenmorangie campus in the Scottish Highlands. At the Lighthouse, Glenmorangie head of distilling and whisky creation Dr. Bill Lumsden will be able to pursue his wildest whisky dreams, and we're looking forward to the forthcoming fruits of his labors.While it'll be awhile before we see new whiskies from the Lighthouse, there are plenty of new releases to enjoy right now, including a new, aged bourbon from Hudson Whiskey, a fruit-forward blended malt from Compass Box, and a single malt meant for pairing with cigars from Tamdhu. Read on for full details.Hudson Four Part HarmonyStyle: Straight bourbon
Origin: New York
Age: 7 year oldABV: 46%
Price: $70
Release: September 2021
Availability: 1,200 for CT, NJ, NY with expansion planned Need to know:Pot distilled from a mash of 60% corn, 15% rye, 15% wheat, and 10% malted barley, and aged for 7 years, this limited-edition is the oldest release from Hudson...

Single malt scotch drinkers, it's your day: The latest Diageo Special Releases have been unveiled, and aside from a 26 year old Lagavulin, they're remarkably accessible, coming in at $250 or less. As with previous iterations, this year's collection—called Legends Untold—was curated by Diageo master blender Craig Wilson and includes eight whiskies in total.It's an abundant week for American whiskey lovers, too, with new bourbons from Wild Turkey and Woodford Reserve, the latest edition of High West's A Midwinter Night's Dram, and a cask strength single malt from Westward Whiskey. Read on for full details.

Wild Turkey Master's Keep One
Style: Straight bourbon
Origin: Kentucky
Age: Not stated
ABV: 50.5%
SRP: $175
Release: October 2021
Availability: Limited
Need to know:
Master’s Keep One is the sixth release in Wild Turkey's limited edition Master’s Keep series. This one blends 8 to 10 year old bourbon with 14...

A great vacation doesn’t have to be all about whisky, but a wee dram or artisanal cocktail along the way certainly enhances the experience. The best getaways for whisky lovers combine cozy lodging with fun activities, delicious food, warm hospitality, and of course an excellent selection of whiskies. Such great escapes can be found all over the country and around the world—you can squeeze in a bit of fun on a long weekend or fly across the Atlantic to sojourn in the British Isles. Whether you a choose trip focused on skiing, fishing, hiking, golfing, or just relaxation with cooking classes and spa treatments, fabulous whisky-fueled adventures await. We’ve chosen 10 of the best such getaway options.

Sea Island Resort has not one, but two separate hotels, including The Lodge (pictured), where the main bar serves several hundred Old Fashioned cocktails a day.
Sea Island—Sea Island, Georgia
For nearly a century, Sea Island Resort has been one of...

The week's new releases are led by Wild Turkey 101 8 year old, which isn't a new release at all, but one that's been enjoyed for some time in overseas markets and is finally coming home to U.S. distribution. Elsewhere, Jefferson's has a new cask strength offering, and Indiana's Old Hamer label has a new 10 year old bourbon. Smaller releases were announced from Copperworks, Lasso Motel, and Round Barn. In scotch, Royal Salute adds to its Polo collection. Among collectibles, there's a new iteration from Macallan Distill Your World,  Glenrothes tops the age charts with a 51 year old, and The Last Drop has a three-bottle release showcasing an ultra-aged bourbon, scotch, and Japanese whisky. 

Royal Salute 21 year old Rio de Janeiro Polo Edition Blended Scotch
ABV: 40%
SRP: $250
Availability: Limited; specialty retailers including  Flaviar and Caskers 
Royal Salute is releasing a new expression in its Polo Collection, its globe-trotting...

WhiskyFest San Francisco on October 6th is fast approaching, and if you're a whisky lover in the Bay Area, it's the perfect way to kick off the fall whisky-drinking season in earnest.With over 400 whiskies being poured, WhiskyFest has something for everyone (and if you want to quench your thirst with scotch, we've got you covered). But if you're a bourbon fanatic or just want to see what all the fuss is about, take a look below for the Whisky Advocate editorial team's top bourbon (and rye) picks at WhiskyFest San Francisco. All of these pours are available with general admission tickets. (If you haven't bought yours yet, it's not too late!)7 Must-Try Bourbons At WhiskyFest San FranciscoEagle Rare 17 year oldThere's a reason it's called Eagle Rare, not Eagle Common. Like all the members of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, Eagle Rare 17 is genuinely hard to find—except at WhiskyFest. Don't miss your chance to try this annual special release, which regularly scores a 93 or 94 in...

This week's newest whiskies are all for the bourbon, rye, and scotch lovers.First up, Basil Hayden's is rolling out a limited-edition whiskey. Two by Two is a blend of two straight ryes (aged 5 and 7 years) and two straight bourbons (aged 6 and 13 years), both made in Kentucky and blended together. The whiskey costs $45 and will be available for a limited time.Meanwhile, Heaven Hill has announced a 27 year old bourbon that will go on sale this fall. Less than 3,000 bottles of this whiskey will be available at a price of $399. Bourbon history buffs should note that it was distilled at Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery before the 1996 fire which destroyed the distillery and seven warehouses (and about 2% of the world's stock of bourbon at that time).Over in Scotland, GlenAllachie Distillery has unveiled its core range of single malt whiskies: 10 year old cask strength, 12 year old, 18 year old, and 25 year old. While the older whiskies will be available in limited amounts, the 10 year...

The East Texas Bourbon Society was born of good intentions. The group's origins reach back to Bourbon and Bowties, an event started in 2013 to raise money for the Longview World of Wonders children's museum. “We have raised over $750,000 through our little bourbon event so far, and hope to break $1,000,000 this year,” says Cole Tomberlain, president of the society's Longview chapter. On the heels of such success, Tomberlain went on to found the group along with president Andrew Griffith. “We love to discuss the history, the lore, the distilling process,” he explains.East Texas Bourbon Society builds upon the philanthropy of its roots. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that, in addition to bourbon, focuses on raising money for local youth organizations such as Education By Design Longview and the statewide Court Appointed Special Advocates for children. Each chapter meets several times a month in its respective town in various locations, including a cigar lounge (Nacogdoches), a...

Last fall, Old Overholt debuted two new whiskeys to celebrate its storied past, but both were limited in scale and scope. Now, one of those whiskeys—Old Overholt 114 Proof—is available nationwide, so American rye lovers, rejoice! It’s also a great week for fans of American whiskey in general, as the eight bottlings on our menu are all U.S. born and bred—including releases from Angel’s Envy, W.L. Weller, and George Dickel. Read on for full details.Angel’s Envy Madeira Finished Straight BourbonStyle: Finished bourbon
Origin: Kentucky
Age: Not stated
ABV: 50%
Price: $230
Release: June 2021
Availability: 3,360 bottles, available at the distillery and in select markets: CA, FL, IL, KY, NY, TN, and TX.Need to know:Angel’s Envy’s third release from its Cellar Collection is a blend of whiskeys finished for one year in Madeira casks. Starting May 21, members of Angel’s Envy’s 500 Main club can enter a lottery for a chance to buy a bottle ahead of its June 6...

Family-owned Montgomery Distillery in Missoula, Montana, a farm-to-bottle distillery that produces single malt, rye, wheated bourbon, and more, has unveiled a new project targeted toward fans of both bourbon and amaro, and cocktail enthusiasts who enjoy both spirits. Released this month, B’Amaro aims to honor both American and Italian drinking traditions by combining the richness of aged bourbon with the bittersweet complexity of amaro.
The distillery claims B’Amaro is the world’s first-ever bourbon-based amaro (30% ABV, $30).
B’Amaro uses Montgomery Distillery’s 4 year old Mama Tried wheated bourbon as its base, and then steeps botanicals, spices, and fruits in it to create this expression. Gentian root and cinchona are added to create bitter flavors, followed by cloves, chamomile, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to layer in botanical and spice elements. A citrus finish comes courtesy of sweet orange, bitter orange, and grapefruit, which are added...

A great vacation doesn't have to be all about whisky, but a wee dram or artisanal cocktail along the way certainly enhances the experience. The best getaways for whisky lovers combine cozy lodging with fun activities, delicious food, warm hospitality, and of course an excellent selection of whiskies. Such great escapes can be found all over the country and around the world—you can squeeze in a bit of fun on a long weekend or fly across the Atlantic to sojourn in the British Isles. Whether you a choose trip focused on skiing, fishing, hiking, golfing, or just relaxation with cooking classes and spa treatments, fabulous whisky-fueled adventures await. We've chosen 10 of the best such getaway options.

Sea Island Resort has not one, but two separate hotels, including The Lodge (pictured), where the main bar serves several hundred Old Fashioned cocktails a day.
Sea Island
Sea Island, Georgia
For nearly a century, Sea Island Resort has been one of America's...

While the biggest whisky news this week was the announcement of our 2017 Whisky of the Year, there are lots of other great whiskies to celebrate. If you haven't checked out the most exciting whiskies of 2017, head over to the Top 20 page to see 1 through 10, and check back on Monday, 11/20, for 11 through 20.Meanwhile, take a look at the newest whisky releases, coming out now. Jim Beam has launched a non-chill filtered bourbon aged 5 to 6 years and bottled at 50% ABV. Priced at $23, it is definitely worth trying to see whether chill-filtering makes a difference to your enjoyment of the whiskey.In other bourbon news, Sazerac's Barton 1792 Distillery also has a new 50% ABV bourbon: Barton 1792 Bottled in Bond. Both of these whiskeys are available for a limited time.Midleton is rolling out its second whiskey in the Virgin Irish Oak Series. Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest is a blend of pot still whiskeys aged 12 to 23 years in bourbon casks, then finished for a year and a half in toasted...

Lockdowns and shelter-in-place orders continue throughout the world, impacting even whisky distillers and blenders, but since most of them are well-stocked with top-quality bottles, they're drinking quite well. So are whisky clubs, who are so intent on gathering—virtually—to enjoy camaraderie and great drams that several are increasing the frequency of their meetings. Many folks are enjoying cocktails at home as well, often thanks to DIY cocktail kits from both local bars and online delivery services.And even in this time, new whiskies are rolling out. The long-anticipated debut of Virginia Distillery Co.'s fully house-made single malt has arrived. Courage & Conviction hits shelves this month, priced at $75. The first batch of 9,600 bottles is named for the late company founder, George G. Moore.Buffalo Trace is launching the fourth release in the Old Charter Oak bourbon range. Old Charter Oak Chinkapin Oak is $70 and available in limited amounts.Chicken Cock has a new straight...

Now that Passover is behind us, Buffalo Trace is rolling out the 2021 batches of its kosher trio of whiskeys—bourbon, wheated bourbon, and rye. Curious why Passover matters? Check out our detailed feature on the complex rules and methods of making kosher whisky.On to the newest releases. First up, Laphroaig is adding an oloroso sherry-finished 10 year old to its range. Though available in limited amounts, it's a permanent addition, priced at $90.Rabbit Hole has unveiled a mizunara cask-finished bourbon as part of its Founder's Collection. There are just 1,403 bottles, priced at $1,500 each.The 2021 special-edition Glen Scotia released for the Campbeltown Malts Festival comes out soon. Finished in bordeaux red wine casks, the whisky is priced at $80 and available in limited amounts.Four Gate Whiskey Co. is rolling out its latest limited edition, Kelvin Collaboration III. The finished bourbon is priced at $199, with 2,470 bottles available.Bardstown Bourbon Co. has created an...

Worn leather cowboy boots, cream-colored Stetson hats, and wide-open desert space dappled with cacti—these are visions of Texas in the mind's eye. But there's much more to the Lone Star State, including a dynamic whiskey scene. The ties to whiskey are not deep, as distilling arrived here just over 15 years ago. Yet even as a newcomer, Texas is rapidly building its whiskey credentials as distilleries become firmly rooted across the state, creating a colorful patchwork of styles and flavors.A key part of the picture in Texas is its multifaceted climate. Roughly the same size as France, it has a landscape that's nearly as varied. In Texas Hill Country west of Austin, dense forests, wildflower fields, and sparkling blue lakes see extreme temperature swings—daily averages can vary from 42°F to 95°F over the course of a year. In the southern reaches of Texas, sweltering humidity creates tropical conditions all year, thanks to proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. By the northern borders...

Barrel aging is a crucial part of whisky making—it gives the spirit its color and adds a greater depth of flavor over time. Some styles even mandate the type of barrel or vessel used to age the whiskey. Bourbon, for example, is legally required to be placed in a new charred oak container meaning that once a barrel has been emptied, it can never be used to make bourbon again. So what happens to those barrels? They can be used to aged other types of whiskey like American single malt, or other types of spirits like gin, rum, or cognac.Bourbon barrel aging can give these other spirits, and wine as well, an added dimension, as the oak likewise imparts color, but also flavors left behind from the whiskey. Taste that influence for yourself with these 10 bottles that offer something for whisky lovers looking to branch our into other spirits, and fans of those spirits looking to develop a taste for oak.10 bourbon barrel-Aged spirits and wines to try nowDon Papa 10 year old Rum—43%, $70This...

Our deep dive into Rare Character Whiskey Company’s explosive growth and astounding auction potential is a comprehensive profile on the company. (Click here to read it, if you haven’t already.) All of Rare Character’s whiskey is sourced, and while some mashbills and distillery locations are somewhat straightforward—as with Brook Hill bourbon and rye, Old Cassidy bourbon, and Pride of Edison County bourbon and rye—the Rare Character Single Barrel Series is different. 

It features more than 30 different mashbills from a variety of distilleries and locations. Each single barrel bottle receives a corresponding barrel code and a designated wax color. (These wax colors indicate similar, though not always identical, flavor profiles.) Here, Rare Character co-founder and barrel selector Pablo Moix explains each code and color, and offers some of his personal tasting notes. 
RIO / Copper Wax

“Rio is Spanish for...

The Fall release from Old Fitzgerald is out: it's just a week before the start of winter, but these Old Fitz releases are nearly always worth the wait. Woodford Reserve, meanwhile, offers a second Batch Proof release this year, while Penelope has a new rum barrel finished expression. Still Austin, fresh off being named the No. 7 whisky of the year in Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 rankings for 2024, joins an increasingly crowded cigar blend market with its new Still Austin Tanager. Hidden Barn, the work of former Old Forester master taster Jackie Zykan, has a new expression, while Chattanooga offers the 2024 edition of its Vault Series. And in the spirit of the holidays, Good Deed Spirits is back with a new blended whiskey whose proceeds will all be donated.
Woodford Reserve Batch Proof Bourbon (2024 Edition)
ABV: 59.75%
SRP: $150
Availability: Limited
Thanks to Woodford Reserve’s fiscal calendar, which ends in May, we’re being treated...

Even a quick glance at its name makes it safe to assume that Dampfwerk Distilling in St. Louis Park, Minnesota has a far-flung influence. In this case, that influence is German: Owner Ralf Loeffelholz is originally from the Bavarian town of Muhldorf. There, fruit brandies and herbal liqueurs are deeply entrenched in the culture, and Loeffelholz knew that when he opened his distillery on American soil, those European-style brandies and liqueurs would be at the heart of his business. But Dampfwerk (which translates to “steam works”) is a family affair, and distiller Christian Loeffelholz (Ralf’s son) joined Dampfwerk with American single malt in mind—which he makes on the same German-made still his father uses.

“The still was designed to our specifications; it’s not a traditional whiskey still by any means, but it’s tuned for leaving as much flavor in the product as possible—in that way, we have great bandwidth for brandies and...

This week's new release round-up features American whiskeys, led by a port cask finished blend from Woodford Reserve and a California red wine cask finish from Rebel. Elijah Craig has dropped the second barrel proof batch of the year, while Nashville pitmaster Carey Bringle is offering a 15 year old rye. Elsewhere, Cedar Ridge has a new single malt finished in a multiplicity of casks, while other new offerings are from Frank August, Spirit Hound, Milam & Greene, and World Whiskey Society. And in a separate story, we cover two distillers who've announced releases honoring the U.S. military.
 
Woodford Reserve Distillery Series: Tawny Port Finish Blend
ABV: 45.2%
SRP: $65/375 ml
Availability: Limited
Master distiller Elizabeth McCall’s newest Woodford Distillery Series release first combined rye and bourbon together. From there, McCall added a tawny port-finished bourbon to the blend; once that was married, she balanced the...

Back in 2000, Buffalo Trace introduced the first iteration of its Antique Collection. That inaugural release of three whiskeys—Eagle Rare 17 year old bourbon, Weller 19 year old wheated bourbon, and Sazerac 18 year old rye—were among the distillery’s rarest and oldest whiskeys, creating the blueprint for the annual series. In the years that followed, the Antique Collection expanded to include more expressions, and for the most part higher proof points; the 2025 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) further ups the ante, celebrating 25 years of releases with the first new addition to the collection in almost two decades.
The 2025 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Newcomer
Joining the “usual suspects” of the modern Antique Collection—Eagle Rare 17 year old bourbon, George T. Stagg bourbon, Thomas H. Handy rye, Sazerac 18 year old rye, and William Larue Weller bourbon—is Colonel E.H. Taylor bottled in bond bourbon. The first new addition...

Any American of retirement age who has worked in beverage alcohol for most or all of his or her career has never experienced American whiskey, the pride and joy of the American distilled spirits industry, healthy and growing like it is today. For most of our working lives, American whiskey was quiescent. It sold. A few companies did well with it. Most didn't. Nothing seemed to move the needle. The customers kept getting older and many feared that when the last bourbon drinker went to that great brass rail in the sky, that would be it. It wasn't always so dismal. Bourbons, ryes, and blends sold as fast as distilleries could make them coming out of the privations of World War II in the mid-1940s. They were still going strong when we were in high school. Almost two million barrels were filled in 1967 and there were more than eight-and-a-half million in aging inventory. By the time we finished college and went to work, the bottom had fallen out. The industry was on its way to losing half...

The District of Columbia might be best known for hard-nosed politics and massive protests, but the hard-working men and women of the nation's capital can at least agree on one thing: the need to unwind with a whiskey. Already home to one of the world's best whiskey bars, Jack Rose Dining Saloon, D.C. now offers a thriving craft distilling culture, with several making the good stuff right in the heart of the city.There are half a dozen whiskey-producing distilleries in the nation's capital, and that's just in D.C. proper—no need to hit the beltway or figure out the difference between the inner loop and outer loop. Even better, four of those six distilleries are within half a mile of each other in the bustling Ivy City neighborhood, making it a cinch to visit them all in a single day.Hit the craft whiskey trail in Washington, D.C. at these six distilleries.
The Magnus Room at Jos. A Magnus & Co. is used for tastings, cocktail classes, and private events.The Ivy City Quartet...

A fresh crop of whiskies are rolling down the pike this week. Barrell Whiskey's second rye is hitting shelves. This batch combined rye from Indiana with malted rye from Poland. Like all Barrell products, it's bottled at cask strength. The company is also releasing its 2018 New Year bourbon. This year's iteration combines bourbons made at seven distilleries in five states, ranging in age from 5 to 14 years old.The English Whisky Company rebranded its core line in the last year or so, and the new names and packaging are finally arriving in the U.S. Now known as The English, the two core expressions are Original and Smokey. In addition, there's a single rum cask-matured single malt, exclusive to the U.S.Meanwhile, a variety of craft distilleries are launching new whiskeys. Old Elk bourbon comes from Colorado, but is the result of the producer's collaboration with three distilleries: Woody Creek (CO), Finger Lakes (NY), and MGP (IN). Old Elk has named former MGP master distiller Greg...

The biggest new release of the week is Johnnie Walker's female-focused The Jane Walker Edition, a special package for Black Label. I had some thoughts about how Diageo missed the mark with this one—and a suggestion for what they could have done to promote women's representation in whisky instead.Apart from this limited-edition bottling, there are many other new whiskies to try. Woodford Reserve is releasing a new annual special edition: Woodford Reserve Batch Proof. The whiskey is a higher-strength version of its core bourbon. It will be available in limited quantities for $130, and the proof will change from year to year. The 2018 release clocks in at 62.9% ABV.Tullamore D.E.W. has unveiled the latest addition to its range of Irish whiskeys, finished in a cask that was seasoned with demerara rum from Guyana. The blended whiskey will sell for under $30 and be widely available just in time for St. Patrick's Day.Luxco—whose Lux Row Distillers recently opened in Bardstown...

There's plenty of new whisky coming out this week—and some new whiskey experiences to look forward to as well. Uncle Nearest has opened its Shelbyville, Tennessee visitors center with a host of attractions and more to come, including a stillhouse in 2020. Meanwhile, Bardstown Bourbon Co. is now offering several tour experiences in addition to its on-site restaurant and bar.Although it officially debuted in June, Kentucky Peerless straight bourbon ($70) is now expanding its availability to California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, and Texas; by next year, it will be available in 45 states.Buffalo Trace announced details of the 2019 Antique Collection earlier this week. There aren't any big shake-ups or surprises, although George T. Stagg is coming in at its lowest proof ever.Macallan unveiled Edition No. 5, a fully American oak-matured single malt packaged in a striking custom purple box. The whisky is available in limited amounts for $120.Two new whiskies from Islay's...

Remember a month ago when WhistlePig teamed up with Flaviar to crowdsource a new blend? That whiskey, WhistlePig HomeStock—this year's edition of FarmStock—is now available for pre-order, priced at $73. There are 25,000 bottles available.New York-based Widow Jane is launching a 13 year old straight bourbon, bottled as a single barrel. Widow Jane Lucky Thirteen is priced at $90, with 15,000-20,000 bottles available.Washington, D.C.'s Republic Restoratives is rolling out the third batch of Borough bourbon, this time aged 5 years and finished in armagnac casks. There are 14,000 bottles available, priced at $49.Chicken Cock has a new Kentucky rye finished in beer casks from Goodwood Brewing Co. At $90, there are just under 1,500 bottles of Chicken Cock Ryeteous Blonde available.Colorado's Golden Moon Distillery is debuting a brace of single malts: Principium, which is double-distilled, and Triple, distilled three times in homage to Irish tradition. Both are priced at $59, with about...

September and October bring all the special releases, and none are more hotly anticipated than the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, which hits shelves this month. We've got all the details on this year's releases, though we cannot tell you how to actually find them at retail price (sorry).The annual allocation of Basil Hayden's 10 year old bourbon (89 points) is returning to shelves for the third year in a row. The whiskey's recommended price has gone up to $70, and it's available in limited amounts.The 2020 release of Parker's Heritage Collection is coming out. This year it's a 10 year old straight bourbon aged in heavily charred barrels. The recommended retail price is $120 and, as always, availability is limited.Balvenie is launching a third and final expression of Marriage: Fifty. The 50 year old single malt is priced at $40,500, with just 148 bottles available worldwide.Japanese whisky company Nikka is launching two single malts: One is distilled at Yoichi, while the other is...

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...

The presents are wrapped and you're probably setting out cookies and whisky for Santa, but if you want to pause for new whisky—keep reading.Macallan has released a limited-edition single malt in collaboration with the Roca brothers. Macallan: Distil Your World: The London Edition is priced at $4,500, with 2,000 bottles available.A new Japanese whisky brand called Shibui has debuted in the U.S. with a range of single grain rice whiskies and "pure malts"—Japanese malt whisky blended with imported single malt scotch. The lineup is available in several states and ranges from $50 to over $1,000.The first whisky from China has hit U.S. shores. Bottled by Aiko Importers, Goalong 5 year old single malt is priced at $150, with less than 3,000 bottles available.Phenomenal Spirits is launching RY3, a blended rye whiskey. It's for sale for $55 in the Mid-Atlantic, with expansion planned.Bardstown Bourbon Co. is rolling out the second batch of Phifer Pavitt Reserve ($125; 8,484 bottles), as...

In this new round of releases, Beam Suntory is at it again with yet another collaboration whisky, this one a blended scotch called Ardray, curated by the Scotland and Japan production teams. It's the third cross-global collaboration by Beam Suntory since the company was formed in 2014. The first came in 2019 with Legent, a Kentucky bourbon distilled at Beam and finished by the Japan blending team in a variety of wine and sherry casks. Next came Ao, first launched in Japan and Travel Retail in 2019 and introduced in the U.S. earlier this year, made with whiskies from Beam Suntory distilleries in five countries. Now comes Ardray, as the company seems determined to create some sort of collaborative, international niche within its vast whisky portfolio.
There were lots of other whiskies unveiled this week, including a new Weller family member, the latest red wine cask finished expression from Aberfeldy, the third release of Colere from...

Father’s Day is this Sunday, and we have plenty of cool whiskies that will make perfect gifts. In addition to those, you could consult our Summer 2023 Best Values and Editors’ Choice lists to make sure you've got all the options covered. This week, the whisky world is awash with new expressions. New scotches include Laphroaig Càirdeas and six age-statement blends from Ian Macleod’s Isle of Skye range. In addition, Woodford Reserve has a new bottled in bond wheat whiskey, and Heaven Hill offers a wheated whiskey from its microdistillery at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville. Meanwhile, Texas and Ireland meet, as Clonakilty has collaborated with Garrison Brothers on a new single malt that's finished in Garrison Brothers casks. Read on for more.
Laphroaig Càirdeas White Port & Madeira Casks
Style: Single malt
Origin: Scotland (Islay)
Age: Not stated

This week welcomes a handful of unique cask finishes that aim to sweeten the deal. In Kentucky, Woodford is releasing the latest edition of Double Double Oaked, a fan-favorite bourbon that’s finished for an additional year in heavily toasted, lightly charred new oak. From Tennessee, the Nelson’s Green Brier Cask Series gets a maple syrup cask-finished bourbon, adding a touch of natural sugary sweetness to its flagship whiskey. And across the pond, there’s a brand new range of peated Speyside single malts from Glenallachie Distillery, each of which is finished in a different combination of casks but with the intent of drawing out a sweet, smoky house style. Elsewhere, there are new ryes from Green River in Kentucky and Texas’ Devil River, as well as blended American whiskey from Buzzard’s Roost. There's also Lodestar, founded by cousins and entertainment industry veterans Anna Axster and Wendelin von Schroderthe. Read on for more details.
Green...

Ardbeg made a splash this week with news of the return of its much-coveted 17 year old, which will be available only to members of the Ardbeg Committee fan club later this month. Noteworthy among nationally available releases is Clonakilty's Irish single pot still expression, the western Ireland producer that started laying down whiskey in 2019 with single pot still as its primary focus. Bardstown Bourbon Co. has new releases for both its Collaborative Series and its Discovery Series, while Kentucky blender Dixon Dedman’s 2XO has a new edition in its Icon Series. Filmland Spirits, the company that combines a passion for both whiskey and cinema, is out with its latest movie-inspired blockbuster, this one a blend of four bourbons. And there's more, as the autumn whisky release season begins kicking into high gear. 
Ardbeg 17 year old The Legend Returns 
ABV: 40%
Price: $190
Availability: ardbeg.com, at the Distillery Visitor...

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...

This week in new whisky, it's all about returns. Laphroaig has introduced the latest release of fan-favorite Càirdeas; this year's edition is a cask-strength iteration of the distillery's core single malt Lore. In Kentucky, Knob Creek has brought back Bourbon x Rye, a limited edition blend of straight whiskeys that landed on our Top 20 list last year, while Old Forester is rolling out its 1910 Extra Extra Old bourbon for the first time since 2022. Elsewhere in the U.S., Wyoming Whiskey has its newest National Parks release, this one an ode to Acadia in Maine, Bib & Tucker has a bourbon that combines the worlds of whiskey and coffee, and Wolves returns with its latest Willett collaboration.
 
Laphroaig Càirdeas Lore Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch
ABV:  59.6%
Price: $110
Availability: Limited
Laphroaig has unveiled its annual Càirdeas release, a fan favorite that launched in 2008 for its Friends of Laphroaig club members...

For the past decade, followers of the Kentucky-based Wild Turkey Distillery have been treated to the Master’s Keep collection, a series of high-end annual releases that often tread beyond the distillery’s usual profile. Master’s Keep was created in 2015 by Eddie Russell—son of legendary master distiller Jimmy Russell—who also created Russell’s Reserve in 2001, and has helmed the Master’s Keep project from the beginning. The series kicked off with an impressive 17 year old bourbon—even today, Eddie hails it as the “most unique whiskey we’ve ever released”—which was bottled at the fairly low cask strength of 86.8 proof. That whiskey hit shelves the same year that Eddie was promoted to master distiller, and many saw it as a passing of the torch, with Eddie coming into his own as a whiskey maker.
The first batch was intended as a one-off, but Wild Turkey then decided to turn Master’s Keep into an annual...

Whiskey is any distilled spirit that is made from grain and aged in wood. There are many different whiskey styles, usually identified with their country of origin.In the United States the national spirit is bourbon, a type of whiskey that contains at least 51% corn and is aged in oak barrels that are both new and charred on the inside. ‘Charred' means ‘burnt.' ‘New' means the barrels cannot have been previously used—and they cannot be used again to make bourbon—but they aren't discarded. Most used bourbon barrels are sold to distilleries in Scotland, Ireland, and Canada. Most American-made brandy is aged in used bourbon barrels. So are some rums and tequilas.The specifications for rye whiskey are the same as for bourbon except rye, not corn, must be the predominant grain in the mash. The other difference is that while most bourbons are 70 to 80 percent corn, many ryes are ‘barely legal' at 51 percent rye. That means they contain a lot of corn too, which is good because it...

Old Forester can add a new date to its multi-century history: on June 14, 2018—which is also National Bourbon Day—the brand made its return to downtown Louisville with a new 70,000-square-foot, $45 million distillery. The new premises includes a full production facility, including a 24-inch column still, an active cooperage, and an immersive visitor experience. While the distillery started production in May, June 14 marked its official opening to the public, with tours offered starting June 15.Easily accessible in the heart of Louisville's Whiskey Row, Old Forester's new site takes bourbon tourism beyond a simple tour and tasting. Visitors will get to see the barrel elevator, fermentation room, yeast propagation lab, cooperage and accompanying char room—where one lucky tour guest will get to participate in the barrel-charring process—a 3- story barrelhouse, bottling line, and more. “It's a very holistic, one-stop shop, seeing the entire process,” says Old Forester master...

Follow Terry Bradshaw, four-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, on Facebook and you're likely to catch one of his many live videos. They are personal diary entries from his ranch and the road, but on one late July day he greeted his followers from inside the O.Z. Tyler rickhouse in Owensboro, Kentucky.
“I'm a nostalgia guy,” Bradshaw tells Whisky Advocate. “You put me in something that's old and ancient and has history behind it, I have a love affair with it.” Bradshaw's trip to O.Z. Tyler (recently renamed Green River Distilling Co.) was as much about business as pleasure: The distillery is the home of his own brand, Bradshaw Bourbon. Launched in February, the straight whiskey has a mashbill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, and is proofed to 51.9% ABV, a nod to the quarterback's career completion percentage.
“I've always been a bourbon drinker,” Bradshaw says, noting that he didn't discover his love...

The past week saw three interesting new releases from smaller players around the country, including a couple of bourbons and a cask-finished American single malt. Manhattan's Great Jones Distillery has a release finished in casks from Long Island winery Wölffer Estate, though Great Jones currently uses sourced juice as its distillery has been open only since 2021. From Maryland's Old Line Spirits comes a sherry cask-finished American single malt, in keeping with Old Line's dedication to the style. And Casey Jones Distillery, named for the famed Kentucky moonshiner who made what was said be be Al Capone's favorite whiskey, has a new straight bourbon. 
Great Jones x Wölffer Estate Cask Finish
Great Jones Distilling Co., the first whiskey distillery to open in Manhattan since Prohibition, is a relative newcomer to cask finishing. The distillery first forayed into the style with a pineau de charentes finished bourbon released in honor of the...

In the world of cooking, bonds are as essential as the ingredients themselves. The strongest culinary experiences are rooted in connections—between chefs, guests, and the ingredients they share. For two private chefs with a friendship spanning decades, this concept is at the heart of every meal they create. Their dedication to fostering these bonds brings warmth and meaning to each guest experience they craft.

“We really love to cook for other people,” says Ryan Van Voorhis, one half of this dynamic cooking duo.

The pair’s warmth and connection with guests are as integral to their service as the meals they prepare. This dedication to quality is reflected in their selection of ingredients, from fresh, local produce to carefully chosen spirits like Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. “Everything starts with quality,” says Van Voorhis. “Whether it’s the produce we hand-pick or the bourbon we select to...

Love or hate him, Kyle “Rowdy” Busch is one of the most talented drivers currently competing in NASCAR. Known for his uber-competitive nature, penchant for trash talking, and aggressive driving style, Busch has set many impressive records in his 20-plus year career on the track—including all-time wins across all three national series, the most wins in the Trucks Series, and the most consecutive seasons with a win. But now his palate is in the spotlight, with his new single barrel bourbon made in partnership with MGP’s Rebel Bourbon rolling out nationwide.
The bourbon, dubbed Rebel Kyle Busch 108 Single Barrel, was pulled from over 100 barrels, each selected by Kyle Busch at the Lux Row Distillery in Bardstown with guidance from master distiller John Rempe. It has a mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley—it’s the same recipe as Rebel’s other wheaters, which the brand claims have been around since...

On a mild Kentucky evening in Bardstown, 100 guests gathered in an unlikely venue: Fred Noe’s backyard. The setting was intimate, fitting for an industry built on generations of family legacies and neighborly competition. Gathered for the Bourbon Icons Dinner, part of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, the night brought together the biggest names in American whiskey for an evening of candid storytelling.
Over five courses, bourbon royalty sat side by side on a small stage: Julian and Preston Van Winkle from Old Rip Van Winkle, Fred and Freddie Noe of Jim Beam, Rob Samuels of Maker's Mark, Four Roses master distiller Brent Elliott, Andrea Wilson, master distiller at Michter's, and Marci Palatella, owner of Preservation Distillery.
Andy Treinen, president and CEO of the Frazier History Museum, the emcee for the evening, drew out sentimental—often hilarious—stories behind the brands that shaped America’s spirit. Here are the night’s best...

The surest sign that summer has ended? A slew of new whisky releases have been announced—plus some major news. In case you missed it, Angel's Envy has filed plans to build a second distillery, located in Henry County, Kentucky, and Wyoming Whiskey has formed a strategic partnership with Edrington Group, the parent company of Macallan, Highland Park, and Glenrothes.But that's not all: there are lots of new whiskeys to anticipate. Jim Beam has announced a limited-edition bourbon celebrating the 85th anniversary of Repeal. Jim Beam Repeal Batch is non-chill filtered and will cost $18, available nationwide starting this fall.Meanwhile, WhistlePig has unveiled the fifth edition of its single-barrel, barrel-proof Boss Hog range. Boss Hog V: The Spirit of Mauve is a 13 year old straight rye finished in calvados casks and named for one of the distillery's "founding pigs," Mauve, who passed away earlier this year. The $500 whiskey will be available in limited amounts.GlenDronach is bringing...

Bourbon has a litany of rules that define it. It must be made from at least 51% corn. It must be aged in new, charred oak. It must be higher than 40% ABV and lower than 80%. There are several other standards as defined by U.S. regulations.One rule that does not apply to bourbon is that it must be made in Kentucky. This is often misunderstood—even vehemently argued—by drinkers who haven't yet learned the rules, but the fact is that bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, and only in the United States. While Kentucky has been bourbon's spiritual home for centuries—and remains the leader in bourbon production by a country mile—there are now stellar bourbons coming from every state in the Union. These are some of the best bourbons that are made outside Kentucky.Beyond The Bluegrass State: Top Bourbons Made Outside KentuckyGeorge Dickel 13 year old Bottled in Bond Tennessee Whiskey (Distilled in Fall 2005)—94 points, $36To cut off your first question: yes, Tennessee...

With the transition to summer and the slow reopening of businesses, new whisky releases seem to be picking up.First, a couple of e-commerce specials. Metallica-led brand Blackened is rolling out a special box set for its 100th batch. For the first time ever, a non-band member—master blender and distiller Rob Dietrich—created the playlist of songs that was used for the whiskey's "sonic enhancement" process. Blackened Batch 100 is packaged with two 12-inch vinyl picture discs of that playlist, as well as a copy of the Blackened Zine; the set costs $149 and is available only through Spirited Gifts and Cask Cartel.For Father's Day, Teeling Irish whiskey is offering a special bottling of its single malt, engraved with "Raise Your Spirits," and donating $5 from every sale to #RaiseYourSpirits, a charitable initiative led by part-owner Bacardi to support hospitality workers. The engraved bottles are for sale for $60 through Reserve Bar.Now for whiskies that are available at traditional...

After last Friday's Whisky Weekend published, we got news from Diageo about the 2020 Special Release Collection, which this year includes eight single malt scotches. Check out the full details—including pricing and availability—and look for reviews in an upcoming Whisky Advocate Buying Guide.This week's new whiskies come from Ireland, Scotland, Kentucky, and beyond. First up, Ireland's Midleton Distillery is launching the Method and Madness range of experimental whiskeys in the U.S. The lineup includes a single grain ($60), single malt ($75), and single pot still ($90). All are available in limited amounts.Kentucky Owl is releasing a limited-edition bourbon to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Prohibition. Just 2,000 bottles of Kentucky Owl Dry State are available—including a handful to be sold at auction—with a recommended retail price of $1,000.The Fall 2020 release of Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond is rolling out, this time at 14 years old. Available in limited amounts...

WhiskyFest season has been in full swing, starting with Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest in Hollywood, Florida October 30, rolling into Chicago on November 5th, and drawing a big crowd in New York last night. The final WhiskyFest for 2021 will be held in San Francisco on December 3rd. Tickets are still available for a night that will feature pours from Ardbeg, Dewar’s, Four Roses, Glendalough, Redbreast, Westward, and many more.As for this week’s new whiskies, Teeling adds a 30 year old to its Vintage collection, Bowmore connects with Aston Martin for a new expression, Nikka unveils new versions of its Yoichi and Miyagikyo single malts, and Jim Beam announces a special edition Baker’s just in time for the holidays. Read on for full details.

Teeling 30 year oldStyle: Single maltOrigin: IrelandAge: 30 year oldABV: 46%Price: $2,200Release: November 2021 at the distillery, January 2022 in the U.S.Availability: Limited edition; 4,000 bottles globally
Need to...

Amid the usual fanfare of new product announcements, this week brought word of the retirement of John MacDonald, longtime manager at Balblair Distillery in the Northern Highlands. One of the great citizens of the scotch whisky world, Macdonald has overseen all aspects of whisky making at Balblair, including its recent transition from vintage-dated releases to age statement whiskies. Situated on a hillside overlooking the Dornoch Firth, Balblair is arguably Scotland’s most picturesque distillery and certainly one of its more underrated ones. It’s just up the road from its famous neighbor Glenmorangie, and while it has never achieved the fame of Glenmorangie or its other Northern Highlands neighbor, Dalmore, its whiskies are certainly on equal footing.
As for the new whisky introductions, it’s been a busy week. Things got started with the rollout of the latest Lagavulin Offerman Edition, followed by the inaugural release from Islay distillery Ardnahoe, whose...

Update 4/21/25: Gregg Snyder, former Chicken Cock master distiller, has left that post to join veteran-owned, Bardstown-based Four Branches Bourbon in an advisory role.
When the modern whiskey era and the dawn of craft distilling arrived in the early 2000s, most fledgling craft players “sourced” whiskeys— buying aged distillate from other, larger suppliers— while waiting for their juice to mature. Utah-based High West famously sourced aged rye whiskeys from MGP, using those as the cornerstone of some great whiskeys while its distillery was being built. Others, like Woodinville Whiskey in Washington, chose never to source whiskey, waiting years for its own distillate to mature. Still others, like Smooth Ambler of West Virginia, chose a middle path, blending sourced whiskey with its own make.
Then another business model came upon the American whiskey scene—the producer that’s solely a blender and bottler, with no plans to build a distillery...

Single barrel whiskeys from Four Roses and 2XO are just two of the week’s highlights among the new releases on the North American side, which also feature Barrell's oldest age statement whiskey to date—a Canadian expression—as well as new creations from Remus, Pinhook, and Milam & Greene. On the scotch side, Compass Box has a new peated offering that aims to showcase the sweeter side of peat, particularly in comparison to its sibling label Peat Monster, a long-beloved mainstay of the Compass Box portfolio. Elsewhere in scotch, Dalmore weighs in with two new vintage expressions—one distilled in 2006 and the other 2009.
Four Roses Single Barrel Collection
Price: $50
ABV: 50%
Availability: Four Roses Distillery, Cox’s Creek facility
Every year since 2004, Four Roses has released a single barrel bourbon. While the single barrels have varied—some have had age statements, and the proof jumps...

Take a look around the whisky world and you’ll find cask-finished expressions for just about every style. Much of this secondary maturation involves wine barrels. Scotch distillers, led by legendary malt master David Stewart at Balvenie, brought wine cask finishing to the modern era back in the 1980s. In the beginning, nearly all the casks used were from fortified wines, but by the early 2000s wine barrels of all sorts came into play in Scotland. But in American whiskey there wouldn’t be a whiff of wine cask finishing until 2011, when Angel’s Envy port-finished bourbon made its debut.
A proliferation of sherry and port-finished bourbons has since followed, but other types of wine finishing were mainly absent. Bardstown Bourbon Co. master blender Dan Callaway attributes this to problems with the seasoning of red wine casks. “It doesn’t matter if you have a cult Napa cabernet and the greatest bourbon—if you empty the wine barrel out and just leave...

New releases this week include a new entry in the Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series—a run  that was slated to end in 2023 but has continued, much to the pleasure of Maker's fans. Garrison Brothers is out with its annual release of Lady Bird, while Barrell has a new cigar blend, and Lux Row is offering an estate bourbon made from corn grown on the Lux Row campus by master distiller John Rempe. In scotch whisky, Oban has another 15 year old release, this one a port cask-finished expression, while Bruichladdich  Distillery celebrates the 25th anniversary of its 2001 reopening with Bruichladdich Old Skool, a new 10 year old bottling. Those are just some examples of what's been a plentiful week on the new release front.
Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release Bourbon
ABV: 54.8% or 56.65%
SRP: $75
Availability: Limited
The third chapter of the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series was finished with 10 virgin oak...

Bardstown Bourbon Company announced a partnership with Western Spirits Beverage Company to produce whiskey for the company's brands, which include Bird Dog whiskey, Lexington bourbon and Calumet bourbon. The distilling starts this month. Bardstown Bourbon will make whiskey for all three brands which will then be aged at its on-site warehouses. The joint venture is part of Bardstown's Collaborative Distilling Program—a contract-distilling initiative that currently is completely sold out with around 12partners. Western Spirits—which doesn't disclose where its whiskey is currently made—is the first partner to be publicly announced.Bardstown Bourbon's current facility, which just started distillingin September 2016, has the capacity to produce 1.5 million proof gallons of whiskey annually, but that won't be enough for the growing company. It also announced an expansion to double its capacity byJuly of this year, and will eventually be able to churn out 6 million proof gallons...

Whisky lovers will descend on New York's Marriott Marquis on November 16 for the 20th anniversary of WhiskyFest. With nearly 500 whiskies (and even a few other spirits and wine) available, there will be something for everyone, whether you're a scotch lover, a craft whiskey fan, a whiskey veteran looking to try the next big thing, or a bourbon aficionado. If bourbon is your drink of choice, you'll have a vast array to choose from—so where do you start?Many folks will head straight for the Pappy Van Winkle table—especially since the 2017 releases are just coming out. If you're thirsting for a chance to taste this legendary bourbon, step behind the velvet rope and enjoy. And close by will be the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, another must-try for new drinkers and old fans alike.And there's so much more! It's impossible to call out every great whiskey that's being poured—it's definitely not possible to drink them all—but we've selected a few highlights you should aim to try.If...

The biggest news of the week comes from the UK, where Diageo reportedly is exploring ways to innovate Scotch whisky that could fall outside the regulated boundaries of the style. Whisky Advocate took an in-depth look at why "scotch infusions" and whisky finished in tequila barrels might not meet the standards set down in the Scotch Whisky Regulations of 2009.Meanwhile, new whisky releases are headed to shelves from Scotland, the U.S., and Japan. Independent bottler Chapter 7 has two 9 year old single cask single malts from the Allt-á-Bhainne and Aultmore distilleries. (If you're wondering what independent bottlers are and why you should be buying whisky from them, here's a good answer for that.)American Freedom Distillery is launching Horse Soldier, a wheated bourbon made in Columbus, Ohio, and named for the mounted Special Forces unit that entered Afghanistan in the days immediately following September 11th. The bourbon is available in three expressions: the core Wheated Bourbon...

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...

Spring is here and with it comes our latest issue, which is now on the newsstands. The issue offers an in-depth insight into the world of single barrel whiskeys, a guide to making the most of the upcoming Derby Weekend in Louisville, over 100 whisky reviews, and more—pick up your copy today and dig in.
Elsewhere, Stranahan's has debuted a new après ski experience in Vail Valley that’s perfect for whisky-loving skiers, snowboarders, and mountain-goers. A collaboration between the distillery and The Westin Riverfront, the Stranahan’s Après Ski Lounge features four life-size, heated whiskey barrels made for dramming and dining. It runs until April 2, and you can make reservations here. 
New whisky this week comes from all over the U.S. and Scotland. Maker’s Mark has introduced the fifth and final installment of its Wood Finishing Series, Kentucky Peerless is making its high-rye bourbon a permanent fixture...

Commonwealth Distillery was never a famous name, but for many bourbon lovers, it’s a very special place—known as the launching point for some of American whiskey’s most iconic labels, most notably the Old Rip Van Winkle (ORVW) line and its star, Pappy Van Winkle. The story of Commonwealth began in 1983 when Pappy Van Winkle’s grandson, Julian Van Winkle III, acquired the shuttered old Hoffman Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, converted it into a warehouse and bottling facility, and renamed Commonwealth.
Commonwealth became the Van Winkle outpost after the family had been forced to sell its Stitzel Weller Distillery to a Diageo forerunner company back in 1972. Julian Van Winkle was able to obtain plenty of aging stocks from Stitzel Weller (there wasn’t much demand in those days) and transport them to Commonwealth for aging and bottling, which led to the creation of Pappy. He also bottled a number of other treasured whiskeys at Commonwealth...

Bourbon N’ Bubbles is a bar and full-service restaurant located on King Street, in the heart of Charleston’s famous downtown historic district. Inside is a high-ceilinged contemporary space with the bar in the middle, a unique circular setup that passes through the wall separating the front cocktail area from the main restaurant, with a curved 180-degree bar on either side.  It’s a showpiece, and whether you come to eat, drink, or both, the bar is the center of the action. 
The whisky list has about 200 expressions, primarily American, with a handful of scotch offerings. Pours are available in 1 oz. or 2 oz., and while many bars double the price, here the larger pours are discounted. For example, the High Wire Jimmy Red Corn 7 year old bourbon, produced just down the street in Charleston from its namesake heirloom South Carolina corn, is $18 or $34. Other local oddities include the Johnny Fever straight bourbon from Burnt Church Distillery in nearby...

Memphis, Tennessee-based spirits company Morningside Brands has partnered with country music star Riley Green to launch Duck Club Bourbon, a new line of whiskeys geared toward those who love the outdoors. The brand is launching with two expressions this month, for sale online and in retail stores in seven states, with plans for national expansion in 2026.
Duck Club’s flagship bourbon (46% ABV/$30) is a four-grain blend of two whiskeys. One comprises 88% and is a 5 year old with a mashbill of 67% corn, 23% rye, and 10% malted barley. The second accounts for the remaining 12%, and is a 6 year old wheated bourbon with a mashbill of 51% corn, 45% wheat, and 4% malted barley.
The other label in this release from Duck Club is High Brass (55% ABV/$40), and it’s also a blend of two bourbons: 82% of which is a 5 year old from Kentucky with a mashbill of 67% corn, 23% rye, and 10% malted barley. The remaining 18% is an 8 year old Kentucky bourbon with a mashbill of 75% corn...

Whisky lovers have a slew of new releases to look forward to, this week and into the future.Kentucky Peerless Distillery is launching a new program that allows liquor stores, bar, and restaurants to purchase single-barrel rye by the case. Called Peerless Dimensions, the whiskeys will be released annually, selected by head distiller Caleb Kilburn. Each barrel selection will have a unique flavor, highlighted in its name (think S'more, Mixed Berry Cobbler, and Chocolate Crème Brûlée). If you want to try these whiskeys, you'll have to keep an eye out for which stores or venues purchase bottles, then track them down. The distillery's website has more information.Meanwhile, Virginia Distillery Co. is anticipating the release of its house-made single malt whisky, called Courage & Conviction, in 2020, and is offering people the chance to pre-purchase a special Medallion Edition now. Each batch of Medallion Edition will be a unique offering and come with a medallion, with the first...

In an industrial section of Los Angeles, a fantasy jungle grows inside a warehouse. Populated by animatronic topiary dinosaurs, talking plastic parrots, and an autonomous AI personality named Tessa, this steampunk theme park houses Lost Spirits Distillery. Here, ideas about whisky—and whisky itself—are deliberately challenged, broken apart, and remade.Lost Spirits founder Bryan Davis ushers me aboard a flat-bottomed wooden boat, which he pilots through darkness filled with simulated thunder and wind, toward an “island” of tiny fermenters and pot stills topped with dragon heads. Here, behind a heavy wooden door, in a starkly bare room, futuristic-looking devices emit otherworldly bright light, while hoses snake like tentacles to the ceiling. It all appears too outlandish to be true, but Davis has a slightly mad twinkle in his eyes and chuckles as he tells me, “One thing you'll catch as you go through this: all the jokes are real.” It would be easy to dismiss Davis as a...

With many new whiskies to look forward to this week, there's one that will be out of reach for everyone but a single lucky (and wealthy) bidder.Dalmore master distiller Richard Paterson has collaborated with chef Massimo Bottura to create a one-of-a-kind 49 year old whisky that will be available only via a Sotheby's online auction from April 25-May 9. The lot will also include dinner for two at Bottura’s Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, and the proceeds will benefit his non-profit community organization Food For Soul. The Dalmore L’Anima 49 year old ("l'anima" is Italian for "soul") is a marriage of whiskies matured in ex-bourbon barrels, ex-González Byass casks that held 40 year old Pedro Ximénez sherry, and ex-Graham’s vintage port pipes. The 41.5% ABV whisky is packaged in a crystal decanter and a cabinet designed by Scottish craftsman John Galvin. Display bottles will be available for viewing at Sotheby’s in New York and Hong Kong starting April 29, with the...

The biggest weekend for Irish whiskey is upon us, and if you're looking for new Irish whiskeys to try, cocktail recipes, the perfect food pairing, or simply tons of information about Irish whiskey to impress everyone at the bar—we've got you covered. After all, there's never been a better time to drink Irish whiskey than right now. And there's an even newer Irish whiskey coming out too—see below.High-rolling scotch fans, meanwhile, can look forward to the latest release in Glenlivet's Winchester Collection, a 50 year old single malt distilled in 1967. As expected, the price is hefty: $25,000. Just 150 bottles of the rare whisky are being released worldwide.The Spring 2019 batch of Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond bourbon is rolling out. Distilled in September 2005, this 13 year old whiskey is available in limited amounts for $130.That new Irish whiskey is the second label from Chapel Gate Whiskey Co.'s J.J. Corry brand. A 16 year old single malt, it's named for a historic pistol...

The biggest new whisky news of the week was Diageo's unveiling of its 2019 Special Releases. Well, sort of. The scotch mega-company revealed the names of this year's whiskies, but nothing else—and the pickings look a little slim.We should get more information about those whiskies come fall, but for now, there are plenty of new releases with full details to anticipate. First up, Woodford Reserve is rounding out its core lineup with a wheat whiskey, priced at $35 and hitting shelves across the country now.Tennessee whiskey brand Uncle Nearest has a new release, aged 7 years and priced at $50. Uncle Nearest 1884 is named for the year that Nearest Green likely stopped distilling.The 2019 edition of Parker's Heritage Collection from Heaven Hill Distillery will hit shelves in September, and for the first time ever, it's a rye. Parker's Heritage Collection Heavy Char rye was aged in level-5 charred oak barrels and matured for over 8 years. It's available in limited amounts for...

As COVID-19 continues to affect just about every part of our lives, its impact is being felt by secondary market buyers—now looking at potentially higher prices—and, more crucially, by small and independent distillers, who are struggling to weather the storm of disrupted markets and supply chains. If there's a local distillery you love, show some support by buying a bottle or reaching out with words of encouragement, and urge your representatives to keep the craft spirits industry in mind as they work to provide business relief.And when you need to stock up on more whiskey, consider this week's new releases—some of which will be easier to find than others. In the latter category falls Col. E.H. Taylor 18 year old Marriage, a straight bourbon made from all three of Buffalo Trace Distillery's bourbon mashbills. It's retail-priced at $70, but with a very limited amount available, the bottles are likely to fetch much more.The Hirsch name has adorned rare whiskey too, but the brand's...

Whisky lovers are a varied bunch—just take a glance at the different whisky clubs that have sprung up around the country. But whisky producers, even those with diverse employee makeup, don't necessarily reflect the same diversity at the ownership level.That doesn't mean there aren't any Black-owned whisky makers, though. They're out there, and they want to share their whisky with you! If you're looking for a Black-owned whisky distillery or company to support, check out the folks below.We plan to continuously update this list as we learn of Black-owned whisky producers. Are we missing someone? Send us an email.
California
Shadow Ridge Spirits Co.
Sean Hallman is a former Navy surface warfare officer, and currently a federal civilian employee for the department of Navy. An interest in homebrewing led Hallman to explore the world of distilling, and now he and his wife, Lisa Ireland, run Shadow Ridge Spirits Co., which is registered under Oceanside Distillers in...

When is a whiskey not actually a whiskey? We explored the question in our Spring 2020 issue, and that feature is now online. Take a read if you haven't already—you'll be better equipped to understand why we call brands like Angel's Envy "finished bourbon" and not just "bourbon."On to new releases. Bushmills is debuting a 28 year old single malt that spent a very long time in a cognac cask. The first whiskey in its Rare Casks series, it's priced at $500 with less than 500 bottles available.Highland Park is launching a cask-strength single malt. Produced in batches, the whisky will be widely available, priced at $90.The 2020 release of Angel's Envy Cask Strength hits shelves next month—and this year, it's available in all 50 states. There are 17,400 bottles to go around, priced at $200.Bruichladdich is launching all of its annual Octomore whiskies at once: Octomore 11.1 ($200; 30,000 bottles), 11.2 (£140; 8,000 bottles), 11.3 ($260; 18,000 bottles), and 10 year old ($235; 12,000...

Once you've amassed a collection of whisky, how are you going to show it off? These whisky lovers have dedicated entire rooms to their collections, modeling them after a library, speakeasy, and 20th century hotel. Get started on your own whisky room with these tips.As for new whiskies to add to your stash, there's a wide variety out this week. Michter's has unveiled the 2022 edition of its US1* barrel strength rye, Heaven Hill adds to the Old Fitzgerald lineup with a 17 year old bourbon, Stranahan's and Balcones have new versions of familiar single malts, and Barrell Craft Spirits continues its series of blended straight bourbons with Batch 032. Read on for full details.Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022)Style: Straight ryeOrigin: KentuckyAge: Not statedABV: 55.8%Price: $100Release: March 2022Availability: LimitedNeed to know:As with previous releases of Barrel Strength Rye, this whiskey is bottled as a single barrel product, so while the average proof is 111.6%, it varies...

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...

Japanese whisky lovers have cause for celebration, as Suntory announced last week that it will be investing $77 million into its whisky distilleries over the next two years. The Yamazaki and Hakushu Distilleries will each receive a new malting floor as well as updated visitor experiences as part of the expansion. 
Coinciding with that announcement is news that Suntory plans to bring its Ao world blend to the States for the first time. Other new releases from this week include an Irish rye from Powers, Batch 34 of Barrell Bourbon, and a sauternes cask-finished American single malt that will be a part of Westward's Whiskey Club. Read on for full details. 
Suntory Ao
Style: Blend
Origin: World (Japan, Scotland, Ireland, U.S., and Canada)
Age: Not stated
ABV: 43%Price: $55
Release: February 2023
Availability: Widely available
Need to know: This blend is created using Beam Suntory whiskies distilled in five...

A 1966 Very Old Fitzgerald, distilled under Pappy Van Winkle’s watch. A 1941 bottling of Golden Wedding. A 1947 Old Forester. A 14 year old Dowling Deluxe from the 1960s. These incredible bottles are among the vintage whiskeys that will be sold during the seventh annual Art of Bourbon auction, which begins Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. EST. The best part? You can bid remotely.
Art of Bourbon’s annual gala and live auction benefits the Speed Art Museum in Louisville, and those who attend this lavish fête describe it as one of the premiere bourbon bashes of the year. Proceeds fund outreach and community programs for the museum, including summer camps for local youth and teens, and seasonal family days. This year, 35 auction lots include unicorn bottles, drool-worthy dusties, and several barrel selection experiences. Marc Abrams, a renowned bourbon collector and expert, and the event’s chairman, breaks down some of the more impressive auction...

The 151st annual Kentucky Derby is Saturday, May 3rd, bringing all of its usual fanfare for the “most exciting two minutes in sports” as the race is famously known, and accompanying traditions of fashionable hats, dresses, and suits, special events, and the ever-present Mint Julep. Those who aren’t heading to Churchill Downs with a golden ticket can still capture the Derby spirit at celebratory events across Kentucky’s distilleries.
The Mint Julep, queen of Derby Day cocktails, is the focus for many distillery events where guests can mix, muddle, and tailor variations of the infamous Derby Day Julep at Bulleit and Angel Envy. Craft distillers such as J. Mattingly and Larrikin Bourbon Co. are hosting casual Derby Day celebrations with specialty food and the spotlight on their exclusive bottlings; no ticket required. Whether for a day of fun or a quick visit, Bourbon Country has plenty to offer.

Bulleit Bourbon: The Frontier Julep Cocktail...

There’s no doubt that we’re entering the busiest part of the auction year. September’s provisional 20-highest hammer prices of the month rocketed past the value of last month’s total before the end of the first two weeks. The calendar has been packed with major auctions, as well as charity endeavors, including Bourbon Bonanza, Art of Bourbon, and the Legacy de Forge auction for Bourbon Heritage Month.
Spink, China ran an exclusive Springbank auction featuring over 100 lots, with a bottle of Springbank Millennium 50 year old fetching a hammer price of $10,272. Whiskyauction.com concluded their long-running ninth auction of the year on September 13th, which had been open for bidding for 56 days since July. Their highest bid was $26,020 for a bottle of Karuizawa Noh Whisky 1971 41 year old Cask No. 1842, one of a number of Karuizawa bottles vying to make the 20-highest hammer prices for September. Bowmore had a clean sweep at Scotch Whisky Auction’s...

Get to the chopper! The same bottling company that brought us Star Trek-themed James T. Kirk bourbon and Montgomery Scott scotch is now offering Dutch bourbon, named for the tough soldier played by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 action movie Predator. The bourbon is sourced from South Carolina-based Terressentia Corp., which uses its patented TerrePURE process to filter and smooth out harsh alcohols using ultrasonic waves. (I reported on Terressentia and other companies maturing whisky through alternative means in the Spring 2017 issue.) Available for pre-order now at $35 a bottle, the whiskey will begin shipping in April.One of the only whiskey distilleries in Hawai'i is set to debut its first release next month. Old Pali Road whiskey combines 6 month old whiskey made at the Ko'olau Distillery on O'ahu with 5 year old whiskey sourced from Missouri. The whiskey will be available in Hawai'i for $45.Finally, Douglas Laing & Co. is launching a 12 year old, cask-strength version...

Update 7/26/19: Additional details on Spirits of the Apocalypse were announced at Comic-Con in San Diego on Friday, July 19. The bourbon will be a limited release and will hit retail shelves in the fall for $35. Season 10 of The Walking Dead will premiere on Sunday, October 6, so expect the whiskey to be out close to that date.As far as zombie apocalypse essentials go, a bottle of whiskey may be right up there with your weapon of choice. The cast of AMC's The Walking Dead has staved off walkers for nine seasons now, with a tenth coming later this year, and if fans of the show need a little help dealing with the stress of the undead lurking behind every corner, there appears to be a new Walking Dead-branded bourbon on the way. Producer Diageo has confirmed the pending new release, and we can share some information based on the public label approval from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
Spirits of the Apocalypse, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon from The Walking...

Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley describe their relationship as a marriage. They rib each other the way old drinking buddies do—an affection coated in sarcasm, a mutual understanding forged over drinks during the course of a decade. “Ian always jokes that ours is the longest relationship he's ever been in, and I will agree with that,” Wesley says. “With Ian, it's a true platonic marriage.”The two actors met in 2009 when they were cast to play brothers on the CW Network show “The Vampire Diaries,” a supernatural romance drama, and quickly developed a chemistry that spilled off the set. “These brothers bonded over bourbon on screen, it was the only time they got along. Paul and I bonded over bourbon off screen—it's the only time that we got along,” Somerhalder says with a laugh.While filming their scenes, the actors sipped iced tea instead of actual whiskey, and that led to a thirst for the real thing. After a long day of shooting, they would share a dram, and they...

After months of awaiting government clearance in an investigation that involved multiple state and federal agencies, Kentucky-based specialty whiskey retailer Justins’ House of Bourbon has been cleared for commerce in the nation’s capital. Justins’ is known in Kentucky—where it has stores in both Lexington and Louisville, which remain open—as a destination for rare and allocated bourbons. Outside the Bluegrass State, Justins’ owns a large space in Washington, D.C, where it manages bourbonoutfitter.com, an online retailer of rare whiskeys that can ship spirits nationwide. Justins’ came under fire a few months ago following allegations of selling counterfeit bourbon and improperly transporting and warehousing whiskeys.
Investigators from the Alcohol Beverage Regulation Administration, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), and the Kentucky Alcoholic Beverage Control conducted investigations into Justins’ over the last...

Despite having a sizable arsenal of well-aged inventory, ultra-aged releases from Redemption Whiskey are few and far between. Back in November 2017, Redemption released a pair of ultra-aged expressions in its Ancients series. The first one was an 18 year old rye, distilled in 1998 at Ross & Squibb Distillery (then called Jos. E. Seagram Lawrenceburg Plant). At the time, the 18 year old was touted as Redemption’s oldest whiskey ever released—but it wouldn’t stay that way for long. Just a few weeks later, Redemption rolled out a 36 year old bourbon that was limited to 18 bottles and carried a $1,200 price tag.
Those expressions were well received, and aged Redemption expressions were getting attention from whiskey lovers. In 2023, a bottle of 36 year old Redemption rye appeared in a Sotheby’s American whiskey auction, and wound up selling for $18,000. But by then Redemption had discontinued the Ancients series, and turned its focus on younger and more...

On September 2, 2002, Old Forester celebrated the 156th birthday of founder George Garvin Brown with a bourbon, aptly named Birthday Bourbon. Bottled with a sticker stating its distillation year—1989—the whiskey was, according to the distillery, the first vintage-dated bourbon in American whiskey history. Every summer since, Old Forester has released a new Birthday Bourbon; generally, they’re 12 years old, though from 2019 to 2022, a few slipped to 11 or 10 years old. Now, the 2025 edition of Birthday Bourbon is upon us, and it features a conspicuous deviation from years past.
The 25th Birthday Bourbon is a 12 year old whiskey blended from 210 barrels, all distilled on April 5, 2013, and aged in Old Forester’s Warehouse K on floors 1 and 5. The barrels were selected by master distiller emeritus Chris Morris and assistant master distiller Caleb Trigo. While Birthday Bourbons have, up until now, all been made using the sour mash production technique, this...

It's not unusual for bourbon to appear in barbecue sauces or sweet desserts, but now top chefs are finding new applications for whiskey in kitchens where wine once ruled, bringing whiskey's beautiful flavors to salads, seafood, bacon, and more. Here are some great ways to have your whiskey—and eat it too.At Hewn Bakery in Evanston, Illinois, Ellen King caramelizes onions to fold into her rye bread dough, deglazing the pan with F.E.W. Spirits' bourbon. “You're getting up all the fond from the onions, that dark rich flavor,” she says. “The alcohol gets all cooked off, so it's really just the flavor [of the bourbon] that carries into the bread.”
Gulf oysters with whiskey butter at L'Auberge Lake Charles ResortDrink Like a FishSeafood and whiskey might not sound like a natural pairing, but it works. Chef Daven Wardynski at Florida's Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort serves seared cobia with an egg that has been poached in a 2-to-1 mixture of maple syrup and American...

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...

There's a new whisky for just about every taste this week, from bourbon and Tennessee whiskey to an array of peated and non-peated scotches.Jack Daniel's is rolling out its latest single barrel, a limited-edition whiskey that was aged in so-called "heritage" barrels made in a 19th-century style with more toasting and a lighter char. Priced at $65 a bottle, just 200 barrels are being bottled.Woodford Reserve has announced plans to release not one, but two Master's Collection whiskeys this year: Select American Oak, a bourbon aged in Ozark oak barrels, and Oat Grain, a bourbon made with—you guessed it—oats in the mashbill. Available in limited amounts, each whiskey costs $130.Over in Scotland, Ardbeg is releasing its latest Twenty Something, a 22 year old single malt that hails from the days when the distillery was infrequently in operation. The 46.4% ABV whisky costs $550 and will be available in limited amounts.Highland Park's newest special edition is hitting shelves. Valknut...

The name Elijah Craig adorns some of Heaven Hill Brands' finest bourbons. In fact, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof was named Whisky Advocate's 2017 Whisky of the Year. Like many whiskey namesakes, Elijah Craig is a real historical figure. The label of Elijah Craig Small Batch states that he was the “Father of Bourbon.” But does he really pass the paternity test?The claim derives from The History of Kentucky, published in 1874 and written by Lewis and Richard Collins, which reads: “The first Bourbon Whisky was made in 1789, at Georgetown, in the fulling mill at the Royal spring.” Notice Elijah Craig isn't mentioned here; however, in the two paragraphs just prior to this quote, the Collinses write that Craig was responsible for building the first fulling mill (used in the creation of woolen cloth) at Georgetown, also in 1789, and the first “rope-walk” (necessary for making rope) and paper mill as well. So although Craig isn't mentioned by name specifically, it is implied that he...

It's often taken for granted that more time in the barrel equals a higher-quality whisky, but that's not always the case. Whisky Advocate spoke to master distillers and other bourbon experts to find out: can a bourbon be too old?It's not a question we have to answer with the following bottles, though, as the only super-aged whisky among the week's new releases is a scotch. (And scotch, as the above article explains, has a much different maturation trajectory than bourbon, able to age for far longer.)First up, Jack Daniel's is rolling out No. 27 Gold to the entire U.S. Previously available at travel retail and then in Tennessee only (mainly at the distillery), Jack Daniel's No. 27 Gold undergoes a finishing period in a maple wood barrel and a second filtration using the Lincoln County Process. Assistant master distiller Chris Fletcher provides more detail about the process below. The whiskey is now on shelves nationwide for $100.That super-old scotch is Glenmorangie's latest Bond...

Scotch fans have a lot of great whisky to look forward to this week, with new releases from Balvenie, GlenDronach, and more. But drinkers of American single malt should keep their eyes peeled for new single barrel releases from Balcones. The Texas distillery has started a single barrel program, meaning liquor stores and bars can offer their own unique cask of single malt, choosing among American, French, and Hungarian oak casks. The program is available in 14 states with expansion planned.On to the scotch. Balvenie is launching a new trio of single malts called The Balvenie Stories. The collection includes two permanently available expressions—The Sweet Toast of American Oak 12 year old ($60) and A Week of Peat 14 year old ($99)—as well as the limited-edition A Day of Dark Barley 26 year old ($799). The whiskies are available nationwide.Woodford Reserve has debuted a cognac-finished bourbon for travel retail. Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition was designed to perfectly match its...

Tattersall Distilling is one of the more adventurous craft distilleries. The Minneapolis-based company produces barrel-aged gin, blackstrap rum, aquavit, amaro, absinthe, and, of course, whiskey. But even among dozens of products, a high-proof single malt with distinctive barbecue notes from the mesquite and apple-smoked malt along with dark-roasted chocolate malt stands apart. Tattersall Signature Series single malt whiskey is the result of an unlikely collaboration with local chef Justin Sutherland, most known for competing on Bravo's Top Chef. Sutherland thought it would be perfect to serve alongside the food at his meat-heavy restaurants like the pig-centric Handsome Hog and steakhouse Fire & Whiskey.
Chef Justin Sutherland collaborated with Tattersall to create a smoky single malt. (Illustration by Michael Witte)In fact, more distillers seem to be reaching outside their internal ranks for ideas, whether that means enlisting the opinions of chefs and bartenders, or...

There'll be new whisky from a very remote place in a few years' time...but since you can't wait that long, keep reading for all the newest releases, coming out now.First up, Maker's Mark has unveiled its 2020 Limited Edition, made with custom staves. This year's release uses two stave types and is priced at $60.But wait, there's more! Maker's also very quietly rolled out a cask-strength version of Maker's 46, on shelves now. This is also priced at $60 and available in limited amounts. Learn more about both of these new releases—and Maker's custom stave program—on Instagram Live today at 3 p.m., when director of innovation Jane Bowie joins us for #TasteWithSpace.The fourth release of Little Book is hitting shelves, this year a blend of two bourbons and a rye. Little Book Chapter 4: Lessons Honored is available in limited amounts and priced at $125.Three very aged single malts from Dalmore are relaunching in the U.S. under the name Aged & Rare: 35 year old ($6,000), 40 year old...

In case you haven't heard: Our Top 20 whiskies of 2020 have been unveiled! Check out the list and join us at 3 p.m. today on Instagram Live, where we'll be discussing and tasting several of the winners.On to new releases! Stranahan's is making some of its rarest whiskeys available to benefit the Colorado communities impacted by recent wildfires. While its annual Snowflake release—which sees long lines of fans congregating for days ahead of time outside the distillery—is on hold until February 2021, the distillery is offering five bottles each of its 2015-2019 releases at auction. Proceeds will benefit the Colorado State Firefighters Foundation, and Stranahan's will match the gift up to $25,000. Follow the distillery's Instagram page for more information.Woodford Reserve has revealed its latest Master's Collection whiskey, Very Fine Rare. The bourbon is available in limited amounts, priced at $130, and debuts in a new bottle.Barrell is launching its annual New Year blended straight...

As sure as crocuses and daffodils bloom in early spring, new whiskies are sprouting up left and right.First up, Compass Box is releasing its latest limited-edition blended malt, Menagerie. There are 7,741 bottles available, priced at $120 in the U.S.The 2021 bottling of Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Batch Proof is hitting shelves with a suggested price of $130. It is, as always, available in limited amounts.Barrell's newest blend of ryes is called Seagrass. It's available in limited amounts, priced at $90.Blood Oath bourbon is rolling out Pact No. 7. Priced at $100, there are 51,000 bottles available.Lowlands scotch distillery Bladnoch has debuted its 29 year old Bicentennial single malt in the U.S. There are just 200 bottles available, priced at $7,500.Virginia Distillery Co. is launching three new versions of its Courage & Conviction single malt, each focused on one of the cask types that's used in the flagship whiskey: bourbon, sherry, and cuvée. The whiskeys are priced...

If you plan on mixing up some drinks this spring and summer, we have a helpful guide on how to build your best whisky cocktail, focusing on classics like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Whiskey Sour, Highball, and Mint Julep.If you're looking for a new dram to sip, there are plenty of those as well. Ardbeg Scorch is this year's limited release for Ardbeg Day. It's priced at $120 and $140 for the Committee Release.Talisker is releasing its oldest whisky to date and telling the story of a voyage at sea in the process. Talisker 43 year old Xpedition Oak: The Atlantic Challenge is limited to just 1,830 bottles and costs $4,000.Tennessee whiskey Sweetens Cove is back with a new release for 2021. Like last year's inaugural release, it will cost $200, with 42,000 bottles entering just a few states.Bardstown Bourbon Co. is bringing back it's collaborative expression The Prisoner Wine Barrel-Finished Tennessee bourbon—after an initial release in December 2019. Priced similarly, at...

In the high desert country of northwest Nevada, about 75 miles from the California line, lies the city of Fallon. It’s an outpost along cross-country U.S. Route 50, on a stretch of highway known as The Loneliest Road in America for its endless reaches of dusty desert terrain. But Fallon is an oasis in this vast desert, with fertile farmland nurtured by snowmelt from the nearby Sierra Nevada range as well as Lake Tahoe on the California border. This bountiful land is most famous for its rich yields of alfalfa, which is prized by cattle ranchers and thoroughbred breeders around the world.
The Frey family has farmed here since 1854—a decade before Nevada even became a state. Frey Ranch spans about 1,500 acres and cultivates alfalfa as well as wheat, rye, barley, oats, and corn. Today the ranch is stewarded by Colby Frey, who represents the fifth generation of family ownership. Like his forebears, he devotes himself to the land. “I was just irrigating our rye...

New Orleans is a city with many sobriquets. It’s the Birthplace of Jazz, as it fostered the genre and great jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong. It’s also known as the Big Easy, by virtue of its laid-back lifestyle. And for geographical reasons it’s called Crescent City; as the city expanded beyond its French Quarter center it followed the curve of the Mississippi River, forming a crescent shape.
While there’s no nickname connecting New Orleans directly to whisky, the ties to revelry are legendary, and date back as far as its founding. Even in the 1700s, New Orleans was well-known for its culture of drinking and dancing, and by the early 1800s, distillers to the north were shipping barrels of whiskey down the Mississippi straight to the city, further fueling the exuberance. In fact, American whiskey aging practices might be traced back to these shipments—legend goes that distillers sent their white whiskey downstream in used barrels that were charred...

The Mint Julep is synonymous with the Kentucky Derby. On the first Saturday in May, Kentuckians everywhere feel it’s only proper to have a Mint Julep in hand while belting out “My Old Kentucky Home” before horses and jockeys parade onto the track. At Churchill Downs, more than 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the course of the day. There’s even a $1,000 version served in a collectible silver julep cup, sponsored annually by Woodford Reserve to benefit charity.
While the Mint Julep has been served at every Kentucky Derby since the first one in 1875—the first official souvenir glass was offered at the 1939 Derby after fans absconded with many unofficial glasses the prior year—the drink’s origins are much older. “The Julep is basically a specific type of cordial,” says Tim Knittel, the official bourbon ambassador of Churchill Downs.
Working out of Matt Winn’s Steakhouse, which is located within Churchill Downs...

This week delivered news of two major distillery builds in the U.S. In Georgetown, Kentucky, Blue Run Spirits will soon break ground on a strikingly modern new headquarters that will include a 35,000-square-foot distillery and a 20,000-square-foot rickhouse, all expected to be up and running by 2025. Over in Ohio, craft distiller Middle West has unveiled plans for a 75,000-square-foot distillery, slated to be the centerpiece of its newly developed 14-acre home that will open this summer in Columbus. While Middle West makes vodka and gin along with its whiskey labels, its new distillery will be exclusively whiskey-focused. 
This week brings a varied array of new whiskies. From Scotland, Glenfiddich has introduced a single malt in celebration of Japan's cherry blossom festival—a 29 year old whisky finished in casks previously used for the Japanese spirit awamori—while Loch Lomond is releasing two new whiskies to...

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...

Bars with outdoor seating are in high demand when the weather starts to warm; bars that are on the water even more so. And while most waterfront watering holes will reliably have the classic summertime cocktails—think Margarita and Gin and Tonic—on offer, the 10 listed here are actually whisky destinations. After all, true enthusiasts know that whisky has no season. So sit back, relax, and raise a toast to summer as you enjoy your whisky by the water.
Bourbon Prime
Morgantown, West Virginia
With a dining room featuring indoor and outdoor seating that overlooks the Monongahela, the mother river of rye whiskey, this bourbon-focused restaurant offers a casual take on upscale chophouse fare, complemented by a whisky list of more than 80 labels. It claims to be the first establishment in West Virginia to develop its own private selection bourbon from Woodford Reserve, which it calls the Country Roads Blend. The current batch is No. 29 and can be enjoyed by the 1...

Oregon has played a key role in making whiskey since the dawn of America’s craft distilling movement—one of its major contributions being the birthplace of American malt with McCarthy’s Oregon single malt, which debuted in 1996. The city of Portland is best known for its craft breweries, lively food scene, and whimsical reputation for weirdness. But it’s also a whiskey city, with a distilling culture that dovetails nicely with Oregon’s wine and beer background. This culture stretches far beyond Portland, spilling across the rest of the state, too. Here’s a sampling of prominent distilleries that have helped put Oregon on the whiskey map.
PORTLAND DISTILLERIES
Westward Whiskey
FOUNDED 2004
westwardwhiskey.com
Westward Whiskey wasn’t the first to brew an ale and then distill it, but the Portland distiller has certainly perfected the craft. “We have a rich brewing history in the Northwest, and a lot of us at Westward...

Higher proof whiskeys have been expanding their presence these days—indeed, among the latest releases, it almost seems like a rare thing to find a whisky with an ABV in the 40% bracket. These new expressions are nearly all in the high 50% or low 60% range, with only two bottlings in the mid-40s. It seems to be what whisky drinkers want as they seek intense, amped up flavors, and, so distillers are delivering. This lineup spans most of the major styles, including bourbon, rye, single malt, and Irish, nearly all pushing up the needle on proof.
Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye
ABV: 55.25%
SRP: $120
Availability: Limited
While your favorite Michter’s releases can sometimes go on hiatus due to a combination of limited supply and the judgment of master distiller Dan McKee and master of maturation Andrea Wilson, the distillery has made concerted efforts in recent years to make sure that its whiskeys are on shelves. That effort has paid...

One question we frequently get from friends and readers is this: “What are some of the whiskies that you enjoy?" While our Top 20 list rates the stars, there are many other great bottlings out there that also merit a place on your shelf. Looking through our recent tasting notes and the whiskies in our Buying Guide, we've put together a list of some notable releases worth exploring—many of them well known, and others less so. The one standard is that they're all priced at $80 or less. Other than that, they’re simply great whiskies—for when it's time for us to put things aside, kick back, and just enjoy a great dram. 
94 points - Johnnie Walker Double Black Blended Scotch, 40%, $42
Peat lovers should not overlook this smoky gem that's accompanied by flavors of dried orchard fruit, pepper, vanilla, caramel, and orange. Or if a sweeter pour is what you reach for, try Johnnie Walker Gold...

Heads up, whisky lovers! There are lots of new releases to get excited about this week.Jack Daniel's is rolling out a bottled-in-bond version of its classic Tennessee whiskey. Currently available in travel retail stores only, the whiskey will sell for $38 for a 1-liter bottle.Meanwhile, peat heads will want to look for this year's Laphroaig Cairdeas, the distillery's annual special release. The 2018 Cairdeas matured in first-fill bourbon barrels before a finishing period in fino sherry casks. It costs $80 and will be available in limited amounts.Freddie Noe, son of Fred Noe and grandson of the legendary Booker Noe, has unveiled Little Book Chapter 2 "Noe Simple Task." The whiskey combines rye from Kentucky with two whiskies from Canada. Priced a bit higher than Little Book Chapter 1 "The Easy"—which was ranked number 11 in Whisky Advocate's 2017 Top 20—this whiskey is available in limited amounts for $100.Another limited-edition—and bottled-in-bond—bourbon will be hitting...

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...

The first week of April has brought a whole lot of new whiskies, from blended and single malt scotch to bourbon, rye, and more.Dewar's announced a limited-edition trio of whiskies called Dewar's Double Double. Each blend—aged 21, 27, and 32 years—was finished in a different type of sherry casks. The whiskies are available in limited amounts, packaged in 375-ml. bottles and ranging in price from $50 to $150.WhistlePig has unveiled its first whiskey since master distiller Dave Pickerell passed away last fall. WhistlePig Piggyback Rye is 6 years old and sourced from Alberta Distillers; the pig on its label sports a stetson hat, Pickerell's trademark look. The whiskey is currently available for $50 in a few states, with expanded distribution to come.Several new whiskies from Islay's Bruichladdich Distillery will be hitting shelves soon. Black Art 06.1 1990, the mysterious blend of casks created by master distiller Adam Hannett, will sell for $420. Meanwhile, four heavily peated...

Matthew McConaughey remembers the first time he enjoyed bourbon, conjuring up the details as though it happened yesterday.“I was duck hunting with my dad in Arkansas and I was in high school,” he says. “It was about eleven degrees and there was a hole in my wader, and I was wet and cold. Real cold. But we'd only been out there an hour or so and we weren't going back soon. So my dad pulled out a flask with some bourbon in it and said, ‘Sip on this. It'll warm you up.' And it saved the day for me.”These days, McConaughey prefers warmer environs, with the only chill provided by an occasional single ice cube (and only if the weather is really warm). “Really, I take it neat.”In search of a bourbon that perfectly suited his taste, McConaughey created it himself: Wild Turkey Longbranch, a bourbon crafted over a two-year collaboration with Wild Turkey master distiller Eddie Russell. The new offering takes the Kentucky classic and gives it a Texas twist by utilizing mesquite...

For likely as long as whisky has existed, people have enjoyed it to the accompaniment of great music. Whisky has inspired its fair share of songs too, with numerous artists weaving it into their work. Now some musicians are taking it even further, integrating their art straight into the bottle. Blackened might be the most well-known of the moment, aged to the thump of Metallica's oeuvre, but many other whiskies now boast a musician's endorsement—and in some cases, their heavy involvement.Matching Flavor Profile to Musical StyleThe experience of enjoying whisky and music together inspired DJ and producer TommyD to create his own brand, a single grain whisky called 8O8. “Alcohol and music have gone hand-in-hand for centuries—there's nothing new about this,” he says. “So it's not an unreasonable connection to make. Music is intrinsically part of the 8O8 whisky DNA.” Inspired by the TR-808 drum machine commonly used in electronic dance music, 8O8 whisky caters to the dance...

When we were kids, teachers would send us home with lists of books to read over the summer. No one is assigning required reading to grown-ups, but many of us still want some recommendations. If you're looking for great whisky books, check out these four newly published tomes, covering everything from serious whisky geekery to planning a great whisky party. Whether you're stuck at home, sunning on the beach, or hiding away in a mountain retreat, crack the spine and enjoy a few hours deep in the pages.4 New Whisky Books to While Away the SummerWhiskey Master Class: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Scotch, Bourbon, Rye, and Moreby Lew Bryson ($27)Whisky writer and former Whisky Advocate managing editor Lew Bryson follows up his first whisky book with this new volume, equally comprehensive but with a different approach. Where “Tasting Whiskey” offered a broad survey and introduction to the art and practices of whisky appreciation, “Whiskey Master Class” takes a deep dive into...

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...

It’s gift giving season, and if you’re looking for something special for the whisky lover in your life, we've got you covered. There are plenty of snackable gifts available, from popcorn to barbecued ribs, specifically designed to be paired with whiskey. We also have a few other recommendations including books, luggage, and more whisky related items that will enhance your tasting experience. There are some exciting new whiskies out this week that also would make great gifts. Woodford Reserve adds to its Master’s Collection with a beer-inspired malt whiskey, High West brings its High Country single malt to a wider stage, and Barrell Craft Spirits adds two new straight bourbon blends to its lineup. Read on for full details.Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection: Five-Malt Stouted MashStyle: Straight maltOrigin: KentuckyAge: Not statedABV: 45.2%Price: $130Release: December 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:A version of Woodford’s straight malt whiskey, this new addition to...

Maple and bourbon walk hand in hand, with maple’s sweet, sap-derived flavor appearing frequently in whiskey tasting notes. Aging maple syrup in whiskey barrels is thus a natural combination. From gourmet purveyors like BLiS in Michigan to distillers like Woodinville in Washington state, maple syrup aged in bourbon and rye barrels is finding a culinary niche.
“The flavor profiles I look for in the syrup need to be layered—there can’t be one big flavor dominating the others,” says Steve Stallard, chef-owner and president of BLiS, whose name is an acronym for Because Life is Short. “I want butterscotch, vanilla, or a little bit of orange peel from the oak. I want every layer put in there, so that you’ve got a fully dimensional maple syrup that leaves its maple profile in there.”
BLiS’s maple syrup—primarily from Michigan— is aged in used Heaven Hill barrels for approximately 8 months, with Stallard adding that 10...

It's a big weekend for cigar and whisky lovers, as Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest makes its return to Hollywood, Florida tomorrow, Saturday, March 4. We previewed some of the whiskies being poured, seminars being held, and cigar stars in attendance, but it is truly an event you have to take in for yourself, combining two worlds into one extraordinary night. 
Meanwhile, with St. Patrick's Day approaching, it's another big week for Irish whiskey. Waterford brings its Cuvée series global with Argot, Method and Madness has a 60% rye and 40% unmalted barley whiskey coming to the U.S., and Writers' Tears announces its second new release in as many weeks with the 2023 edition of its cask strength whiskey. Plus, Westland unveils Solum Edition 1 and WhistlePig drops its first-ever single malt. Read on for full details. 
 
Waterford Cuvée: Argot
Style: Single malt
Origin: Ireland
Age: Not stated
ABV: 47%
Price...

Driving south into Lexington, Kentucky on Interstate 75, you pass Kentucky Horse Park and International Museum of the Horse right at the city line. Enter from the west on Old Frankfort Pike, and you travel by the famous Secretariat statue. Fly into Blue Grass Airport and you’ll exit on Man O’ War Boulevard and drive past Keeneland racetrack. It’s pretty hard to miss the equine theme, which is why Lexington’s trademarked nickname is Horse Capital of the World. But the city also anchors the eastern end of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and it’s surrounded by distilleries, along with new experiences for whiskey lovers. You no longer need to leave the city to visit distilleries.
Lexington is only about half the size of Louisville, which lies around 80 miles to the west. But this vibrant city has been playing catch-up to its bigger rival in recent years, adding hotels, tours, attractions, and new distilleries. Resurgence is in the air, so...

We’ve recently received several announcements from smaller players whose latest expressions are set to hit shelves in the coming weeks. 15 Stars has a new First West bottling, but this one isn’t a rye; Hard Truth is releasing a collaborative blended whiskey which uses its new bourbon as a component; and Jos. A Magnus has debuted the fourth iteration of its exclusive Murray Hill Special Release Blend. 
15 Stars First West Bourbon 
The father-son-operated 15 Stars was born and bred in 2019 to pay homage to Kentucky’s history as a mecca for whiskey production. The blending house, which makes its blends with help from Bardstown Bourbon Co., launched a sherry cask-finished bourbon in September that earned a score of 91 points. A few weeks ago, 15 Stars released new batches of First West rye and Private Stock bourbon. Now, it’s bringing another new First West whiskey to market—but this time, it’s a bourbon. 
First West...

Among this week’s items, Compass Box, always of interest, has a Travel Retail exclusive that blends peated single malt and grain whiskies. Garrison Brothers has unveiled this year’s Laguna Madre release, while rising player 15 Stars keeps them coming with two new aged bourbons. Considering the high scores achieved by 15 Stars since we started reviewing their whiskeys last year, we very much look forward to tasting these latest ones. Elsewhere, World Whiskey Society, fresh off its Japanese collaboration with whisky maker Chip Tate, continues its globe-trotting with two American single malts named for Wild West folk hero Wyatt Earp, while Buzzard’s Roost, ensconced in its new home on Louisville’s Whiskey Row since last year, is out it with its first Bottled in Bond (BIB) expression. And then we have the curious case of Natterjack whiskey, the Irish American collaboration, and its latest effort, Natterjack The Mistake. This one is the result of a...

As is usual at the start of a new year, the whisky releases are off to a quiet pace. Old Forester has returned with its 1924 label, following up on last January’s debut. Heaven’s Door is back with a sixth volume in its Bootleg Series, and the first Bootleg release since 2023. Originally founded in Nashville, Heaven’s Door put down stakes in the Kentucky down of Pleasureville in late 2023, with a distillery and plans for opening a visitor center the public in the summer of 2024, but summer passed with no update. Kentucky bourbon label Wheel Horse has been an infrequent but highly successful non-distiller producer over the years, but it's back now with a new 5 year old. And on the American single malt front, Iowa-based Cedar Ridge has a new and quite complex wine cask-finished release.
 
 
Old Forester 1924 Bourbon
ABV: 50%
SRP: $120
Availability: Limited
This January, Old Forester is bringing back its 1924...

The 15th annual Tales of the Cocktail—a bartenders' convention in New Orleans—happens next week. Considering the high volume of professional cocktail-makers (and drinkers) in attendance, it's the perfect chance for whisky brands to debut new expressions. And thus Redemption is launching its new wheated bourbon (detailed here), Kilbeggan has a single grain Irish whiskey coming out, and Auchentoshan The Bartenders' Malt will make its first U.S. appearance. Plus, the first Maker's Mark Private Select barrel in the state of Louisiana will roll out at Dickie Brennan's Bourbon House, the famous French Quarter seafood restaurant and bar. Read on for details.Auchentoshan The Bartenders' MaltStyle: Single maltOrigin: Scotland (Lowlands)Age: Not statedProof: 47% ABVPrice: $47Release: July 2017Availability: Limited quantitiesNeed to know:This is a new expression of Auchentoshan that was created by a group of bartenders from around the world. Dubbed the "New Malt Order," these 12 cocktail...

While the ocean-matured Irish single malt from Glendalough Distillery is still months from bottling—if it's successfully rescued, that is—there are new whiskies ready right now.Jim Rutledge, who was formerly master distiller at Four Roses, has come out of retirement to open a new distillery and launch new whiskeys. While that project, called J.W. Rutledge Distillery, is in the works, he's reviving the historic Cream of Kentucky brand using sourced whiskey. The 51% ABV, 11 ½ year old straight bourbon is available now in a handful of states for $150.Virginia's Copper Fox Distillery is relaunching its packaging and debuting a new whiskey. Copper Fox Sassy single malt rye is made from 100% malted rye and aged in ex-bourbon barrels with new and used oak and apple wood chips. It's bottled at 45% ABV and widely available for $57.Finally, Dillon's Small Batch Distillers of Ontario is bringing its Three Oaks rye to the U.S. for the first time. The 43% ABV whisky is made with 100%...

When new distilleries launch, there's plenty of fanfare and celebration. After all, it means more whisky is on the way, giving whisky lovers something to anticipate and allowing the distillery to spread the word far in advance of its first releases. But one Kentucky producer has taken the opposite approach, quietly laying down tens of thousands of barrels of bourbon, rye, and wheat whiskey without so much as a peep beyond the required public paperwork—and without its own distillery.The company, IJW, has popped up occasionally in news reports about its Danville, Kentucky warehouse construction, its Louisville property acquisition, and its possible affiliation with the University of Michigan; Whisky Advocate contributor Chuck Cowdery has also written a bit about the few known facts. But until now, no one from this mysterious company—which keeps its ownership a secret—has spoken out publicly.Now IJW is ready to pull back the curtain, and Whisky Advocate has the...

For years, MGP Distillery has been known as the source of dozens of whiskeys, from Smooth Ambler Old Scout to WhistlePig. The familiar words “Distilled in Indiana” on a bottle's back label denote MGP as the source, even if it's not officially publicized by the particular brand. And while MGP has made forays into offering its own-brand whiskeys under the Rossville Union rye, George Remus bourbon, and Eight & Sand American whiskey labels, progress has been slow. They're only available in some states and—despite reflecting the high quality turned out by the distillery (Remus Repeal Reserve regularly scores above 90 in the Buying Guide)—aren't nearly as well-known as other brands made on the very same stills.But all that could change, as MGP is about to cannonball into the deep end of the national whiskey market. The company announced on Jan. 25 that it would pay $475 million, in cash and stock, to acquire St. Louis-based Luxco, which produces a variety of spirits, from vodka...

Spring officially arrived this week—and what better way to ring in the season than a whisky that’s accented with tropical flavors? Rum cask-finished whiskies aren’t new, but recently they’ve been taking their share of the cask-finishing spotlight, and now, Limestone Branch Distillery has joined the conversation with a rum cask finish for its Yellowstone bourbon. 
Part of Yellowstone’s Special Finishes Collection, this new release is made with the label’s standard bourbon mashbill—75% white heirloom corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley—and aged 4 years in new charred oak before being moved to rum barrels. Those barrels are sourced from an undisclosed distillery in Cuba, which distills its rum from molasses. After nine weeks in rum barrels, the bourbon takes on new flavors: there’s plenty of tropicality, poached pear, gingerbread, tobacco, toasted marshmallow, and brown sugar sweetness, making for a...

“Rye from 1898?” The fellow holding the bottle pushes it forward, showing a typewritten label with “Stewart Distilling Company” and “Made in 1898” and little else. I hold my glass out and listen to the tale of how the owner acquired a case of these in an estate sale in Connecticut. The whiskey, soft, herbaceous, and delicious, goes down too quickly. Within moments, someone else produces a bottle of James E. Pepper Bottled in Bond from the ’50s, and my glass is refilled.

And so it goes at the wildest bottle share I’ve ever attended. Held the night before Bourbon Bonanza at The Last Refuge—a grandiose Louisville church converted into a bar—100 whiskey aficionados gather, all of whom have brought the very best from the depths of their collections. “There’s probably $150,000 worth of bottles here,” says one of Bourbon Bonanza’s organizers Quintin Wise. “This is the roots of bourbon, though;...

As news breaks that Kentucky Owl may be getting its own distillery, there are plenty of new whiskies to look for this week. Woodford Reserve is releasing its annual Master's Collection special edition. This year, it's a bourbon that features a high-malt mashbill: 30% malted barley, all of it smoked over cherry wood to lend the finished whiskey a nutty and slightly smoky flavor.Meanwhile, Islay's Kilchoman Distillery is rolling out two new single malts. The 2009 vintage follows up previous years' vintage releases and clocks in around 8 years old. It includes whiskies aged in both bourbon and, for the first time, sherry casks. Kilchoman Red Wine Cask Matured is roughly 5 years old and spent its entire maturation in—you guessed it—red wine casks from Portugal's Douro Valley.California craft distiller Graton Distilling Company—which makes George D. Benham's gin and vodka—is launching its very first whiskey, a blend of house-made rye, sourced rye, and sourced bourbon. There will be...

This is a great week for scotch lovers. A whole boatload of new single malts—and a couple new blends—are rolling out to store shelves. First, Macallan has two new releases to track down: Fine Oak 18 year old—which was released overseas before coming to the U.S.—joins the existing Fine Oak range of age statement whiskies. Macallan Classic Cut, on the other hand, is an NAS whisky bottled at cask strength. It's around for a limited time only and has a recommended price of $89.Macallan's parent company, Edrington Group, also owns Highland Park, and the Orkney distillery has a new whisky designed with music in mind. Highland Park Full Volume is around 18 years old and was matured entirely in ex-bourbon casks. Like Glenmorangie Pride 1974, the whisky has a custom piece of music written to go with it.Compass Box is debuting two new blended malts. Although the company has famously fought for more transparency in scotch labeling, it is deliberately holding back information about its...

Seattle's association with drinks has tended toward the city's world-class coffee and the monster-hoppy IPAs. But Seattle also has an active local craft distilling scene, home to almost 20 distilleries, with many making whiskey.Single malt whiskey has been the object of much local obsession. In the last several years, scientists from Washington State University and Oregon State University have confirmed what distillers and farmers have long suspected: that the maritime climate in this part of the world mirrors that of Scotland, where some of the best single malts are made.But single malt isn't the only whiskey style Seattle distillers are creating. Bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys are also flowing off the stills, often with an emphasis on using local grains and reflecting the terroir of the area.The local whiskeys are garnering praise from near and far, and Seattle is becoming known as a distilling powerhouse. The Washington Distillers Guild is launching an interactive trail map this...

It's high season for new whisky releases, as everyone gears up for the holidays and rolls out plenty of new options, along with highly anticipated limited editions like the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, the Van Winkle lineup of whiskeys, and the Diageo Special Releases, which were fully revealed this week—with some significant changes, especially for American fans. Other brands are releasing limited-edition packaging in the lead-up to the holidays. J. Rieger & Co. unveiled the annual Holiday Edition label for its Rieger Kansas City whiskey, priced at $35. Meanwhile, Basil Hayden's has partnered with Wildsam Field Guides to create four special-edition labels: one that's available nationally, and three specific ones for Northern California, Southern California, and Brooklyn, New York. The whiskey remains the same—regular Basil Hayden's—but each label features local trivia, hidden spots, and drink recipes. Bottles are priced at $40.On to the new whiskies for the week...

Folks in Indiana are famous for their Midwestern friendliness—“Hoosier Hospitality”—but they also view themselves as tenacious underdogs, an aesthetic noted in just about every Hollywood depiction of the state, from "Hoosiers" to "Breaking Away" to "Rudy." Locals have taken the same approach to craft distilling—until 2014 it was illegal to operate on-site tasting and retail, the way many small distillers in other states make sales. This made Indiana an unfriendly place for indie spirits, but pioneers plunged ahead, while working to change the laws.“In 2014 the state said that if you had a license to distill spirits for three years you could open a tasting room,” recalls Blake Jones, co-owner and president of West Fork Whiskey Co. “That was still tough, but it sort of made distillery tasting rooms in Indiana a thing, and since then we've been able to get it reduced to eighteen months.” For this reason, the Indianapolis distillery boom is a very recent thing, and...

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...

With the country facing two crises at once—COVID-19 and ongoing demonstrations against racism and police violence—whisky, too, is a part of the conversation. As states begin to reopen, distilleries are facing hard choices and added expenses in order to create safe spaces for visitors and staff. And as whisky companies are starting to reckon with the urgent need to employ and support a diverse workforce, a new nonprofit from the founder of Black Bourbon Society has emerged to help.Amidst this landscape, whiskies are continuing to roll out. Though it's not a new release, Jameson is offering a special on Black Barrel. Customers who purchase Jameson Black Barrel through ReserveBar from now until Father's Day can get a custom message engraved on the bottle, free of charge.Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. is releasing the 2020 batch of George Dickel Bottled in Bond, this time at 11 years old (distilled in 2008). I spoke with distiller and general manager Nicole Austin to get all the...

Members of the Missouri Craft Distillers Guild recently learned how a bill becomes a law—no "Schoolhouse Rock!" cartoon necessary—as they collectively lobbied for House Bill 266. “I'm a distiller; I'm here to make spirits, as are the rest of my peers. We never thought that we'd really get into legislation on the state level,” says David Weglarz, guild president and owner and head distiller of StilL 630 in St. Louis. That involvement proved fruitful however, as on July 11, 2019, Missouri bourbon was legitimized. “All the distillers in the guild have been working toward calling their reps, traveling to Jefferson City, and really trying hard to get this passed,” Weglarz told Whisky Advocate shortly after. “So we're in a brief moment of celebration as we scramble to try and put down more Missouri bourbon whiskey.”
Missouri bourbon is a legally recognized whiskey style, based on the existing federal rules of bourbon. To be considered...

It's hot just about everywhere in the country right now and you may be craving cooling ice cream as much as a whisky. May we suggest combining the two? And if you're looking for a new bottle to test-drive with your next scoop, keep reading.Balcones Distilling in Waco, Texas is adding a new single malt whiskey to its core lineup. Lineage is distilled from local and Scottish barley. It's priced at $40 and is debuting in eight states, with expansion planned.Blending house Compass Box has launched Rogues' Banquet, a limited edition celebrating the company's 20th anniversary. There are around 2,400 bottles of the blended whisky available in the U.S., priced at $230.Kilchoman Distillery is releasing a one-off whisky that's an accidental combination of its Machir Bay and Port Cask-Matured expressions. Am Bùrach is priced at $135, with 1,350 bottles for sale in the U.S.Limestone Branch Distillery has unveiled the 2020 release of Yellowstone Limited Edition, this year finished in armagnac...

This article was originally published in December 2019. COVID-related restrictions may affect some of the opening times and offerings of these venues, so check in advance of a visit.Blessed with great weather and equally impressive scenery, Scottsdale anchors the “Valley of the Sun,” a sprawling jigsaw puzzle of Arizona municipalities including Tempe, Phoenix, Cave Creek, Paradise Valley, Mesa, and more. The region's heart and soul is Old Town Scottsdale, a walkable neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, shops, and Old West flair that is also home to one of baseball's top spring training facilities. Along with the adjacent Fashion Square mall area, it forms the regional downtown.Radiating out from this center in every direction is an impressive array of large resort hotels, including many that cater to golf, a key driver of tourism. Scottsdale is among the top warm-weather golf destinations in the world and the epicenter of the stunning course style known as desert golf. With...

David Landrum is the founder of Two James Spirits, a small distillery in Detroit. His buddy, Jacques Driscoll, runs Johnny Noodle King, a nearby ramen shop. Driscoll was planning a bar program for the restaurant and asked Landrum if he might create a whiskey to complement his umami-rich broths.“I was an art student,” says Landrum. “I've always been pushed by creativity. I like to keep making new things.”He had been drinking a lot of Asian teas and lapsang souchong, a Chinese smoked tea, came to mind. It was a source of inspiration. Landrum infused a blend of corn and rye whiskeys with lapsang souchong and two other Asian teas. He calls it Johnny Smoking Gun. Driscoll loved it. Both the noodle shop and Two James's tasting room serve it in cocktails and also neat with a “broth back.”Interesting? Yes. Unique? Sure. Innovative? Absolutely! But is it whiskey?That question sits at an intersection of art, craft, tradition, culture, law, commerce, imagination, taste—and probably...

Here at Whisky Advocate, we hear one question more than any other: “What whisky should I buy?” Whether for yourself or a loved one, the gift of whisky—a well-considered, out-of-the-ordinary bottle—is perfect for any occasion, and we offer plenty of tools to help you find the right one: from Best Value and Editors' Choice picks to the annual Top 20 list, plus the full Buying Guide with over 4,000 whisky reviews, sortable by price, score, and more.But what about the whisky lover who already has a fully stocked bar, or the one whose taste is so discerning you're afraid of picking something they won't like? Each issue of Whisky Advocate includes recommended whisky gear (everything from decanters to cocktail picks to glassware), and we've made some additional picks below. There's something here for every budget and all kinds of whisky lovers, including the at-home bartender, the aspiring taster, the outdoor enthusiast, and the cigar aficionado. Some of these come with whisky, while...

While whiskey appears in many movies and TV shows, some make it more than prop, embedding it within the culture of the characters to reinforce key ideas. No show has done this better than “Justified.” From the first episode, which premiered on FX on March 16, 2010, to the last, characters are frequently shown with a whiskey in hand, their drink choices reflecting their lifestyle, class, or attitude. Over six seasons and 78 episodes, it established itself as the preeminent show for whiskey lovers. Set in Kentucky, “Justified”—based on the Elmore Leonard short story “Fire in the Hole”—had an ingrained way of featuring a dram. “Liquor is not a throwaway in the show,” David Blass, the show's production designer, tells Whisky Advocate. “It binds everyone together.”
Walton Goggins, who played the whiskey-loving criminal Boyd Crowder and enjoys a whiskey himself, agrees. “Whatever bottle you pulled out, with...

While barrel-finishing has long been part of the scotch and Irish whiskey world, it has become increasingly widespread in the bourbon space, as distillers in Kentucky and beyond turn to a secondary cask for added flavor. Get to know the most common finishing casks and which bourbons capture them the best with our guide.There is a barrel-finished bourbon in this week's lineup of new whiskies—Lux Row's Blood Oath Pact No. 8, which was finished in calvados barrels. Other new releases this week include an ocean-aged rye from Jefferson's, a blended grain whisky from Compass Box, and a blend of Tennessee and Kentucky bourbons from Sweetens Cove. Read on for full details.Jefferson’s Ocean Aged RyeStyle: RyeOrigin: Not statedAge: Not statedABV: 48%Price: $80Release: April 2022Availability: Widely availableNeed to know:This latest Jefferson’s Bourbon release in its Ocean: Aged at Sea series is actually a rye—the first rye  expression ever in the Ocean series. It spent an undisclosed...

With Memorial Day now in the rearview mirror, we cruise toward summer, which means grilling season and all sorts of celebratory occasions. Over in Scotland, the fun got off to an early start this week with Islay's annual Fèis Ìle festival, which finishes up tomorrow. The festivities, which feature music, tastings, food, tours, and other events, are a great way to immerse yourself in the culture of this famous whisky island.  
On this side of the pond, whisky makers have been having a busy week, with a slew of releases ahead of Father's Day and the summer season. Russell's Reserve is back with a new release of its 13 year old, and Woodford Reserve's annual Master's Collection release is out, this one at cask strength. Elsewhere, Teeling has added a new expression to its Wonders of Wood Series, Stranahan's has a red wine cask finished whiskey, and Johnnie Walker’s Cities Series has a new label in the...

The whisky scene was abuzz this week about the story of Mary Dowling, and the release of two whiskeys bearing her name. Dowling (1859-1930) was a distillery owner, entrepreneur, accused bootlegger, and all-around brilliant businesswoman with one of the most remarkable careers in whisky history (see below). She's perhaps best noted for relocating her entire distilling operation down to Juarez, Mexico during the Prohibition years, outsmarting the law and her competitors. Rabbit Hole founder Kaveh Zamanian of Louisville has created two whiskeys under the Mary Dowling name to honor her legacy. While the announcement is not quite accurate in saying that Dowling's story has never been told—she was featured in Fred Minnick's 2013 book Whiskey Women, among other places—dedicating whiskeys to her name is a home run of an idea. We haven't tasted the whiskeys yet, and we certainly hope they...

Scotland and Ireland have been heard from this week after a recent stream of new American whiskeys. In the west of Scotland, May is festival time for Campbeltown and Islay, which brings forth a slew of special releases, including Laphroaig Càirdeas, which we cover here.  Also from Scotland comes the very limited  Daftmill, the Lowlands farm distillery whose highly sought-after whiskies are notoriously difficult to find. From Ireland, Teeling is out with the third edition in its Wonders of Wood series—this one aged in Swedish oak—while Bushmills offers a 31 year old as the fourth edition in its Rare Cask series and The Whistler unveils a 21 year old madeira-finished single malt.
From the U.S., Barrell has a new batch, while Colorado distiller Laws has a trio of bottled in bond expressions. NBA superstar Steph Curry, who came out with his first whiskey, Gentleman's Cut, last year, last week...

Among the week's new bourbon and American whiskeys, Elijah Craig completes its 2024 releases of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof with Batch C9245, which is at the usual hefty ABV and has an age of 11 years. This year's Batch A was at 10 years and 9 months, while Batch B  was at 11 years and 2 months, all of which had caused some grumbling among the faithful, who had grown to love the 12 year old age statement the brand had sported until last year. Elsewhere, the ever creative Penelope continues to be adventurous, exemplified by its latest release, a wheat whiskey expression. Two other new Penelope expressions are also in the mix, and all three are well aged, with the wheated whiskey at 11 years and the other two, both bourbons, at 10 years old. Finally, J. Mattingly has a new bourbon blend, using light whiskey and its "double staving" process. 
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch C924)
ABV: 64.5%
SRP: $75

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...

Cask finishing can take many forms; its ultimate purpose is to imbue a whisky with layered flavors that elevate its character after initial maturation in a different type of barrel. Rum cask-finished whiskies generally present notes of juicy tropical fruits. Casks that previously held light rums might lend more clean, vegetal sweetness, while richer, molasses notes can shine through in a whisky finished in casks that held dark rum. The flavors imparted by a rum cask can enhance a whisky, from mirroring bourbon’s inherent sweetness, balancing out spice in a rye, or adding layers of flavor to a grain or single malt scotch.
The use of rum casks to finish whisky is an idea that goes way back among makers of scotch and Irish whiskey. In American whiskey, Angel’s Envy was one of the pioneers, coming out with a Caribbean rum cask-finished rye 12 years ago. Producers use rum casks in different ways: as a solo finishing cask, in combination with other casks, or as the sole...

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...

Although the year is winding down, there are still new whiskies to be had.Retired hockey star Ed Belfour has partnered with Southern Distilling in North Carolina to produce the first whiskeys in the Belfour Spirits line. The bourbon and rye are each priced at $89, with availability in Texas and Illinois for now.Fashion house Tommy Bahama is launching a new line of spirits, including whiskey, under the banner of Coral Cay Distilling. Made in Washington, Tommy Bahama straight bourbon ($100) and rye with blended rum ($45) are available in a few states to start, with expansion planned.Finally, Brain Brew Distilling of Ohio is launching its WoodCraft Spirits line in the UK. While sold as whiskey in the U.S., these aren't considered as such overseas, as they're not aged at least three years. The WoodCraft line uses Brain Brew's alternative aging technology to impart barrel characteristics more quickly. Priced at £40 to £50, the four spirits are rolling out in the UK, and are also...

When a Jim Beam warehouse in Versailles, Kentucky went up in flames in July 2019, the world wept for whiskey. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the images of destruction grabbed the spotlight as the loss of 45,000 barrels of young bourbon was widely mourned.At the time, the Jim Beam disaster was the most recent in a string of warehouse catastrophes, including in June 2019 when some 4,000 barrels at an O.Z. Tyler Distillery(now Green River Distilling Co.) warehouse in Owensboro, Kentucky went tumbling as the building partially toppled during a thunderstorm. In June 2018, part of a warehouse at the Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown collapsed, sending around 9,000 barrels of aging spirits crashing to the ground; the rest of the warehouse fell two weeks later.In addition to serious environmental damage, such mishaps can mean real liquid losses for whiskey makers. First, some perspective—a standard bourbon barrel stores 53 gallons, or 200 liters of liquid. Given a standard...

Custard desserts resonate with the soul, free of the fuss or frills of an elaborate dessert. Like whiskey, custard, whether nestled in a chess pie, poured out as a crème anglaise, or stirred into a classic pudding is comforting and straightforward. The strong vanilla notes with a tinge of spice found in a mid-shelf bourbon like Maker’s Mark work well in this spring-forward tart by complementing the mellow toastiness of the almond crust and the sweet but bright notes of the Meyer lemon in the custard. Canadian whiskies with a smooth sweet finish such as Crown Royal would also work well here. Avoid using high-proof, bold, or peated whiskies as the strong flavors might overwhelm the sweetness of the custard.
What’s a Flip?
This recipe pays homage to the creamy cocktail known as a Flip. A frothy sip with a rich mouthfeel, a whiskey version typically includes beaten eggs, sugar, and spices. Composed of these basic elements with the addition of Meyer lemon, this...

The Super Bowl is just a few weeks away, and James B. Beam Distilling Co. is getting in on the fun with some recent football-themed collaborations. Last week, Jim Beam announced a partnership with comedian Keegan-Michael Key—known for his role on the sketch comedy show Key & Peele—which included gift packages designed to help football fans cope with their team losing on game day. Today it’s Knob Creek’s turn, with the release of Bold Pick: a new single barrel bourbon made with help from NFL icon Eli Manning.
Eli Manning earned two Super Bowl rings and numerous other awards, accolades, and titles during his long career with the New York Giants. After retiring in 2020, he joined ESPN as an analyst—most notably on “Manningcast,” a live broadcast he co-hosts with his older brother and fellow renowned quarterback Peyton Manning. But when he isn’t playing or talking about football, Eli winds down by drinking Knob Creek. Now, thanks to...

BuffTurkey. Russalo Trace. Wild Buffalo. The hottest whiskey on the market—Wild Turkey bourbon distilled by Buffalo Trace—has several portmanteau monikers, and even more alleged origin stories. The leading lore? A professional sports franchise owner from the South won a national championship and commissioned these barrels before forgetting about them. Others say Campari Group faced production woes during expansion of a then recently purchased Wild Turkey and tapped Buffalo Trace to help, but didn’t love the finished product.
Also shrouded in mystery is the production run’s final volumes. Industry scuttlebutt varies widely, from a scant 600 barrels to an eye-watering 10,000 barrels. The latter seems improbable, as that would represent three to four straight weeks of non-stop production by Buffalo Trace. A thousand barrels, insiders tell me, is most likely; that would require only two production days.
How BuffTurkey Was Made and Sold
While we...

This year marks the 90th anniversary of Heaven Hill’s founding, and the distillery has been celebrating with a slew of memorable releases. In June, we exclusively reported that Old Fitzgerald, one of the distillery’s most sought-after collectibles that usually releases two batches per year (in spring and fall), added a budget-friendly 7 year old that will be available year-round. Just two months later, the distillery rolled out its fourth Old Fitz VVS—a rarer “Very Very Special” batch, aged 11 years and identified by its maroon label. The following month, Heaven Hill commemorated the opening of its new Bardstown distillery with Master Distillers Unity, a bourbon blend that contained some of the distillery’s last “pre-fire” barrels. Just weeks later, the distillery announced news that its popular Elijah Craig Barrel Proof series was receiving a rye expression, with three batches dropping annually alongside its...

The whisky world has been shaken by the sad news of the death of Dave Pickerell, one of the pre-eminent distillers of American whiskey who helped shape dozens of brands over the course of his career. He will be sorely missed, yet his influence will continue to be felt as long as the whiskeys he helped create are enjoyed by drinkers. We certainly will continue to raise our glasses to him.Speaking of which—there are many new whiskies to fill your glass with this week. Canadian Club is releasing its oldest whisky to date at 41 years old. The blended whisky is $300 and available in limited amounts.The sixth and final release of Rhetoric, part of the Orphan Barrel series, is coming out. Rhetoric 25 year old caps off a run that started at age 20. It is for sale in limited quantities for $140.Two new cask-finished expressions of The Famous Grouse are rolling out in the U.S. Previously available abroad, The Famous Grouse Ruby Cask is finished in port casks, while The Famous Grouse Bourbon...

In case you missed it, the biggest news of the week is the announcement of Whisky of the Year, along with the reveal of the full Top 20 whiskies of 2018. Get on over to the list to read up on why these are the most exciting bottles of the year.Meanwhile, there are tons of new whiskies to look forward to, some of which are hitting shelves right now. First up, Basil Hayden's has released its first age-statement bourbon, a 10 year old. The whiskey will be for sale in limited amounts for $60, and will return in future holiday seasons.Compass Box has two new releases coming out: Juveniles is a blended malt made in partnership with a Paris wine bar and features a whimsical bell on the bottle. Nearly 15,000 bottles are available for $150 each. Compass Box Stranger & Stranger isn't technically a whisky—it includes a very small amount of grain spirit that doesn't meet the 3-year minimum aging requirement for scotch—but the company is betting few drinkers will mind. Around 4,000 bottles...

When the COVID-19 pandemic first began taking shape in the U.S., Whisky Advocate responded by looking for ways to come together from a distance—and so #TasteWithSpace was born. Since the first Friday New York City went into lockdown, our editors have hosted whisky distillers, blenders, bartenders, and other experts for conversation and tasting on Instagram Live every week.Early on, #TasteWithSpace focused on the issues surrounding the pandemic and repercussions for whisky makers, bars, and restaurants. The conversation has since expanded and now encompasses a range of issues important to whisky lovers. In June, after Uncle Nearest and Jack Daniel's debuted an education and mentorship program for Black whisky professionals, Uncle Nearest founder Fawn Weaver joined #TasteWithSpace to talk more about it. Nicole Austin, the distiller behind our 2019 Whisky of the Year, George Dickel 13 year old Bottled in Bond, came on to debut the whiskey's 2020 release, comparing and contrasting the...

Pappy Van Winkle and the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection are notoriously difficult to find on shelves, and when they are available, it's usually at astronomically marked-up prices—but now whiskey fans have a chance to own these bottles and other rare finds for only $100. The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) is raffling off a package of 20 hard-to-find whiskeys in its Buddy-Up! raffle and is aiming to raise $200,000. Only 2,000 raffle tickets are available—for $100 each—and will be on sale until Nov. 15, or until they sell out. The proceeds will benefit Best Buddies New Hampshire, an organization dedicated to helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.The NHLC has been raising funds for Best Buddies New Hampshire through rare whiskey raffles for the past four years, and its lineup last year boasted some similar hard-to-find names. This year, the assortment is even larger, with another rare Buffalo Trace bourbon, Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, and a...

There are more whiskey options nowadays than ever before, with hundreds of bottles on the shelves of some stores—but you may be surprised to discover that some of them aren't true whiskey. Many products, including the ones below, use words like whiskey, bourbon, and rye prominently on their labels, and some display the names of well-known whiskey brands; however, none of these are straight whiskey. That doesn't mean they're inferior or you shouldn't consider drinking them, but that they may display flavors well outside what's normal for conventional whiskey.
Know What You're Drinking: Whiskey Liqueurs, Flavored Whiskeys & Whiskey Specialties

Angel's Envy Straight Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels
Looks like: Bourbon
It's really: Whiskey specialty - Kentucky straight bourbon finished in port barrels. (93 points)
Basil Hayden's Dark Rye
Looks like: Rye
It's really: Whiskey specialty - Kentucky straight rye blended with Canadian rye...

Summer has arrived, and if you're looking for a cocktail you can take on the go, we have 10 ready to drink cans and bottles from large producers, cocktail veterans, and more.If you are just looking for a new whisky, there are some interesting options this week—including the latest batches of Michter's 10 year old rye and J. Rieger Co. Monogram, a citrus-forward flavored entrant from Jim Beam, and more. Read on for full details.Michter's 10 year old Rye (2021 release)Style: Straight ryeOrigin: KentuckyAge: 10 year oldABV: 46.4%Price: $170Release: July 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:This is a single barrel rye, distilled and bottled in Kentucky. The 10 year old rye is one of the most limited whiskeys that Michter's produces.Whisky Advocate says:This year’s release of Michter’s 10 year old rye is especially limited, the distillery says. While lamenting the limited nature of this latest expression, Michter's noted that it has expanded the acreage on its farm...

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...

Plenty of us have favorites when it comes to whisky; perhaps you're loyal to bourbon, or rarely stray from single malt scotch. But there's a whole world of whisky out there, ripe for the taking, and if ever you're in the mood for exploration consider one of the more esoteric offerings we highlight here, such as Japanese rice whisky or grain whiskies.On to the new releases. This week, there are new single malts from Macallan, Balvenie, Paul John, and Penderyn, as well as a host of bourbons up for grabs. Read on for full details.Macallan Harmony Collection Rich CacaoStyle: Single maltOrigin: Scotland (Speyside)Age: Not statedABV: 44%Price: $160Release: October 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:The first in a series focused on sustainable packaging, this single malt whisky is presented in a fully recyclable and biodegradable box made from discarded cacao pod husks. Aged in a combination of European and American oak casks, this expression is inspired by chocolate, as whisky maker...

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...

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...

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...

As Fèis Ìle 2023 gets underway on Islay this weekend, Kilchoman made headlines this week when it announced plans to build a rum distillery on the island of Barbados. The new site will sit on nine acres of land at Bentley Mansion and will include a distillery, mill, and cask warehouse.
As far as new whisky, this week’s releases include a finished bourbon from Penelope, a straight bourbon from NBA star Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors, and two limited single malts from Suntory in celebration of its 100th anniversary. Read on for full details.
Penelope Cooper Series Rio
Style: Finished bourbon
Origin: Indiana
Age: Not stated
ABV: 49%
Price: $90
Release: May 2023
Availability: Limited
Need to know: 
A blend of three bourbons, the mashbill of this whiskey is 75% corn, 15% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley. Inspired by...

Updated June 13, 2024
Father’s Day is this Sunday, and there’s no better time to celebrate the father figures in our lives. If your dad appreciates a great dram, then odds are there’s a whisky that ties to his other interests, be it a love of cars, the great outdoors, music, or other things. A bottle of whisky goes a long way in letting dad know how much you appreciate him.
History Buff Dad 
Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch, 40% ABV, $35
This blended Highland malt is inspired by the whisky that Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton left behind during a failed bid to reach the South Pole in 1907.
George Washington’s Straight Rye, 43% ABV, $188/375 ml
Researchers discovered the original recipe for Washington’s whiskey in his ledgers from 1798 and 1799—he used a mashbill of 60% rye, 35% corn, and 5% malted barley. Today, that same recipe is made at Mount Vernon Distillery, on the site of Washington’s home.
Grilling...

When the nice weather arrives, there’s no better place to be than the great outdoors. Chances are you’ll want to enjoy a dram outside now and again—whether it’s an evening at the park, a trip to the beach, an open-air concert, a party, or any other outdoor event. We've put together a list of equipment to make the most of your al fresco affair, so ditch the clunky cooler, leave the breakable glassware, and check out these stylish alternatives to enhance the experience.
Among this week's new whiskies, Blackened is back with a new limited-edition bottle that celebrates Metallica’s 72 Seasons album and M72 world tour, Four Roses has come out with a nifty sample pack of the 10 component whiskeys used in making its various bourbons, and Frey Ranch brings a cask strength bourbon to the table. Read on for full details.
Blackened 72 Seasons Limited Edition
Style: Blend
Origin: Multiple
Age: Not...

Whatever happened to the dog days of summer? The whisky world has been keeping us busy lately with new releases from distillers far and wide. We've been tasting some excellent ones, as attested by some of our latest new whisky ratings. This week, there's more. Baker's is back with its 13 year old expression, which we haven't seen since 2019. Hardin's Creek has dropped the second release in its three-part Kentucky Series (the third is due in September), while Elijah Craig honors the players at golf's Ryder Cup with a new bourbon finished in toasted European oak. WhistlePig is out with FarmStock Beyond Bonded, which is actually 3 bottlings—a bourbon, rye, and wheat whiskey, all of them single barrels. And whisky purists, take cover! Glenlivet has just released two pre-made cocktails, a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned, in 375 ml bottles. Back in 2019 Glenlivet briefly stepped outside the box with its Capsule Collection, described as "glassless cocktails" wrapped...

In scotch whisky, Ardbeg has a new release in its Anthology Collection and Jura offers a rye cask finished single malt—an expression that's been available overseas for the last two years and now arrives on U.S. shores. Among American whiskeys, we welcome a new release in Old Forester's 117 series, this one finished in rum casks. The 117 Series has done particularly well with our tasting panel, the last  one scoring 94 points. Elsewhere, Iowa whiskey maker Cedar Ridge aims for a cigar pairing with its latest American single malt, while Chattanooga offers a new bottled in bond expression. Penelope, meanwhile, is back with its popular Toasted Rye, and Delaware brewer/distiller Dogfish Head becomes the latest American whiskey maker to try its hand at amburana finishing. 
 
Ardbeg Anthology: The Unicorn’s Tale 14 year old Scotch Single Malt
ABV: 46%
SRP: $160
Availability: Limited; ardbeg.com, the...

Making whiskey from heirloom grains has been among the many pursuits of Newport, Kentucky-based New Riff Distilling since its launch in 2014. Now it's offering a new iteration of its Balboa rye label, which returns for the first time since its inaugural release in 2019. Meanwhile, Old Forester is bringing back its 1910 Extra Old label, and Westland returns with the third edition of its peated expression Solum, this time with significantly more bottles available. Elsewhere, terroir-drive Colorado distiller Laws is out with a new wheated whiskey, while the World Whiskey Society has expanded its Doc Holliday franchise with a bottled in bond bourbon.
 
Old Forester 1910 Extra Old Bourbon
ABV: 46.5%
SRP: $65
Availability: Limited
Earlier this month, Old Forester reintroduced its 1924 bourbon. Now, the distillery is bringing back another whiskey: 1910 Extra Old, which returns to shelves after a nearly three-year hiatus. The...

This week is primarily dominated by extra-special releases from familiar names. Heaven Hill has debuted its fourth Old Fitzgerald VVS bottled in bond bourbon; not to be outdone, Glenmorangie has brought back a 25 year old single malt to its core range, while Suntory has released its oldest Yamazaki yet, this one fully matured in mizunara oak. On the craft level, Brooklyn's Kings County Distillery has introduced a widely available Empire rye, and Single Cask Nation has also put the spotlight on New York rye and peated American single malt with its latest drop.
 
Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond 11 Year Old VVS 2025 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
ABV: 50%
SRP: $170
Availability: Kentucky exclusive
The fourth release in Heaven Hill’s Old Fitzgerald VVS (Very Very Special) line is an 11 year old bourbon made from the distillery’s classic wheater recipe of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley (as all Old Fitzgerald whiskeys...

It was the Friday before spring break. School was nearly out and the suburban soccer moms bustled into my neighborhood liquor store, filling their baskets with everything from chardonnay to schnapps. They cluttered the walkways, keeping me from my precious aisle, when one of them grabbed a bourbon from the bottom shelf and said out loud, “I don't know what that means.” A liquor store worker heard her whiskey distress signal and replied, “Oh, it's not small batch.” He then upsold her on a bottle three times as expensive as the $15 Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 6 year old she'd inquired about.I assumed she was referencing the term “bottled in bond” with her question. Outside of whiskey geeks, does anybody really know what this means; that it is a piece of historic government legislation? Today your average liquor store's American whiskey section is filled with labels containing unregulated terms such as small batch, single barrel, and handcrafted. The tiny words “bottled in...

Have you been following along with the Top 20 countdown? Whiskies 5-10 have all been revealed, and we'll unveil the the rest of the list next week. Join us for the countdown, and don't forget to enter the sweepstakes to win the top three whiskies!With the holiday shopping season officially underway, now's the time to start thinking about what whisky you want to give—or receive. (For whisky-related gifts that aren't actually bottles, though, check out our gift guide.) Several distillers are offering their whiskies in special holiday packaging, including Hibiki—which we wrote about previously—J. Rieger & Co., and Woodford Reserve. The special bottle for J. Rieger Kansas City whiskey was inspired by a 1910 advertisement for the original distillery and is festooned with holly and berries, as well as a jolly Santa Claus. The whiskey's price is $35, and it's also available as part of a holiday three-pack with J. Rieger's gin and vodka ($85). The label on Woodford Reserve's...

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...

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is in for some old Hollywood flair, as Duke Spirits and Owensboro, Kentucky's O.Z. Tyler Distillery will open the Duke Tasting Room and John Wayne Experience in April 2020. Owensboro is a bit far from the majority of the bourbon trail—more than a two-hour drive from Louisville and Lexington—but the new visitor experience could be worth the trek for fans of The Duke—both the bourbon and the man who famously went by that name, legendary actor John Wayne.
Duke Spirits was founded by Ethan Wayne, John Wayne's youngest son, and Chris Radomski. According to Radomski, upon sorting through vaults of his late father's belongings, Wayne discovered an impressive liquor collection, including bourbon. He also found several bottles of unlabeled whisky, which were apparently John Wayne's own experiments and attempts at blending bourbon. Radomski and a team of winemakers and mixologists analyzed the flavor profile of one of these experiments that...

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...

After decades of ambiguity, Japanese whisky is finally getting a definition—though it's not quite as clear-cut as it might appear. Catch up on the situation, then keep reading for this week's new whisky releases.First up, Maker's Mark is rolling out the first of two 2021 limited editions in its Wood Finishing Series. FAE-01 is named for the stave used to finish the bourbon, which is priced at $60.Michter's is releasing a new batch of its Barrel-Strength rye. The suggested price is $100, with limited amounts available.Islay's Bowmore Distillery has debuted the Timeless Series with a 27 year old ($1,525) and a 31 year old ($2,100). There are just 3,000 bottles of each single malt, with the 31 year old for sale only at Travel Retail.The studio behind the film Archenemy is launching a bourbon, sourced from MGP. Archenemy straight bourbon is available online, priced around $49.Finally, M&H Distillery is Israel has bottled an Islay cask-matured single malt for the U.S. There are just...

The Manhattan cocktail—a simple recipe of American whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters that predates the Martini—yields myriad combinations to suit almost any whiskey lover. “I'm very choosy, first, about which rye—yes, rye—works best. Bourbon is too soft for me in this drink,” says Charles Cerankosky, co-owner of Good Luck, Cure, and Jackrabbit Club in Rochester, New York. However, many enjoy bourbon just fine, especially when matched with the right vermouth to balance its sweetness with bitterness and acidity. In fact, almost any style of whiskey you enjoy can shine in a Manhattan.
The modern Manhattan ratio is 2:1 whiskey to vermouth, but the original skewed the opposite, with twice as much vermouth as whiskey. Try this lower-proof rendition well-suited to summer—or find your sweet spot somewhere in between. When these ingredients meet with ice, it's hard to go wrong.
How to Make a Manhattan

2 oz. whiskey
1 oz. sweet...

When you think of double-digit age statements, your mind may jump straight to scotch. While scotch whiskies are often 12 years or older, more and more well-aged bourbons—and Tennessee whiskey, which is the same thing—have popped up on shelves in recent years. When it comes to age statements and the aging process, bourbon is quite different from scotch, thanks to its use of new charred oak barrels and the climate differences between Scotland and Kentucky, where the majority of bourbon is made. Some aged bourbons may have delicate, balanced notes of oak while others taste far too woody—it takes a skilled whiskey maker to walk that line. Since the process is so fickle, it's made even Whisky Advocate question: Can bourbon be too old?The six age-statement bourbons here, which are all from our Spring 2021 Buying Guide, are prime examples of well-aged bourbon. Each boasts a double-digit age statement and scored at least 90 points, showing exemplary distillation and maturation. Whether...

If you’ve visited Spain, Portugal, or even just a local Spanish tapas restaurant, you’ve likely had sangria, the punch-like drink traditionally made with red wine and chopped fruit, and often fruit juice, liqueur, or brandy. “Although classic sangrias don’t include whiskey, the strong aromatic notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel found in bourbon make it a perfect choice to mix with sangria,” says Alex Serena, bar manager at Telefèric Barcelona in Palo Alto, California. “Then adding some cinnamon, fresh apples, and lemons will make your drink really stand out.” 
Nick du Mortier, mixologist at Bar Pendry in Chicago, agrees that whiskey—bourbon in particular—pairs well with sangria. “It’s a perfect ABV booster that adds some oomph, blending in to elevate the flavor of the sangria without overpowering it,” he says. “When I mix sangria and whiskey I look for ways to bring in fruity notes...

In recent weeks, a number of distilleries have announced major new builds. Blue Run Spirits is set to break ground on a state-of-the-art facility in Georgetown, Kentucky, while Middle West Spirits is relocating in Columbus, Ohio for 14 acres of space and a 75,000-square-foot distillery. Now, Wild Turkey has joined the mix, bringing to the table plans for an additional distillery on the Wild Turkey Distillery campus in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The $161 million facility will be capable of producing 5 million proof gallons per year, bumping annual production up to 14 million proof gallons. Completion is slated for July 2025. 
This week's new whiskies come from Scotland, California, and Kentucky. Campbeltown single malt Glen Scotia adds a 21 year old to its core lineup, Old Potrero returns with three single barrel straight ryes, and RD1 Spirits debuts two wood stave-finished bourbons. Read on for full details.
Glen Scotia 21 year old

At your local diner, the toast choices at breakfast are usually white, wheat, or rye. But when it comes to barrels, whiskey makers have hundreds of toast options to choose from. “Toasted is a buzzword now,” says COO and co-founder of Penelope Bourbon Daniel Polise. “But people don’t always know how a barrel is toasted or charred—and that they are two very different things.”

Charring—when a new oak barrel is exposed to an open flame—is the process of burning the wood, while toasting lends a lighter touch. Charring is like putting a marshmallow straight into the flame, while toasting is holding it further away for a longer period of time. Variables like temperature, duration, the cooper who made the barrel, and the toasting’s intensity level create a much broader spectrum than charring, which typically has four levels ranging from 15 to 55 seconds of exposure to the flame.

But the two aren’t mutually...

When Woodford Reserve Double Oaked splashed onto the scene in 2012, it was somewhat of an anomaly: Not only was cask finishing not yet in its frenetic heyday, but doubling down and finishing bourbon in secondary new oak was practically unheard of, with but one exception—Tennessee’s Prichard’s Distillery released a Double Barreled bourbon in 2002, but that was a small, limited expression. 
Double Oaked is an amber-hued whiskey that has no age statement, which is typical for Woodford—none of its whiskeys have age statements, as they’re batched together from barrels of different ages, warehouses, warehouse locations, and flavor profiles, and the distillery chooses to forgo stating even the youngest age on the bottle. That said, we know it’s at least 4 years old, given the basic requirements for bourbon maturation, and that the average age is probably closer to 5, given that the whiskey spends just under a year in its secondary barrel. While...

August is when we start seeing the first of the fall releases, and Four Roses is right on time with this year's Limited Edition Small Batch expression, always among the most highly anticipated of the season. It's first available at the distillery and the nearby  Four Roses warehouse (details below) and then rolls into retail in mid-September. Tennessee's Chattanooga Whiskey has a new experimental expression called the Harvest Batch, this one is a seven-grain bourbon aged in six different barrels. And finally, from Washington State, Woodinville Whiskey has released its most remarkable whiskey to date—an 8 year old bourbon that's the culmination of a decade of experimentation to find what Woodinville calls  "the best barrel in the world" for maturing its bourbon. In concert with Independent Stave Co., the distillery filled eight different barrel types with new make and aged them for 4 1/2 years before deciding which barrel...

The latest addition to Heaven Hill’s Heritage Collection is a 19 year old straight wheat whiskey, which uses the same mashbill recipe as the one for its Bernheim label. From out west, Utah’s  High West has a new single malt whiskey, comprised of 4 and 8 year old whisks entirely at the Utah distillery, though unfortunately, its distribution is in-state only. From Texas, Garrison Bros. has a single barrel version of its Balmorhea bourbon, and it also is limited, at just 1,000 bottles. Ardbeg is out with its annual Ardbeg Committee Exclusive, Ardbeg Eureka! which blends malt selected by 100 fans who were invited to the Islay distillery to taste five “extreme” Ardbeg samples.
Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 19 year old Kentucky Straight Wheat 
ABV: 50%
SRP: $300
Availability: Limited
This is the latest release in Heaven Hill’s Heritage Collection, a series of aged releases launched in 2022 that showcases some of...

Texas does a lot of things bigger; this sheet cake is no exception. Classically, a one-bowl cake baked in a sheet tray, this mellow but morish cake comes together easily. This sweet corn-based sponge has a texture akin to a moist chocolate cake with a hint of fudginess that’s reminiscent of a blondie. It’s underscored with caramelized vanilla flavors thanks to a technique of slow-roasting white chocolate—a pastry chef’s trick, that lends a luxuriant note reminiscent of dulce de leche, perfect for pairing with a honey and whiskey glaze.
Any quality bourbon on the sweeter side will work well with this recipe, like Knob Creek 9 year old, but in keeping with the Lone Star State theme, a Texas whiskey is fitting. Go one step further and highlight the cake’s corn base with a bourbon that showcases some out-of-the-ordinary corn strains.
Still Austin’s Blue Corn bourbon is a stellar option. It’s made from Texas-grown blue and white corn and...

It’s another plentiful week in new whisky, especially for American craft distillers. Frey Ranch is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an American whiskey made from five different grains, while Chicken Cock has upped the age on its Double Oak whiskey by two years. Filmland Spirits has similarly released an older iteration of its flagship Moonlight Mayhem! bourbon, and North Carolina’s Oaklore Distilling has made its four-grain bourbon available nationwide. In Washington, Heritage Distilling Co. has debuted another bourbon commemorating the stories and veterans of the U.S. Special Operations Forces. Outside the U.S., Crown Royal has introduced a Canadian blend finished in Caribbean rum casks, Hatozaki has a new blend of malt whiskies finished in umeshu plum liqueur casks, and Japanese whisky bar Club Qing is making its U.S. debut with two single casks from Speyside.
Chicken Cock 10 year old Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey
ABV: 46%
SRP: $80

America’s pastime brings to mind beer, hot dogs, and Cracker Jack. It’s time to add whisky to that list. Although very few baseball stadiums have bars where you can purchase pours, most cities have a standout establishment within walking distance or a short ride away. There, you might be able to enjoy anything from pizza to prime steak with craft cocktails, curated flights, rare selections, or your favorite whisky. From sports bars to speakeasies, here’s where to get your fix before the opening pitch.

Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar

Boston
This cozy British gastropub is a block’s walk from Fenway Park, making it an ideal spot for Red Sox fans and haters alike to suck down local raw oysters, whisky-smoked mussels, and whisky before the game. Pull up a stool at the long, dark wood bar or snag a cognac leather banquette and peruse the list of 375 options, including six single-barrel selections, WhistlePig The Badönkådonk...

This week's new releases feature a new edition of Blue Run's Flight Series, a collection of six whiskeys made in micro-batches, with each "flight"  made from a maximum of four barrels. The concept aims to poke fun at the term "small batch," which isn't legally defined and rarely reveals details on the quantities of each batch. On the tasting front, this new Flight Series contrasts bourbon and rye-led mashbills, and showcases their differences. Elsewhere in Kentucky, New Riff celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, and it bottled a commemorative bourbon and rye to mark the occasion. Both are now out, though at the distillery only. Meanwhile, Irish whiskey Proper No. Twelve climbs the age ladder with a new 13 year old single malt to show that it can be a contender, while scotch whiskies Glen Grant and Macallan have new ultra-aged offerings.  
Blue Run Flight Series III Blended American
ABV: Varies
SRP: $125
Availability...

Single malt scotch makes a good showing this week, with new releases from Glenmorangie, Nc’nean, and Bladnoch, in addition to a collectible Laphroaig. In keeping with previous changes to its other core whiskies The Original and The Nectar, Glenmorangie has added some extra aging to its popular Lasanta expression, while Nc’nean unveils its annual release of Huntress. Both whiskeys have reasonably wide availability. Meanwhile, Lowlands scotch maker Bladnoch follows with the second release in its Wave series, and Laphroaig delves into the archive to release a new 38 year old. Among American whiskeys, Blue Note offers a single barrel rye, while Pursuit United has a rye—sourced not from MGP, but from Bardstown Bourbon and Sagamore Spirit. In bourbon, Kentucky Senator has two new additions, while Michigan’s Coppercraft has an MGP-sourced 9 year old.
Glenmorangie The Lasanta 15 year old Highland Single Malt Scotch
ABV: 43%
SRP...

Everyone who enjoys whisky likely knows how to make a proper Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Sour, and other classic whisky cocktails. For one, they've stood the test of time—whereas the latest trendy drink is often only popular because it looks cool on Instagram, classics have been perfected, so you know they taste good. For another, most are easy to make yet impressive to serve to guests. 
At the same time, you can respect the classics while letting them serve as a starting point. The majority of contemporary cocktails are variations on these standards, and experimentation can lead to delicious results.
An easy place to start is by switching up the whisky you use as the base. “Swapping in different whisky styles lets you explore how [a whisky’s] grain, distillation, and aging change a cocktail’s whole character,” says Jason Hedges, director of beverage for LT Hospitality. “Just like jazz musicians state the basic theme before launching into...

An eclectic and interesting array of new releases has greeted us this week, starting with Tuesday’s unveiling of  Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Beacon, the final bottling in the distillery’s long-running Master’s Keep series. In today’s roundup, we have a rare sweet mash whiskey from Jack Daniel’s, a 12 year old French oak finished bourbon from Barrell Craft Spirits, and the fall release of Still Austin’s bottled in bond bourbon, this one a 7 year old that’s the distillery’s oldest whiskey yet. Among new scotch releases, Ardbeg has announced Y2K 24 year old, which was distilled in 2000, while Nc’Nean offers an amarone-finished single cask expression as a U.S. exclusive.
Jack Daniel’s Distillery Series No. 15: Sweet Mash Tennessee Whiskey
ABV:  58.5%
SRP:  $45/375ml
Availability: Distillery exclusive
Jack Daniel’s is best known for its sour mash whiskey, but the distillery also...

Bourbon's growth doesn't just affect whiskey producers. Business is up at cooperages, bottle makers, label printers, shippers, grain silos, still manufacturers, warehouse builders, and every other related business. But no ancillary industry has benefited more from the bourbon boom than tourism. It began simply, with official highway signs pointing to distillery ‘attractions.' Then the Kentucky Distillers Association (KDA) packaged its member distilleries up as theKentucky Bourbon Trail Tour. Now there is a companion Craft Distillery Trail Tour too. Tennessee, with Daniel and Dickel and a host of new craft distilleries, has its own fledgling association and trail. Today, whiskey is one of the main drivers for tourism in the region.Getting ThereSpeaking of drivers, one of your first questions might be, “Do I need a car?” The region's tourism infrastructure doesn't really support the carless, and distilleries tend to be out of the way. Your best option if you don't drive is a tour...

In the weeks following Christmas, the stream of new whisky slows to a trickle. Nevertheless, there's a brand new bourbon to be on the lookout for, as well as an Irish whiskey returning to market after being sold out for some time.West Cork Distillers' Black Reserve blended Irish whiskey scored well when we reviewed it—86 points in the Buying Guide—and costs $40.Meanwhile, S.D. Strong Distilling is launching a straight bourbon, aged just under 3 years in a cave—a cave that is still in active use as a mine. The bourbon is appropriately named Big Boom, and it's available in 375-ml. bottles in a handful of states and online for $40.Read on for full details.West Cork Black Reserve Irish Whiskey 2018 ReleaseStyle: Blended whiskeyOrigin: IrelandAge: Not statedProof: 43% ABVPrice: $40Release: December 2017Availability: 4,800 bottles for the U.S.Need to know:This is a new batch of West Cork Distillers' Black Reserve Irish whiskey, which was previously available in 2016. It's blended...

Each year, more than a million tourists drink their way through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, souvenir passports in hand, eager to collect stamps from the 16 whiskey distilleries along the route. The trail includes Woodford Reserve in Versailles, which debuted a new welcome center on June 12. Five years of planning and two years of construction went into the facility, and there was a feeling of triumph when Woodford Reserve master distiller Chris Morris and assistant master distiller Elizabeth McCall cut the ribbon on the new building.“We've always had a welcome center at the Woodford Reserve Distillery,” says Chris Poynter, Woodford's public relations and partnerships manager. “However, we felt as though we needed to upgrade to accommodate the 1.4 million visitors that visited the Kentucky Bourbon Trail last year.” The welcome center joins Woodford's existing visitor center, which continues to operate its gift shop, café, and cocktail bar.Located on a plot of land so rooted in...

Our Country's National Spirit, Explored
To build your whisky knowledge base, you'll need to first understand the benchmarks. These five bottles truly show the wide range of flavor profiles and styles that fall under the umbrella of bourbon.
Start with Basil Hayden's, one of the original “Small Batch” bourbons. Then there's Old Grand-Dad, with a similar high-rye mashbill to Basil Hayden's, though more aggressive in how it's expressed.
Jim Beam Black Extra-Aged is likewise a great introduction to the category, smooth and full-bodied, with approachable caramel and vanilla notes. Conversely, there is Maker's Mark®, which uses unique red winter wheat as its flavoring grain. Finally, Knob Creek, also among the original “Small Batch” bourbons, is robust at 100 proof, and can be enjoyed in any and all situations.
Basil Hayden's® Bourbon
A wonderful introduction to bourbon with its very friendly flavor profile and proof, but connoisseurs...

When it comes to selecting a great whisky, or three, to pair with a cigar, bourbon is a sure bet, according to David Savona, executive editor of Cigar Aficionado. “A little sweetness and cigars go really well together, and bourbon has that, as do most bourbon cocktails,” says Savona. You can certainly experiment with other whiskies, but the outcome is less predictable. “Scotch is a much bigger world, and some scotches fight the cigar as opposed to working with it,” he says. So why argue with success? By offering several bourbons, and one or more cigars, you'll unleash a riot of flavors and fun.Pick the BourbonSelect several bourbons that span a variety of proofs and styles so that guests can mix and match their bourbon with a cigar. A solid-scoring and affordable bourbon like Four Roses Small Batch (88 points, $35) should form the foundation of your bar. Next, add a bottled in bond or barrel-proof bourbon, which is nice to accompany stronger cigars and will also stand up to...

This story was originally published in December 2019; offerings and opening times may be different due to COVID-related restrictions, so check in advance of a visit.Bardstown Bourbon Co. isn't shy about celebrating not just its own whiskeys, but also its many partner brands at Bottle & Bond Kitchen & Bar. Across the cocktail menu, names like Belle Meade and Jefferson's share equal billing with Bardstown's own Fusion Series, Discovery Series, and other bourbons. Collaboration is the keyword here, with a whole section dedicated to cocktails made with Bardstown's Collaborative Series of whiskeys, like the recently featured Mack the Knife, combining Collabor&tion bourbon finished in Copper & Kings brandy casks with Averna amaro and Angostura orange bitters. (Tip: If Bardstown is offering a red wine cask-finished bourbon, ask for a New York Sour made with the whiskey and topped with a float of the wine.)
Bardstown MuleCollaboration extends to the bar's barrel-aging...

The coronation of King Charles III takes place Saturday at Westminster Abbey in London, and while the ceremony plan is somewhat less extravagant than coronations past, there will be plenty of pomp and circumstance for royal watchers. Many of the whiskies being released in honor of the coronation are anything but pared down. Among the most kingly is Royal Salute's The Coronation of Kings Charles III Edition, a $25,000 blended scotch that's presented in a richly hued sapphire blue Dartington crystal decanter. While the majority of these coronation whiskies are scotches, an English single malt was also in the mix—from The English Distillery's The English Coronation single malt. That one, priced at $105 in U.S. dollars, sold out quickly. But the list offers numerous other celebratory bottles at a variety of prices.
Coronation whiskies aside, there are new releases galore this week. New Riff continues its...

For whiskey aficionados seeking bespoke bourbon barrels, the options have generally been limited to working with a distillery to select a single barrel of pre-made distillate, or contract distilling—with a minimum order of 100 barrels. Now, there’s a third option. Barrel Global has launched a custom distillation and barrel program called Kentucky Bourbon Retreat, a three-day immersive experience that lets you pick the mashbill and maturation process for 10 barrels. Those bespoke barrels are yours to do whatever you wish.
The Kentucky Bourbon Retreat experience costs $35,000, though the price varies based on the size of your group and the barrel yield. Included in that fee are 10 barrels filled with new-make bourbon—made from a completely custom mashbill of your choosing—as well as full participation in the mashing, fermentation, distillation, and barreling process. You also get lodging, dinner, and an extensive bourbon tasting.
The three-day experience...

Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBC) has unveiled another major production expansion, and this one tops all its previous ones. The company has opened a second, entirely new distillery on its 400-acre campus in Bardstown, Kentucky. The site now houses three column stills and 48 fermentation tanks. Including BBC-owned  Green River Distilling in Owensboro, Kentucky, which it acquired in 2022, BBC now has an annual capacity of 18 million proof gallons. That’s not all that far behind James B. Beam Distilling Co., the biggest bourbon company in the world, which produces 25 million proof gallons annually.
Counting total output in barrel terms, BBC was producing 25,000 barrels annually when it opened its doors in 2014, and today it can produce 289,000 barrels.
Inevitably, such major expansion efforts raise the question of where all that bourbon will go. While Bardstown’s expansion story is remarkable, it isn’t the only distillery to ratchet up production over...

It's a big week for well-aged scotch. Macallan is releasing a 50 year old single malt that aged in a single Spanish oak sherry butt, while Dalmore has unveiled a 45 year old which includes whiskies finished in two vintage tawny port pipes. The Macallan 50 year old costs $35,000, and only 200 bottles are available (35 for the U.S.), while The Dalmore 45 year old rings up at $12,500 with 500 bottles for sale.Meanwhile, Glenlivet is reprising the same elements of mystery that surrounded its Alpha release a few years ago. The Glenlivet Code is a Speyside single malt whisky, and that's about all we know of it. Glenlivet wants drinkers to taste the whisky and determine for themselves what aromas and flavors they detect; then, at the end of the year, the distillery will reveal details about the whisky's maturation. While Alpha was very limited in quantity, Code is more widely available and will have a shelf price of $120.In American whiskey new releases, Michter's is rolling out its 2018...

The calendar is about to turn over to a new month, and there will be plenty of new whiskies to look for as spring continues to blossom.First up, Bulleit 12 year old rye is already on shelves in a number of states, priced at $50. The first age-statement rye from Bulleit uses the same mashbill and distillery source (MGP) as regular Bulleit Rye.Buffalo Trace announced that it will release a limited quantity of a new, high-proof Weller in June. Weller Full Proof clocks in at 57% ABV (114 proof), the same proof at which it goes into the barrel. Available annually, the suggested retail price is $50.Meanwhile, Canada is finally sharing one of its best whiskies with its southern neighbor. Gooderham & Worts, a blended four-grain whisky, is now available in the U.S. for $45.A single malt whisky from Belgium is hitting shelves this spring. Gouden Carolus is made by the same family that owns Het Anker Brewery (which is why the name might sound familiar to Belgian beer fans). It's priced at...

Auberge Resorts was born in the heart of Napa Valley wine country before growing into an international collection of more than 20 luxury properties, so it is only fitting that they return to their adult beverage roots. Their new Lodge at Blue Sky, outside Salt Lake City and Park City, Utah, where guests enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits, summer and winter, has whiskey on its grounds. The sprawling 3,500-acre dude ranch-style property is home to both the new Auberge Lodge at Blue Sky and highly awarded whiskey maker High West.Worldwide, lodging and distillery combos run the gamut from rooms above the stills to small inns to historic Scottish cottages. Others might throw world-class skiing or equestrian pursuits into the mix. In every case, they make great vacation options for those who enjoy blending two of life's finest pleasures: travel and whisky.
The Auberge Lodge at Blue Sky in Utah sits on a 3,500-acre dude ranch-style property that's also home to High West Distillery...

This week we learned that there's the water of life, and then the water of afterlife. Yes, that's right, you can be interred for all time with the whisky of your choice in a bourbon-barrel urn. Gives a whole new meaning to spirits, eh?Back in the earthly realm, Old Forester is redoing its single-barrel program so that the whiskey can be bottled at either 50% ABV or barrel strength. Previously, the distillery offered single barrels bottled at 45% ABV; that option is no longer available. The decision is a good one that should make lots of Old Forester fans happy, since bourbon at higher proof can easily be adjusted to suit individual tastes by adding water, or not. If you want to get your hands on one of the new 100-proof or barrel-proof Old Forester single barrel whiskeys, look for it at retailers that regularly bottle private picks.Speaking of barrel-proof, the latest batch of Stagg Jr. from Buffalo Trace Distillery is hitting shelves. The uncut, unfiltered bourbon has a recommended...

We've turned the corner into the second month of 2020, and with that transition come several new whiskies.First up, Glenmorangie is launching The Cadboll Estate, a 15 year old single malt made from barley grown on the distillery's land. It will be available in limited amounts for $85.Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay has unveiled its seventh iteration of Black Art. The vintage 1994 whisky is 25 years old, and there are 12,000 bottles available at $430 each.Ireland's Kilbeggan Distillery is debuting its first single pot still whiskey, made with 2.5% oats. The new whiskey is widely available for $45.Retired NFL player and actor Terry Bradshaw has partnered with Silver Screen Bottling Co. to debut his own Kentucky straight bourbon. Bradshaw bourbon is priced at $40, currently available online with expanded distribution at retail stores coming soon.Conecuh Brands, the company behind Clyde May's Alabama whiskey, is reviving McConnell's, a historic Irish whiskey brand. The blended whiskey...

The latest issue of Whisky Advocate hit newsstands this week, and it includes over 100 new whisky reviews. Check it out and let us know what you think! We look forward to adding reviews for this week's newest whiskies to the Buying Guide soon.Glenlivet has launched a rum cask-finished single malt called Caribbean Reserve. The whisky is widely available for $35.Buffalo Trace's newest experimental whiskey—a 12 year old bourbon that was proofed down mid-maturation—is available in very limited amounts, priced at $47 for a 375 ml.New Riff is releasing a very unusual bourbon and rye line called Backsetter. Both bottled in bond whiskeys are made with backset that came from a distillation of peated malted barley. There are roughly 2,250 bottles of each style available, priced at $50.Abasolo corn whisky from Mexico is making its debut. The 100% corn whisky is priced at $40 and available in seven states.Read on for full details.Glenlivet Caribbean ReserveStyle: Single maltOrigin: Scotland...

Sourcing whiskey isn't a new practice. Many distillers purchase whiskey to sell, and the mega-distillery MGP is one of several supplying wholesale stocks. The trend of combining sourced liquid with house-made whiskey is emerging at more and more distilleries, and the results are varied and inventive. These four bottles showcase the range of possibilities that encompasses craft blending.4 inventive blends to seek out
Bardstown Bourbon Company Fusion Series #1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon—91 points,$60A blend of 60% house-made 2 year old wheated and high-rye Kentucky bourbon and 40% 11 year, 7 month sourced Kentucky bourbon.Notes: Cooked dark fruit, cola, chocolate, nuts, well-integrated spice, espresso, and oak
Smooth Ambler Spirits Contradiction Bourbon—86 points,$40A mixture of 27% house-made wheated bourbon and 73% Indiana-made rye-recipe bourbon.Notes: Oak-driven, herbal licorice, beeswax, dried peaches, forest floor, autumn leaves, and cut grass
Spirits of French...

We chronicle new whiskies every week on this page, but those looking to try something without a big commitment up front would be wise to look at 50 ml sample bottles. Whisky makers large and small are embracing the format, giving curious drinkers a new reason to consider the mini.As for what’s new this week, MGP releases the 5th iteration of its Remus Repeal Reserve, while Balcones pays homage to a Texas landmark, and Chattanooga throws its hat into the bottled in bond ring. Read on for full details.Remus Repeal Reserve Series VStyle: Straight bourbonOrigin: IndianaAge: Not statedABV: 50%Price: $90Release: September 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:While this bourbon doesn’t carry an age statement, it’s a combination of various mashbills distilled in 2005, 2006, and 2008. The exact makeup is as follows:• 54% bourbon distilled in 2008 (36% rye)• 19% bourbon distilled in 2006 (21% rye)• 13% bourbon distilled in 2008 (21% rye)• 9% bourbon distilled in 2005 (21% rye)•...

Our sister publication Wine Spectator is celebrating the year in wine with its annual Top 100 list, counting down its Top 10 this week to this morning's announcement of Wine of the Year. The full Top 100 list goes live on Monday, November 14th. You can check out Wine Spectator's Top 10 now at WineSpectator.com. Next up is Whisky Advocate, as our Top 20 list of the most exciting whiskies of the year will be announced early next month.
This week's new whiskies run the gamut in terms of style and origin. Heaven Hill is releasing its oldest Old Fitzgerald to date,  a 19 year old bottled in bond bourbon. Crown Royal introduces a 29 year old blend, that could be considered a rye whiskey. And Jack Daniel's announces its first-ever American single malt, which was finished in oloroso sherry casks. Read on for full details.

Jack Daniel’s Twice Barreled Special Release Oloroso Sherry Cask Finished
Style: American single...

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...

The Vendome pot stills at Michter’s Fort Nelson distillery in Louisville have had quite a life. They were built in 1976, and first made whiskey in Schaefferstown, Pennsylvania, for Pennco Distillery—a contract distiller whose clients included a small brand called Michter’s. How did those very stills end up in Kentucky, and what other hands did they pass through? We detailed their origin story, and how they ultimately landed with Joseph Magliocco, owner of the Michter's brand today.
There’s new whisky aplenty this week, starting with the annual Ardbeg Day single malt, this one a particularly peaty dram. Elsewhere, Crown Royal returns with the final edition of its Noble Collection, and Proof and Wood has another Polish rye in the offing. Read on for full details.
Ardbeg Heavy Vapours
Style: Single malt
Origin: Scotland (Islay)
Age: Not stated
ABV: 46%

We regularly cover new whiskies here at Whisky Advocate, but with some bottlings, we delve just a little deeper. This week, for instance, there are two new projects in the mix: a single barrel Empire rye from New York Distilling made exclusively for the Brooklyn-based Wythe Hotel, and an entirely new brand from master blender Dixon Dedman. The Empire rye is a celebration of Brooklyn's rich distilling and cocktailing cultures, which both have been reborn in the past decade, while Dixon Dedman's release marks an exciting new chapter for this acclaimed Kentucky blender, who's best known for reviving Kentucky Owl back in 2014.
Of course, there are plenty of additional whiskies to present this week. Michter's is back with the latest edition of its highly coveted 10 year old Rye, Nikka returns with an age-statement Japanese single malt, and Nelson Green Brier sweetens its range with a bourbon finished in a honey-coated cask. Read on for full details.
Michter’s 10...

In 2016 MGP pivoted toward the creation and acquisition of its own whiskey labels. The move was slow at first, but MGP struck gold in early 2021 with the $475 million acquisition of Luxco. Last year, it made another key acquisition with the purchase of Penelope Bourbon. Both moves added to a healthy and growing list of brands that accounted for nearly $254 million in sales last year. This week MGP announced two new releases: a second batch of Penelope Rio and a new 6 year old wheated bourbon from Rebel on the way.  
Penelope Rio Bourbon 2024
The first batch of Rio holds a somewhat interesting place in Penelope Bourbon’s history. Unlike many of MGP’s other high-profile brands, the ever-popular Penelope wasn’t brought over as part of the 2021 Luxco sale. It’s one of the newer faces in the MGP lineup, only having been a part of the group for under a year. Rio was the first Penelope bourbon to be released after its acquisition, with its...

Heaven Hill is out with Batch B of Larceny Barrel Proof, the second of what will be three releases in 2024 for this former Whisky of the Year (2020), while Kentucky Peerless has a new rum cask finished offering. It’s the first venture into rum for the highly acclaimed Peerless, which opened its doors in downtown Louisville back in 2015. The Peerless barrel finishing resumé thus far includes double-oaked and absinthe-finished ryes, as well as a double-oaked bourbon, and now this rum cask expression. Elsewhere, we have a new whiskey from the Georgia-based 13th Colony, and Spanish winemaker Bodegas Jaime, which produces the vermouth brand Turmeon, now has a vermouth-finished whiskey that should be shipping out to the U.S. market in the coming months.
Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch B524)
ABV: 62.7%
SRP: $65
Availability: Nationwide
Kentucky distiller Heaven Hill has released the latest batch of its Larceny...

Barrel staves toasted in a smokeless fire pit? That’s a new one for us. In an unusual partnership, Vermont WhistlePig has teamed up with Solo Stove, a maker of portable stainless steel fireplaces for the backyard and beach, to toast its barrel staves. Elsewhere around the whiskey world, Elijah Craig is out with this year’s Batch B, and it’s a bit older than Batch A—closer to the 12 year old level that was the norm before Elijah Craig owner Heaven Hill removed the age statement last year.  Westland Colere has a new edition, and there's a new whiskey in the Woodford Reserve Distillers Series.
 
 
Elijah Craig 11 Year and 2 Month Old Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch B524)
ABV: 65.3%
SRP: $75
Availability: Nationwide
The newest batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, B524, was aged for 11 years and 2 months—featuring slightly older liquid than the previous batch released in January.
Only three batches of...

Among the latest new releases, Ardbeg takes us back to the the turn of the new millennium with some of its first whisky made in 2000, while Glenmorangie is out with the fourth edition of its Cadboll Estate label, made from barley harvested on its estate in the Highlands. From the U.S., Iowa whiskey maker Cedar Ridge has released its first sherry finished bourbon, while Ireland's Boann Distillery makes its global debut with a trio of Irish single pot still whiskeys—two of them finished in sherry casks and the other in madeira casks. Up until now, Boann has been best known for its branded whiskey The Whistler, and also for its work with old Irish mashbill recipes, specifically its Vintage Mashbill Project, done in collaboration with Irish whiskey historian Fionan O'Connor.
 
 
Ardbeg Vintage Y2K Single Malt Scotch
ABV: 46%
SRP: $800
Availability: Ardbeg.com, the distillery visitor center, Reservebar.com, and...

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...

There’s a long history of aging scotch whisky in barrels that previously held other spirits or wines—most notably sherry, but also red and white table wines, cognac, madeira, and more. But scotch’s governing body, the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), has kept a watchful eye on precisely which barrels are permitted for use, and tequila barrels were on the forbidden list—until recently.
In 2019 the SWA loosened the rules to allow the use of tequila barrels, adding a new element to scotch whisky’s repertoire. Because the change is so recent, only a handful of scotch distillers have released tequila-finished expressions thus far, and not all have been available in the U.S.—Islay distiller Kilchoman was among the first to release one stateside, debuting an 8 year old single cask bottling of tequila-finished single malt for ImpEx Beverage’s Cask Evolution series in 2022, with just 236 bottles released. More recently there’s been the...

This week we have a new straight rye from Ezra Brooks, a new batch of The Exclusive Malts' single cask bottlings, a very limited 16 year old bourbon, and a whopper of a 50 year old Dalmore.Ezra Brooks Straight RyeStyle: Straight rye whiskeyProof: 45% ABVPrice: $19-$22Release: January 2017Availability: Widely availableNeed to know:The Ezra Brooks range currently includes a straight bourbon, a 7 year old bourbon, a blended whiskey, and a bourbon cream liqueur, all priced for everyday drinking.Whisky Advocate says:Brand owner Luxco—which also produces the David Nicholson, Rebel Yell, and Blood Oath whiskey brands—is building a new distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Lux Row Distillers will make all of those bourbons when it opens in 2018.The Exclusive Malts Glen Moray 2007 9 year oldStyle: Single malt Scotch whiskyProof: 55.7% ABVPrice: $85Release: January 2017Availability: 220 bottles for the U.S.The Exclusive Malts Caol Ila 2006 10 year oldStyle: Single malt Scotch whiskyProof...

This week brings new whisky for lovers of scotch, bourbon, and practical jokes.First up, Glenmorangie has released the second whisky in its Bond House No. 1 Vintage collection. Distilled in 1989, the single malt includes about 25% whisky finished in Côte-Rôtie wine casks. Like last year's release, the 1990 vintage, this whisky is available in limited quantities—just 6,178 bottles. It costs $665—not a bad price for a 27 year old scotch.Buffalo Trace is coming out with several new bourbons—but good luck getting your hands on them. W.L. Weller CYPB is the result of many thousands of whiskey fans designing their ideal bourbon on the "Craft Your Perfect Bourbon" website. The whiskey is 8 years old, made with a wheated mashbill, and bottled at 47.5% ABV. It will be released once a year in limited amounts, starting this summer, for $40.In addition, Buffalo Trace has three single barrel bourbons hitting the market, each available in extremely limited quantities. Bottled under the...

This is a big year for Old Forester. Not only is the distiller celebrating its 150th year, but 2020 also marks the 20th anniversary of Birthday Bourbon, the annual commemorative release honoring Brown-Forman founder George Garvin Brown. Jackie Zykan, Old Forester master taster, joined Whisky Advocate's Instagram Live series #TasteWithSpace on Aug. 28 to discuss this year's release and how people can acquire the highly coveted whiskey.“We sell it at the retail shop out of the distillery,” she said, noting that they offer curbside pickup and provide email updates for when items are for sale. “You want people to discover it and be able to experience it because we put so much work into making sure it's delicious. I don't want it all to go to people that are going to collect it or possibly trade it.”Once an undiscovered gem, Birthday Bourbon has reached vaunted status in recent years, becoming one of the most sought-after whiskeys on the secondary market. Zykan broke down the...

After being established more than 150 years ago, Yellowstone Bourbon continues to keep things fresh. Founded in 1872, created to honor America’s first national park, the brand is, for the first time, offering twists to its world-class historic formula. 
The Special Finishes Collection launched in October of 2023 with bourbons that have seen secondary maturation in other types of casks and wood staves. 
First, came Toasted, a 100 proof, four-year-old bourbon, which recently received a Double Gold award at the 2024 San Francisco Wine Spirits Competition. Crafted using the same, heritage Yellowstone Bourbon mashbill, a flavorful blend of High Toast, American Oak, Double Toast, Rickhouse, High Vanilla and Spicerack staves were mixed with the Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey for added complexity. The result is a bourbon that explodes with toasted caramel, vanilla, and fall spices on the nose, before ushering in a palate of walnut, toffee, black tea, and white...

I.W. Harper’s 34 year old bourbon arrives with three distinct narratives: the documented story, industry speculation, and the liquid truth. There’s no disputing, for example, this is the oldest release in I.W. Harper’s 150-year history, comprising four barrels laid down in 1989 and left to mature at Stitzel-Weller’s hallowed Kentucky facility.
Likewise, we know that, after three decades, that quartet of barrels yielded a scant 11 bottles of this expression, five of which are currently up for auction at Sotheby’s. (Which ends today—current bids exceeded $4,000 per bottle this morning.) We know the proof—63.1% ABV—and that the proceeds from the auction will go to benefit Native Son, a nonprofit to benefit Black gay and/or queer men.
The speculation begins with what’s actually in those bottles. Industry insiders believe bourbon distilled in 1989 and stored at Stitzel-Weller is likely Bernheim juice. It could also be...

If you're planning a bourbon trip, consider Cincinnati. The Queen City sits on the Ohio River across from Kentucky, is only an hour away from most distilleries, and has a strong whiskey scene of its own.Day OneOnce you've checked in and settled down, your 48 Hours must begin standing next to a bathtub with the words “Since 1861. Arnold's Bar & Grill.” The tub is symbolic of the restaurant's Prohibition-era owner, Hugo Arnold, who allegedly made bathtub gin and sold illegal liquor to thirsty customers. Built in the late 1830s, the building is a slice of Midwestern Americana and showcases an old bar that commands the city's first right of refusal on allocated bourbons. The eclectic menu gives you an inside glimpse of Cincinnati cuisine, with noodles in its chili and the local meat-and-grain sausage called “goetta.” From Arnold's, it's time to cross the bridge and buy bourbon history in a bottle. At Liquor City Uncorked are the most-coveted bourbons of all time: 16 year old...

WhiskyFest is celebrating its 20th anniversary in New York on November 16th, and, with over 110 tables pouring nearly 500 different whiskies, it's going to be quite the celebration. As always, Scotch and bourbon lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Plus, craft distillers from around the United States will be sharing their unique and exciting whiskeys at WhiskyFest. Craft whiskey is incredibly diverse and constantly changing, and even longtime fans will find new drams to try. Don't worry if you aren't sure where to start—this guide offers tips for making the most of all of WhiskyFest's craft whiskeys. (You can also check out the full list of all whiskies being poured at WhiskyFest New York—and don't forget to download the app.)Fun fact: WhiskyFest is older than all but one of the distilleries on this list!The Hometown Heroes: Hillrock, Hudson, Coppersea, and Widow JaneNew York State is home to one of the most vibrant craft distilling scenes in the nation, and that's well reflected by...

This week's newest whiskies come from Scotland, Kentucky, Indiana, Ireland, and beyond.Balvenie is releasing this year's batch of Peat Week 14 year old. Vintage-dated to 2003, the peated whisky will be quite available—36,000 bottles are destined for the U.S. market—and will cost $99. If you're wondering why Balvenie, a typically unpeated Speyside single malt, would make a peated version, find out the answer from the man who makes it, David Stewart.Another whiskey that's coming back for the second year in a row, WhistlePig Farmstock Crop 002 is now hitting shelves. The blend includes ryes sourced from MGP Distillery in Indiana, Alberta Distillers in Canada, and WhistlePig's own Vermont Distillery; this year, the Vermont portion makes up 32% of the mix. As with Farmstock Crop 001, this year's batch is limited. It has a recommended retail price of $73.Speaking of MGP, the Indiana mega-distillery has just released its own rye, after years of supplying hundreds of other brands...

Don't fret that summer's coming to a close, celebrate that the biggest whisky release season is upon us, and this week serves as a hearty entry, with loads of new single malt scotch and other whiskies.Glenfiddich is hoping you turn to their 23 year old Grand Cru next time you have a toast-worthy occasion. The whisky was finished in French cuvée casks from the country's most famous sparkling wine region. At $300, the single malt will be part of the brand's core range and is widely available starting this month.Less permanent, Four Roses is releasing their annual Limited Edition Small Batch bourbon, this year's release clocking in at 56.3% ABV and $140. Each Limited Edition Small Batch release scores high marks in our Buying Guide, so this whiskey, released for National Bourbon Heritage Month, should appeal to collectors and sippers alike.Meanwhile, back in Scotland, Aberlour has a new A'bunadh expression, Alba, mirroring past cask-strength releases but matured in American oak bourbon...

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 a big week for the Emerald Isle—or at least its distillers—as several new Irish whiskeys are making their stateside debut.First up, Boann Distillery is adding a trio of cask-finished offerings to supplement its recently released Whistler Double Oaked blend. The Whistler Oloroso Cask-Finished ($35) is widely available, while Calvados Cask-Finished ($40) and Imperial Stout Cask-Finished ($40) are both more limited, with 3,000 bottles available.Sliabh Liag Distillers is launching the Legendary Silkie with two blends, one lightly peated ($42) and the more heavily peated Dark Silkie ($44)—both using Irish peat, a first in the U.S. The whiskeys are available in several states, with expansion planned.The first whiskeys made at Royal Oak Distillery have come of age and are being released as The Busker. The lineup includes single malt, single grain, and single pot still whiskeys (all $30), as well as a blend ($25) of all three. They are widely available.Moving away from Ireland...

Forgive us if we get romantic about our whisky, but some drams make it easy to fall in love. Whisky aromas can be described as fragrant and floral, textures can be lush and velvety, and some pours even have transportive abilities. Perhaps a whisky reminds you of time spent abroad, or a certain home-cooked dish, or even a special person—and suddenly, you're reliving some of your fondest memories.Any day can be a great whisky occasion, but sharing a dram with someone you love—whether a partner, friend, or family member—on Valentine's Day can heighten your enjoyment. Try pairing it with the usual treats of the day, like chocolates—this year, Woodford Reserve has teamed up with Memphis-based Phillip Ashley Chocolates to craft custom sweets to pair with its Double Oaked Bourbon. Or make your own special delicacy, like bourbon balls or donuts with maple-bourbon glaze. You might even try a whisky-chocolate cocktail.Or check out one of the whiskies below, whose names...

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...

Rediscovering a forgotten whisky can be like finding a lost love. Remember how delighted and dazzled you were by all those great drams when you first started exploring whisky? Those early block builders are often forgotten—eclipsed by the perpetual seduction of new discoveries. Our advice: Don't always be so quick to move on. Take a moment to rediscover your whisky-loving roots, and find some time for the whiskies you forgot you love.
Single malt scotch


Glenfiddich 12 year old 89 points, 40%, $55
Launched in 1999, Glenfiddich sells around 10.5 million bottles of this 12 year old Speyside single malt every year. “The distillery process continues to be exactly the same as it was decades ago, with traditional mash tuns, wooden washbacks, and unusually small stills,” says Glenfiddich malt master Brian Kinsman. Matured in American and Spanish oak casks, this expression balances those distilling and maturation aspects beautifully. Aromas of...

If you are on the hunt for a new whisky to try, new releases are a great starting point, but sometimes discovery can come from unexpected places. Take Nordic whiskies for example. Distillers in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland are crafting whiskies that capture Nordic climates and traditions—including smoking with sheep-dung—and adding to the ever-expanding category of world whisky. Read all about the growing Nordic whisky scene in our feature looking at the region.As for this week's new releases, Glenmorangie has unveiled its Grand Vintage Malt 1998, a portion of which comes from 23 year old single malt aged in virgin oak barrels. Wild Turkey announced a new addition under its Russell's Reserve label that examines the impact of warehouse location. And WhistlePig added to its PiggyBack line with a 100 proof bourbon. Read on for full details.

Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1998
Style: Single maltOrigin: Scotland (Highlands)Age: 23 year oldABV...

The single barrel universe is far-flung, with many distilleries taking part in offering single barrels these days. Perhaps you’re not ready or able to spend time in distillery warehouses tasting through barrel samples, or not fast enough on the draw to find the best private barrel selections from retailers. You might simply be looking to taste some branded single barrel expressions to compare them with the other whiskeys in a distiller’s arsenal, either for your whisky club or on your own. Here we’ve assembled a roll call of players who offer single barrel selections you can find on the retail shelf. They often sell quickly, but they can be found at liquor stores.
Four Roses
Few single barrel expressions are as accessible or offer as much value as Four Roses Single Barrel. The distiller is famous for its 10 mashbill recipes that are usually batched together for its various expressions, but the single barrel uses only one—the OBSV recipe. “The...

Great barbecue is a labor of love. Whether it’s cooking your meats low and slow over carefully calibrated woodsmoke or monitoring your grill’s hot and cool spots with obsessive attention to detail, great homemade barbecue takes time. These days, no one does it better than Dominique Leach, co-owner, chef, and pitmaster of Lexington Betty Smokehouse, the Black and woman-owned Chicago barbecue standout. Leach has also made a name for herself as a rising Food Network star, with appearances on “Chopped: Playing with Fire,” “Fire Masters,” and more.

Chef Leach has created a fantastic menu that incorporates both the smoker and the grill. For whisky recommendations, we reached out to Abe Vucekovich, former lead bartender and general manager at Chicago’s The Violet Hour and current beverage director of Meadowlark Hospitality. Between Leach’s food and Vucekovich’s whisky pairings, summertime just got a lot...

When it comes to a whisky for a special occasion, it’s hard to argue against a 25 year old scotch. That age statement is grand enough to thrill your guests after dinner, provide a special gift, or simply be the bottle you reach for to reward yourself after a good day. There are peated malts from Islay, sherried styles from Speyside, and luxuriously complex blends to choose from.
What you pay for a quarter-century-old scotch varies considerably. Astonishingly, for two whiskies made just eight miles apart and of the exact same proof, you can buy 17 bottles of the lowest-priced example for the same money it costs to own one bottle of the most expensive, and still get 30 bucks in change.
Due to supply squeezes of ultra-aged whiskies, distillers are more often releasing annual batch bottlings rather than permanent expressions, so not every bottling will be available all year round. A fair number of 25 year old scotches disappear from the shelves for good every year. All the...

Historic Kentucky bourbon brand Chicken Cock dates back more than 160 years and was resurrected in 2012. Now it’s set to put down roots in the heart of Bourbon Country with this week’s opening of its new home in Bardstown. Chicken Cock has unveiled an immersive experience called Circa 1856 at the historic Harrison-Smith House in downtown Bardstown that will serve as its public face. Circa 1856 is named for the year Chicken Cock’s original distillery was built in Paris, Kentucky, and it's officially open starting June 27, housing a bar, retail shop, barrel pick experience, and a microdistillery.
Circa 1856 exudes the home-like feel of its space. The house features a lounge area in front with merchandise and whiskey for sale and a bar toward the back. The bar serves the Chicken Cock whiskey lineup, of course, but also a variety of specialty and classic cocktails and whiskey flights. Circa 1856’s bar menu spans from an Old Fashioned and a Manhattan to...

Tendrils of smoke bobbed and weaved through the air, and Glencairn glasses clinked with abandon at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa, Florida over the weekend, as avid cigar fans joined forces with whisky lovers at the annual Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest, now in its fourth year.
The night kicked off at 5:30 p.m. with a VIP hour, during which ticket holders were among the first to access the evening’s 30-plus cigars—hailing from Arturo Fuente, La Flor Dominicana, J.C. Newman, and more—and rarefied pours from the likes of Johnnie Walker, Lagavulin, Bardstown Bourbon Co., Penelope Bourbon, Redemption, and Crown Royal. Among those wandering the VIP floor was Eddie Coronado, a longtime Big Smoke attendee (this year marked his 15th), and a regular at the Big Smoke Meets WhiskyFest crossover, having attended all four. Coronado was stopped over at the Redwood Empire booth, pairing a Brick House Churchill (Cigar Aficionado’s No.-10 cigar of 2024) with...

Pairing cigars with whisky is a long-standing pleasure. People who enjoy both love to mix and match them together, seeking the perfect pairings that accentuate the flavors of both. But in recent years, some distillers have taken matters into their own hands by introducing whiskies specifically meant to be sipped alongside a cigar. These expressions have drawn equal measures of curiosity and skepticism from those who are confused by what cigar blends actually are.
The cigar-centric names on whisky labels are marketing terms. Just as with other unregulated phrases like “small batch” or “special reserve,” any whisky distiller can slap “cigar” on a label. The proposition is that these whiskies work well with cigars but, technically speaking, the whisky makers aren’t required to light up and evaluate how well they pair. Many distillers do put in the work, and here we outline some of their methods.
Smoke Meets Sweet
The cigar...

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...

It’s a light week as far as new releases go, with just three new American whiskeys. Two hail from Texas: Hye-based Garrison Brothers is introducing its inaugural bottled in bond bourbon, and to the north, Fort Worth’s TX Whiskey has a new bourbon-rye blend that’s finished in vino de naranja casks. In Kentucky, NFL icon Terry Bradshaw is adding 6 and 12 year old bourbons to his Bradshaw bourbon roster.
TX Whiskey Experimental Series: Vino de Naranja Blended American
ABV: 41.75%
SRP: $40
Availability: Limited
TX Whiskey has kept innovation at its core through the Experimental Series, which launched in 2020 with a rye whiskey made from 85% rye and 15% malted rye. Six years later, the series is now getting its 15th release, this one a blend of straight bourbon and straight rye whiskeys finished in vino de naranja casks. Both component whiskeys are 5 years old, and once married, they spent an additional 3 years aging in finishing casks that...

Leading the charge this week is Penelope bourbon, which has taken things up a notch with its barrel strength bourbon expression, raising the age statement from 4 years to 7 years. From Rebel comes a collaboration with NASCAR veteran Kyle Busch on a new single barrel bourbon, while Virginia Distillery Co. has unveiled three new single malt expressions.  Minnesota distiller Keeper's Heart is rolling out the first whiskey made entirely from its own production, and Irish whiskey Proper No. Twelve has a new, more charred-oak riff on its core label.
 
Penelope 7 year old Barrel Strength Bourbon
ABV: 57.6%
SRP: $60
Availability: Limited
Penelope has announced a change to its Barrel Strength bourbon, raising the age statement from 4 to 7 years old. This version is a blend of four bourbons rather than three, and it has a slightly different mashbill of 70% corn, 23% rye, 5% malted barley, and 2% malted rye. The initial release accounts for 78,000...

Next month, Dalmore will once again be open to visitors following a long renovation period, while Iowa distillery Cedar Ridge is launching a new subscription plan to make its whiskeys easier to procure. Meanwhile, starting today, you can shop at the bourbon lifestyle merchant Pappy & Company to become eligible to win a bottle of Van Winkle 12 year old in a sweepstakes whose drawing will take place later this month. These items, and others, are included in this week's News Notes.
The Dalmore Ready to Reopen Its Revamped Visitor Experience
Following a several-year renovation, The Dalmore will reopen its doors to visitors on April 27. All tours and tastings will now be conducted privately, and guests will communicate directly with the distillery to fully personalize their experiences. Those interested in priority access are encouraged to join The Dalmore Guild (it’s free), which will start taking reservations on March 25. Bookings will open to the...

There are few better ways to earn a fine dram or a cold cocktail than riding a mule to the bottom of the Grand Canyon or scrambling over boulders to the summit of Grand Teton. Fortunately, America's national parks offer surprisingly forward-thinking alcohol policies and sophisticated dining and drinking experiences. Many of the historic lodges offer modern cocktail creations and interesting whiskies that would be at home in any major city. Best of all, they're a bargain: the national parks are a federally owned public service and mandate reasonable food and drink costs, so you'll find luxury resort selections at small-town prices. Beyond the in-park lodges, you're generally welcome to pack a whisky into the wilderness. There are 59 national parks in the U.S. and these are just a few of our favorites, so grab your boots and go track down some whisky in the wild.Yellowstone: Wyoming, Montana, and IdahoThe first Western explorers who visited Yellowstone described it as a land of fire and...

There may be tequila cask-finished scotch on the horizon, as the rules for permitted cask types in scotch production have just been updated to include a much broader range of options than before. And Beam Suntory has announced that it will be bringing back Knob Creek bourbon's 9 year old age statement starting in 2020. In addition, the company is transforming Baker's from a batched bourbon to a single barrel offering—still at 53.5% ABV and 7 years old—later this year. The company says there are no immediate plans to change the price on Knob Creek, although Baker's will now be priced at $60. We'll report more on those developments as details become available.While we wait for those bottles to roll out, there are plenty of new whiskies coming out much sooner. Heavy metal band Slipknot has collaborated with Iowa's Cedar Ridge Distillery to release two American whiskeys, both a blend of bourbon and rye. Slipknot No. 9 Iowa whiskey ($40) and Slipknot No. 9 Reserve Iowa whiskey ($70...

While scotch prices might be rising thanks to recently enacted tariffs, there's plenty of good news for whisky lovers, starting with this week's newest releases.First up actually is a single malt scotch, the final release in Diageo's Game of Thrones tie-in bottles. Mortlach 15 year old Six Kingdoms is priced at $150 and available in limited amounts, alongside the other eight single malts, which originally launched in 2018 and have been re-released this fall.Canadian Club is rolling out a 42 year old whisky called The Dock Man. Priced at just $300 (a steal for a whisky of this age), it's available in limited amounts.Another well-aged Canadian whisky at a higher price is coming from Heaven's Door, the Tennessee-based brand backed by Bob Dylan. The first release in its Bootleg Series of limited-edition whiskies is a 26 year old Canadian whisky finished in mizunara casks. Less than 3,000 bottles are available, priced at $500.Egan's is rolling out Centenary, a blend of Irish malt and grain...

The biggest news of the week was the reveal of Whisky Advocate's Whisky of the Year and full Top 20 awards—a list that has something for everyone. Be sure to check it out! And then keep reading to discover the week's newest whiskies.First up, Balvenie has crafted a new 50 year old single malt, priced at $38,000. Just 110 bottles are available worldwide.Compass Box is rolling out its Myths & Legends trio in the U.S. The series includes two single malts and one blended malt scotch, all priced at $150 apiece; availability is around 4,400 bottles of each variant.Clyde May's is re-releasing its cask-strength expression with an added year of age. There are 3,000 bottles of Clyde May's 11 year old Cask Strength, priced at $120.Royal Salute has debuted a blended grain whisky, the Snow Polo Edition. It's available at travel retail for $155.High West is launching a single malt whiskey (sort of) that's all made in-house. Initially for sale in Utah for $80, it will go national in 2021.Wigle...

For many drinkers, bourbon can be a bit too sweet,” says Todd Leopold, distiller and co-founder at Leopold Bros. in Denver. “The American palate—at least for foodies—is moving very, very rapidly away from sweet and over into savory, bitter, and hot [as in Scoville hot]. Think of how popular bitter IPAs and aperitifs [Campari, Aperol] have become. This was unthinkable 25 years ago.” This is very good news for rye whiskey. Although it is still a small sliver of the American whiskey category, rye is finding fans among discerning drinkers who relish complex, often intense flavors, and it's finding its niche in both cocktails and for straight sipping.Because Kentucky and Tennessee are so closely associated with bourbon and its kissing cousin, Tennessee whiskey, rye gives far-flung distillers, like Leopold Bros., a way to sidestep those comparisons. Leopold Bros. deems their rye a Maryland-style, which they characterize as fruity, floral, and lightly oaked. They are experimenting...

In the weeks following the killing of George Floyd, as protests against police brutality and structural racism toward African Americans roiled seemingly every aspect of American life, many businesses released statements expressing their intent to be more diverse and inclusive. Yet initially, American whiskey brands largely remained silent, prompting the Black Bourbon Society (BBS) to publish an open letter on June 7 to the bourbon and American whiskey industry, calling out whiskey brands for not publicly speaking out against racism; the letter also details the many ways that African Americans have played an important role in the industry's success, and continue to support it. Major distilleries and smaller companies alike are now reckoning with and confronting enduring forms of racial injustice—including within their own industry.Since the letter was made public, “We have received overwhelming support and response from the majority of the bourbon brands,” BBS founder and CEO...

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...

If you're whipping up cocktails this summer and putting orange juice to use, we have some recipes that let you go beyond the classic Blood and Sand, and use practically any style of whisky. And there are plenty of new whiskies to play around with from this week's Whisky Weekend lineup, including the return of Glenmorangie's single estate single malt, a finished rye from WhistlePig, a single grain scotch from Loch Lomond, and more. Read on for full details.Glenmorangie Cadboll Estate Batch #2Style: Single maltOrigin: Scotland (Highlands)Age: 15 year oldABV: 43%Price: $85Release: July 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:This is the second edition of Glenmorangie’s single estate whisky—made entirely from barley grown on its Cadboll Estate, which surrounds the distillery, and matured onsite. Like the first edition, this whisky was finished in American oak bourbon barrels.Whisky Advocate says:Cadboll Estate Batch #1 came out swinging, as it earned the No. 13 spot on our Top 20...

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...

Starting a whiskey distillery takes perseverance, dedication, and courage, at a minimum. There are a host of distillery founders who have these qualities embedded in their blood; they are U.S. military Veterans. They have served our country and are now distilling the spirits of America.
In honor of Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11th, consider filling your glass with whiskey distilled by a Veteran or a distillery that donates a portion of its sales to a Veteran cause. Better yet, for those that offer tours or tasting rooms, pay them a visit and thank them for their service. Here is just a sampling of Veteran-owned whiskeys.
21st Amendment
Vero Beach, Florida
Tours and tasting room
rye, bourbon, rum, gin, vodka, and agave
Black Patch
Madison, Alabama
Tours and tastings
rye, bourbon, flavored whiskey, moonshine, and agave
Eight Oaks
New Tripoli, Pennsylvania
Tours and tasting room
rye, bourbon, gin, rum, vodka...

While whisky itself makes a great gift for aficionados, those whisky-related extras can be a fun add-on for any whisky lover. Whether it's Pappy Van Winkle cigars, a Redbreast birdfeeder for the yard, or your very own Jack Daniel's barrel, here are some holiday gifts to suit a variety of whisky lovers' fancies. You can also smoke your own cocktails, or for the high-rollers, gift a bourbon sculpture to help liven up the whisky room. Happy shopping!
 
Flight Holder
$20
mysticbarrels.com
This tray is handcrafted in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from Kentucky whiskey barrels, including Heaven Hill and Jim Beam. It is designed to hold three Glencairn glasses (not included) and serves as a nice presentation for tasting flights.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Scented Candle
$25
buffalotracedistillery.com
Bourbon lovers will relish coming home to the scent of their favorite whiskey. Made by Candleberry Candle Co., this 26 oz. jar...

This week sees a handful of new releases that meld two different places within the same bottle. Old Forester has returned with a new 117 Series bourbon, this one finished in scotch whisky casks, marking a first for the distillery. Texas-based Milam & Greene has released its latest Wildlife Collection whiskey; while the series highlights local Texas wildlife, it's also an exploration into how extreme weather in the Texas Hill Country impacts whiskey maturation. This new single barrel bourbon was distilled in Tennessee but spent its final months aging amidst the highs and lows of Texas weather. Across the pond, UK-based Never Say Die has made its U.S. debut with a Kentucky bourbon that aged in the state for five years before being shipped across the ocean, finishing its maturation in England. 
Elsewhere, there are two new cask-strength whiskeys out this week, one a blended bourbon and the other rye. Read on for full details.
 
Old Forester 117 Series: Scotch...

This week came word of a new Dickel Bottled in Bond (BIB) release, a welcome return after its last sighting in September of 2022. These Dickel BIB releases, which first appeared in 2019,  are of a quality that vaulted the once-maligned Dickel back into the American whiskey game. Its price has crept up to $45 from the 2019 level of $35, but folks, this is still an unbelievable deal for a beautifully aged American whiskey. Elsewhere around the  American whiskey scene, Basil Hayden is back with a second release of its Subtle Smoke expression, which uses hickory smoke infused barrels. Barrell has a new mizunara finished bourbon, and  Seattle's Copperworks Distilling Co. is out with three new single malts, albeit in very limited quantities. And from Scotlland, single malt maker Aberfeldy has ventured into Bordeaux for the latest effort in its wine cask-finishing work. Read on.
Aberfeldy Limited Edition 15 Year Old Cadillac White Wine...

Scotch whisky makers might once have had a reputation for being staid, tweedy, and hidebound, but in the modern era they're anything but. Last week we reported on the releases of Arbeg Y2K and Glenmorangie The Cadboll Estate, and now we have a new Laphroaig experimental expression in Elements 2.0, as well as two new releases in Balvenie's Collection of Curious Casks—the latter quite limited, as seems to be the case all too often these days. For the high rollers, there's also a new 40 year old expression of Brora, a distillery exclusive of only 150 bottles, each priced at a cool $1,650. This release comes just past the third anniversary of Brora's reopening in the Northern Highlands. Scotch whisky lovers, perk up your ears: the distillate made at the new Brora right after it opened is now 3 years old, officially making it whisky. Diageo will keep it in the cellar for a long time to come. But if you travel to Scotland and visit the...

Higher-proof whiskies began growing in popularity around 20 years ago, thanks to bartenders who loved their ability to stand up to competing flavors in a drink. But over the years, whisky fans increasingly gravitated toward drinking them neat, with the perception that more proof means more flavor. Recently, proof bombs have gained a cult following, primarily thanks to American whiskeys like Jack Daniel’s Coy Hill and others. Most of the whiskies on this list are fairly gentle compared to those, but all have robust levels of alcohol. At their worst, high-ABV whiskies simply hide behind their proof, attempting to ride the high-proof craze without offering much beyond that. But at their best, well-made high-proof whiskies offer loads of accentuated flavors and complexity to sip and enjoy.
95 points - Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Special Release Coy Hill Barrelhouse 8 Tennessee whiskey (2024), 67.35%, $80
Coy Hill is the highest...

Barrel proof and cask strength are interchangeable terms indicating that the content of a bottled whiskey matches that of the liquid when it finishes maturation. No water is added to bring the product down to a specific, targeted strength. But what about  “full proof,” a term that’s gaining traction but does not seem to have as clear of a definition? It seems that full proof isn’t quite so “foolproof” at all.
What Does Full Proof Mean?
Well, that depends on who you ask. “Full proof” isn't defined or regulated in any way by the U.S. Tax and Trade Bureau, and thus a producer can choose to apply it however it chooses. This is similar to how terms such as “small batch” lack a definitive meaning, and are therefore open to interpretation and misinterpretation.
Buffalo Trace uses the term full proof in a very specific way, and perhaps due to whiskey lovers’ fascination with everything the distillery produces...

It’s a light menu of new rollouts this week, but we’ve got entirely new creations from Penelope and Bomberger’s, the Michter’s sister label dedicated to the distillery’s legacy. Buffalo Trace has added to its Experimental Collection with a hops-infused expression so far out that it’s technically not even a whiskey. West Highlands scotch maker Nc'nean is back with a fourth edition of its Quiet Rebels label, while Highland Park and Glenlivet both offer multi-thousand dollar ultra-aged releases. 
Michter’s Bomberger’s PFG Kentucky Straight Bourbon
ABV: 50.1%
SRP: $140
Availability: Limited
For the first time since its introduction in 2015, the Bomberger’s range has a new line extension. The whiskey, Bomberger’s PFG—which stands for Precision Fine Grain—starts as Kentucky straight bourbon. After full maturation in a toasted and charred oak barrel, the whiskey is placed into a second...

Whiskey and chocolate share a special synergy, similar to classic pairings like vodka and caviar, wine and cheese, and champagne and oysters. This recipe showcases the harmony achieved between whisky and chocolate in a simple bundt cake. The whiskey and coffee ingredients create a moist, slightly dense crumb with a boozy heft, enrobed in a whiskey caramel glaze, for a comforting, bittersweet flavor.
Because this recipe uses a large amount of melted chocolate, aim to use a quality brand such as Guittard, Valrhona, and Ghirardelli. A semi-sweet chocolate (60-65% cocoa solids) can work well with the mocha, coffee, and chocolate flavors associated with a stout-cask finished whiskey, like New Holland's Dragon’s Milk Beer Barrel bourbon. It has stout-like malted notes that work beautifully with the bittersweet complexity of the cake’s chocolate backbone and coffee flavors.
Though most bourbons or even a rye on the sweeter side would also be suitable, the stout...

Traveller whiskey, the brand from Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace, will air a Super Bowl commercial on Sunday, joining the ranks of only a handful of whisky brands that have ever been on-screen for the big game—Crown Royal, Jack Daniel's, and Uncle Nearest being the others. But the big news this week is that Four Roses will join the portfolio of E&J Gallo, a move that surprised most observers. Meanwhile, Barrell Craft Spirits has become another company to dial back production with the decision to sell its Jeffersonville, Kentucky facility, where it had moved as part of a major expansion project back in 2023. Elsewhere, there's Jeptha Creed's rising visitor traffic, Christie's unusual Karuizawa cask auction, and more.  

Traveller Takes To The Airwaves For Super Bowl
Traveller, the whiskey from Sazerac and country music superstar Chris Stapleton, will air a 30-second slot during the Super Bowl. Slated to appear...

As interest in whisky has surged around the globe, so have the number of whisky-focused bars and restaurants. But while exploration, surprises, and new experiences are fun, they can also be disappointing, and sometimes travelers prefer to go with the tried and true. If you’re seeking a great whisky experience on your next road trip but don’t want to roll the dice, one solution is a chain or multi-location bar with a reliably excellent whisky program. In many cases, their size gives them clout to offer more private casks and more highly allocated labels than a single bar could. Standout whisky chains are few and far between, but there are some excellent choices.
YARDBIRD

Locations: eight restaurants in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Nevada, Texas, Washington D.C., and Singapore
Try this: Lobster Mac & Cheese and Smoke on the Water cocktail (Sazerac rye, toasted demerara, bitters, and cinnamon smoke)
This Southern-themed restaurant and bar...

There is a lot to be said for Louisville as a base, even though the nearest distillery tour is Jim Beam, 30 miles away. Louisville is a real city, with lots of choices for lodging, eating, drinking, and other things to do. It has bourbon attractions like the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse, Evan Williams Experience, Bulleit Bourbon Experience at Stitzel-Weller, and Brown-Forman Cooperage. The first three include small, working distilleries. The Jim Beam and Evan Williams attractions are downtown, the other two are not. More bourbon-related attractions are in the works.Of course, Louisville also features many excellent non-bourbon things to do, such as the Louisville Slugger Museum, The Muhammad Ali Center, Falls of the Ohio State Park, the Churchill Downs Museum, the newly-remodeled Speed Art Museum, and the Frazier History Museum. Visitors who want roller coasters in their theme park experience can visit Kentucky Kingdom, south of downtown near the airport. Punters can play the ponies at...

Indiana's MGP Distillery will launch its first bottled in bond bourbon this November under the George Remus label. The whiskey's end-of-year debut coincides with the 100thanniversary of the enactment of the Volstead Act, which carried out the 18th Amendment outlawing alcohol production and distribution in the United States.Remus Volstead Reserve straight bourbon was distilled in the fall season (July-December) of 2005 and matured in MGP's brick warehouses in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Like all bottled in bond whiskeys, it is 50% ABV. However, at 14 years of age, it far exceeds the minimum 4 years required for bottled in bond whiskey. The bourbon is packaged in a decanter bottle and commemorative box designed to evoke the Art Deco era of Prohibition, when namesake George Remus operated a notorious bootlegging ring. Preliminary tasting notes reveal aromas of honey-roasted peanuts and pecans, blueberry-pomegranate juice, and baking spice. The palate is soft and fruit-forward, with chocolate...

Had they not been postponed until 2021, the Olympics would have kicked off today in Tokyo, and Japanese whisky makers had some truly special new releases planned to celebrate. While some of those plans are on hold, several are going ahead, and even American whisky lovers will be able to purchase some of the bottles.Now on to the bad news: Tariffs from both the U.S. and EU have devastated the scotch and American whiskey industries, and they may get even worse. We spoke with distillers large and small about the brutal effects of these steep levies, and what increased or expanded tariffs could mean for whisky lovers. Read the full article and, if you feel moved to act, use the Spirits United portal to voice your opposition on the American side of the fight.Back to good news: New whiskey! This week it's all about rye and bourbon, starting with Old Overholt. Earlier this week, we broke the news that parent company Beam Suntory is investing in Old Overholt's birthplace at West Overton...

Dusty bourbon is having a moment. The hunt for vintage whiskeys and the cocktails created with them is on the rise, and more bars are offering well-preserved, authenticated older bottles, affectionately known as “dusties” to their fans. Iconic venues like New York City’s Brandy Library and Flatiron Room, Delilah’s in Chicago, and Washington D.C.’s Jack Rose have long offered coveted pours from these bottles from yesteryear.
In recent times, new laws have loosened the restrictions on buying and selling vintage bottles outside of traditional auctions. The new rules have also eased as to how those dusty bourbon and whiskey bottles may be resold at retail, and the floodgates have opened. Here, then, are seven of the best places across North America to deliciously drink your way through the past.

Canon, Seattle
If you want to go all-out with vintage cocktails, Canon will happily indulge you with an array of mind-boggling libations. Try a...

Next month, Kentucky’s RD1 Distillery is set to open the doors of its new home at The Commons in Lexington, a mixed-use development that includes other businesses, a park, restaurants, and amenities. The move initially was expected to take place last August, but weather factors and permit delays pushed it until May 14 of this year.
Located one mile north of the brand's previous home on Manchester Street, now permanently closed, RD1’s new 10,215 square foot, two-story location will have a visitor experience centering around wood finishing, the brand’s calling card since its inception in 2020. Three times larger than the previous location, the new venue offers outdoor seating on both levels, with views of the town’s historic water tower. Inside are multiple bourbon-tasting spaces, including a speakeasy and bourbon bar, four private tasting rooms, private event spaces, and a gift shop with RD1 merch and the label’s bourbon available for purchase...

This week brings a mixed bag of new whiskies, from limited-edition scotch to a whole range of Japanese blended malts and a couple of craft whiskeys.Ardbeg is releasing a well-aged single malt called Twenty Something. Available in limited quantities for the Ardbeg Committee and at U.S. retailers, Twenty Something costs $550 and is made up of whiskies aged at least 23 years. This is remarkable not only because of its age, but because Ardbeg Distillery operated very infrequently during the 1980s and '90s, even closing down completely between 1981 and 1989. So stocks this old are tiny, and this whisky celebrates the fact that Ardbeg persisted even during the lean years—and thrives today.Meanwhile, fellow Islay distillery Laphroaig is rolling out a 27 year old expression, priced at a hefty $750. The whisky is available in limited quantities, but guaranteed to be on shelves through at least the end of this year.Several new Japanese whiskies are launching right now. Kurayoshi is a new line...

Looking for a new whisky to pair with the chocolate you got for Valentine's Day? Or perhaps you're just in the mood for something different. There's a lot to choose from in this week's newest releases.Glen Grant recently rolled out a 15 year old single malt exclusively for the U.S. market, stepping up the bottling proof to 50% ABV. The distillery's presence in this country has been quiet in recent years, but global brand ambassador Robin Coupar recently told Whisky Advocate that Glen Grant's parent company, Gruppo Campari, aims to establish the brand as a reputable, high-quality whisky.Another brand aiming to raise its profile: Aberlour. The Speyside distillery is launching a single cask 16 year old, bottled exclusively for the state of Illinois. Aberlour's core whiskies all include some sherry cask influence (and in the case of Aberlour A'bunadh, all sherry), but this special edition comes from a bourbon cask, showing a totally different side of the whisky. Just 163 bottles are...

On March 23rd, whiskey lovers of the Midwest will convene for WhiskyFest Chicago, the first WhiskyFest event of 2018. As always, hundreds of whiskies will be available at the event, and attendees can range freely between scotch, bourbon, Japanese whiskies, and many other whiskey styles—including the big tent of American craft whiskey. As craft whiskey has matured, small producers can now stand toe-to-toe with much more established distilleries. A number of craft distilleries from all around the country will be pouring at WhiskyFest Chicago, so you can sample the wide variety of styles now being made. Here are some of our top picks.Also, be sure to check out the full list of pours and the lineup of free seminars. And read our tips for navigating WhiskyFest like a pro. If you don't have your tickets yet, it's not too late!Kentucky PeerlessCraft whiskey is made all over the country, and that includes traditional whiskey-making states like Kentucky. In fact, Louisville-based Kentucky...

WhiskyFest D.C. happens on April 17th, when whisky lovers of all stripes will have the chance to try hundreds of amazing whiskies, ranging from amazing scotch and bourbon to exciting new Irish and craft whiskeys. As befits an event in our nation's capital, craft whiskey distillers from all across the country will be pouring their wares at the event, so if you've ever been curious about the exciting new styles of whiskey being made outside of Kentucky and Tennessee, WhiskyFest is the perfect time to start exploring. Here are a few of our top picks.Be sure to check out the full list of pours, as well as our guide to getting the most out of WhiskyFest (don't forget the seminars!). And if you don't have your tickets yet, get them here!George Washington's DistilleryGeorge Washington may have put down the Whiskey Rebellion—the only time in U.S. history that a sitting president has personally led an army—but that doesn't mean he didn't like whiskey. In fact, he made the stuff, and was...

For many whiskey lovers, there's nothing better than the taste of bourbon straight from the barrel: unfiltered and uncut, and as close to untouched as you can get at retail. While 80 proof (40% ABV) is the lowest legally allowed alcohol level for bourbon, and many releases are less than 100 proof, barrel-proof or cask-strength bourbon is typically in the range of 110 proof and higher. Some bottles, like certain bottlings of George T. Stagg, even soar above so-called hazmat levels—140 proof, which legally can't be brought on an airplane (even in your checked luggage).Many of the top barrel proof bourbons are highly acclaimed limited releases—meaning they can be tough to find and cost a pretty penny. But luckily, a few distilleries offer a widely-available taste of their full-strength products at a reasonable price.Yes, $75 may seem a tad high for an everyday whiskey, but remember, you're getting more bang for your buck. Few folks want to drink a barrel-proof bourbon as-is; the...

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...

The biggest whiskey release news of the week was Buffalo Trace's unveiling of its 2018 Antique Collection, including the surprise twist that Eagle Rare 17 year old is getting a higher proof this year. The bourbons and ryes in the collection will also have a slightly higher recommended retail price—although longtime fans will know that usually has no impact on the actual asking price in the store.If you're in search of more readily available, and affordable, whiskies, there are plenty to choose from, hitting shelves very soon. First up, a celebrity whiskey for MMA fans: fighter Conor McGregor is launching Proper No. Twelve, a blended Irish whiskey named for his hometown of Crumlin (12 is part of the postcode there). The whiskey is sourced from "the world's oldest whiskey distillery" (code for Bushmills) and will be available in Ireland, and nationwide in the U.S. for $30.Kavalan is releasing a single malt aged in neutral barrels to showcase the fruity flavors that develop in...

Cocktails often seem best when crafted by a skilled mixologist and enjoyed at a bar—but that isn't always true! You can enjoy a top-notch cocktail from the comfort of your own home, even if you have zero bar skills. Enter cocktail kits, pre-made by professionals with all the fixins you'll need to do it yourself, from classics like the Manhtattan and Old Fashioned to original creations.Right now, many bars are offering cocktail kits as a way to serve their patrons while social distancing. Sometimes these kits include every ingredient—mixers, garnish, and more—except the alcohol, allowing at-home bartenders to choose their own. Others include the bottle in their kit, such as Chicago's Bar Biscay, which sells a Manhattan kit that comes with Evan Williams Bottled in Bond bourbon.Even if you aren't near a bar offering to-go cocktail kits, there are a slew of options you can order online (most of these require you to provide the alcohol yourself). Read on for more information, and...

This article was originally published in June 2020. COVID-related restrictions may affect some of the opening times and offerings of these venues, so check in advance of a visit.No city in the country has deeper roots in whiskey history than Pittsburgh. It was virtually the epicenter of the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794, when farmer-distillers raised arms against federal agents. The area gave rise to our nation's first named whiskey style: Monongahela rye. It was famous long before Kentucky bourbon, and dominated the national market until after the Civil War.Pittsburgh's history is also entwined with the industrialization of the U.S., and it embraces its hard-working reputation decades after the decline of the steel industry. Once a shot-and-a-beer town, the Steel City's move into the 21st century has seen tremendous improvements in everything from air and water quality to food, drink, and entertainment. This heritage makes the city more a rye and bourbon mecca than a haven for other...

While there’s a plentiful crop of new whiskies out this week, news of Jim Beam’s Fred B. Noe Distillery opening means that Beam will be able to experiment more freely, as the new facility will be a place for distiller Freddie Noe to work on his Little Book releases and additional projects, including an American single malt. Learn more about Beam’s new Clermont, Kentucky distillery and find out what Freddie has planned for the future.As for whiskies on shelves right now (or coming relatively soon), Metallica-owned Blackened has teamed up with Willett Distillery on a rye finished in madeira casks, Four Roses has released details on its 2021 Limited Edition Small Batch, and Barrell has a new 15 year old Gray Label bourbon. Read on for full details.Blackened x Willett Kentucky Straight RyeStyle: Finished rye
Origin: Kentucky
Age: Not stated
ABV: 54.8%
Price: $140
Release: August 2021
Availability: LimitedNeed to know:This is the first release in Blackened’s Masters of...

The year is wrapping up, and if you're still in search of a whisky gift, we have pairing ideas, more splurge-worthy items, and of course, our year-end Top 20 list is full of special and exciting bottles. It's also easier than ever to have whiskey delivered to your doorstep, but laws vary by state, so be sure to read our report on the developing landscape of direct shipping.There are a few new releases out this week, notably, an 18 year old from Crown Royal; Diageo has announced the Distillers Editions for its popular single malts like Lagavulin, Oban and Talisker; and Firestone & Robertson adds a blended bourbon to its Experimental line. Read on for full details.Crown Royal 18 year oldStyle: Blended whiskyOrigin: CanadaAge: 18 year oldABV: 40%Price: $140Release: December 2021Availability: Limited; NationwideNeed to know:This new 18 year old whisky is the oldest in Crown Royal’s current lineup.Whisky Advocate says:Crown Royal discontinued its XR expression in 2019, and as is...

Tommy Brunett, founder of Iron Smoke Distillery in New York State, was smoking ribs in his backyard one day while enjoying a whiskey, when suddenly a thought occurred to him: “How do you combine these two American pastimes—great American barbecue and great American bourbon?,” the musician turned whiskey maker remembers asking himself. For roughly a year and a half, he smelled like smoke as he tried to get his whiskey idea just right. He was looking for just a whisper of smoke on the finish—not something that was overpowering or overdone. The end result was Iron Smoke straight bourbon, made using applewood-smoked wheat. The applewood is indigenous to the distillery's region, and smoking the wheat adds an unexpected dimension to the sweet grain. “From the backyard to now, it's been pretty amazing,” Brunett says.Indeed, just as smoke itself can drift anywhere, Darek Bell, Corsair's founder and distiller, thinks the possibilities for smoked American...

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...

One day back in 2010, California native-turned-Tennessee resident Loren Simpson walked into his local liquor store and happened upon a bourbon tasting. Both Simpson and his wife are certified sommeliers, but at the time had begun to feel their interest in wine was peaking. Being curious, Simpson took a sip of the bourbon, which was Four Roses. He liked what he tasted and bought a bottle on the spot.
“It was so good,” Simpson recalls. “I could enjoy it for an hour without ice. I went back and bought a case of Four Roses Single Barrel.”
Now, more than a decade later, Simpson’s personal collection has expanded to nearly 750 bottles of Four Roses. He has studied the brand in detail, learning about its 10 different recipes—based on various combinations of mashbills and yeasts—and developed a passion that has led him to become an unofficial Four Roses ambassador. His interest in the brand soared when he discovered how much information Four...

Among the new releases this week is an American single malt from Yellowstone, which has always been tied exclusively to bourbon. Up until last summer, no formal guidelines for American single malts existed; technically, they still don’t, as the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has yet to officially sign off on the rules it first put on the table in July 2022. But many American single malt producers expect those guidelines to be in place soon enough, and the floodgates to more American single malts from producers both small and large have already opened.
Among other releases, it's a week to welcome back some returning stars, including Midleton Very Rare, Michter's 10 year old single barrel bourbon and Benriach's 16 year old expression. While Midleton's arrival is right on schedule, Michter's 10 had been absent for year, and Benriach The Sixteen had left us in 2016. Read on for full details.
Midleton Very Rare Vintage 2023
Style: Blend