威士忌日報

Kavalan, the Taiwanese whisky distillery known for its innovative maturation techniques, has released a limited-edition Mizunara Oak Single Cask Strength collection in collaboration with Japanese contemporary artist Takahide Komatsu. This range features two cask-strength expressions—one made from unpeated malt and the other from peated malt. Each showcases specially commissioned artwork depicting 12 butterfly species native to Taiwan. Mizunara oak, which grows in northern Japan and often takes over a century to mature before it can be fashioned into casks, is notoriously difficult to work with due to its porous grain, making these casks exceptionally rare. When combined with Taiwan’s warm, humid climate, the spirit develops distinctive notes of sandalwood, incense, coconut, and tropical fruits that differentiate it from whiskies matured in other oak types. The unpeated version presents aromas of vanilla, fresh coconut, sandalwood, light incense, pineapple, mango, honey, and cinnamon, with a palate of creamy toffee, soft oak, hawthorn, dark chocolate, caramel, and citrus peel. Image Credit: Kavalan What Makes This Trend Stand Out - Artist-curated Spirits - Limited-edition whisky collaborations with contemporary artists create collectible luxury products where packaging, provenance, and visual storytelling elevate spirits beyond traditional tasting experiences. - Rare Oak Maturation - Scarce Mizunara oak casks introduce distinctive flavor profiles and supply-constrained prestige, opening room for premium differentiation through unconventional aging materials. - Terroir-driven Whisky - Taiwan’s warm, humid climate demonstrates how regional maturation conditions can redefine whisky identity and challenge long-established production geographies. Sectors Adopting This - Premium Spirits - High-end distilleries are using experimental cask programs and cultural collaborations to build rarity, justify elevated pricing, and attract collectors seeking distinctive releases. - Contemporary Art - Artist-designed labels and commissioned bottle artwork extend fine art into luxury consumer goods, creating new visibility and revenue channels outside galleries. - Luxury Packaging - Collectible spirits increasingly rely on visual design, limited runs, and narrative-rich presentation to transform bottles into display-worthy cultural objects.

Bourbon & Beyond has revealed the daily music schedule and Fork & Flask curated by Kroger programming for its eighth edition, running September 24-27 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky. The festival will feature more than 100 artists across five stages, alongside premium spirits and culinary experiences. The revitalized Fork & Flask experience will highlight spirit and food pairings and demonstrations from acclaimed chefs. The programming will be hosted by Chef Chris Santos of Chopped and spirits expert Chris Blandford. Premium brands featured will include Old Rip Van Winkle, Angel’s Envy, Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, and Old Forester. “Bourbon & Beyond is where the energy of music, the creativity of food, and the spirit of Kentucky come together, making it a world-class celebration of music, culinary excellence, and hospitality,” said Chris Santos, celebrity chef and judge on Food Network’s Chopped. “I’m excited to crank up the heat on the stage and in the kitchen, with celebrated chefs bringing their best dishes to the table alongside some of your favorite musicians.” Programming highlights include a Thursday session with Derek Trucks celebrating Ass Pocket Whiskey’s new release. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. On Saturday, Chris Stapleton will join Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley for a conversation about Traveller Whiskey. A “Guardians of Great Bourbon” session will feature Pappy Van Winkle, Woodford Reserve, Jefferson’s, 1792, and Maker’s Mark. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear will appear Friday alongside Chef Sara Bradley to celebrate the state’s culinary heritage and bourbon industry. Sunday’s lineup includes Carrie Van Winkle of Pappy & Co. and a session with Chef Mei Lin and Melissa Rift of Old Forester. Musical headliners include Foo Fighters, Mumford & Sons, Chris Stapleton, and Dave Matthews Band. Bourbon & Beyond is produced by Danny Wimmer Presents and was named Pollstar’s Global 2025 Festival of the Year. Partners for 2026 include Angel’s Envy, Cutwater, Jack Daniel’s, Kroger, Old Forester, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. General admission passes are available now, while Angel’s Envy VIP and Mint VIP passes are sold out. Hotel packages bundling festival passes with accommodation remain available. Attendees will also receive free access to amusement rides inside Kentucky Kingdom, which joined the festival footprint in 2025.

Sagamore high-rye Bourbon makes UK debut Disaronno Group-backed Sagamore Whiskey has brought its flagship high-rye Bourbon to the UK for the first time. Sagamore High Rye Straight Bourbon is available now at The Whisky Exchange, online and in store, priced at £44.95 (US$60) per 700ml bottle – with a rollout at The Whisky Shop planned for October. The first Bourbon to be produced at Sagamore Distillery in Baltimore is said to ‘pay homage to Kentucky’s Bourbon heritage while celebrating and advancing Maryland-style whiskey traditions’. It is made with a mash bill of 60% corn, 25% rye and 15% malted rye, aged for six years in charred new American oak barrels and bottled at 43% ABV. The result is described as reminiscent of vanilla, hazelnuts, toffee and dried fruits with hints of orange peel and a long, warming finish. Sagamore High Rye Straight Bourbon was initially launched in limited quantities in Maryland in October 2025, followed by a nationwide US release in July this year. Ryan Norwood, master distiller of Sagamore Whiskey, said: “This High Rye Straight Bourbon is something we’ve been eager to share nationwide – a whiskey crafted for those who enjoy both Bourbon and rye flavours that makes for a memorable pour. We’re thrilled to share this release with whiskey fans who appreciate something truly distinctive.” Sagamore began producing ‘Maryland-style’ rye whiskey in 2013, using locally grown non-GMO grain. Rye has been grown in Maryland since at least the 17th century, when newcomers to the region found it easier to cultivate in the changeable coastal climate than wheat or barley, which gave rise to a local tradition of distilling rye whiskey. After declining in the 20th century, due in part to the impact of Prohibition in the US, producers including Sagamore have sought to resurrect the style, celebrating its ‘defining role in the early rise of cocktail culture and American drinking history’. Sagamore Whiskey moved to a ‘state-of-the-art’ distillery on the Baltimore waterfront in 2017. In 2023, Italian drinks company Disaronno Group acquired a majority stake in the brand for an undisclosed sum. In September last year, Sagamore launched its oldest expression to date, a 10-year-old straight rye whiskey. Related news Sagamore Spirit names new master distiller

The GlenAllachie has released a new 21-Year-Old Cask Strength Batch 7, the latest addition to its core range of Speyside single malts. The whisky is available now from the distillery and online, priced at £297.99, with a global rollout to follow in the coming weeks. The expression is the seventh batch of the distillery’s 21-year-old whisky. It sits at the top of The GlenAllachie’s core collection. The whisky was first aged in bourbon barrels. It then underwent extended secondary maturation in a selection of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry puncheons and hogsheads sourced from Spain. Master distiller Billy Walker oversaw the release. He has more than five decades of experience in the industry and took over the distillery in 2017. “When I took stewardship of The GlenAllachie in 2017, my ambition was to create whiskies that reflected the very best of what patient maturation and exceptional cask selection can achieve,” Walker said. “Our 21-year-old Cask Strength Batch 7 represents the apex of that philosophy. Rather than aiming for consistency from batch to batch, we’re always looking to improve on what came before.” He added: “Every incremental release is shaped by the knowledge and feedback gained from the last, allowing us to fine tune each one. Batch 7 benefits from an extended secondary maturation in the most exquisite Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks, revealing opulent layers of baked ginger and mocha, with a mānuka honey and raisin buttercream finish. I believe this is the finest expression of our 21-year-old we’ve released to date.” Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. The whisky is bottled at its natural cask strength of 51.9% ABV. It carries no added coloring and is non-chill filtered. According to the official notes from the brand, the whisky has a color of opaque mahogany. The nose offers baked ginger and mocha, followed by honeycomb, spiced orange and candied hazelnuts, with toasted cinnamon and cocoa. On the palate, the official notes list black cherries, mocha and poached red apples, followed by mānuka honey, crystallized ginger and muscovado sugar, with damson plums, raisin buttercream and treacle. The launch comes shortly after Batch 13 of the distillery’s 10-year-old Cask Strength, an earlier batch of which was named World’s Best Single Malt at the 2021 World Whiskies Awards. The GlenAllachie 12 Year Old was named World’s Best Single Malt at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards..

Kavalan, the Taiwanese whisky producer, has collaborated with Japanese contemporary artist Takahide Komatsu on the label design for its latest Mizunara Oak whisky collection. The limited release brings together rare Mizunara oak-matured whiskies and original artwork inspired by Taiwan’s native butterflies. The collection comprises two single cask strength expressions. One is produced from unpeated malt, while the other uses peated malt. Each bottle features specially commissioned artwork by Komatsu depicting twelve butterfly species native to Taiwan. “At Kavalan, we believe whisky making shares a natural connection with artistic creation,” said YT Lee, chairman of King Car Group. “Mizunara oak is one of the rarest and most demanding casks in whisky making. Its rarity lies not only in the exceptional skill required to craft each cask, but also in the time it takes for the trees to mature.” Lee added: “In Kavalan’s subtropical climate, Mizunara oak develops a character shaped by Taiwan’s unique maturation conditions. Through Takahide Komatsu’s butterfly artwork, this release also celebrates the richness of Taiwan’s natural world.” Mizunara oak grows in the cool forests of northern Japan. The trees often require more than a century before they can be crafted into casks. Its porous grain structure makes coopering extremely difficult, contributing to the rarity of Mizunara casks. When Kavalan new make spirit matures in Mizunara oak within Taiwan’s warm, humid climate, the whisky develops notes of sandalwood, incense and coconut alongside the distillery’s characteristic tropical fruit aromas. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. According to the official notes from the brand, the unpeated expression carries a deep amber color, with vanilla and fresh coconut on the nose, and creamy toffee and soft oak on the palate. The peated malt expression shows a reddish amber color. Gentle peat smoke meets sandalwood and vanilla, followed by soft peat and light spice on the palate. Both expressions are presented in 700ml bottles. In Taiwan, the collection is offered as a Classic Single Bottle Edition and a limited Hand-painted Collector’s Double Set, featuring labels individually hand-painted and signed by Komatsu. The collection is available through Kavalan’s official channels in Taiwan, including the Kavalan Distillery Shop, Kavalan Whisky Shops, Kavalan Whisky Bar, and select local liquor stores. Kavalan Distillery in Yilan County has been producing single malt whisky in Taiwan since 2005.

Redemption Whiskey is unveiling Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon, the brand’s first bottled-in-bond expression. The release is the first in its relaunched Higher Marques Collection and will launch nationally in September 2026 during National Bourbon Heritage Month. Aged for a minimum of six years and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), the bourbon brings the individual character of a single barrel to the federal standards of bottled-in-bond whiskey. It was distilled during a single distilling season at MGP’s Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. The whiskey is non-chill filtered and bottled by Redemption Barrel Selections in Frankfort, Kentucky. The mash bill is 60% corn, 36% wheat rye and 4% malted barley. Every bottle comes from one individual aging barrel while meeting one identical federal standard. Each carries its own barrel number, distilling season, mash bill and age statement. Redemption’s first bottled-in-bond release spends at least six years in oak, two years beyond the four-year federal minimum required under the Bottled-in-Bond Act. The 1897 act mandates that a whiskey be distilled in a single season by one distiller, aged at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at 100 proof. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Each barrel was hand-selected by master blender Alan Kennedy for “exceptional character, structure, and balance.” According to the brand, the whiskey “delivers a smooth, complex bourbon with bold character” and offers “rich oak, layered spice, and deep complexity that only time and unwavering commitment can deliver.” The official tasting notes from the brand describe a nose of “vanilla and worn leather, layered with bright raspberry and a subtle thread of oak.” The palate opens with “a bold core of vanilla and toasted oak” leading into “rich crème brûlée, sweet corn, and warm baking spices.” Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon carries a suggested retail price of $49.99 for a 750ml bottle. It will be available in retail stores and online at ReserveBar.com. Alongside the launch, Redemption’s 18-Year-Old Bourbon from the Ancients Series will return to shelves in fall 2026 in limited quantities. Priced at $399.99 for a 750ml bottle, it follows the series’ debut release in 2025.

Every so often, a bottle lands in my lap that I never would have reached for on my own, and it turns out to be a genuine surprise. That was exactly the case with the Glenglassaugh Sandend, a no-age-statement single malt matured in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and manzanilla casks and bottled at a healthy 50.5% ABV. A buddy of mine, Rob, gifted this one to the channel, and I owe him a thank you because I probably would have walked right past it at the LCBO. Nothing about it initially drew me in, and that is a shame, because whiskies like this get overlooked far too often when you have your eyes set on specific names. Glenglassaugh is not a distillery I chase very frequently, and unfortunately they are going through some tough times right now. From what I understand, Glenglassaugh has moved to a shared production model with another Brown-Forman-owned distillery, Benriach. This could mean that availability is going to be thin. That makes a bottle like this even more worth grabbing while you still can. So consider this my case for why you should not let it slip by. On the nose, this whisky is genuinely beautiful. There is a wave of tropical fruit, which I always seem to associate with this golden colour, alongside a light honey note and a soft cereal quality that honestly reminded me of Honey Nut Cheerios. There is vanilla, a touch of pineapple cream almost like a pineapple pie, and the faintest whisper of red fruit hiding underneath. It is an inviting, welcoming pour before you even take a sip. The palate is where things get interesting. It starts all honey and cereal, then finishes with a distinct cherry influence, which is kind of crazy considering how pale the whisky looks. There is a salty edge that gives me that manzanilla vibe and a sweet tail that screams cherry cask. The viscosity is lovely and there is nothing hot about it whatsoever. If someone poured this for me blind, I would confidently call it a quality bourbon cask malt, with those other casks playing a subtle supporting role. I would even set it up head to head with an Arran 10 Year Old for a fun comparison. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. At close to CA$100, this is an easy pour and play whisky that also makes a very nice gift. I am giving it an 86, and I would happily buy it again. For the money, I do not think you can go wrong. What is your take on Glenglassaugh, and have you managed to snag a bottle of the Sandend yet? To see my full tasting, check out my YouTube video.

Aged at least six years and bottled at 100 proof, the new bourbon brings the individual character of a single barrel to the exacting standards of bottled-in-bond whiskey. STAMFORD, Conn., Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Redemption Whiskey today announced Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon, the first bottled-in-bond expression in the brand's portfolio. Aged at least six years and bottled at 100 proof, the bourbon combines the individual character of a single barrel with the exacting federal requirements of bottled-in-bond whiskey. It is the first release in the relaunched Higher Marques Collection and reaches shelves nationwide in September 2026 for a suggested retail price of $49.99. Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon steps into one of the most demanding standards in American whiskey while simultaneously rising above it. The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 sets a high standard, requiring whiskey to be produced in an individual distilling season by one distiller at one distillery, aged at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at exactly 100 proof. Redemption's first bottled-in-bond expression goes beyond the minimum age requirement, spending at least six years in oak while retaining the discipline of an individual season, one distiller, one distillery, and 100 proof. Distilled during an individual distilling season at MGP's Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, the bourbon is non-chill filtered and bottled by Redemption Barrel Selections in Frankfort, Kentucky. This milestone also marks a new chapter for Redemption. As the brand continues to champion bold, rye-forward whiskeys with attitude and character, its first bottled-in-bond release demonstrates that honoring whiskey's highest traditions and pushing the category forward are not mutually exclusive. Single barrel and bottled-in-bond pull in opposite directions, and Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon satisfies both. Single barrel means every bottle comes from one individual aging barrel. Bottled-in-bond means every bottle meets one identical federal standard. Master Blender Alan Kennedy carefully selected each barrel for character, structure, and balance, and every bottle carries its own barrel number, distilling season, mash bill, and age statement. "Single barrel whiskey is about embracing what can't be replicated," said Alan Kennedy, Master Blender at Redemption. "No two barrels mature exactly alike, and that's what makes this work so rewarding. My role is to identify the barrels that tell an exceptional story, and I believe we found something special with this release." Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon is the first release in the relaunch of the Higher Marques Collection, Redemption's ultra-premium tier of elevated expressions that advance classic whiskey formats through patience, precision, and bold decision-making. Relaunched expressions will feature a new bottle design that evolves Redemption's award-winning Eagle packaging, delivering the craftsmanship, distinction, and shelf presence today's ultra-premium whiskey consumer expects. "Choosing to bottle a bonded single barrel is a bet on our own barrels," Kennedy added. "Bottling one barrel at a time, to a standard you can't bend, means every barrel must earn its distinction. That's the work I want Redemption known for, and it is how you write the next chapter instead of repeating the last one." Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon opens with aromas of vanilla, worn leather, bright raspberry, and a subtle thread of oak. On the palate, vanilla and toasted oak lead into crème brûlée, sweet corn, and warm baking spices. Deep caramel carries through a long finish with lingering oak and spice. Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon will be available nationally beginning September 2026—National Bourbon Heritage Month—in retail stores and online at ReserveBar.com at a suggested retail price of $49.99 for a 750mL bottle. The six-bottle cases will be offered as an ongoing part of the Higher Marques Collection rather than as a one-time release. Alongside this launch, Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon from the Ancients Series returns to shelves in fall 2026 in limited quantities. Redemption Whiskey first released the 18-Year-Old Bourbon in June 2025. Eighteen years in oak concentrates a bourbon's flavor and rounds its edges, and Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon shows what that time does to the liquid. Master Blender Alan Kennedy non-chill filters the whiskey and bottles it at barrel proof to keep the full weight of the maturation intact. Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon pours a deep dark oak to brown sherry color. Warm oak leads the aroma, followed by cherry jam, cinnamon, and a hint of mint. On the palate, layers of vanilla, cherry, sweet corn, and leather balance the oak before unfolding into a long finish of oak, vanilla, and cherry. Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon will be available in fall 2026 in retail stores in limited quantities, at a suggested retail price of $399.99 for a 750mL bottle. For more information about Redemption Whiskey, Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon, and the return of Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon, visit RedemptionWhiskey.com or follow @redemptionwhiskey on Instagram. High-resolution images of Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon and Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon are available here. Key Details — Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon - Product: Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon (Higher Marques Collection) - Designations: Single barrel; bottled-in-bond - Proof / ABV: 100 proof / 50% ABV - Age statement: Minimum of six years (two years beyond the four-year bonded minimum) - Mash bill: 60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley - Distillery: MGP's Ross & Squibb Distillery, Lawrenceburg, Indiana; DSP-IN-15016 - Bottled by: Redemption Barrel Selections, Frankfort, Kentucky, USA - Distilling season: Spring 2018 - Fall 2019, an individual distilling season per barrel, noted on each bottle - Filtration: Non-chill filtered - Size: 750mL - Case pack: 6 bottles - Suggested retail price: $49.99 - Availability: National, September 2026, in-store and online at ReserveBar.com - UPC / SCC: 031259005966 / 10031259005963 - Website: RedemptionWhiskey.com Key Details — Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon - Product: Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon (limited release) - Age statement: 18 years - Proof / ABV: Barrel proof, 102.85 proof / 51.43% ABV - Mash bill: 74% corn, 22% rye, 4% malted barley - Production: Non-chill filtered; bottled at barrel proof - Size: 750mL, individually gift-boxed - Case pack: 6 bottles - Suggested retail price: $399.99 - Availability: Fall 2026, in-store (where available), in limited quantities - UPC / SCC: 031259005652 / 10031259005659 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon? Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon is a single-barrel, bottled-in-bond bourbon in Redemption Whiskey's Higher Marques Collection, aged a minimum of six years, bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), with a suggested retail price of $49.99 for a 750mL bottle. What is bottled-in-bond, and what does the designation require? Bottled-in-bond is a standard established by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. To qualify, a whiskey must be the product of an individual distilling season, from one distiller at one distillery, aged at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at exactly 100 proof. What does single barrel mean? Single barrel means each bottle of Redemption Single Barrel Bonded Bourbon comes from one individual barrel rather than a blend of many barrels, so each bottle reflects the character of its specific barrel and carries its own barrel number. How do single barrel and bottled-in-bond work together in this whiskey? Single barrel preserves the distinct character of one aging barrel, while bottled-in-bond holds every bottle to one identical federal standard, so the whiskey delivers individual barrel character within a fixed 100-proof sp

Beyoncé has reportedly acquired a controlling stake in her premium rye whisky brand SirDavis from her venture partner, LVMH’s Moët Hennessy. The luxury giant confirmed the deal to multiple press outlets on Monday (August 10). SirDavis launched in September 2024 as a partnership between Beyoncé and Moët Hennessy. The American-made whisky was inspired by the legacy of Beyoncé’s paternal great-grandfather, a successful Prohibition-era moonshine maker. Terms of the acquisition, including the size of the controlling stake and the financial value of the deal, have not been disclosed. The move comes amid a rise in celebrity-backed whisky and spirits brands. In 2018, Bob Dylan launched the whiskey brand Heaven’s Door in partnership with Marc Bushala, co-founder of Angel’s Envy bourbon. A$AP Rocky followed in 2022 with Mercer + Prince, a Canadian whisky developed alongside Global Brand Equities and E. & J. Gallo. The whisky was named for the rapper’s favorite cross streets in his native New York City. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals. By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Kendall Jenner owns the 818 Tequila brand with Sazerac holding a minority stake. Formula One driver Jenson Button, meanwhile, is the face of Coachbuilt whisky and worked in the blending room to create the 18-year-old expression launched in 2024 in collaboration with Williams. The acquisition gives Beyoncé greater creative and commercial control over the brand’s future direction.

16 Top Shelf Whiskeys That Are Always Worth The Money You want to spend that little extra to get yourself a premium bottle of whiskey. Yet, you're desperate not to waste your money. It's a common scenario, and it's easy to make the wrong choice. Thankfully, there are many bottles of whiskey out there that might come with a higher price tag, but always deliver on flavor. I've been enjoying all types of whiskey for nearly two decades, and that includes trying all of the top-shelf whiskeys in this list. Crucially, I've also tried plenty that haven't made the cut, as I know from experience the value for money just isn't there. Good value often goes hand-in-hand with availability, so you can rest assured all these whiskeys are pretty easy to find. Also, while I didn't want to stick to a strict figure, all these whiskeys landed around the $50 to $100 range, as that's where I believe the best value can be found for premium offerings. Whether you're buying a bottle as a gift or want to treat yourself to something special, this is a list you can trust to make a confident choice. The only challenge is working out which one has the style and flavor that most appeals to you. Read more: 28 Popular Bottled Water Brands, Ranked Worst To Best 1. Four Roses Single Barrel Some brands offer excellent value for money across their core range, and Four Roses is a good example. Nowhere is that truer than with the Single Barrel, as it delivers a complex, high-quality drinking experience while still costing under $50. Single barrel whisky is a type of bourbon where the bottle comes from one barrel, rather than from a batch of multiple barrels blended together. Bottled at 100 proof, you'll get to enjoy the rich fruits that are a hallmark of Four Roses whiskey. That especially presents itself here in the form of ripe cherry and plum. Along with that are a beautiful range of sweet notes carried by its smooth profile. They mainly present themselves in the form of caramel and vanilla. Joined by some cinnamon and toasted oak, the enjoyable experience is confirmed by its long and warming finish. Four Roses is a fascinating brand and, more importantly, one you can trust to give you excellent whiskey without an inflated price tag. 2. Lagavulin 16-year Lagavulin 16-year is quite simply one of the finest Scotches in the world. It showcases the benefits of a peated whiskey without that smoke dominating the tasting experience. Once you get to taste this fine spirit, you'll immediately appreciate the craftmanship and how a bold and robust whisky can still manage to be elegant. Usually available just below the $100 mark, Lagavulin 16-year will give you a complex and layered flavor profile. On the nose, you'll get a hit of that peat smoke alongside medicinal iodine. Vanilla balances what is a strong aroma. Those earthy notes continue on to the palate. If you're a fan of the best peated whisky, it's a taste you're sure to love. Past the peat, you get sherried fruitiness with some rich toffee. Other flavors can then be picked out, such as sea salt, leather, and dark chocolate. The smoke interplays with Lagavulin's sweetness to give you remarkable balance, aided by the extended maturation. It's world-class whisky, and dare I say, would remain good value even if it were more expensive. Its smoky nature means it won't be for everyone, but for those who like peated whisky, this is perfection. 3. Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select If I'm being honest, I feel the Jack Daniel's range doesn't always offer the best value compared to some of its rivals. Yet, the Single Barrel Select is a strong exception. It has many of the qualities that you may have come to expect from the classic Old No. 7, but either builds on or refines them. Here you'll get a richer and more complex tasting experience while still remaining affordable enough for regular enjoyment. As with the Four Roses above, each bottle is drawn from a single barrel but it still maintains a distinctive character despite subtle differences. What you'll initially appreciate here are classic flavors that are bolder and deeper than with basic whiskey. That includes the caramel and vanilla, as well as some toasted oak and baking spice. Beyond that, you'll enjoy picking out the likes of banana, roasted nuts, and dark fruits which give it greater depth. This is all supported by a full mouthfeel and a whiskey that is even smoother than basic Jack. It's premium Tennessee whiskey without a premium price, making it hard to beat. 4. Dalwhinnie 15-year In many ways, the Dalwhinnie 15-year sits at the other end of the tasting spectrum from the Lagavulin. Instead of the distillery sitting in a rugged Islay setting, Dalwhinnie is over 1,000 feet above sea level in the Highlands, right in the heart of Scotland. Here you'll enjoy a single malt that is as elegant and approachable as a whisky could wish to be. If you're relatively new to Scotch and are looking to take a step up without taking chances, choose this bottle. I'd go as far as to say that if you don't like Dalwhinnie 15-year, you just don't like Scotch. Its 15 years of maturity is noticeable in its mouthfeel and refined flavor profile. That is built around a smooth honey on the palate, which is supported by a range of gentle tasting notes. They include heather, crisp apples, and a little citrus. A touch of spice and smoke comes in towards the finish, but overall, it's incredibly easy to enjoy. It'll also probably make the nicest whisky and Coke you've ever tasted, but mostly, it's a Scotch that is the epitome of elegance. 5. Old Forester 1920 This prohibition style whiskey from Old Forester is perhaps the best expression you can get from its vast range. Named after the year prohibition started, it aims to replicate the high-strength whiskey that you could still get through those banned years for medicinal purposes. That means you can expect a richness and intensity here that you don't get with many other bottles. That proof comes in at 115 and you get a complexity that allows you to sample some unique tasting notes. That can include some black cherry, brown sugar, and espresso. Along with that, the sweetness here is quite dark and deep in flavor, especially with toffee. Then comes a warm cinnamon finish that is powerful but without ever feeling harsh. It means that you're not getting a whisky that is strong for the sake of it, as you get plenty of depth to that flavor. Old Forester 1920 is widely available at a fair price of around $60. That makes it an accessible choice for enthusiasts seeking barrel-strength flavor without hunting for allocated bottles. 6. Nikka From The Barrel Nikka From The Barrel was the first Japanese whisky I ever had, and it remains one of the best. It shares a similarity with Lagavulin in that it's hard to comprehend how such a powerful whisky can be so elegant. How this Nikka whisky delivers that power, however, is much different. I feel it's sometimes hard to get great value with Japanese whisky, but this remains an easy win in that regard. Bottled at a robust 51.4% ABV, Nikka From the Barrel is a blend of malt and grain whiskies that punches well above its weight. It offers concentrated flavors of caramel, toffee, dried fruit, vanilla, orange peel, pepper, baking spices, and toasted oak. There are even some subtle floral notes that add elegance to its bold character. Despite its higher strength, it remains remarkably smooth, with a long, warming finish that doesn't burn, despite the high alcohol content. It showcases the precision and balance that often comes from Japanese whisky. In that respect, it acts as a compelling gateway to more expensive bottles. 7. Knob Creek 12-year If you're on the lookout for a great bourbon with a big age statement, then Knob Creek 12-year is one you can rely on. It delivers a rich and full-bodied tasting experience that builds on what makes the nine-year such a great whiskey. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), it strikes an excellent balance bet

GlenAllachie bottles 21-year-old cask strength whisky The latest addition to the ‘upper echelon’ of The GlenAllachie’s core range is the heavily Sherried 21-year-old Cask Strength Batch 7. The newest single malt from The GlenAllachie has been bottled at 51.9% ABV without chill filtration or added colouring. It is available now directly from the distillery in Speyside, at £297.99 (US$400) for 700ml, ahead of a global rollout in the coming weeks. Master distiller Billy Walker, drew on a range of casks to create the new expression, including Pedro Ximénez and oloroso Sherry puncheons and hogsheads. Described by the brand as its ‘best yet’ 21-year-old single malt, Batch 7 is said to represent ‘the pinnacle of its Sherry mastery’. “When I took stewardship of The GlenAllachie in 2017, my ambition was to create whiskies that reflected the very best of what patient maturation and exceptional cask selection can achieve,” said Walker. “Our 21-year-old Cask Strength Batch 7 represents the apex of that philosophy. Rather than aiming for consistency from batch to batch, we’re always looking to improve on what came before. “Every incremental release is shaped by the knowledge and feedback gained from the last, allowing us to fine tune each one. Batch 7 benefits from an extended secondary maturation in the most exquisite Pedro Ximénez and oloroso Sherry casks, revealing opulent layers of baked ginger and mocha, with a manuka honey and raisin buttercream finish. I believe this is the finest expression of our 21-year-old we’ve released to date.” Billy Walker, former managing director at the Benriach Distillery Company, acquired The GlenAllachie Distillery from Chivas Brorthers in 2017 along with fellow industry veterans Trisha Savage and Graham Stevenson. Under its current ownership, The Glenallachie has reduced production capacity from four to one million litres of pure alcohol per year and increased its fermentation times to 160 hours in pursuit of a fruitier spirit character. Last year, the site announced it would cut its overall energy consumption by as much as 50% after installing a ‘first-of-its-kind’ mechanical vapour recompression system that recycles heat generated during production. In March this year, the distillery debuted The GlenAllachie 1990 35-year-old Cask Strength. The limited release, which was partially matured in Japanese mizunara oak, carries a suggested price tag of £1,512.99 (US$2,030). The distillery took two Gold medals at The Scotch Whisky Masters 2026, as well as a Master medal for The GlenAllachie 15 Years Old. Related news GlenAllachie unveils 35YO cask strength whisky

The Speyside based GlenAllachie Distillery has announced the launch of the seventh batch of its 21 Year Old Cask Strength release. The GlenAllachie 21 Year Old Cask Strength Batch 7 (51.9% ABV) is a single malt Scotch whisky, initially matured in Bourbon barrels, followed by an extended secondary maturation in a selection of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso Sherry puncheons and hogsheads. According to the brand, the latest release sits at the upper echelon of The GlenAllachie’s core collection – a showcase of expressions housed across its 16 on-site warehouses and built around one philosophy: the masterful interplay of multiple cask types. Master Distiller and whisky veteran of more than five decades, Billy Walker, combines instinct with meticulous craftsmanship, building each expression to achieve its perfect composition. The GlenAllachie 21 Year Old Cask Strength Batch 7 is said to deliver notes of baked ginger, mocha, honeycomb, spiced orange, candied hazelnuts, toasted cinnamon and cocoa on the nose, followed by black cherries, mocha, poached red apples, mānuka honey, crystallised ginger, muscovado sugar, damson plums, raisin buttercream and treacle on the palate. The release follows the recent launch of the 13th batch of the distillery’s 10 Year Old Cask Strength, a whisky that has collected numerous accolades since its launch in 2018, including World’s Best Single Malt at the 2021 World Whiskies Awards. Commenting on the launch, Billy Walker, Master Distiller at The GlenAllachie, said: “When I took stewardship of The GlenAllachie in 2017, my ambition was to create whiskies that reflected the very best of what patient maturation and exceptional cask selection can achieve. Our 21-year-old Cask Strength Batch 7 represents the apex of that philosophy. Rather than aiming for consistency from batch to batch, we’re always looking to improve on what came before.” “Every incremental release is shaped by the knowledge and feedback gained from the last, allowing us to fine-tune each one. Batch 7 benefits from an extended secondary maturation in the most exquisite Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso Sherry casks, revealing opulent layers of baked ginger and mocha, with a mānuka honey and raisin buttercream finish. I believe this is the finest expression of our 21-year-old we’ve released to date.” The GlenAllachie 21 Year Old Cask Strength Batch 7 is now available from the distillery’s website and selected specialist retailers, for a RRP of £297.99. Leave a comment

Johnnie Walker Black Cask arrived in the United States in late February 2026 as a permanent addition to the range, and it was made with bourbon drinkers in mind. Matured only in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels and bottled at 43% ABV, it is sweeter and softer than Black Label, with vanilla and caramel in place of much of the smoke. The question for anyone picking up a bottle is what to do with it once you get it home. So, let’s explore the best ways to enjoy Johnnie Walker Black Cask: neat, over ice, in a highball, and what to mix it with. What Is Johnnie Walker Black Cask? Black Cask is a blended Scotch aged only in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, which separates it from the rest of the core range, where a mix of cask types is the norm. It carries no age statement and is bottled at 43% ABV, a little above the 40% used for Black Label and Double Black. Master Blender Dr. Emma Walker chose the higher strength to bolster the spice notes in the whisky and give some weight on the palate. The blend uses the same distilleries behind Black Label, including Cameronbridge grain along with malt from Glen Elgin and Roseisle. Black Cask was designed specifically for the US market in order to act as a bridge between bourbon and Scotch whisky. Diageo’s official notes describe “creamy vanilla sweetness, rich caramel depth, gentle spice, and smooth oak warmth,” hitting much the same flavors as you can expect to find in bourbon. It went on sale across the United States on March 1 at a suggested price of $34.99 for a 750ml bottle, and there is no UK release at the time of writing. Our launch story has the full details. How Should You Drink Johnnie Walker Black Cask? Diageo says the whisky is “Designed to be enjoyed neat, over ice, in classic whisky cocktails like the Old Fashioned, or modern whiskey cocktails like the Gold Rush”. The sweetness and the lighter smoke do change where it works best, though, so here is how the four main serves stack up. Neat Worth trying first, if only to get a feel for what you have bought. The vanilla and caramel come through clearly, and the 43% gives it a bit more grip than Black Label manages at 40%. The pitfall is depth. Reviewers have consistently found it lighter and less complex than Black Label, so if you are used to sitting with a dram for half an hour, this one may not hold your attention for that long. With a Splash of Water A few drops soften the alcohol and push the vanilla forward. Go carefully, because the body is light to begin with and it does not take much water to leave things watery rather than open. Over Ice A good fit, and probably the easiest everyday option. There is very little smoke here for the cold to mute, so what you lose is minimal and the caramel sweetness holds up well. Use one large cube rather than a handful of small ones, since a lighter blend dilutes faster than you might expect. In a Highball The most reliable of the four. Our highball guide puts the usual starting point at one part whisky to between two and a half and three parts soda water, and Black Cask is best kept at the stronger end of that range, because it can vanish if you go much longer. Fill the glass with ice, use cold soda, and garnish with orange. Best Mixers for Black Cask Soda water is the safest choice and the one that shows the whisky’s character most clearly. It dilutes without adding competing flavors, which suits a blend built around vanilla and caramel. Dry ginger ale works well because the ginger pushes back against the sweetness rather than adding to it. Johnnie Walker has promoted this combination with Black Label for years, and it transfers here, though a sweeter ginger ale will tip the balance too far. Cola deserves more credit here than it usually gets with Scotch. The whole point of Black Cask is that it was built with bourbon drinkers in mind, and bourbon and Coke is one of the most popular ways to drink American whiskey. The vanilla and caramel sit comfortably alongside the sweetness of the cola, and there is little smoke to get in the way. Plenty of ice and a squeeze of lime will keep it from becoming too sweet. If you want to make something rather than mix something, Diageo’s own two serves are the Old Fashioned with honey syrup and orange bitters, and the Gold Rush with lemon and cinnamon honey syrup. Black Cask or Black Label? Price is not going to decide this one. Black Cask launched at a suggested $34.99 for a 750ml bottle, which puts it in much the same territory as Black Label and Double Black on most US shelves, so the choice comes down to what you want from the whisky. Black Cask makes sense if you mostly drink bourbon, if smoke is the thing that has kept you away from Scotch, or if you drink long and mixed more often than you drink neat. Black Label is the better option if you want more structure and complexity in a neat pour, and it has the 12 year age statement, which Black Cask does not carry. Neither is a replacement for the other, and at this price there is a reasonable argument for keeping both around. Our full comparison goes into more detail. Occasions and Food Pairings Black Cask is an everyday bottle rather than something you save for an anniversary. It suits warm weather, garden drinking, and the sort of evening where people are talking more than they are tasting. It also makes a sensible gift for a bourbon drinker who has never really got on with Scotch, which is more or less the audience Diageo had in mind. For food, the vanilla and caramel sweetness gives you plenty to work with. Barbecue is the obvious place to start, particularly smoked brisket or pulled pork, where the sweetness plays off the char. Aged cheddar and gouda work for the same reason, with the salt cutting through. On the dessert side, dark chocolate, pecan pie, and sticky toffee pudding all match rather than compete. Two things to avoid. Delicate white fish gets flattened by the sweetness, so save that for something lighter. Very sugary desserts are also a struggle, because the whisky is not weighty enough to hold its own against them and you end up tasting neither properly. Final Thoughts Black Cask is at its best long and cold, so a highball with soda and an orange twist is the serve to reach for most often, with a large cube of ice a close second. Try it neat once before you settle into a routine, because it is worth knowing what the whisky does on its own. For more on the range, see our guides to Black Label, Double Black, Green Label, and Red Label, along with our guide to the Johnnie Walker colors. How are you drinking your Black Cask? Let us know in the comments.

2026-08-13 A court in central India has temporarily lifted a food safety ban that had blocked the sale of certain whisky and rum products made by Associated Alcohols & Breweries, easing immediate pressure on the company and slowing, for now, a wider regulatory push over flavoring practices in the country’s spirits market. The High Court of Madhya Pradesh suspended, on an interim basis, an order by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, or FSSAI, that had prevented the company from marketing some of its whisky and rum brands. The court granted the stay on Aug. 6, and the company was informed of the decision on Aug. 12, according to the timeline provided in the case. The dispute centers on whether some products from Associated Alcohols & Breweries meet Indian rules on flavoring and labeling and can therefore continue to be sold. FSSAI issued a notice to the company on July 20. Associated Alcohols responded on July 27. Two days later, on July 29, the regulator issued the order that barred the sale of the products in question. The court’s action changes the company’s regulatory position immediately, at least while the case is being heard. It does not amount to a final ruling on whether the whisky and rum comply with Indian food and beverage standards. The stay is a temporary protective measure, and the substance of the dispute will be addressed later in court. The Union government now has four weeks to respond, setting the next stage in a case that is likely to be closely watched by India’s alcohol industry. The matter has drawn attention beyond one producer because it touches on a sensitive issue for the sector: how regulators classify flavored spirits and how labels describe them in a market where whisky and rum remain among the most widely consumed categories. FSSAI has in recent months taken a firmer line on how alcoholic beverages are formulated and presented to consumers. The order against Associated Alcohols was seen as part of that effort. By intervening, the court has narrowed the immediate reach of that campaign, though only until judges decide whether the regulator followed the law and whether the products themselves meet the applicable standards. Associated Alcohols & Breweries is based in Madhya Pradesh, one of India’s key liquor-producing states. For producers there and elsewhere, the case highlights the overlap between business operations and food regulation in a market where approvals, ingredient definitions and label language can directly determine whether a bottle can remain on store shelves. The court’s stay is especially important because it preserves the company’s ability, for the time being, to continue marketing the affected products while the legal challenge proceeds. Without that relief, the July 29 FSSAI order would have remained in force, keeping the products out of the market during the early stage of the dispute. No public figures were released on the number of cases affected, existing stock levels, sales tied to the products, or any financial impact on the company. The available information is limited to the regulatory and legal steps taken so far: FSSAI’s notice on July 20, the company’s reply on July 27, the regulator’s ban on July 29, the High Court’s interim stay on Aug. 6, and notification of that stay on Aug. 12. For Indian spirits makers, the case has become an early test of how far FSSAI can go in enforcing its interpretation of flavoring and labeling rules before a final judicial review. For consumers and distributors, the immediate effect is narrower but clear: the specific prohibition on Associated Alcohols’ whisky and rum products has been paused, pending the government’s reply and further proceedings before the High Court.

Welcome to this review of the Kingsbarns 10 Year Old. This bottle is a very important milestone for this young distillery in Fife. Before, they made pretty good whisky without an age statement, but this is their first official release with a 10-year age statement on the bottle. Many of us have been waiting for this moment for a long time. Discover how it is in this whisky review. A sense of Fife Fife is located on the east coast of Scotland. It is a region full of farms, quiet fishing villages, and open fields. Kingsbarns uses local barley grown in these fields to make their single malt whiskies. To create this 10-year-old release, they matured the spirit in 90% ex-bourbon barrels and 10% STR red wine casks. It is bottled at 46% ABV, with natural color and no chill-filtration, so all the natural flavor and texture should remain in the bottle. This release shows that the distillery really knows how to manage their casks after ten years of aging. See, smell, taste | Country | Scotland (Lowlands) | | Distillery | Kingsbarns | | Type of whisky | Single Malt | | Color | Golden amber | | Nose | Floral, soft honey, and oak | | Palate | Smooth and balanced, gentle toffee, and caramel | | Finish | Medium length, soft grain, and oak | | Age | 10 years | | Alcohol by volume | 46 percent | | Bottle size | 70 centiliters | | Price | Around 95 euros | From bottle to glass We poured the whisky into our Whiskymonkeys Glencairn glass and let it rest for a few minutes to open up in the air. While waiting, we took a closer look at the custom Kingsbarns bottle, which was made by Stölzle Glass. It really is a nice looking bottle. You can see 'Kingsbarns Single Malt' written around the top rim, with images of flying doves embossed on the glass. At the bottom of the bottle, there is an image of the historic dovecot building from the distillery grounds, which shows their eye for small details. Kingsbarns 10 year old entices you with floral and soft tones On the nose, it opens with light floral notes and soft blossoms. After swirling the glass, you get gentle vanilla, honey sweetness, and a touch of warm oak from the casks. On the palate, the whisky feels smooth and balanced, with fresh fruit sweetness, light toffee, and caramel, followed by a soft malt taste and mild oak spice. Adding a few drops of water brings out more fruit flavors and makes it even softer, letting the light Lowland style shine. The finish is medium-long and warm, leaving behind soft grain and oak with a light dryness rather than a heavy aftertaste. It is a whisky that rewards you if you take your time in the glass. | Whisky Deals from Whisky Exchange | Week 33 | | Glen Moray Forbidden Fruit | 29,58 pounds | | Mortlach 2003 21 year old bourbon cask signatory | 158,33 pounds (save 55 pounds) | | Redbreast 18 year old | 112,50 pounds (save 40 pounds) | | Red Sport 1991 31 year old Marsala cask | 537,50 pounds (save 300 pounds) | | Suntory Tsukuriwake Cask Collection 2024 | 2395,83 pounds (save 800 pounds) | Conclusion Kingsbarns 10 Year Old Whisky Review The Kingsbarns 10 Year Old is an approachable Lowland single malt that offers a nice balance between simplicity and detail. It does not try to shock you with heavy flavors, but if you sit down and pay attention, it slowly reveals layers of fruit, malt, and soft oak. As their first official 10-year-old release, it shows that Kingsbarns is maturing and taking the right direction. It tastes great neat or with a small drop of water, and it really represents the style of Fife. A very solid step forward for this young distillery! + Light and approachable Lowland single malt + Well-balanced with clear layers of fruit, malt, and oak + First official age statement that shows great maturity - Limited release, so it might be harder to find in some shops

The Highland based Dalmore Distillery has announced the launch of the latest release in its limited-edition Distillery Select Series. The Dalmore Distillery Select 2026 (53.7% ABV) is a 14 Year Old single malt Scotch whisky, initially matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon barrels before being finished for one year and nine months in Semisecco Marsala casks. The Semisecco Marsala barriques are said to add a distinctive layer of complexity to the whisky, shaping its depth and delivering a distinctive Semisecco Marsala finish, while maintaining the clear signature style of The Dalmore. The Dalmore Distillery Select 2026 is described as offering aromas of floral overtones, sweet clementine, stone fruits, honeyed malt, a hint of grape must and spiced vanilla. On the palate, flavours of candied orange peel, sweet pear, toffee and brioche are complemented by subtle hints of walnut, clove and cinnamon. The whisky finishes with sweet citrus and rich oak, evoking a fading memory of festive spice. First launched in 2024, The Dalmore Distillery Select Series offers whisky fans access to hidden gems from The Dalmore’s dunnage warehouses. Intentionally chosen from small parcels of stock, each whisky is selected for its quality and unique character. The Dalmore’s whisky makers carefully review its storied stocks to identify expressions of spirit that reveal a different dimension of The Dalmore’s flavour profile. For 2026, the ambition was to select a whisky that showed The Dalmore in a distinctive light, while remaining clearly rooted in the signature house style. Limited to 1,110 bottles, The Dalmore Distillery Select 2026 will be available from August 31st from selected specialist retailers, for a RRP of £350.00. Members of The Dalmore Guild will have the opportunity to purchase the whisky in advance and will be notified by email. Leave a comment

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Have you ever sipped a fine single malt scotch and thought to yourself, “Hmm, this kind of tastes like tropical fruit—specifically mango?” If you have detected tropical fruit notes in your whisky before, particularly in single malt scotch and Irish whiskey, you’re not crazy—a new study has come out that reveals exactly where those tasting notes come from. The study was conducted by Heriot Watt, a university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. According to a press release issued earlier this week, university researchers working with the Japanese drinks company Kirin (which used to own Four Roses before selling it to E & J Gallo) have come across the exact compounds that give whisky a mango-like flavor. Tropical fruit notes are nothing new to seasoned whisky drinkers, the result of the yeast strain that is used for the fermentation process that often become much more noticeable after a whisky has aged for several decades. “Fruity notes like banana, apple, and pear have long been linked to esters, which are produced during fermentation,” said Annie Hill, a professor at Heriot-Watt’s International Center for Brewing and Distilling, in a statement. “But we didn’t know where the mango flavor was coming from—and now we do.” The research was reported in the Journal of the American Society of Brewing Chemists (JASBC) last year, but Heriot Watt only issued its press release about the findings earlier this week. It said that PhD student Takehiko Hiura analyzed 14 different whiskies from Scotland and Ireland, and discovered that a pair of compounds which are often found in whisky, aldehydes and acetals, will amplify tropical fruit notes. One whisky among the samples had particularly high levels of three compounds—isobutyraldehyde, isovaleraldehyde, and isovaleraldehyde diethyl acetal—and increasing these three in a whisky low in fruit flavor raised the levels of mango aroma specifically. According to the ICBD’s Dr. Calum Holmes, the aldehydes and acetals that contribute tropical fruit flavors are already well understood, but this research means that distilleries and producers may have another tool in their kits when it comes to creating a certain type of whisky. In other words, if you want a fruitier single malt or Irish pot still whiskey, there might be a way to do this organically without adding any flavoring or additives (which would not be allowed anyway according to the legal guidelines that define scotch whisky). “The volatile compounds identified in the present trial as contributing to mango-type aroma in mature whisky products are not newly identified in whisky, and known mechanisms of control for these volatiles exist within common industrial process steps,” wrote the authors. “It is therefore likely that distillers wishing to increase or decrease the novel mango/tropical aroma trait in their products already possess the tools to do so within current distillery practices.” Sounds like there could be a Mango Madness Malt Whisky in our near future.

Something different: Downtown Fort Mill speakeasy offers whiskey, cigars Cody King bets he owns the only speakeasy in town. Behind an unmarked door and seemingly vacant storefront in downtown Fort Mill is an upscale bourbon lounge that whisks patrons back to a time of Prohibition-era bars and secret drinkeries. Inspired by western speakeasies and Kentucky’s bourbon culture, King opened Charterhouse Cigar & Barrel earlier this year, bringing a unique nightlife option to residents of York County. It’s been a hit with the community. “People say this is so great,” said King, who is Charterhouse’s managing parter. “Fort Mill needed something like this.” Charterhouse takes up two storefronts on Fort Mill’s Main Street. Popping in the address on Google Maps leads to the humidor and cigar lounge, which is located at the former PuckerButt Pepper Company at 237 Main St. The humidor features over 10,000 cigars and cigar accessories like cutters, lighters and travel humidor. King inked a first-of-its kind partnership with Nicaraguan boutique cigar maker Esteban Carreras to carry their line of products. Next door is Charterhouse’s speakeasy, a dimly lit but inviting space with a strong scent of pine and aged whiskey barrels. “You step inside from the street and into something that’s completely different from what people expect,” he said. Orange, blown-glass light fixtures inspired by famed glass artist Dale Chihuly hang from the ceiling; they were assembled by King’s wife. Leather couches and bourbon barrels make up the rest of the lounge space. King offers eight signature cocktails, including the popular “Fort Millionaire,” a drink made with locally-grown strawberries. All of Charterhouse’s cocktails are made in-house, down to the smallest ingredients. King grows herbs and dries fruit for garnishes, even extracting his own vanilla bean for syrups and bitters. There’s a selection of local craft beer and 30 different wines, and hundreds of vodka, rum and whiskey selections. The old-fashioned, a classic cocktail made with whiskey and bitters, remains the favorite. But King said the drink possibilities are endless. Advertisement “I look at cocktails the same way I look at cooking,” he said. “There’s some foundations that you know, and you can kind of rip from there.” King got his start in the industry almost two decades ago at cigar bars and lounges in Phoenix, Arizona. He would make trips to Kentucky to purchase whiskey barrels, which would later serve as the inspiration for his business. “I kind of fell in love with the brick houses and speakeasies at the back of barns and stuff that I got to experience buying barrels in Kentucky,” he said. King said he opened Charterhouse to offer a new experience, but also something for everyone. There are areas designated for both smokers and non-smokers, and an outdoor patio for those who want to enjoy both. Whiskey pours range from $9 to $150. Beside drinks and cigars, King offers hors d’oeuvres and small plates, including $1 oyster specials on Thursdays. Charterhouse offers monthly whiskey tastings and cigar events, and has sold out almost every single one. “We believe the area was underserved for this type of business, and we saw an opening in a town that we all really love and see growing in a big way,” he said. King plans to further expand Charterhouse’s d nightlife options. He’s working on an expanded menu with entrees and is doubling Charterhouse’s wine and cigar options. A permanent indoor smoking lounge is being built behind the humidor. King also said he’s working on collaborations with Towne Tavern, a York County-favorite that formerly occupied the speakeasy space. “Getting into downtown Fort Mill on Main Street as it’s up and coming, that’s exciting for us,” King said. “We see a good future.” New coffee shop aims to bring faith and community to downtown York I took a walk to find one of Rock Hill’s hidden gems. Here’s what I found.

Bourbon master Bruce Potash brings tasting event to Hagerstown Bourbon drinkers and those interested in learning more about American whiskey will have an opportunity to meet a master blender and sample an award-winning bourbon when Bruce “Poppy” Potash visits Barrel Bodega in Hagerstown on Aug. 14 and Aug. 15. The event will feature a book signing and guided tasting of Potash’s bourbon, The Old Guard, according to a community announcement. The public event is free to attend and will take place at Barrel Bodega, 17618 Valley Mall Road, Hagerstown. Potash is a master taster, master blender and author of "My Journey into American Whiskey." According to the announcement, he visited more than 30 distilleries across the United States, gaining firsthand insight into bourbon production from apprentice distillers pursuing Stave and Thief Society certification to multigenerational master distillers. The experiences documented in the book also influenced the creation of The Old Guard Bourbon, according to the announcement. Potash will lead attendees through a guided tasting that examines the bourbon’s appearance, aroma, palate and finish. He also will discuss the stories behind the whiskey and sign copies of "My Journey into American Whiskey." Award-winning bourbon featured during tasting According to the announcement, The Old Guard Bourbon earned a gold medal at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The announcement states that judges noted aromas of vanilla, caramel, honey and dried fruit, along with flavors that include oak, toffee, cinnamon and clove. Event details The event is open to the public and free to attend. Barrel Bodega is at 17618 Valley Mall Road, Hagerstown. For additional information, contact Chi-Chi at 301-582-4444. This story was produced with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

Luke Combs Responds To Whiskey Jam Throwback Picture: "Damn. Almost Brings A Tear To My Eye Link copied Whiskey Jam recently shared a picture from their archives which featured a young Luke Combs in the corner, before Luke Combs was, well, Luke Combs. “Summer 2015 - a young @lukecombs chilling in the crowd at Whiskey Jam while we snapped a “tonight’s office” photo,” the caption said, “It’s a great (and somewhat hilarious) reminder that you never know who’s out there watching, just waiting for their chance to play.” The famous music night, Whiskey Jam, held at Whiskey Row on Nashville’s Broadway, is a space for musicians new and old to showcase their talent. Big names regularly start out there and up and comers can oftentimes catch their big break. It seems that Combs was one of those dreaming musicians, hoping to be in the right place at the right time when the Whiskey Jam team snapped this unsuspecting photo 11 years ago. Combs has just wrapped on his mega 2026 My Kinda Saturday Night Tour which included 3 sold-out nights at London’s Wembley Stadium. He commented on the post, saying, “Damn. Almost brings a tear to my eye”. The ‘Beautiful Crazy’ crooner has just today announced an extension of his My Kinda Saturday Night Tour for 2027, stopping at 12 cities across the US and Canada.

Updated: Readtime: 9 min Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more. For more information on how we test products, click here. The Walnut Whiskey Glass is a handcrafted black walnut tumbler for whisky drinkers who want something tougher and warmer in the hand than crystal. It is, quite literally, a cup made of wood, offering a pre-industrial touch to your beverage. Now live on Kickstarter with 447 backers and US$392,731 already pledged, the Walnut Whiskey Glass campaign offers a wooden alternative to traditional glassware that’s designed to suit the spirit you pour into it. What Is the Walnut Whiskey Glass? The Walnut Whiskey Glass is a solid walnut whisky tumbler that swaps fragile crystal for hardened timber. It’s perfect for relaxed sipping at home, or even out camping, without worrying about shattered glass. The maker says a high-temperature treatment inside the cup adds durability and actually changes how your drink tastes and smells. Each Walnut Whiskey Glass is carved from premium black walnut, hand-finished and carbonised on the interior so it can hold whisky, water or other spirits. It offers a functional alternative to the usual rocks glass for people who want a slower, more tactile way to enjoy a pour. Walnut Glass Design and Build The Walnut Whiskey Glass is carved from high density, straight grained black walnut, with each piece hand hollowed and sanded so the grain pattern on every cup is unique. The exterior is left raw and untreated, which keeps the natural timber feel in your hand and lets the surface ‘pick up character’ over time instead of chasing a uniform factory finish. For context, a wooden chopping board also picks up character, so how much you enjoy this depends entirely on whether you find patina romantic or just a bit grubby. Underneath, the base is precision-machined with a recessed channel so the cup sits flat on a table, and a zinc alloy ring is press fitted around the perimeter to take the brunt of everyday use. Capacity is listed at 370ml, so this wooden whisky glass sits closer to a modern rocks glass than a tasting copita, with room for ice or water if that’s how you drink. How the Walnut Glass Works Instead of a lacquer or food safe coating, the inside of the Walnut Whiskey Glass is treated with a high temperature carbonisation process between 600°C and 800°C. This turns the inner wall into a dense carbon layer that’s part of the wood itself rather than a separate lining. The campaign says this makes the cup resistant to moisture, cracking and warping over regular use. ZH Design also claims the micro porous carbon interior and the walnut’s natural tannins interact with the spirit, softening alcohol harshness and adding a subtle smoky and nutty character. There’s no app or gadget here, just a treated timber interior intended to echo elements of a charred oak barrel. Customisation is handled via optional laser engraving, which you choose through the Kickstarter Walnut Whiskey Glass pledge and shipping survey. Walnut Whiskey Glass Technical Specifications Here are the key technical details ZH Design lists for the Walnut Whiskey Glass. - Material: Premium black walnut with carbonised interior - Finish Options: Natural Walnut or Carbonized exterior, untreated wood surface - Capacity: 12.5 fl oz / 370 ml - Base Hardware: Zinc alloy protective ring around base perimeter - Included in Box: ZH Design Walnut Whiskey Glass and wooden gift box - Platform: Kickstarter live campaign with 447 backers and US$392,731 pledged so far Walnut Whiskey Glass Pros and Cons Based on the campaign details, here are the main upsides and trade offs to keep in mind with the Walnut Whiskey Glass. What We Like - Handcrafted from premium black walnut with unique grain on each cup - Carbonised interior aims to improve durability without chemical finishes - 370ml capacity suits standard whisky pours with room for ice or water - Zinc alloy base ring protects the timber when you set it down - Optional laser engraving and gift box make it suitable as a personalised present What to Keep in Mind - Kickstarter project so timelines and delivery can slip compared to retail - Wooden construction will not appeal if you prefer seeing the spirit in clear glass - Untreated exterior may mark or patina more quickly than sealed timber - Single core material and form factor, with only two finish options and engraving to differentiate Why This Could Be a Terrible Idea Time for the potential downsides. There are two, very real arguments against spending real money on a wooden whisky cup, and neither of them is snobbery. The first is that you cannot see the whisky. Colour is the opening move of every tasting there has ever been, and half the pleasure of a good dram is holding it up to the light and watching it slide back down the sides. Pour a 21-year-old sherry-cask malt into an opaque timber cup and you have thrown away an entire sense before you have even lifted it to your nose. Essentially, you’re drinking in the dark. Secondly, glass is not the default because nobody thought of anything else. Glass is the default because it holds the spirit without contributing a single thing to it. Every flavour you taste came from the grain, the still and the barrel, which is exactly the point. As Greg Dillon, founder of whisky site GreatDrams, puts it, “there is a common misconception that the shape of a whisky glass somehow changes the flavour. It doesn’t. What it changes is the aroma.” The vessel is supposed to be the one part of the equation doing nothing. ZH Design’s pitch is the exact opposite. It says the carbonised interior and the walnut’s tannins will soften the alcohol and add a smoky, nutty character. Think about that: you’ve just paid a distillery to spend 12 years getting the wood influence exactly right, and now a cup wants another go at it. If you have ever sent back a corked wine, you already know how you feel about a container editing the contents. In fairness, there is a genuinely good counter-argument, and it’s the reason this is not an open and shut case. Professional tasting panels often work from opaque black nosing glasses precisely so that colour cannot bias them, because colour lies: spirit caramel (E150a) is legal in Scotch and widely used to make batches look consistent, so a deep mahogany dram may simply be a well-dressed one. On that view, a cup you cannot see into isn’t heresy, it’s the blind tasting the professionals already run. And wood is hardly an invention here. Scots drank from the quaich, a shallow cup built from wooden staves, from the 16th century until tumblers took over in the 19th, and they only switched because industrial glassmaking got cheap. So the Walnut Whiskey Glass is either a 400-year-old idea coming back around, or roughly US$400,000 raised to reverse two centuries of progress. We’d suggest not making it the glass you reach for when you open something expensive. What to Consider Before You Pledge If you’re looking at a wooden whisky glass, the main question is whether you want ritual and feel over pure neutrality. Timber will always add its own character, even with a carbonised interior, so expect some flavour influence compared to a crystal tumbler. Think about where you’ll actually use it too, since the Walnut Whiskey Glass is pitched as much at campfires and road trips as it’s at the bar cart. As with any live Kickstarter, you’re pledging to support a project, not buying an in stock item, so production schedules and delivery dates can shift. Look at how the cup is treated, what maintenance it might need and whether you’re comfortable with a raw wood exterior that will age over time. If you want easy dishwasher use and identical units, traditional glass might still be the better call. Man of Many’s Verdict The Walnut Whiskey Glass looks suited to whisky drinkers who care as much about the feel of the ritual as the spirit itself, especially if

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