威士忌日報

【画像：https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202608214515-O1-26BN9kt9】 京都酒造株式会社（所在地：京都府船井郡京丹波町、代表取締役：豊田和也）が製造する、京都府内限定販売の京都ウイスキーハイボールシリーズが、イギリスで開催された世界的な酒類コンペティション「インターナショナル・スピリッツ・チャレンジ（ISC）2026」の「Pre-Mixed Drinks（プレミックスド・ドリンク）」部門において、金賞（ゴールドメダル）および銀賞（シルバーメダル）を受賞いたしました。 ●京都酒造の缶ハイボールとして初の金賞受賞 「インターナショナル・スピリッツ・チャレンジ」は、世界中から数千もの銘柄がエントリーされる、業界最高峰の権威あるコンペティションです。 今回、私たちの缶ハイボールは、その厳しい審査基準をクリアし、以下の通り素晴らしい評価をいただきました。 【画像：https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202608214515-O2-1l54ar8o】 【金賞】 京都ウイスキーハイボール 赤帯 【銀賞】 京都ウイスキーハイボール 紫帯 京都酒造として、缶ハイボールカテゴリーにおける金賞の獲得は、全てのコンペティションを通じて初の受賞となります。 ●次なる目標はさらなる高みへ 今回の金賞受賞は、私たちの誇りであり、大きな励みです。 しかし、ISCにはさらに上位の賞として「ダブルゴールド」という栄誉が存在します。私たちはこの結果に甘んじることなく、次回のコンペティションではより良い賞を獲得できるよう、さらなる品質向上を目指して精進を重ねてまいります。 もちろん、私たちにとっての真の目的は、賞そのものを獲得することだけではありません。 何よりも、「美味しい！」とお客様に心から言っていただけるお酒を造り続けることこそが、変わらぬ目標です。 皆様に愛される一杯を目指し、これからも妥協のないウイスキー造りに邁進いたします。 ●京都の旅の思い出とともに、特別な一杯を 本商品は「京都府内限定」での販売となっております。 地元京都にお住まいの皆様の日常の一杯として、また京都へ観光でお越しになられた皆様には、特別な旅の思い出のお供として、ぜひお手に取っていただければ幸いです。 京都限定の一杯を、ぜひ現地でお楽しみください。 ●ISCについて イギリスの酒類専門誌「ドリンクス・インターナショナル」が主催。 ロンドンで開催されるこのコンペティションには、毎年世界70ヵ国以上から数千商品がエントリーされる、極めて権威のある酒類コンペティションです。 ●京都みやこ蒸溜所について 京都みやこ蒸溜所は、京都府中部に位置する京丹波町にある、京都で初めてのウイスキー蒸溜所です。 豊かな自然と昼夜の寒暖差を活かした樽熟成を行い、伝統を守りながらも常に新しい挑戦を続けています。 ●本件に関するお問い合わせ先 京都酒造株式会社 Tel：0771-84-0110 Email：info@kyotoshuzo.co.jp ※商品以外のお問い合わせはお控えいただきますようお願いいたします。 ●プレスリリースに関するお問い合わせ先 京都酒造株式会社 広報担当 Email：pr@kyotoshuzo.co.jp ※マーケティングや営業のお問い合わせはお控えいただきますようお願いいたします。

WHISKY brand The Glenlivet has been forced to remove its controversial Women’s Month social media ad down and issue a public apology after getting a serious tongue-lashing from the ANC. The trouble started when popular actress Dineo Langa was featured strutting from room to room with a glass of Glenlivet in hand. In the background, images of fearless anti-apartheid icons like Sophie De Bruyn, Lilian Ngoyi, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela were displayed. Dineo was heard praising the sheer bravery of the 1956 Women’s Marchers, noting that De Bruyn was just 18 years old when she took on the brutal apartheid regime. But the flashy ad left a bitter taste in the mouths of viewers and the ruling party, who slammed the liquor brand for turning South Africa’s sacred history into a cheap commercial pitch. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu didn’t hold back, declaring that struggle heroes were not “cultural props or marketing symbols.” “The 1956 Women’s March remains one of the most defining acts of resistance against apartheid oppression,” said Bhengu. “Their contribution cannot be reduced to a visual association or branding opportunity.” Bhengu added that using struggle stalwarts to sell alcohol was especially tone-deaf, given how booze was historically used as an instrument of control and exploitation against Black communities. “South Africa’s liberation heritage must be approached with the highest level of responsibility, respect, and sensitivity,” she said. With the heat rising, the international whisky company quickly pulled the plug on the campaign, and offering an unreserved apology. “We acknowledge the offence that this has caused and have deleted the post,” Glenlivet said in a statement. “We are investigating how this post was conceptualised and approved to make sure this does not happen again.” Tap here to download the FREE Daily Sun App

New Delhi: Gentleman Jack, the double-mellowed Tennessee whiskey from the Jack Daniel Distillery, has launched Gentleman Sour Month, a nationwide campaign bringing together more than 30 premium bars across six Indian cities. The campaign spans Gurgaon, Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kolkata, with bartenders reinterpreting the classic Whiskey Sour using ingredients, flavours and cultural influences associated with their respective cities. As part of the campaign, each participating venue will feature two cocktails — the Classic Gentleman Sour and an original regional expression created exclusively for Gentleman Sour Month. The regional serves will draw on local produce, familiar flavour combinations and distinctive culinary influences from each city. The campaign culminated on World Whiskey Sour Day on August 25 and takes the form of a City vs. City Whiskey Sour Battle. Bartenders will compete by creating recipes that combine regional character with the traditional structure of the Whiskey Sour. Entries will be evaluated by a mystery jury based on the recipe, cocktail presentation and the number of serves ordered during the campaign. The winning bartender will receive an opportunity to visit the Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, while the Top 12 shortlisted bartenders will receive an exclusive Jack Daniel’s selection set. Commenting on the launch, Vinay Joshi, Director – Marketing, Indian Sub-Continent & Maldives, Brown-Forman, said, “The Whiskey Sour has remained relevant across generations because there is a discipline to its simplicity, but also considerable room for imagination. With Gentleman Sour Month, we wanted to put that possibility in the hands of bartenders across India and see how one classic serve changes as it moves from one city to another. Each interpretation draws from a different culinary vocabulary, but Gentleman Jack remains the constant – its smoothness and versatility give bartenders the freedom to experiment without losing the balance of the original. It is as much a celebration of the people behind the bar as it is of the cocktail itself .” Gentleman Jack is charcoal mellowed twice — once before maturation and once afterwards. Introduced by the Jack Daniel Distillery, the Tennessee whiskey features a balanced oak flavour with notes of caramel and vanilla. The brand said these characteristics provide the foundation for the Classic Gentleman Sour while allowing the ingredients in the regional expressions to remain distinct. Consumers can order both Gentleman Sour serves at participating venues during the campaign and contribute to the City vs. City challenge through their orders. The winning bartender and cocktail will be announced through a social media post following the conclusion of the campaign.

Actress and influencer Dineo Langa issued a joint apology with a whisky brand after a campaign invoking the 1956 Women’s March sparked social media backlash and government condemnation for trivialising the sacrifices of the women behind the historic protest. Image: Instagram/Dineo Langa Whisky brand apologises after ANC and government accuse it of commercialising the legacy of the women who led the historic 1956 protest An international whisky brand’s Women’s Month campaign featuring actress Dineo Langa has been withdrawn after it sparked a furious backlash over its use of the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March to promote alcohol. The Glenlivet came under fire from the African National Congress (ANC), Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga and social media users, who accused the brand of trivialising the sacrifices of the women who organised the historic march against apartheid pass laws. The ANC said it was “deeply disturbing” to see the legacies of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Lilian Ngoyi, Sophie de Bruyn and the 1956 Women’s March used to sell alcohol. “Their legacies and sacrifices are not marketing props. The advert must be withdrawn and an apology issued,” ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said on Friday. The party said using the history of the Women’s March to market alcohol was particularly insensitive given the role alcohol played in the exploitation and control of black communities under colonialism and apartheid. It pointed to practices such as the dop system, under which some farm and other workers were partly paid with alcohol rather than receiving their full remuneration. The ANC also condemned what it described as an attempt to turn the Women’s March into a marketing spectacle. In the late 1950s, women in townships across South Africa were among the most vocal opponents of apartheid-era liquor laws and the municipal beer-hall system. Women organised boycotts and, in some communities, raided and destroyed beer halls as they protested against laws they believed contributed to the economic exploitation of their households and communities. They also opposed the forced removals and pass laws imposed by the apartheid state and demanded that men play a greater role in the struggle against apartheid. Chikunga also criticised the campaign, warning against the glamourisation and normalisation of alcohol consumption. She said harmful drinking could not be separated from the broader social challenges confronting South African communities. “Alcohol abuse and harmful drinking are among factors that can exacerbate gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), family instability, child neglect, interpersonal violence and other forms of social harm,” she said. “We cannot celebrate the courage of the women of 1956 while simultaneously commercialising and trivialising their struggle.” On Friday, The Glenlivet subsequently withdrew the campaign and issued an apology jointly with Langa. Langa had earlier deleted negative comments from the campaigns video on Instagram earlier in the week. “The Glenlivet unreservedly apologises for a recent influencer post which drew on the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March,” the statement said. “We acknowledge the offence this has caused and have deleted the post. We are investigating how the post was conceptualised and approved to make sure this does not happen again.” The brand said it wished to reiterate its “heartfelt apology” to those affected by the post. But sociologist and political analyst Tessa Dooms rejected the apology, questioning the brand’s suggestion that the campaign’s conceptualisation and approval needed to be investigated. “These guys think we are kids. This wasn’t a video shot on her couch. There was a budget, story boards, a script, production, editing and PR strategy on when to post. Now they want to ‘investigate’ what?” Dooms asked. The backlash reflects the continuing sensitivity surrounding the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March, which remains one of the defining moments in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid. On August 9, 1956, about 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the extension of apartheid pass laws to black women.

A list of 25 whiskeys asks a lot of the person reading it. Someone buying their first bottle of bourbon and someone hunting an allocated release want almost nothing in common, and a single ranking hands them the same 25 names and leaves them to sort it out. Crown Royal x Juicy Couture Drop Limited Edition Y2K-Inspired Merch READ THE STORYSo, we have done a bit of organizing in the hopes of making this list easier to navigate. The bottles below are grouped into eight sets, each built around a type of drinker, so you can find the group that fits and come away with three or four bottles you can go and buy. The timing is good for bourbon buyers. Kentucky is holding a record 16.1 million barrels of aging bourbon, according to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, and Jim Beam has paused whiskey production at its main Clermont distillery for all of 2026. Supply is up, prices have come back down in the middle of the market, and 2026 is a good year to be buying. So, if you are looking to expand your bourbon and American whiskey palate, here are 25 to try by type of drinker. Find Your Group If you are new to whiskey, three approachable bottles that won’t break the bank If you already drink bourbon regularly, four bottles worth discovering next 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. If you are curious about rye, three that drink close to bourbon If you are mixing drinks, three that hold up in a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned If you want cask strength, three uncut and unapologetic If you collect, three with real scarcity behind them If you are watching the budget, three that cost around $25 or less If you are buying a gift, three that look the part and taste it too If You Are New To Whiskey Nothing here is going to fight you. All three sit at around 90 proof, cost less than $35, and are relatively easy to find. Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 45%, $20 / £19 A sensible first bottle, and one we have recommended to beginners before. The low-rye mash bill keeps things sweet and simple, with caramel, vanilla, and a little oak spice at the end. It can be quite difficult to find in some states. Maker’s Mark, 45%, $20 / £21 Maker’s uses wheat rather than rye as its secondary grain, at 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley, which softens the bourbon considerably. Expect vanilla, warm bread, and gentle caramel, with a short and easy finish. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 45.2%, $28 / £26 The most versatile of the three, for me. Woodford works neat, over ice, or in a cocktail, so a single bottle covers most situations while you work out what you like. Rich caramel, dried fruit, and mild baking spice. If You Already Drink Bourbon Regularly Four bottles for anyone past the beginner stage. Between them, they cover a high-rye Kentucky single barrel, a wheated bourbon with an extra step in the maturation, a newer distillery making its own spirit, and a name brought back after a century away. Four Roses Single Barrel, 50%, $44 / £45 Four Roses uses ten different bourbon recipes, and the Single Barrel bottling comes from the high-rye OBSV recipe at 35% rye. You get ripe berry fruit, plenty of baking spice, caramel, butter, and oak, all at a price that has stayed reasonable. Maker’s Mark 46, 47%, $25 / £38 Fully matured Maker’s Mark, finished with seared French oak staves in the barrel. It comes out darker and spicier than the standard bottling without losing the wheated softness underneath, showing maple, coffee, and sticky dark fruit. Bardstown Bourbon Company Bottled-in-Bond, 50%, $55 / £66 Distilled and aged on site. The wheated mash bill and six years in the barrel give apricot, honey, and butterscotch. Worth trying if you want to know what the modern end of Kentucky tastes like. Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 45%, $30 / £45 The Owensboro distillery dates to 1885 and came back into production after a long gap, with its own bourbon on shelves again since 2022. High rye, five years old, and full of mint, butterscotch, and cinnamon. Distribution is still expanding, so availability depends on where you live. If You Are Curious About Rye Rye has a reputation for being sharp and dry, which puts some bourbon drinkers off before they start. These three are ordered so you can work up to it, beginning with the one that tastes closest to what you already drink. Knob Creek Rye, 50%, $33 / £41 The easiest place to start. The mash bill sits just over the 51% rye minimum, so there is a lot of corn in there, and it comes from the same Clermont distillery and the same 100 proof you may know from the bourbon. Vanilla, cinnamon, baked apple, and only a moderate amount of rye spice. Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Rye, 42.4%, $40 / £57 The gentlest of the three, at under 85 proof. It is a Kentucky-style rye with a good deal of corn in it, and the low strength makes it easy to drink. Butterscotch, ripe melon, and vanilla, finishing dry and a little peppery. High West Double Rye, 46%, $29 / £50 This is where you meet actual rye spice. It blends a 95% rye whiskey with High West’s own mash of 80% rye and 20% malted rye, giving mint, clove, and cinnamon over a honeyed base. If you enjoy this one, you are ready for the rest of the category, and it makes a very good Manhattan for the money. If You Are Mixing Drinks Everything here is 100 proof or higher, with enough grain character to still be recognizable once it is mixed, and none of it costs so much that you will feel bad using it. Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond, 50%, $21 / £38 The standard rye behind a lot of bar Manhattans. The bottled-in-bond rules mean 100 proof and at least four years old, which is exactly what you want holding up against sweet vermouth. Cinnamon, black pepper, and cherry. Old Grand-Dad Bonded, 50%, $25 / £69.95 A high-rye bourbon at 27% rye, which is a lot for the style, and the spice cuts nicely through sugar and bitters in an Old Fashioned. Cinnamon, brown sugar, and dark fruit, with more body than the price suggests. Easy to find and easy to keep restocking in the US, but harder to find in the UK. Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style, 57.5%, $50 / £82 The strongest of the three and the one for spirit-forward drinks like a Boulevardier, where Campari and vermouth would flatten anything gentler. Dark caramel, cherry preserves, chocolate, and oak. If You Want Higher Proof Whiskey with a kick. The appeal is concentration rather than heat, and all three take a few drops of water well if you want to open them up. Wild Turkey Rare Breed, 58.4%, $50 / £59 A blend of six, eight, and 12 bourbons, sold at barrel proof since 1991. For the money, it remains one of the easier cask-strength bottles to justify, and it is on shelves year-round rather than arriving in batches. Roasted nuts, tobacco, burnt sugar, and orange peel. Booker’s, 62%+, $74+ / £67+ Booker Noe started bottling this uncut and unfiltered in 1988, and it is largely responsible for the barrel proof category existing at all. Each release is batched separately, so the proof and the age shift a little each time, generally around seven years and somewhere near 125 proof. Dark caramel, charred oak, roasted peanut, and baking spice. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye, 54%, $69 Whisky Advocate made this its 2025 Whisky of the Year, the first rye ever to top the list. It is twelve years old, at 51% rye, which is the Kentucky style rather than the spicier high-rye approach. Cinnamon candy, caramel, dark chocolate, and mature oa

The Types Of Bottles That Raise Red Flags For Bourbon Experts The old saying about not judging a book by its cover is also true about bourbon. Scanning the shelves of your local liquor store, you might find options ranging from familiar longstanding brands to eye-catching, unusually packaged varieties. According to bourbon experts who spoke with Mashed, this latter group is a particular red flag when buying your next bottle. They warned that over-the-top packaging might be a distraction. That's the conclusion of Blake Johns, founder of Smokeye Hill, a Colorado-based bourbon distillery. One of his rules of thumb when trying new whiskey is to "avoid buying anything in an absurdly shaped glass bottle." The specific examples he mentioned included containers shaped like machine guns or swords. "That has 'gimmick' written all over it ... you're usually paying for the novelty of the glass, not the quality of the whiskey inside it," he noted. The feeling is shared by fellow expert Heather Butcher, director of Food and Beverage at Conrad Indianapolis. She avoids heavy wax tops, ornate bottles, and velvet bags. One possible example of gimmicky packaging comes courtesy of Willett Pot Still Reserve. To be clear, the experts didn't highlight this product. However, it touts a unique bottle designed to look like a traditional pot still. As for the quality of the contents, reactions have been mixed. A review on Breaking Bourbon gave the liquor a 3 out of 5 but noted that it "doesn't quite live up to its show-stopping decanter." A quote from the review blog District Drams summed up the situation succinctly: "I don't actually like this very much, but people come over and think the bottle is cool, so they drink it." The traditional look doesn't mean boring whiskey There's no guarantee that buying outlandish, high-concept bottles will result in a poor drinking experience. But it's worth considering how the packaging for popular bourbons often looks. Notwithstanding some variation for individual branding, most top-sellers, such as Jim Beam, Evan Williams, and Maker's Mark, bear a familiar, traditional shape. Similarly, the winners of the best bourbon categories at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards come in bottles with typical shapes. Overall, the keys to picking a good bourbon are fairly straightforward. Factors like the bottle's age, proof, mash bill reveal a good deal of important information. However, more sophisticated shoppers can consider single barrel vs. blended options and whether the item is "bottled in bond." This is a legal designation that people associate with transparency and quality. It means that the bourbon was produced in one distillation season by a single distiller at a single facility and then aged four years (under government supervision). It must also meet precise bottling guidelines, such as having no added colors or flavors. Naturally, overly flashy bottles are far from the only red flag noted by experts. A lack of details (or, conversely, a long but ultimately thin marketing story) is another one. Celebrity endorsements don't mean much in terms of your drinking experience, either. However, few warning signs are as easy to spot as over-the-top packaging, making this a good way to separate the true contenders from the potential pretenders.

What The Typical Shelf Life Is For Bourbon When you score a fantastic bottle of bourbon, the last thing you want is for it to lose its quality before you can finish every drop. Since this expensive type of whiskey depreciates over time, aficionados should learn how long they have to enjoy it to the fullest. To get the scoop, we asked Chris Blatner, creator of the @urbanbourbonist on Instagram, about the shelf lives of both unopened and opened bourbon. "An unopened bottle of bourbon really has no expiration date, as long as it is stored correctly," Blatner explains. "Bourbon doesn't continue to age in the bottle and its high alcohol content makes it very shelf-stable." While some alcohols do expire, bourbon has a minimum ABV of 40%, which prevents it from growing bacteria. Surprisingly, Blatner notes that "once a bottle is open, it also doesn't really have an expiration." However, he noted that the spirit will start to change once air enters the bottle. "A bottle of bourbon can be enjoyable for years, but you can start to notice changes a bit faster once the bottle gets below about one-third full," he says. The amount of bourbon left in the bottle matters because the more oxygen is trapped inside, the faster the whiskey oxidizes. This isn't an instant disaster, but will eventually harm the aroma and taste. Experts agree that once the bottle is down to its final third, you should finish it straight away; but the shelf life of a fuller bottle ranges from six months to a couple years. How bourbon changes over time, and how to store it correctly Blatner notes that not all bourbons become less tasty once you open them: "You may find you like a bourbon better after it has had some time in the bottle interacting with a little more air." But no matter what, an open bourbon bottle that's almost full to half full will only retain peak quality for one to two years. Once it's under ½ full, a bottle can last six months to one year. Bottles down to ⅓ to ¼ fullness will only keep for a few weeks. What happens once bourbon is too old? "The biggest signs are muted aromas and flavors, or a bourbon that tastes flat and less vibrant than you remember it being," Blatner explains. A faded color or aroma can also tell you that bourbon has gone bad – in the worst cases, it may even smell moldy. "Heat, sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and a poor seal can speed up changes," Blatner adds. To keep bourbon good for as long as possible, Blatner recommended storing it in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. Bottles should be upright and well-sealed, as keeping them on their side can damage the cork, allowing more oxygen into the bottle."If you have a special bottle that's down to its last few ounces and you want to save it for a long time, it's a good idea to transfer it to a smaller airtight glass bottle," Blatner recommends. "That will reduce the amount of oxygen sitting above the whiskey."

A black fungus is thriving because of Ireland’s whiskey boom – we need to know more about it The ‘angels’ share’ could be more dangerous than we think Irish whiskey is one of Ireland’s great export success stories. Exports were worth over €930 million in 2025, with the country’s much-loved spirit being sold all over the world. Even amid difficult international trading conditions, with concerns around tariffs for export to the US, exports to the EU have grown by more than 21% in four years. However, while thousands of barrels quietly mature in warehouses around Ireland, something else is happening outside some of them. On walls, roofs, road signs, trees and other surfaces close to some whiskey maturation facilities, a distinctive black patina appears. It may look like soot or air pollution, but in some cases the culprit is a fungus: Baudoinia, commonly known as “whiskey fungus” or “whiskey black”, and fuelled by the presence of ethanol alcohol in the air. Despite the fact it has been known about for years, there has been surprisingly little research on its effects, such as whether the fungus can spread from distilleries to nearby properties, including residential homes. Ethanol alcohol emissions from the industry are also thought to contribute to ground level ozone, a harmful air pollutant. But we don’t know whether the fungus has any adverse consequences for people’s health. It may not be dangerous at all, but this is something we are investigating through a project at Dublin City University. The angels’ share During maturation, ethanol and other volatile compounds evaporate and pass through the porous cask. They then enter the surrounding atmosphere around the distillery. This portion of the whiskey is often known as the “angels’ share”. A review commissioned by the Scottish government estimated that more than 90% of non-methane volatile organic compound (NMVOC) emissions associated with whiskey production occur during maturation. NMVOCs are chemicals that participate in atmospheric reactions and contribute to the formation of pollutants like ground-level ozone. Ethanol alcohol overwhelmingly dominates these emissions from whiskey production. As they condense into the air moisture, these ethanol vapours also create an unusual ecological niche. Baudoinia can occur naturally at very low abundance, but exposure to this airborne alcohol can favour its growth. Around maturation warehouses, this can result in conspicuous dark fungal growth on exposed surfaces. The association has been recognised for more than a century, initially around cognac maturation facilities in France, and has subsequently been documented around spirit maturation warehouses in Scotland, Canada and the US. So can whiskey fungus spread from distilleries to nearby properties, causing unsightly dark growth in people’s homes? In 2022, following a complaint about black discolouration on houses close to the Midleton distillery in county Cork, the Irish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigated whether Baudoinia was present. While the fungus was identified on a whiskey warehouse, it was not detected on any of the three nearby residential properties sampled. There are still major gaps in what we know about whiskey fungus in Ireland, such as how far it travels, what controls its growth, and what, if anything, its presence tells us about ethanol concentrations in the surrounding environment. A recent review led by researchers at University College Cork suggests that ethanol may play several roles for the fungus. It may act as a germination signal and as a source of carbon to support the growth of the fungus. Research around whiskey maturation warehouses also suggests that the extent of visible colonisation depends on factors including distance from the ethanol source, prevailing wind, moisture and the type and texture of the surface available for colonisation. Ireland has commitments to reduce NMVOC emissions under the EU National Emission Reduction Commitments Directive. As mentioned, these NMVOC emissions can help produce ozone, a harmful air pollutant that damages vegetation and crops, reduces lung function and aggravates respiratory conditions such as asthma. It is also a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. The difficulty is knowing precisely how much ethanol is being released. National inventories generally rely on production data and emissions factors. These are useful for estimating emissions across an industry, but they do not necessarily tell us what is happening around an individual maturation facility – how emissions change with the number and age of barrels, how ethanol disperses beyond a warehouse boundary, or how weather conditions affect local concentrations. Is whiskey fungus dangerous? However, it’s important not to jump from the presence of a striking black fungus to conclusions about health. The Scottish government review of the available literature found no evidence demonstrating health effects from short- or long-term exposure to Baudoinia. However, it also identified important evidence gaps and recommended further investigation and environmental monitoring. So, there are two assumptions we should avoid. One is that because something looks alarming, it must be dangerous. The other is that because harm has not yet been demonstrated, there is nothing worth investigating. What we need is evidence. That is the purpose of the new research project we are undertaking at Dublin City University, in collaboration with the University of Toronto. The EPA-funded EREG project is tasked with investigating the ethanol emissions from maturation facilities and the environmental distribution and biology of Baudoinia in Ireland. We will combine emissions estimation, environmental monitoring and microbiology and examine how whiskey maturation emissions are currently regulated. We will also engage with the industry, regulators and communities. In fact, if you live near a whiskey maturation facility in Ireland and have noticed this black staining, we want to hear from you. Ireland does not need to choose between a successful whiskey industry and environmental protection. The objective is to develop the evidence needed to allow the industry to grow sustainably while ensuring that communities and the environment are appropriately protected. The angels’ share is an unavoidable – and much celebrated – part of making whiskey. But from an environmental science perspective, there is another question worth asking: once the angels have taken their share, where does it go next? Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks

The 9 Best American Whiskey Brands For many drinkers, whiskey is not only an acquired taste but a treasure hunt for a brand that best suits the palate and occasion. What you may consider the best whiskey (the "e" in whiskey indicates an American or Irish spirit) for drinking neat may not be the best for mixed drinks or sharing with friends at a party. The differences between top and bottom shelf selections may be vast and varied, but that doesn't mean you can't find value in even lesser-priced brands. Likewise, an upmarket bottle that boasts a more involved distilling process and high-end tasting notes won't necessarily suit your palate enough to be considered your go-to. To ensure our list of the best American whiskeys was as fair and complete as possible, we consulted a pair of experts on the subject of whiskey, Alex Davis and Learan Kahanov, who co-own NYC's American whiskey-forward bar Peck Slip Social. The duo was generous enough to weigh in on our American whiskeys of choice and offer a few picks that weren't on our radar. One caveat from the entrepreneurial spirit specialists: quality is a matter of personal preference. "We really don't like saying a whiskey is 'better' than another, as these things are so subjective," they caution. "We are a big proponent of the idea that what you like is all that matters — choose your price point and find what you like in three categories: cheap, affordable, and special occasion." Jack Daniel's For most drinkers who don't delve too deeply into the whiskey universe, Jack Daniel's may be the most familiar name on the shelf. It's also provided a first-time whiskey experience for many drinkers who've found it served readily at ground-level bars and house parties, putting it within easier reach than brands that require a bit more research and a bigger budget. Jack Daniel's is one of the most valuable spirit brands in the world, and its Old No. 7 bottle in particular is one of the best-selling American whiskeys around the globe. It's a standard behind the bar for making mixed drinks; there's a reason why Jack and Coke is a go-to moniker for whiskey and cola, after all. Expert Learan Kahanov considers Jack Daniel's a staple for mixed drinks. For example, fans of a Boulevardier or the two-ingredient bourbon cocktail, the Old Colonel, will appreciate it. "My first intro into brown liquor," he says. "It holds a place in my heart" — even if he admits that he doesn't drink it as often anymore. This is likely a common theme among the stories of many whiskey drinkers due to the brand's familiarity and availability. There is something of a hierarchy to the options, however. Fans tend to favor the higher proofs Jack Daniel's has to offer, and even devoted whiskey connoisseurs can be convinced that this U.S. staple spirit is a premium pick. Buffalo Trace Considering the fact that it proudly holds the title of the world's most award-winning distillery, it would be ludicrous not to include Buffalo Trace in a best-of American whiskey list. This Kentucky bourbon, now owned by Sazerac, comes from a distillery that's been operating for over 200 years. The brand is kindly reviewed by fans who herald its affordability and easy-going, sippable personality. Even aficionados who snipe a bit at its lack of complexity admit that Buffalo Trace offers a lovely entry-level whiskey that stands out well among competitors. Alex Davis and Learan Kahanov advise that of Buffalo Trace's various high-quality selections, Traveller Blend No. 40 is a solid option; the buttery vanilla and caramel aromas and a nutty-sweet flavor described on the company website signal the relative lightness of the profile. Reviewers have also praised the evenhanded distribution of berry and oak flavors in the brand's Kosher Rye creation. Buffalo Trace additionally offers Kosher Wheat and Kosher Straight Rye, as well as Bourbon Cream, a liqueur that provides another option for whiskey-loving palates. Maker's Mark The scarlet-red wax seal and long-necked bottle of Maker's Mark whiskey are a common sight among liquor shelves and mixologist collections behind bars around the world. Similar to Buffalo Trace, authorities Alex Davis and Learan Kahanov note that it's a tasty, consistent bargain for its price point, which hits a few bullseyes for whiskey lovers with limited budgets. The fact that it's an eye-catching package that stands out among other bottles doesn't hurt; the look is part of the connection that associates the brand with quality whiskey. Drinkers tend to agree, weighing in on Reddit threads about the virtues and value of Maker's Mark among their whiskeys of choice to guide newcomers curious about the brand. One Redditor remarked on their love of a Maker's Mark old-fashioned, highlighting the brand's 46 Cask Strength as a preferred sipping whiskey. Taste-testers on YouTube note the spices as a highlight of the Maker's Mark blend. The brand continues innovating and expanding its collection, offering its first-ever wheat-based whiskey, Star Hill Farm, which was named the world's best version of an American wheat whiskey for 2026 at the World Whiskies Awards. Woodford Reserve Expert Alex Davis credits Woodford Reserve with introducing him to the world of whiskey and now considers it a prime go-to brand for cocktails or straightforward enjoyment. With a dozen different versions detailed on its website, this brand fans out its flavors like peacock feathers, with the Kentucky distillery proudly laying claim to being the site where fine bourbon creation first began back in 1812. The distillery is now a historic landmark, located in Versailles. Reviewers regard Woodford Reserve as a happily satisfying whiskey experience. For drinkers discussing the brand on Reddit, the Double Oaked is a particularly attractive pick for its price. Some newer whiskey-sipping Redditors go so far as to claim that it's one of the best bourbons on the market, period. Clearly, it's a matter of opinion, but a whiskey that inspires superlatives like this is one worth tapping into. And if you're a diehard whiskey devotee, visiting the historic distillery could be the trip of a lifetime. Stranahan's How does expert Learan Kahanov describe Stranahan's? "A really great American whiskey with many really cool limited releases," he says, adding that his favorite is the latest Diamond Peak Añejo Cask. It makes sense for the brand to be listed among the best in the country, considering that this Denver, Colorado, distiller is behind the most-awarded American single malt whiskey. Stranahan's also holds the distinction of producing the first Rocky Mountain single malt in Colorado, with more than 20 years in operation helping get the word out about this high-quality pour. Though Stranahan's Blue Peak Single Malt is often singled out by reviewers as a highly tasty and affordable offering, other tasters consider the 12-year Mountain Angel an even better option. There's a reason the company has racked up gold, double-gold, and platinum honors year after year for its various creations. No matter which form draws attention from whiskey fans, Stranahan's has amassed industry credibility to reflect the quality of its bottles. Knob Creek Knob Creek happens to fall under the Jim Beam banner, a small-batch brand that gives the bigger whiskey name an artisanal presence. According to Learan Kahanov, Knob Creek falls under the same quality banner as Buffalo Trace and Maker's Mark. It's also an award-winner, bringing home gold for its Bourbon x Rye bottle in the Best American Blended Limited Release category at the World Whiskies Awards in 2026. Among the varieties available, the Knob Creek 9 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey earns praise from reviewers for its well-made, straightforward profile. Reddit roundtables feature drinkers praising the bottle for sealing their passion for whiskey. Some even claim that the brand redeemed previous experiences with Jim Beam's name-brand whiskey, elevating their whiskey drinking to a genui

- The Glenlivet distillery and Dineo Langa have issued a joint apology for a social media post advert referencing the 1956 Women’s March. - The ANC criticised the ad and released a statement on Friday. - Langa posted an apology on her X account, writing: “I am sorry for the harm I have caused.” The Glenlivet distillery and actor Dineo Langa have issued a joint apology for an advertisement on social media referencing the 1956 Women’s March. The ad, since deleted, links anti-apartheid activist Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, who was 18 when she became one of the leaders of the 9 August 1956 Women’s March, to Glenlivet’s 18-year-old scotch whiskey. Williams-De Bruyn led the march of 20 000 women in Pretoria alongside Lilian Ngoyi, Rahima Moosa, Helen Joseph, Albertina Sisulu and Bertha Gxowa, in protest against apartheid pass laws for black women. The ad received backlash online, with the ANC criticising it in a statement on Friday. Am I the only one offended by this ad? pic.twitter.com/hZwEXMKkId — Noxolo Madonsela (@Noxxcee) August 28, 2026 “The African National Congress (ANC) has noted with deep concern the Glenlivet advertisement that uses the images and legacy of some of South Africa’s most revered struggle icons, including Mama Winnie Madikizela- Mandela, Mama Lilian Ngoyi and Mama Sophie Williams-De Bruyn, alongside the historic 1956 Women’s March, to promote an alcoholic product,” the party’s statement read. “While we recognise the importance of preserving and celebrating the contributions of our liberation stalwarts, we strongly object to the manner in which this sacred chapter of our history has been appropriated for commercial purposes,” they added. “The women of 1956 were not cultural props or marketing symbols; they were fearless leaders whose sacrifices and struggles helped secure the freedom and democracy that South Africans enjoy today.” The party said the contributions of the women who participated in the march “cannot be reduced to a visual association or branding opportunity; it represents a profound national legacy built on courage, sacrifice and resistance”. “The use of this history to sell alcohol is particularly insensitive because it disconnects the legacy of these women from the lived experiences of communities that suffered under systems where alcohol was deliberately used as an instrument of exploitation and control,” they said. The statement continued: “Under colonialism and apartheid, practices such as the dop system saw farm and other workers partly compensated with alcohol instead of receiving fair remuneration. This entrenched dependency undermined human dignity and contributed to long-term social harm, particularly among black and working-class communities.” “It is therefore deeply troubling that a history of resistance against oppression is being associated with the promotion of alcohol without proper consideration of this painful context.” The ANC asked Glenlivet to remove the ad, issue an apology and provide an explanation why and how the ad was created. The Glenlivet and @therealdineo sincerely apologise for the recent social media post referencing the 1956 Women’s March. — The Glenlivet SA (@TheGlenlivetSA) August 28, 2026 We recognise the concerns and offence caused by the post, and have removed it from our social media channels. Please see our full statement below. pic.twitter.com/MWE8mPfsj2 Glenlivet made a post on social media on Friday saying the company and Langa apologise for the ad and that they recognise “the concerns and offence caused by the post”. They have since removed it from their social media channels. “The Glenlivet unreservedly apologises for a recent influencer post which drew on the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March,” read the joint apology statement from the distillery and Langa. “We acknowledge the offence that this has caused and have deleted the post. We are investigating how this post was conceptualised and approved to make sure this does not happen again,” the statement said. “We wish to reiterate our heartfelt apology to those impacted by the post.” Langa also posted an apology on her X account, writing: “I am sorry for the harm I have caused. I understand the gravity of this mistake and will be more mindful in future.”

Keeping any cultural venture going for long in this state budget-strapped country is quite an achievement, so it’s hats off to the Whisky Live bunch. Actually, raising a glass of some amber nectar, rather than tipping some headgear, might be more to the point, as the country’s distilleries, a bunch of their professional counterparts from Scotland, and local market players get together next week for the 12th edition of the Israeli industry’s Whisky Live at Expo Tel Aviv (September 2-3). The gathering is an opportunity for like-minded, if not like-palated, folks to convene, mingle, slurp, consider, lounge around, and simply share their love for a beverage that has been around for at least eight centuries. The earliest records of alcohol distillation date to 13th-century Italy, when monasteries used the process primarily for medicinal purposes, including the treatment of colic and smallpox. The first mention of whisky – or whiskey, as it is spelled in Ireland and the United States – comes from the Annals of Clonmacnoise, a 17th-century document that documents goings-on in Ireland from the early 15th century. There is a description of the death of a chieftain in 1405 due to “taking a surfeit of aqua vitae” at Christmas. Aqua vitae, “water of life” in Latin, subsequently evolved into uisce betha in Middle Irish and uisge beatha in Scottish Gaelic. Early forms of the word in English, from the 16th century through to the 18th century, included the baffling-looking “uskebeaghe,” “usquebaugh,” “usquebath,” and “usquebae,” the first part of all of which sounds very much like the present “whisk(e)y.” So much for the etymological backdrop, but whisky is, first and foremost, about the taste, as well as a keen appreciation of the aroma and beguiling hues. Whisky Live Israel features workshops courtesy of Irish, Scottish distilleries Visitors to Whisky Live Israel – one of 30-plus such affairs that take place around the world – will, no doubt, soak up the ambiance of the occasion, as the alcohol vapors eddy through the dense, humid Tel Aviv afternoon and evening air, before getting into the business end activity of the event and lubricating their gullets with some quality, intriguing swigs. They stand to get more for their entrance fee than just highly stimulated taste buds and a few hours of milling around in a convivial atmosphere. The two-day program features a string of workshops courtesy of the likes of the Teeling distillery near Dublin and the Singleton distillery of Scotland. Fergus Simpson will also be around to impart some of the professional wisdom he has accrued over the years, currently in the employ of the Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky company, located in Huntly, in the far northeast of Scotland. Duncan Taylor is a renowned independent bottling enterprise founded in Glasgow almost 90 years ago. As the company’s global ambassador, Simpson regularly crisscrosses the world to proffer tastings and thematic master classes. The genial septuagenarian former teacher is looking forward to his foray over here, and had some kind words for our whisky-making efforts in this troubled spot in the Middle East. “Whisky, today, is made all over the world,” he observes. “You’ve got [Israeli industry leader] Milk & Honey with [distiller] Tomer [Goren]. Some of the stuff he does is very nice. And there’s Japan, which makes good whisky, and there are good European whiskies, say in France and Sweden. “Germany, for example, now has more whisky distilleries than Scotland,” he notes. Now that was a surprise. Mind you, it seems quantity does not necessarily translate into quality. “Most of them are pretty small, and some of them are not very good,” he chuckles. Indeed, this Start-Up Nation of ours appears to be gaining ground in yet another field. I recall purchasing a bottle of Israeli whisky not long after the scene began here, around 10 years ago. It was pretty poor. But not that many years down the road, our distilleries can joust with the best of them. Simpson is not surprised it took some time before we got our whisky-making act together. “It takes a while to get the equipment right, to get the processes right. But that’s what you have to do.” Producing quality alcohol, particularly whisky, is a tricky business. Thankfully, there’s no AI fast-tracking route to a quality bottom line, at least to date. Perhaps there’s something special in the air, the water, the streams, and soil there north of the English border. “We’ve just had the experience of years and years of doing it,” Simpson puts it simply. The proof of the pudding, or the beverage, is right there to be sampled. “You go to a distillery, and they say, ‘This is how we do it.’ Then you ask why, and they say ‘Well, we’ve done that since we opened in 1823’ or whatever,” Simpson laughs. And it works, he may have added. The craft of whisky making comes across as a delicate balancing act between art, intuition, and science. The latter, says Simpson, is playing an ever-growing part in the process, even as the folks in his native land, often scions of a long line of whisky makers, continue to feed off the rich local heritage. “The science, now, is a lot better, compared with 50 years ago. There’s a lot more scientific knowledge and research about things. And there’s the experience of doing it.” The global ambassador invokes the aforementioned street-level triad. “You need all three [of art, intuition, and science]. Science is more and more important. A lot of distilleries now are completely computerized, so the distillery worker now just presses buttons.” That, to my romantic technophobic-leaning mind, sounds anathema to the idea of whisky being the beloved end product of decades, if not centuries, of tried-and-tested knowledge passed down from father to son, as one generation entrusts secret recipes, accrued experiential wisdom, and evolving pertinent DNA to the next. Simpson, with his long timeline in the field, is well positioned to consider the advantages and disadvantages of the hi-tech school of thought and the traditionalist, more Mother Nature-aligned approach. “That’s okay,” he generously suggests, referencing the streamlined, computer-controlled process take. But there is a price to pay for the hands-off production route. “What it means is the quality of the whisky, shall we say, is in a narrower range. You never get the really awful casks, like you used to get 50 years ago. But it’s really difficult to get the really stellar ones now, because it’s in a narrower range.” That, naturally, suits the profit-and-loss-sheet-conscious ethos. “For most of the big companies, that’s all they want. They want standard, standard, standard. The big whisky companies are not single malt companies. They’re blended companies. For them the malts are just raw ingredients.” Not that Simpson is an out-and-out single malt snob. “There’s nothing wrong with blends. There’s Chivas Regal. Some of the Chivas Regal blends are very, very good. And it’s an art. The art of blending is producing something that’s good.” Simpson’s own employer is in on the fusion game, too. “We’ve got our own premium blend called Black Bull. That’s great whisky.” Simpson also enlightened me about the company’s modus operandi, as a bottler. “We don’t have a distillery, and we never have. We source whisky, mature it, and when we think it’s ready we bottle it.” The fact that Duncan Taylor isn’t involved at the very outset of the process does not mean it can’t guide the process toward a specific product objective. That is largely down to the hardware. “We have a lot of control. We’re perhaps the only independent bottler in Scotland with our own cooperage, to maintain and look after the quality of the casks.” One cannot overstate the significance of that to the whisky quality and direction. “The cask is king,” Simpson declares, adding that most of Duncan Taylor’s offerings are single cask whiskies. “If you’ve got a poor-quality cask and good-quality spirit, you’ll end u

For years, Highland Park was inextricably linked to Vikings. Rugged bottles, Norse names, and a bold aesthetic defined the face of the Scottish single malt whisky brand. But with its latest rebrand, the iconic distillery is embracing a story that feels even more authentic. No more mythical warriors. This time, it’s all about the place where Scottish whisky truly begins: the wild Orkney Islands. The shift from Viking tales to Orkney isn’t a break with the past: it’s a return to source. The island of Orkney is fundamental to the distillery. While Norse history and its Vikings play a part, they are not the true roots of this whisky maker. The Vikings remain part of the islands’ identity, but Highland Park now shows that its greatest inspiration doesn’t lie in ancient legends, it lies just outside the distillery walls. A piece of Orkney in your hands Orkney has always been, and will always be, the inspiration for Highland Park and you can see that in the new branding and packaging. From the box to the bottle, every detail points to the island where this whisky has been crafted since 1798. The colors of the new packaging draw directly from Orkney’s nature. Shades of blue evoke the sea and open skies, while gold and purple nod to the barley fields and blooming heather. The northern light also plays its part. Long summer days, dramatic skies, and spectacular sunsets lend Orkney a mood that’s mirrored in the look and feel of the bottles and boxes. Details that speak of flavor The packaging isn’t just about color—there are subtle cues that point to Orkney. A wood grain motif references the oak casks in which Highland Park matures. Those casks shape much of the flavor and give the whisky its natural color. The fine speckles on the labels recall Orkney’s heather. In fact, real heather is incorporated into the packaging. Heather matters to the brand because it helps give the local peat its distinctive character. This makes the packaging more than just a new outer layer. The box and bottle serve as a preview of what’s inside: the same sublime single malt, unchanged in its natural color, gentle smoke, and the floral notes that define Highland Park single malt whisky. The unchanging, true story of Highland Park The refreshed identity steps away from the typical tough-guy whisky world and breathes calm, nature, and craftsmanship. The busy Viking ornamentation on bottles and boxes has made way for a design that directly reflects Orkney’s colors. When you think about it, that choice makes perfect sense. Highland Park is not a whisky that could have been made anywhere else. Since the 18th century, the distillery has stood in Kirkwall, on Orkney—the northernmost tip of Scotland, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the North Sea. Far from the bustle of mainland Scotland, a distinctive way of making whisky took shape here. The slogan “Different by Nature” captures that beautifully. A whisky that could only be born here Thanks to Orkney’s geography, the peat here is truly unique, rich in heather and free from heavy wood influence. That gives the whisky its signature, gently smoky yet fruity character that’s unmistakably Highland Park. The Highland Park whisky itself hasn’t changed a bit and remains true to the character enthusiasts have loved for years. The familiar taste, style, and quality are exactly as before, so fans know precisely what to expect. The hallmark balance and recognizable Highland Park signature are fully intact. Long-time drinkers will notice that the trusted liquid is just as it always was. Newcomers can look forward to a balanced harmony of gentle peat smoke, sweet malt, a touch of heather, spice, and a strikingly fruity note. The smokiness never dominates; it adds depth to every dram. The box and bottle offer an inviting preview of what’s inside: natural color, soft smoke, cask influence, and an unmistakable bond with Orkney. The only change is the outside, with the core range already rolling out in its new look. Fans can now expect Highland Park 12, 15, and 18 year old single malt in the refreshed design. The rest of the whiskies, including the higher age statements, will follow in due course. Made possible by Maxxium. Not 18? No alcohol

Amrut has long held a special place in my glass, so when two exclusive single casks landed at BSW, my favourite store, I knew I had to put them through their paces. These are special releases picked by my friend Rohit, who lives not far from me and worked directly with BSW to bring these casks in. Crown Royal x Juicy Couture Drop Limited Edition Y2K-Inspired Merch READ THE STORYSupporting that kind of local passion project made buying them an easy decision, but the real question is whether they deliver in the glass. To round out the tasting, I also pulled an old Portonova from my basement, and the results told an interesting story about patience, climate, and cask influence. Let’s start with that Portonova, because it taught me a lesson. Bottled back in March 2020, it sat untouched in my basement for a good three years, largely because I didn’t love it when I first cracked it open. Fast forward to now, and time has done wonders. The nose is that classic Amrut dessert-forward profile I adore, all buttery croissants and sweet pastry, with juicy port riding through the finish. The lesson here is simple. If your bottle isn’t singing when you open it, give it air or run it through a decanter. It climbed all the way to an 87 for me, though I’ll admit I docked it a couple of points for making me wait so long to reach that money zone. The younger port pipe single cask, an ex-bourbon and second-fill port pipe combination at a hefty 60% ABV, won me over from the very first pour. I love the peat here, which they smoke in Belgium to a specific level, and it pairs beautifully with a note I can only describe as jelly spread over burnt toast. It’s warm and robust, exactly what you’d expect from India’s climate accelerating maturation. That said, I still believe patience in the cask trumps heat. These Indian whiskies are a different mutant altogether, and you simply can’t fairly compare them to a mellow older Scotch. Another solid 87. 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 PX, however, was the clear winner. Seven years in a first-fill Pedro Ximenez cask gives it a rich, sweet complexity full of cooked fruit, figgy bread, and wafts of smoke on the back end. It tastes far older than its age, easily in the fifteens. That’s a banger, plain and simple, and it earns a well-deserved 89. If you’re picking just one, the PX is the bottle for me. So which speaks to you more, the peaty port pipe or the rich, sweet PX? To see me taste all of these Amrut Indian whiskies, check out my YouTube video.

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岡本和真が苦手スイーパー攻略の２７号 監督ご満悦「彼とウイスキーで乾杯するのが楽しみだ」 ◆米大リーグ ブルージェイズ８―１マリナーズ（２８日、カナダ・トロント＝ロジャーズセンター） ブルージェイズの岡本和真内野手が、７試合ぶりの２７号ソロを放つなど３打数２安打３打点１得点で勝利に貢献し、打率は２割３分１厘となった。苦手のスイーパーを本塁打にした岡本に、試合後のシュナイダー監督は、スイーパー攻略を祝って乾杯を宣言した。 久しぶりの快勝だった。勝ち越し、ダメ押しの要所で核となったのは岡本のバットだ。 初回、同点に追いついた直後に迎えた第１打席で、右翼へ勝ち越し犠飛。６回の左翼への本塁打と強い当たりを連発し、３打点の活躍。中でも指揮官を喜ばせたのは、スイーパーを左翼フェンス越えさせた２７号アーチだった。 「スイーパーは彼の”敵”だったけれど、今夜、それを仕留めた。つまりゾーンの中に来たスイーパーを捉えて飛ばすだけの十分なパワーを持っているということ。だから、彼とウイスキーで乾杯するのが楽しみだ。スイーパー・ホームランで乾杯だ」とご機嫌だった。 スライダーより曲がりが大きいスイーパーは、ＮＰＢではほぼ見られない球種。シュナイダー監督は２日前に「スイーパーは投手によって軌道が違うから厄介だし、直球をケアしつつ、スイーパーに準備するのは非常に難しいこと。でも、彼（岡本）は、それをよく理解して、対応しようとしている。今はその道半ばだ」と岡本の挑戦を見守っていた。 前日の試合は２―１３の屈辱的大敗。ワイルドカード争いで３・５差に後退していた。この日の試合前、シュナイダー監督はナインに語りかけた。「残り２７試合、できれば、もっと試合ができるように頑張ろう。一日一日を大事にして全力を尽くそう」と。 打線が一体化した内容に、指揮官は「いい勝ち方だった。初回にすぐ反撃できたし、いい気分だ」と目を細めた。幾多の荒波を乗り越えてきたルーキーが、またひとつ壁を乗り越えたスイーパー撃ち。試行錯誤の末に刻んだ今季２７号が持つ意味は、大きい。

記事を読み込み中 競技 速報 ライブ配信 マンガ 見逃し動画 TOP バーチャル高校野球 インターハイ 東京六大学野球 dodaSPORTS （新しいタブで開く） センバツ高校野球 高校サッカー バーチャル春高バレー 野球 サッカー バレー バスケ ゴルフ 相撲・格闘技 テニス 卓球 ラグビー 陸上 水泳 ABEMA ウインタースポーツ パラスポーツ ダンス モータースポーツ その他競技 大学スポーツ スポーツビジネス 今日の予定 TOP バーチャル高校野球 インターハイ 東京六大学野球 dodaSPORTS （新しいタブで開く） センバツ高校野球 高校サッカー バーチャル春高バレー 野球 サッカー バレー バスケ ゴルフ 相撲・格闘技 テニス 卓球 ラグビー 陸上 水泳 ABEMA ウインタースポーツ パラスポーツ ダンス モータースポーツ その他競技 大学スポーツ スポーツビジネス 会員登録・ログイン ヘルプ 公式Youtube 公式X 公式Instagram 公式TikTok 公式Facebook スポーツブルとは 特定商取引法の表示 岡本和真と「ウイスキーを飲む」 苦しみ抜いた末の27号…指揮官がご満悦のワケ | 野球 Bジェイズ・岡本和真【写真：アフロ】 岡本和真と「ウイスキーを飲む」 苦しみ抜いた末の27号…指揮官がご満悦のワケ 2026.08.29 18:25 6回にドミンゲスから打球速度106.8マイルの豪快アーチ【MLB】Bジェイズ 8ー1 マリナーズ（日本時間29日・トロ… 記事全文を見る 野球 お使いのブラウザは動画の再生に対応していません。 関連記事 【実際の映像】本塁打を確信する岡本和真 豪快弾に本拠地熱狂 【動画】被弾左腕は即“諦め”の仕草… 岡本和真の豪快弾、空席目立つ左中間スタンドへ 岡本和真は「村上より上」 ざわつく米スカウト…リアルな評価 岡本HR直後…ブ軍ベンチで発見した“日本式” 微笑ましい光景「感謝しています」 ゲレーロJr.語る岡本和真の“素顔” 貫く哲学で評価一変…「素晴らしいし、面白い」 野球の新着記事 【西武】栗山巧の現役引退会見に朝からファン600人超も出席 引退試合は午後５時開始予定 2026/08/30 08:28 野球 広島・新井監督「しっかりやり返したい」 ３連敗で３位Ｄｅと４・５差で正念場 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【北海道マラソン】３大駅伝出走なしの青学大・村上直弥が挑戦「ＭＧＣ取って箱根駅伝狙います！」…３０日午前８時３０分号砲 ヘルプ 推奨環境 サービス紹介 会社概要 採用情報 プライバシーポリシー（外部送信規律対応含む） 利用規約 特定商取引法の表示 Copyright © SPORTS BULL All rights reserved. スポーツブル 公式SNS インターハイ(インハイ.tv) 高円宮杯 見逃し動画配信中！ 2026/06/15 00:00 サッカー 東都大学野球 見逃し動画配信中！ 2026/06/29 00:00 野球 BEST BODY JAPANをライブ配信！ 2026/03/31 00:00 その他競技 2026/08/30 08:00 野球 広島・新井監督「４回で代わる展開になるとブルペンに負担がかかるので、ちょっと苦しくなった」「反省するところは反省」【一問一答】 2026/08/30 08:00 野球 岡本和真 ２打数無安打も２四球選ぶ ブルージェイズは３点ビハインドから逆転勝ち 2026/08/30 07:45 野球 春準Ｖの東京学館浦安をはじめ、成田、千葉敬愛などが初戦に挑む！30日の千葉県大会敗者復活戦【26年秋高校野球】 2026/08/30 07:32 野球 野球 軟式5連覇の岐阜・中京高主将 軟式で夢かなえる 兄は東邦で甲子園 2026/08/30 06:00 野球 横浜・織田翔希 156キロ計測も「球速表示では表せない質が…」大学日本代表に6失点「足りない部分分かった」【侍ジャパン】 2026/05/12 00:00 野球 新たな侍Jにユニにファン驚き「新鮮！」 見慣れぬ企業ロゴに注目の声「いつから？」 2026/08/30 06:18 野球 2026/08/30 06:53 サッカー Ｒソシエダード、バルサDFエクトル・フォルト獲得を発表 移籍金15億円と現地紙報道 2026/08/30 06:51 サッカー 【Ｊ１清水】またまたまた０-１ シュートわずか２本での３試合連続完封負けに吉田孝行監督「パワーアップしないといけない終盤でダウンしている」 2026/08/30 06:30 サッカー 浦和 ３発逆転 今季リーグ初勝利で３２季ぶり開幕４連敗回避 指揮官「チームを強くしていきたい」 2026/08/30 06:30 サッカー 2026/08/29 23:34 バスケ シクサーズのレブロンをデュラントが語る「彼は勝ち続けるチームの作り方を熟知している」 2026/08/29 20:36 バスケ 【U18トップリーグ男子】藤枝明誠が日本代表組不在の王者・福大大濠に勝利…帝京長岡は東山との接戦制す【8月29日結果】 2026/08/29 20:15 バスケ 現時点で締結したのはウェンバンヤマのみ…停滞する2023年ドラフト組の延長契約 2026/08/29 19:47 バスケ 2026/08/30 06:36 ゴルフ 3日連続順延 桂川有人が暫定34位、星野陸也が60位で最終日へ 2026/08/30 06:03 ゴルフ 【女子ゴルフ】桑木志帆が裏街道から猛チャージ 連続アンダーパー記録が途切れ「楽になった」 2026/08/30 06:00 ゴルフ 【女子ゴルフ】小祝さくらに吉兆？ タンチョウに続き「神の使い」鹿の群れに遭遇 ２差４位でV戦線浮上 2026/08/30 06:00 ゴルフ 2026/08/29 22:54 相撲格闘技 【UFC】２連勝の鶴屋怜「来年あたりにはトップランカーと対戦して」上海大会で１回一本勝ち 2026/08/29 22:53 相撲格闘技 【RISE】南原健太が“キンシャサの猛獣”グンターを３回KO「僕のリングで勇気、希望を」 2026/08/29 22:49 相撲格闘技 【UFC】バンタム級復帰後２連勝の朝倉海「みんながわくようなビッグネームとやりたい」 2026/08/29 22:31 相撲格闘技 2026/08/30 07:00 陸上 １年８か月ぶりＪＲＡでの騎乗ミシェル騎手惜しい２着「すごくいいレースでした」 2026/08/30 07:00 その他競技 ＪＲＡ女性騎手４人目＆最速１００勝「感謝の気持ちでいっぱい」小林美駒騎手が飛躍の時 2026/08/30 06:30 その他競技 心臓弁膜症を乗り越えて４２・１９５キロ先のゴールを目指す札幌市在住の成田優さん…北海道マラソン３０日号砲 2026/08/30 06:35 陸上 今日の配信 配信はありません 今日の予定 7:00 Sansan KBCオーガスタゴルフトーナメント最終日 ゴルフ 国内男子(リンクは外部) 8:15 MLB 野球 Rソックス vs. ヤンキースほか 8:30 北海道マラソン 陸上 不破聖衣来、吉田響ら出場(リンクは外部) 8:35 ニトリレディスゴルフトーナメント最終日 ゴルフ 国内女子(リンクは外部) 10:00 都市対抗野球 野球 1回戦 トヨタ自動車 vs. JFE西日本ほか(リンクは外部) 13:00 プロ野球 野球 日本ハム vs. ロッテ、阪神 vs. 巨人(18:00)ほか 13:00 Tリーグ 卓球 男子 金沢 vs. KM東京ほか(リンクは外部) 18:00 WEリーグ サッカー 第2節 浦和 vs. N相模原ほか(リンクは外部) 19:15 エールディヴィジ サッカー 第4節 フェイエノールト(上田綺世、渡辺剛) vs. デンハーグ(21:30)ほか 20:00 スコティッシュプレミアシップ サッカー 第4節 アバディーン vs. レンジャーズ(横田大祐)ほか(リンクは外部) 20:30 ジュピラー・プロ・リーグ サッカー 第4節 アントワープ(野沢大志ブランドンら) vs. シント・トロイデン(谷口彰悟ら)(23:00)ほか(リンクは外部) 22:00 プレミアリーグ サッカー 第2節 チェルシー vs. ブライトン(三笘薫)ほか(リンクは外部） 22:00 リーグ・アン サッカー 第2節 モナコ(南野拓実) vs. マルセイユ(27:45)ほか(リンクは外部) 22:30 ブンデスリーガ サッカー 第1節 フライブルク(鈴木唯人ら) vs. ブレーメンほか(リンクは外部) 24:00 ラ・リーガ サッカー 第3節 ラ・コルーニャ vs. バレンシア(佐藤龍之介)(26:30)ほか(リンクは外部) 24:00 グランドスラム ローザンヌ大会 柔道 (リンクは外部) 25:15 MLB 野球 エンゼルス(菊池雄星が先発予定) vs. フィリーズ(29:07)ほか 25:30 セリエA サッカー 第2節 ナポリ vs. コモほか(リンクは外部) 未定 ツアー選手権最終日 ゴルフ 米国男子 松山英樹ら出場(リンクは外部) 未定 FM選手権最終日 ゴルフ 米国女子 山下美夢有ら出場(リンクは外部) 未定未定 ハスクバーナ･ブリティッシュ･マスターズ3日目 ゴルフ 欧州男子(リンクは外部)

岡本和真と「ウイスキーを飲む」 苦しみ抜いた末の27号…指揮官がご満悦のワケ 6回にドミンゲスから打球速度106.8マイルの豪快アーチ 【MLB】Bジェイズ 8ー1 マリナーズ（日本時間29日・トロント） ブルージェイズの岡本和真内野手が28日（日本時間29日）、本拠地でのマリナーズ戦に「6番・三塁」で先発出場。6回先頭で7試合ぶりとなる今季27号ソロを放つなど、3打数2安打3打点の活躍で大勝に貢献した。殊勲の一発に対し、ジョン・シュナイダー監督は大喜びのコメントを残した。 【実際の映像】本塁打を確信する岡本和真 豪快弾に本拠地熱狂 5-1とリードして迎えた6回先頭の打席。相手右腕ドミンゲスが投じた低めのスイーパーを完璧に捉えると、打球速度106.8マイル（約171.9キロ）の鋭い打球が左翼席へ吸い込まれた。初回の右犠飛と合わせて今季通算76打点に伸ばし、メジャー1年目の日本選手としては城島健司に並ぶ歴代2位タイの打撃成績となった。 MLB公式サイトのキーガン・マセソン記者は試合後、ジョン・シュナイダー監督の談話を紹介した。指揮官は「盛大に祝うよ。カズマと2人でウイスキーを飲む予定だ」とご満悦だったという。それはなぜか。 「あのスイーパーは彼の天敵（苦手）だったが、今夜は打ち砕いたね」 岡本は試合前までスイーパーに対して打率.217、2本塁打、長打率.370、20三振と苦戦していた。対応に苦慮していたことを知るシュナイダー監督だからこそ、喜びは一塩だった。 Full-Count編集部

pickup 【Amazon スマイルSALE】サントリー「トリスウイスキー」4Lを“3880円”で販売中 2026年8月29日 16:00 Amazon.co.jpはサントリーの「トリスウイスキー」4Lペットを「Amazon スマイルSALE」の対象として“3880円”で販売している。 Amazonの参考価格「4579円」から15％引きで、699円安く買える。出荷元・販売元はAmazon.co.jpで、配送料は無料。メーカー希望小売価格は5357円となっている。 ほかの出品者価格では「4550円」（配送料無料）があるが、今回のセール価格のほうが670円安い。また、表示価格が3890円という出品もあるが、790円の配送料が加算されて実質4680円になる。 ※価格は本稿執筆時点 サントリー「トリスウイスキー」4Lペット メーカー希望小売価格： 5357円 容量： 4000mL アルコール度数： 37％ 純アルコール量： 29.6g（100mLあたり）/8.9g（30mLあたり） 原材料： モルト、グレーン テイスティングノート： ［色］琥珀色 ［香り］やわらかで穏やか、ウイスキーらしい華やかさと甘さ ［味］なめらかですっきりとした味わいの中にも、飲み飽きないコク ［余韻］ほのかな甘み、さわやかですっきりとした後口 ※価格情報の下にある「Amazonの他の出品者」や「すべての出品を見る」からそのほかの販売価格を選択することができる

Some places make you slow down the moment you settle in, and this 19th-century mansion in Kentucky is one of them. It sits in a historic neighborhood packed with stately homes, green park views, and easy access to the state’s famous whiskey trail. Guests arrive planning a quick getaway and leave already booking their next stay, drawn back by warm hosts and mornings that feel unhurried and special. The rooms carry real character, the breakfasts have earned awards, and the location puts distilleries and downtown within a short drive. Curious where this welcoming spot is and what makes it worth the trip? Keep reading, because the details only get better from here. A Victorian Address In The Heart Of Old Louisville Tucked into a historic corner of the city, the Louisville Bourbon Inn calls 1332 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208 home. It occupies a 19th-century Victorian mansion, the kind of grand old house that anchors an entire block with its architecture and history. The setting works in the guest’s favor. The inn stands directly across from Central Park, a green space with an amphitheater and recreational facilities. Distance matters when you are traveling, and this address delivers. The property sits less than a mile from I-65 and about one mile from the Speed Art Museum. The neighborhood itself is a walkable stretch of Victorian homes, including the historic St. James Court nearby. Regulars mention morning strolls through the park before breakfast, taking in the old architecture along the way. Getting oriented here is simple, and the location balances quiet residential calm with quick access to the city. Downtown Louisville and Whiskey Row are only a short drive away, making this a smart base for a Kentucky trip. Suites With Their Own Personality No two rooms here feel stamped from the same mold. Each suite is individually decorated, giving every space its own distinct character and mood. The comforts are thoughtfully layered. Suites feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, and en suite bathrooms. Certain rooms carry extra touches that make them memorable. Some include period fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and balconies with views of the park across the street. The Manhattan Suite gets called out for being spacious and stocked with practical extras, while balcony rooms earn praise for those green park views. Guests describe the mansion rooms as stately and the carriage house rooms as cozier, with lower ceilings that add warmth. Comfort clearly ranks high on the priority list. The beds draw steady praise, with many guests saying they slept deeply and woke without a single ache. Cleanliness runs through every account, with spotless corners and beautifully appointed details noted again and again. The rooms feel refined without tipping into stuffy, which is a hard balance to strike. Breakfasts That Have Earned Their Awards Mornings are the main event, and that is not an exaggeration. Hot breakfast is included with every stay, prepared fresh by the hosts each day. The biscuits and gravy have become something of a signature, described as award-winning and worth the trip on their own. Guests linger at the table long after the plates are cleared, which tells you plenty. Variety keeps things interesting across a multi-night stay. Breakfast changes daily, with dishes like bourbon bananas foster french toast, fluffy pancakes with homemade syrup, and hearty sausage gravy making appearances. Dietary needs are handled with care. Gluten-free guests report being accommodated without any fuss, which matters for larger groups traveling together. The presentation matches the food. Tables are set with fresh flowers and thoughtful details that turn a meal into an experience. Afternoon desserts and sweet treats are also included, giving guests something to look forward to after a day of exploring. Snacks and drinks are stocked as well, so nobody goes wanting between meals. The Carriage House And Its Cozy Corners Beyond the main mansion sits a second option many guests adore. The carriage house holds its own set of rooms, and it comes up often as a favorite part of the property. The vibe differs from the main house in a good way. Carriage house rooms are just as large but feel cozier, thanks to their lower ceilings and intimate layout. Shared spaces round out the appeal. The carriage house includes beautiful living areas to relax in, mirroring the parlors and library found in the mansion itself. Privacy is a recurring theme here. Guests note how quiet everything feels, with no sound from other rooms, which makes the whole stay feel personal and secluded. For anyone who wants a slightly different flavor of the same hospitality, this building delivers. It offers the same attention to detail and the same warm welcome, just wrapped in a more tucked-away setting. The carriage house is one of the most mentioned features of the property. That kind of consistent affection suggests it is more than a simple overflow space. Whiskey Charm And A Bourbon Room The name is not just decoration. This whiskey-inspired inn leans into Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, and it does so with genuine style rather than gimmick. A dedicated bourbon room adds a unique layer to the property. Guests describe it as a fun and distinctive touch that fits the theme without overwhelming the home’s Victorian bones. The hosts extend the theme into the evenings. Bourbon cocktails are available, and old fashioneds come up frequently as a guest favorite. Some evenings include cocktails on the patio, with hosts occasionally staying to visit and swap stories. There is even a homemade old-fashioned ice cream that has earned devoted fans. Kentucky-inspired decor threads through the space, elegant but never overdone. Plants throughout the home add a relaxed, lived-in feel that keeps the mood grounded. For travelers chasing the bourbon experience, this is a fitting home base. The hosts have even helped guests book distillery tours through trusted partners, tying the whole theme together. Hospitality That Feels Like Family Ask what makes this place different, and the answer keeps circling back to the people. The hosts, including Allen, Jeff, Christopher, Michael, and others, are described as the heart of the experience. The welcome starts the moment guests arrive. Many receive a tour of the home right away, along with an introduction to the amenities and a genuine sense of being cared for. Small gestures add up. Guests point to fresh flowers, thoughtful accommodations, and hosts who remember details and check in throughout the stay. The hospitality reaches beyond the front door. Hosts have recommended and booked restaurants for guests, arranged distillery tours, and helped celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and vow renewals. Warmth like this turns a hotel guy into a B&B convert, which is exactly what happened for more than one guest. The phrase southern hospitality comes up repeatedly, and it feels earned here. Many describe feeling like family rather than paying guests. That sense of coming home is the through-line in nearly every account of a stay. Thoughtful Extras And Practical Details Little conveniences make the biggest difference on the road, and this inn stocks plenty of them. In-room touches include noise machines, eye masks, robes, steamers, and charging stations with multiple port types. The amenities list runs long. Free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, free off-street parking, air conditioning, laundry service, and a fitness center are all part of the package. Accessibility and flexibility are covered too. The property is accessible, pet-friendly, smoke-free, and even offers an airport shuttle and a pool. Outdoor space adds to the appeal. A backyard oasis with lights becomes a favorite evening spot, and the gardens and patio draw steady admiration. Check-in and check-out are described as seamless and stress-free, which travelers appreciate after a long day. Snacks and drinks stocked in the kitchens mean you are n

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review. Charles Steele, a Portland-based attorney, is a native of the Pacific Northwest. His legal background provides him with an analytical approach to understanding whiskey and other aged spirits. Primarily a legal writer, freelancing for The Whiskey Wash offers Charles a unique opportunity to showcase his versatility as a writer. Although his preference lies with whiskey and whiskey-based cocktails, he has a profound appreciation for all unique and unconventional liquors, from Malört to Ojen - if it's peculiar, he's intrigued. Can a single-barrel, 114-proof bourbon still taste surprisingly soft? We taste Old Grand-Dad’s Gold-winning 7-Year expression to find out if this sleeper delivers. With Kentucky sitting on a record 16.1 million barrels and prices dropping, which bourbon should you actually buy? We’ve sorted 25 bottles by the drinker you are. After using Marsala casks for decades, Highland distillery Dalmore has released a new limited edition showcasing these fortified wine casks — and The Whiskey Wash

Manzano Mountains – Mountainair Ranger District Mountainair, NM – August 28, 2026 — More resources have arrived and are actively engaged on suppression efforts for three wildfires burning within the Manzano Mountains of the Mountainair Ranger District. This will be the final update for the Blanco and Cerro Fires unless changing conditions warrant additional information. Mountainair Ranger District- Manzano Mountain Wilderness: Whiskey Fire (Update) Reported Date / Time: August 21, 2026 / 1350. Reported by Capilla Peak Lookout. Cause: Lightning. Size: 181 acres Containment: 0% Personnel: 133 Location: Steep terrain north of Osha Peak, south of Capilla Peak and west of the Manzano Crest Trail in the Manzano Mountain Wilderness within the Mountainair Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest. Fuels: Mixed conifer. Fire Behavior: High. Operations: Fire crews are scouting both the east and west sides of the drainage where the Whiskey Fire is burning, preparing potential control lines, identifying hazards, and evaluating safe and effective opportunities for engagement. Additional hand crews are enroute to strengthen suppression efforts, and a dozer unit is being deployed to the west side of the Manzano Mountains to support line construction and improve access. The fire grew overnight and throughout the day on the west side of the Manzano Mountains and stayed within the wilderness boundary. Smoke may be visible from Mountainair, Manzano, Torreon, Los Lunas, Belen, Meadow Lake, Las Maravillas, Valencia, and Cerro Mission. Mountainair Ranger District- Manzano Mountains – Blanco Fire (Update) Reported Date / Time: August 24, 2026 / 1540. Reported by Capilla Peak Lookout. Cause: Undetermined. Size: 21 acres. Containment: 30% Location: Manzano Mountains southwest of Fourth of July Canyon – Mountainair Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest. Strategy: Direct extinguishment. Fuels: Timber and mixed conifer. Fire Behavior: Low. Operation: Firefighters completed hardening handlines around the entire fire and are being moved to Whiskey Fire. Firefighters will continue to assess fire activity and conditions. Smoke: Smoke activity has lessened significantly with a low potential of being seen at great distance. Mountainair Ranger District- Manzano Mountain Wilderness – Cerro Fire (Update) Reported Date / Time: August 24, 2026 / 1302. Reported by Capilla Peak Lookout. Cause: Lightning. Size: 7 acres. Containment: 30% Location: Manzano Mountain Wilderness west of Fourth of July Canyon – Mountainair Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest. Strategy: Direct extinguishment. Fuels: Timber and mixed conifer. Fire Behavior: Low. Operation: Firefighters completed hardening handlines around the entire fire and are being moved to Whiskey Fire. Firefighters will continue to assess fire activity and conditions. Smoke: Smoke activity has lessened significantly with a low potential of being seen at great distance. Area, Road and Trail Closure Order in effect for National Forest System (NFS) lands surrounding the Whiskey Fire (03-03-04-26-18) and Cerro & Blanco Fire (03-03-04-26-19). Road closure barricades are on Trigo Springs Road. Review the closure orders here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/cibola/alerts. Additional updates will be sent as new information is received. Weather for Mountainair, NM (August 28, 2026) Hot and dry conditions are expected around Mountainair today, with highs near 90°F, minimum RH around 22%, and southwest winds 8–10 mph with gusts to 17 mph. Limited thunderstorms may produce gusty, erratic outflow winds and sudden changes in fire behavior. Overnight RH recovery is expected near 60–65% Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. In order to facilitate safe and efficient suppression efforts the public is asked to avoid the fire areas and adjoining trails. Notice: Today there was a violation of the temporary flight restriction around the operations area of the Whiskey Fire. Privately owned fixed winged aircraft and drones pose a serious risk to firefighting and can cause air operations to cease. The public is reminded that “If you fly, we can’t!” About the Forest Service: The Forest Service has brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation for more than 100 years. Grounded in world-class science and technology — and rooted in communities — the Forest Service connects people to nature and recreation opportunities. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, supports the nation’s forest industry and energy needs, and operates the largest and most respected wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. By providing assistance to state and private landowners and working with tribes and other partners, the Forest Service also helps steward an additional 900 million forested acres within the U.S. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. Comments are closed.

Jack Daniel's Vs Crown Royal: Which Whiskey Is More Expensive? Whiskey isn't a spirit generally correlated with being budget-friendly. A multitude of factors contribute to its higher-than-average price point; there's the years-long aging process, whiskey lost to the elusive "angel's share," and the vast amount of warehouse space needed to store, age, and bottle it. In the gilded world of premium, luxurious whiskey, the most expensive bottles can set buyers back thousands, sometimes even millions of dollars. But if you're looking to enjoy the spirit within the realm of fiscal reality, there are still plenty of high-quality options that won't break the bank. Needing no introduction: Jack Daniel's and Crown Royal sit comfortably within this category. Both brands are nothing short of iconic, and while they generally land in the same price range, Jack Daniel's is the whiskey of choice for the budget-conscious buyer. Both Jack Daniel's and Crown Royal have an impressive portfolio of whiskeys, whose prices can diverge dramatically. So as not to overcomplicate things, we're comparing the cost of each brand's flagship bottles. For Jack Daniel's, that's the Old No. 7 (also known as Black Label); for Crown Royal, it's Fine De Luxe. Both are considered to be wonderful entry-level whiskeys, meaning they're affordable and approachable for a green palate. While it's only natural that prices will vary from store to store, we think Walmart makes for a solid benchmark. For online purchase, a 750-milliliter bottle of Jack Daniel's Black Label will set buyers back roughly $17 to $20, while the same size bottle of Crown Royal Fine De Luxe costs slightly more at around $23, making it, for the purpose of comparison, the pricier whiskey by a small margin. Please note that in-store prices jump up, and Crown Royal runs somewhere around $36 to $39, and Jack will set you back roughly $30. Crown Royal is an approachable and affordable Canadian whisky Crown Royal was first commissioned in 1939 to celebrate the royal visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada. Keeping with its royal-inspired heritage, it went on to become the undisputed ruler of Canadian whisky. In the decades since, it's become the bestselling Canadian whisky in the United States, known to represent Canada's smooth, approachable style; each bottle of Crown Royal blends around 50 different whiskies to maintain this distinctive character. Dressed up in that elegant purple velvet bag, everything about Crown Royal screams luxury, yet the brand manages to keep its prices refreshingly low. Its flagship Crown Royal Fine De Luxe is generally well-received as excellent value for money, easy to drink, and a wonderful mixer. It also sits on the lower end of the price spectrum within the brand's portfolio. In fact, at Walmart, it's among the brand's cheapest entry-level whiskeys. A 750-milliliter bottle costs roughly the same as Crown Royal's line of naturally sweetened, lower-proof whiskeys, including Apple and Peach. Interestingly, its vanilla-flavored whiskey costs a bit more than $40, likely because its flavor is derived from Madagascar bourbon vanilla, which typically commands a higher price than Regal Gala apples or Georgia peaches. But not all Crown Royal whiskey is created equal. Alongside its affordable range, it flexes its premium side with the award-winning Crown Royal XR. Part of its Extra Rare series, this limited-release whisky is built from the final surviving stocks of the legendary, now-shuttered LaSalle distillery that can never be replicated once those barrels run dry. At $599 for a 750-milliliter bottle, it's the brand's most expensive whiskey by an enormous margin. Jack Daniel's is a reliable all-American classic Few whiskey brands are more instantly recognizable than Jack Daniel's. With heritage stretching back to 1866, it's a true American icon; it survived Prohibition, the World War II whiskey shutdown, and the untimely death of its founder. And through it all, the brand has managed to thrive. Its Black Label Old No. 7 is not only its own best-seller, but also one of the world's best-selling American whiskeys. Jack Daniel's can largely credit its longstanding popularity to its more-than-accessible flavor profile, affordable prices, and of course, the iconic branding helps. Often, modest prices are unfortunately associated with lower quality, but this isn't the case for Jack Daniel's. The brand is able to keep its prices reasonable because it's operating on a scale few other brands can fathom. That's why you'll rarely see a bottle of Jack Daniel's Black Label creeping far beyond the $30 mark. Jack Daniel's flagship Black Label is among its cheaper offerings, but the brand's portfolio is expansive, and contained within are considerably more expensive bottles. Sitting on the pricier end of the spectrum are its age statement whiskeys, comprised of 10-year, 12-year, and 14-year batches. Naturally, the more time invested into aging is reflected in the price, and a bottle of its 12-year whiskey can set buyers back around $100. There are also its bonded whiskeys, which are bottled at 100 proof and aged for at least 4 years in federally bonded warehouses, validating the spirits' superb provenance. While not as costly as its age statement whiskeys, a bottled-in-bond Jack Daniel's bottle typically falls within the range of $60.

12 Best Ways To Enhance Cheap Scotch Scotch whisky is a mighty spirit. The base ingredients of yeast, grain, and water are deceptively simple, and in the skilled hands of distillers, they can be crafted together to yield a profoundly deep and complex product with a spectrum of distinct flavor and aromatic profiles inspired by ingredient variations, regional Scottish terroir, and brand-specific decisions. That being said, there are also wide disparities between expensive, single malt Scotch with significant aging and cheaper, younger, blended Scotch aged closer to the minimum requirement of only three years. Choosing to shop the less expensive, bottom-shelf Scotch does have advantages — a strict spending plan means you'll save more money, and you can buy more while paying less. The downside, though? A cheap Scotch often tastes harsher, rougher, and sharper on the palate. But a lesser quality spirit won't stop us from snatching that smaller receipt. There are so many ways to enhance a cheaper whiskey, and we have two of the best experts to help us imbibe on a budget with thirst-quenching success. Lisa Considine is co-owner of Lo Bar Cocktail Services and has been bartending for over two decades. Chris Walster, resident whiskey expert at The Cask Connoisseur, has four decades of spirit-specific experience. While both acknowledge there is no right way to drink Scotch, Walster explains, "The best enhancement is finding the serving style that suits your own palate rather than chasing someone else's rules." By following their detailed suggestions and advice, our experts will guide you as you learn your own preferences. 1. Dilute Scotch with water Scotch certainly doesn't have a shy personality, especially at a lower price point. Lisa Considine says, "One of the most notable things about a cheap Scotch can be its harshness in flavor and the heat of the spirit, or the burn." An easy trick to improve a lower-quality whisky is to dilute it with water. Adding a few drops can help uncover more subtle flavors and aromas usually overwhelmed by Scotch's roughness. Chris Walster also acknowledges the simple impact of dilution, saying it particularly helps soften higher-proof or younger styles. Both Considine and Walster warn about over-dilution. Considine explains that "adding water to Scotch or whiskey can be compared to adding salt to a meal when cooking: a small amount can enhance the flavors, but too much and it will be ruined." To avoid going too far, they both suggest starting with a few drops and gradually increasing the amount until the harshness is tamed to a level you prefer. Diluting with water isn't a new idea — among the many myths surrounding Scotch, it's actually considered common practice. Walster notes a basic guideline that "all Scotch should be diluted with water to 30% ABV. So in a standard 40% bottle, this means adding 25% water." If you want to add water all at once, rather than a few drops every time you make an individual drink, pour the entire bottle of Scotch into a larger whiskey decanter and mix in filtered water. 2. Chill your drink (or the glass) There's a clear division amongst whiskey imbibers when answering a simple question: chill it, or don't? Even though Chris Walster favors Scotch served at room temperature, he recognizes the benefits of chilling a cheaper make, as it can soften its roughness. Similarly, serving Scotch over ice can also help reduce its intensity. Walster says, "It works because it mellows any harsh flavors and could reveal any subtle flavors." Still worried about over-dilution? Lisa Considine shares a couple of solutions: "For cocktail aficionados who love specialty bar gadgets, there is such a thing as whiskey stones, which you can freeze, and they act like ice cubes, chilling the spirit without melting/diluting it. Another technique could be simply chilling the glass." If you like to entertain and drink regularly, buy multiple sets of whiskey stones so you can keep a constant rotation in your freezer. For the glassware, place it in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to thoroughly chill it. To keep it as cold as possible, remove the glass directly before serving so it isn't at room temperature longer than necessary. 3. Make a warm beverage The complete opposite of chilling, warming a cheaper spirit can also achieve deliciously positive results. Chris Walster recommends a neat trick that's easy and accessible for households with a microwave: "A tip that I've actually never tried with Scotch, but does work with bourbon, is to warm it up in the microwave (carefully) for about 10 seconds. This can soften ethanol notes and mimic the effect of aging. Just don't overdo it, or you'll cook it." Avoid using your stovetop for this kind of preparation, as its more direct heat will be too forceful compared to the microwave. Let the Scotch cool completely to room temperature before drinking. During the colder fall and winter months, you can use some of your spirit to make popular warm beverages, like a hot toddy or mulled wine. Adding Scotch to these drinks reduces its strength and treats it as a supporting ingredient rather than a solo sipper. Customize the beverages to your own preferences. You can add different sweeteners, fresh or dried herbs, assorted spices, fruit juices, and fresh or dried fruit. 4. Combine Scotch with citrus fruit Citrus fruits are simple, cost-effective ingredients that can brighten an inexpensive spirit. "Adding flavors to cheap and sometimes unpleasant spirits laid the foundation for cocktail culture as we know it," explains Lisa Considine. Something as simple as a slice of fresh lemon or orange can add a burst of brightness. Consider using different varieties of lemons or oranges, choosing from the sweeter options like Meyer lemons or Navel or Cara Cara oranges. You might want to skip limes or grapefruits, as they can be too bitter and may clash with the Scotch's harsher profile. Chris Walster adds, "For something more refreshing, lemonade works well, especially with lighter or grain-heavy blends, as the citrus and sweetness help round things out." You can use your own homemade version to control the flavor and sweetness levels, or use a higher-quality store-bought lemonade. Along the same lines, add a few splashes of your favorite iced tea to make a boozy beverage inspired by an Arnold Palmer. 5. Mix Scotch with another spirit Both Chris Walster and Lisa Considine encourage people not to be afraid to experiment by blending a couple of different styles of whisky together. "Enthusiasts have been creating their own blends for years," Walster says, "and mixing a sweeter blend with a smokier one, or a light grain whiskey with a richer malt, can produce a surprisingly balanced result. Just make sure to keep notes so you can recreate combinations you enjoy." In her bartending work, Considine has noticed a trend of mixing spirits, often in a 50/50 split of mezcal and tequila. A similar approach works for a beverage made with half Scotch and half whiskey to access that smoky flavor profile. "But use a more neutral or palatable liquor brand to supplement and balance the cocktail," Considine says. For this style of cocktail, with no other mixers added, gently stir rather than shake to avoid a murky final result and achieve a smoother mouthfeel. 6. Consider the glassware you're using Specific glassware can help open the whisky's aromatics, letting it breathe properly as you drink. Depending on how you want to serve your Scotch, your glassware options will vary. Lisa Considine explains, "For neat pours of Scotch, I would ideally serve them in a snifter or a tulip-shaped glass to bring the aromatics of the Scotch closer to the nose as you sip. Stemware also serves a functionality of preventing your body heat from warming the spirit up." "However," Consideine continues, "if one is serving Scotch over the rocks or mixed with seltzer, then a highball or rocks glass is perfectly acceptable. If you've chosen to m

A WHISKEY club in Madden's Bar in Belfast city centre continues to go from strength to strength and is soon set to celebrate its third anniversary. Uisce Bhéal Feirste started in November 2023, with the aim of bringing Irish whiskey tasting sessions to Belfast. Ever since, major brands and distillers have been welcomed in to showcase their whiskey including Dunville's, Redbreast, Bushmills, Teeling, Jameson and many more. It take place in the historic and traditional surroundings of Madden's, one Monday evening every month. The brains behind the success story of Uisce Bhéal Feirste are Brian McMullan, proprietor of Madden’s Bar, and Séamus Óg Birt from Dunville’s Irish Whiskey. Brian said: "It is great to host Uisce Bhéal Feirste. It is a chance to taste some fantastic whiskeys for a reasonable price. "We have showcased all of the big-hitters as well as the smaller distilleries in Ireland which we are delighted to promote. "It takes place upstairs in Madden's in an intimate setting which is perfect for everyone sharing their thoughts on the whiskey. "We are starting a membership shortly and are really just looking to keep growing it. "Whiskey is very important in Madden's. We try and keep our prices down and do a Whiskey of the Month as well." Séamus Óg Birt from Dunville’s Irish Whiskey said: "I drink in Madden's. I love whiskey and I work for a distillery. I worked with Brian on Maddens first whiskey release. "Irish whiskey is booming these days. Whereas ten years ago most bars you went into only carried whiskey from three or four distilleries, you're now seeing a wider selection with offerings from smaller producers from all across the country. "Being able to bring those producers to Belfast to tell their own stories is what it's all about. Last year we even had Pádraic Ó Griallais come up from Micil in Galway to host a tasting as Gaeilge. "The beauty of the club being based in Madden's is the fact that we're able to tie in so many cultural aspects of the Irish pub. Sharing whiskey, stories, language and music with our thriving little community. "We got chatting about the fact there was no consistent whiskey society or club in Belfast, so we put our heads together and Uisce Bhéal Feirste launched in November 2023. "The first tasting was Dunville's which I did myself and almost three years later we are still going strong. "We have our regulars each month and always get some new faces. "The whiskey club is all about creating a sense of community and giving people a taste of different whiskeys. "One of the elements of the night is charity. We have a raffle and always raise a few hundred pound for a different charity each month, chosen by the brand showcasing. It is a way of giving something back. "We have some exciting plans ahead. We will be introducing a membership scheme shortly and we will be releasing the first Uisce Bhéal Feirste whiskey to celebrate our third anniversary in November." At Monday night's tasting the theme was 'World Whiskey' and after the Suntory evening last year showcasing Japanese whiskey, this reviewer was looking forward to the event since it was announced. We were treated to a stellar line-up of whiskey from across the world including New Zealand, Czech Republic and USA. The full tasting was: - Old Well Single Malt Whisky Triple Cask (Czech) - Kirikiriroa Release 1919 Distilling (New Zealand) - Glasgow 1770 Single Malt Scotch Whisky Constantia Wine Cask (Scotland) - Dunville’s Single Malt Irish Whiskey Armagnac 23 year old (Ireland) - Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 23B (USA) - Signatory Vintage Exceptional Cask 100 proof edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky 16 year old (Scotland) As Séamus said at the start of the evening, he thought it was the best line-up of whiskey ever at Uisce Bhéal Feirste and he was certainly right. Each whiskey offered much discussion amongst those in attendance as one-by-one Séamus detailed the story behind each whiskey. A personal favourite of mine was the Glasgow 1770 Single Malt Scotch Whisky Constantia Wine Cask. One would expect a peated whiskey from Scotland but this was anything but. Distilled in 2020, this unpeated edition of the double-distilled unpeated Glasgow 1770 single malt initially matured in bourbon barrels, before transferring to South African Constantia wine casks for a generous one year and ten months finish. The whiskey was bottled at five years' old in 2025, with lively notes of soft stone fruits, citrus, honey and chocolate, thanks to those sweet dessert wine casks. A special mention also to the Stagg Whisky from Kentucky, a hearty 63.9 per cent ABV and the highest ABV of any whiskey to appear at an Uisce Bhéal Feirste tasting. Next month's tasting will take place on Monday, September 14 and it is one not to be missed with Irish giants Middleton Distillery coming to town. For ticket information, follow Uisce Bhéal Feirste on Instagram.