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The Rare Find Autumn 2026 Collection is built around one idea: take distilleries whose spirit already carries natural weight, then pick casks that add texture instead of masking it. The Edinburgh independent bottler’s line-up is a Clynelish 8 at a punchy 61.0%, a Ben Nevis 12 at 56.6%, a Laphroaig 14 at 56.2% and a Mortlach 16 at 54.6%. Each is a single cask, bottled at natural strength with natural colour and no chill filtration. Prices run from £69 to £155 across 957 bottles, and the collection goes on sale on 17 September 2026 through selected specialist retailers. The idea behind the collection: weight first, then cask The four distilleries were chosen for house styles that lean heavy in different ways: the waxy Highland complexity of Clynelish, the oily depth of Ben Nevis, the muscular fruit of Mortlach and the coastal power of Laphroaig. These are spirits that can take a rich cask without folding. Rather than reach for the same wood across the board, Rare Find split the approach. First-fill oloroso sherry does the work on the Ben Nevis, Laphroaig and Mortlach, layering in dried fruit and spice on top of spirit that can carry it. The Clynelish takes the lighter route, a refill sherry hogshead that lets the distillery’s own character stay in front. James Zorab of Rare Find framed the aim as enhancing what these distilleries already do rather than overpowering it, choosing each cask to complement the spirit. The point, in his words, was to “reveal new dimensions of already remarkable spirits.” The four whiskies and how they taste, as described by Rare Find The Daily Whisky has not tasted these yet, so the notes below are the bottler’s own, reworded for clarity. Here is how the four compare on paper. | Clynelish 8 | Ben Nevis 12 | Laphroaig 14 | Mortlach 16 | | |---|---|---|---|---| | Region | Highland | Highland | Islay | Speyside | | Cask | Refill sherry hogshead, full maturation | 1st fill oloroso quarter cask, 26-mo finish | 1st fill oloroso hogshead, 15-mo finish | 1st fill European oak oloroso hogshead, 28-mo finish | | ABV | 61.0% | 56.6% | 56.2% | 54.6% | | Outturn | 305 bottles | 167 bottles | 217 bottles | 268 bottles | | Cask no. | 312284 | 11122 | 22866 | 81 | | RRP | £69 | £79 | £155 | £115 | Clynelish 8 YO tasting note (Rare Find) Nose: Victoria sponge and buttercream, berry compote, bourbon biscuit, burnt toffee Palate: Sugar-dusted red and black berries, chocolate-dipped strawberry, a flick of white pepper  Finish: Sweet, mouth-coating fruit with light cask spice ABV: 61.0% | Cask: Refill sherry hogshead | RRP: £69 Ben Nevis 12 YO tasting note (Rare Find) Nose: Leafy sherry, ripe hedgerow berries, sultana, shortbread, buttery popcorn Palate: Chocolate digestive, red and black berries, butterscotch, building cinnamon and pepper  Finish: Long, with ripe berry fruit and dark chocolate  ABV:56.6% | Cask: 1st fill oloroso sherry quarter cask, 26-month finish | RRP: £79 Laphroaig 14 YO tasting note (Rare Find) Nose: Iodine, brine and driftwood, with camphor, rock pool, preserved lemon and sea spray  Palate: Medicinal peat smoke, salinity and layered iodine, alongside dried berries and bonfire embers  Finish: Long and coastal, drying  ABV:56.2% | Cask: 1st fill oloroso sherry hogshead, 15-month finish | RRP: £155 Mortlach 16 YO tasting note (Rare Find) Nose: Vanilla buttercream and toffee, redcurrant jelly, cracked walnut, gingerbread, milk chocolate  Palate: Cinnamon and ginger spiced plum, balsamic strawberry, polished oak, orange oil, biscuit crumb  Finish: Balanced fruit oils and rich chocolate  ABV: 54.6% | Cask: 1st fill European oak oloroso sherry hogshead, 28-month finish | RRP: £115 Who Rare Find is Rare Find is the single cask arm of Gleann Mòr Spirits Co., an independent bottler based in Edinburgh. The house approach is consistent across every release: source individual casks, bottle them at natural strength without added colour or chill filtration, and let each cask speak for itself. The Autumn 2026 collection is that approach applied to four distilleries picked for the weight already sitting in their spirit. Price and availability Prices span a wide range, which tracks with the distilleries involved. The Clynelish 8 is the entry point at £69, followed by the Ben Nevis 12 at £79, the Mortlach 16 at £115 and the Laphroaig 14 at £155. Outturns are small, from 167 bottles of the Ben Nevis up to 305 of the Clynelish, so the more sought-after casks are likely to move quickly. The collection is on sale from 17 September 2026 through selected specialist retailers. Rare Find is UK-based, and its bottles regularly reach specialist shops across Europe, so readers outside Britain should keep an eye on their usual independent-bottling stockists as well as the Rare Find stockist list. Which one to watch If you want the collection’s headline dram, the Laphroaig 14 is it: Islay peat rounded out by first-fill oloroso, at 217 bottles and £155. For value, the Clynelish 8 at £69 and 61.0% offers a lot of waxy Highland character for the money. The Mortlach 16 is the pick for sherry-and-spice drinkers, and the Ben Nevis 12, worked in a quarter cask for over two years, is the most heavily cask-driven of the four. We have not tasted these yet, so treat the notes above as Rare Find’s own. If samples come our way, a scored review will follow. Frequently asked questions What is the Rare Find Autumn 2026 Collection? It is a four-bottle set of single cask single malts from Rare Find, the Edinburgh independent bottler. The theme is spirit weight and texture: four distilleries known for full-bodied spirit, each matched to a sherry cask chosen to enhance rather than mask the distillery character. What whiskies are in the collection? Four single casks: a Clynelish 8 Year Old (61.0%), a Ben Nevis 12 Year Old (56.6%), a Laphroaig 14 Year Old (56.2%) and a Mortlach 16 Year Old (54.6%). Three are finished in first-fill oloroso sherry, while the Clynelish is fully matured in a refill sherry hogshead. How much does the Rare Find Autumn 2026 Collection cost? Prices run from £69 to £155 per bottle. The Clynelish 8 is £69, the Ben Nevis 12 is £79, the Mortlach 16 is £115 and the Laphroaig 14 is £155. All are 70cl bottlings at natural cask strength. Where and when can I buy it? The collection goes on sale on 17 September 2026 through selected specialist retailers. Rare Find is UK-based but ships to specialist shops across Europe, so buyers outside Britain should check the Rare Find stockist list and their usual independent-bottling retailer. Are the Rare Find Autumn 2026 whiskies cask strength? Yes. Every bottle is presented at natural cask strength, from 54.6% on the Mortlach 16 up to 61.0% on the Clynelish 8, with natural colour and no chill filtration, in line with Rare Find’s standard house approach. What is Rare Find known for? Rare Find is the single cask label of Gleann Mòr Spirits Co., an award-winning independent bottler in Edinburgh. It specialises in individual casks from across Scotland, bottled at natural strength without colouring or chill filtration, often with limited outturns of a few hundred bottles. Leave a Reply

Rare Find, the award-winning Edinburgh-based independent bottler, renowned for uncovering exceptional single cask whiskies, has announced the launch of its latest Collection of single cask whiskies, which is said to bring together four exceptional expressions from distilleries renowned for their rich, full-bodied spirit styles. The Rare Find Autumn 2026 Collection, explores the relationship between spirit weight, texture and cask influence, showcasing how carefully chosen maturation can enhance the qualities that make each distillery distinctive. The collection brings together four whiskies where weight is central to their identity: the waxy complexity of Clynelish, the muscular fruit character of Mortlach, the oily robustness of Ben Nevis and the unmistakable coastal power of Laphroaig. The Rare Find team has used carefully considered cask maturation to enhance texture, amplify character and reveal new layers of complexity within each spirit. First-fill Oloroso Sherry casks introduce richness, dried fruit and spice, strengthening the natural weight of these whiskies without overwhelming their individuality, while refill Sherry maturation allows the underlying distillery character to remain firmly at the forefront. The Rare Find Autumn 2026 Collection comprises: Rare Find Clynelish 8 Year Old (61% ABV) Fully matured in a refill Sherry hogshead Limited to 305 bottles – RRP: £69.00 The whisky is said to deliver notes of Victoria sponge cake with thick buttercream, alongside a bright berry compote, while bourbon biscuits and burnt toffee bring additional tempting sweetness on the nose. On the palate, sugar-dusted red and black berries sit alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries and a sprinkle of white pepper, creating a rich, textural delivery. Rare Find Ben Nevis 12 Year Old (56.6% ABV) Finished for 26 months in a first-fill Oloroso Sherry quarter cask Limited to 167 bottles – RRP: £79.00 This release is said to deliver notes of bright, leafy Sherry, ripe hedgerow berries, plump sultanas, shortbread, buttery popcorn and bourbon biscuits on the nose. Rich, oily and mouth-coating on the palate, it unfolds with chocolate digestives, red and black berries and butterscotch, followed by building notes of cinnamon and pepper spice. Rare Find Laphroaig 14 Year Old (56.2% ABV) Finished for 15 months in a first-fill Oloroso Sherry hogshead Limited to 217 bottles – RRP: £155.00 The whisky is described as delivering notes of iodine, brine and driftwood on the nose, alongside camphor, rock pools, preserved lemon and sea spray. The palate is perfectly rounded, with medicinal peat smoke, sea spray, layered iodine and coastal rock-pool salinity alongside dried berries and beach bonfire embers. Rare Find Mortlach 16 Year Old (54.6% ABV) Finished for 28 months in a first-fill European oak Oloroso Sherry hogshead Limited to 268 bottles – RRP: £115.00 This release is said to deliver notes of vanilla buttercream and toffee cups on the nose, alongside redcurrant jelly, cracked walnuts, gingerbread and milk chocolate. On the palate, cinnamon- and ginger-spiced plums lead into balsamic strawberries and polished oak, while the texture persists throughout the development, revealing orange oils, biscuit crumb and dusty oak. As with all Rare Find releases, each whisky is bottled at natural cask strength, with natural colour and without chill filtration. Commenting on the launch, James Zorab of Rare Find, said: “These are four distilleries that naturally produce whiskies with weight, texture and unmistakable character, so our role was not to overpower those qualities, but to find casks that could further enhance them. From the gentle influence of refill Sherry maturation through to the richness brought by first-fill Oloroso, each cask has been selected because it complements what makes the spirit distinctive. Together, they represent what Rare Find is all about – discovering exceptional single casks and utilising thoughtful maturation to reveal new dimensions of already remarkable spirits.” The Rare Find Autumn 2026 Collection will be available from September 17th through selected specialist retailers. Leave a comment

The future of bourbon tourism in Louisville: Q&A with reporter Matthew Glowicki When landing at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, a walk through the terminal makes it clear: You’ve arrived in “bourbon city.” From downtown’s Whiskey Row and its many tasting rooms to distilleries that dot the county - not to mention across the state - to bourbon-infused offerings at restaurants, beauty bars and retail shops, the spirit’s influence is ingrained across the city. Our Sept. 6 cover story looks at Louisville’s bourbon tourism industry, which has boomed over the last 15-20 years, is helping support tourism jobs and generate meaningful economic impact. But with the recent downturn in bourbon sales and inventory saturation that has led to cutbacks in production, paired with changes in drinking habits and preferences, some have wondered for how long the party can last. Why did you want to write about bourbon tourism? As part of my growth and development beat, I cover different aspects of the bourbon industry. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to the city, whether that’s through covering ribbon cuttings of bourbon experiences along downtown Louisville’s Main Street or the massive Bourbon & Beyond music festival. But I’ve also written lately about production lines going quiet and distillers reporting sales declines, and I’ve read myriad stories that question if bourbon’s golden age has passed. Knowing tourism’s vital role to Louisville’s health, especially to the health of downtown, I wanted to speak with folks in the know about what they’re seeing on the ground with respect to bourbon-related tourism and how they’re feeling about its future. Describe your reporting process. What steps did you take? After gathering what limited data there is on the topic, I wanted to first speak with voices from the tourism and distilling side of the industry to get a handle on their outlook on bourbon tourism. Those interviews led me to a few voices of local business people who see bourbon tourists regularly and have a perspective on historical trends and what they’re seeing now. What do you want readers to take away from this story? Perhaps the biggest message I got from those I spoke with is that the drivers of bourbon tourism are different than the factors that are affecting bourbon production and distribution. Pointing to back-to-back years of all-time-high Kentucky Bourbon Trail visits, those I spoke with are convinced that visitors, even in the face of shifting consumer tastes, will keep being drawn to Louisville and to Kentucky to learn about the history and production of bourbon. Ultimately, though, the degree to which the industry’s struggles might have an impact on bourbon tourism will be seen in the coming years. But I found it interesting to hear from those in the know about what steps they’re taking to build resiliency in Louisville’s tourism scene and how they think bourbon tourism may evolve. What was the most unexpected or surprising finding? I was pretty surprised to learn that 20 years ago, there wasn’t much bourbon in Louisville’s tourism scene. When I moved to Louisville in 2014, on the heels of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience opening on West Main Street, it felt like a longtime staple of downtown. That summer, when I took a trip to the nearby Jim Beam visitor’s center, I would never have known tours there were relatively new. Now, looking back, the bourbon experiences available to me then were only just the beginning. What can readers expect from you next? Readers can look forward to more bourbon-related coverage this Bourbon Heritage Month as well as live music festival coverage for Louder Than Life and Bourbon and Beyond. And, as always, I’ll be reporting on interesting development projects around town. If there are any on your radar that you think should be on mine, don’t hesitate to reach out. Reach growth and development reporter Matthew Glowicki at mglowicki@courier-journal.com or 502-582-4000.

Penfolds has opened its newly remodeled permanent boutique at Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal, strengthening its partnership with Heinemann Oceania. The 44.6sq m shop-in-shop, unveiled on Sept. 7, is the brand’s largest worldwide and features Penfolds’ first global concept design. The Dalmore Concludes Cask Curation Series with $47k Madeira Cask Edition READ THE STORYThe boutique sits on the terminal’s main retail walkway and has been redesigned to improve visibility, navigation and the premium wine shopping experience for international travelers. Penfolds said the new format uses dedicated zones to showcase wines from its four countries of origin, alongside gifting options, luxury wines and limited releases. The concept takes design cues from the brand’s red bottle cap, with architectural features and layered shades of red used across the space. A rotating feature zone will be updated during the year to highlight new launches, limited editions, seasonal campaigns and gifting occasions. The range includes Penfolds Collection wines, including Grange and the Penfolds Bins, as well as Holiday and Chinese New Year releases. Travel retail exclusives include the Penfolds City Explorer Packs, which are premium duo gift boxes tailored to 13 travel retail destinations. The boutique also stocks limited wines including the Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan 1.5L Magnum. Only 20 bottles are available globally, with two allocated to Heinemann Oceania for Sydney. 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. During the launch period, travelers can access exclusive tastings by checking with brand ambassadors in-store before departure. The space also includes a dedicated gift-wrapping area. Michael Jackson, global director, global travel at Penfolds, said: “Travel retail continues to provide exciting opportunities to inspire shoppers through premium luxury experiences that extend beyond the traditional retail environment.” He added: “Our new Sydney Airport boutique reflects our continued investment in the channel, combining immersive design, expert guidance, gifting solutions and a compelling portfolio of wines to encourage travelers to explore the world of Penfolds.” Rosi Fernandez, managing director at Heinemann Oceania, said: “The new Penfolds boutique is exactly the kind of experience we want to create for Sydney Airport, something worth stopping for and, ultimately, worth travelling for.” Sydney Airport general manager retail Gail Taylor said: “Penfolds is one of Australia’s most iconic luxury brands and this investment enhances the premium retail experience we offer millions of international travellers each year.” Penfolds has operated for more than 180 years and is known for wines including Grange, Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon, Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon and Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz.

Wheated bourbon has, in recent years, been growing in both confidence and popularity. Despite the style having been around since the mid-1800s, when William Larue Weller reportedly became the first distiller to replace rye with wheat in the mash bill, modern collectible bottles and affordable wheaters have given the category an edge. The Dalmore Concludes Cask Curation Series with $47k Madeira Cask Edition READ THE STORYTo qualify as a wheated bourbon, the mash bill must contain at least 51% corn, as standard, but the rye in the mash bill is in part or entirely replaced by wheat. Essentially, wheat is the flavoring grain. This lends itself to a softer, sweeter bourbon. To understand how the category has grown in perception and popularity, today we are taking a look at the 7 best wheated bourbons in the world according to recent whiskey competitions. Many are allocated, but some are surprisingly affordable. 1. Old Fitzgerald VVS 2024 Bottled-in-Bond 25th Anniversary Edition Award: World’s Best Bourbon, World Whiskies Awards USA 2025 The Old Fitzgerald brand dates back to the 1800s and spent part of the 20th century as Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle’s wheated brand at Stitzel-Weller. Heaven Hill bought the brand in 1999 and now releases the bourbon as a Bottled-in-Bond series in decanter bottles, each one carrying its own age and season. This particular decanter, the VVS (Very Very Special) 25th Anniversary Edition, was bottled to mark 25 years of Heaven Hill ownership. The whiskey inside was distilled in September 1999 at the company’s Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, matured for 13 years in charred oak, and bottled in February 2024 at 100 proof. The mash bill is 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. 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. Expect cinnamon toast, nutmeg, allspice, sweet oak, honey, vanilla, baking spices, and pepper. It also took Whiskey of the Year and Best Bourbon at the inaugural Whiskey Wash Awards. Bottles are currently listed at around $1,999.99. 2. William Larue Weller 2025 Award: 1st Place, Best Bourbon Whiskey – Wheated, International Whisky Competition 2026 William Larue Weller is credited with being the first to put wheat into a bourbon mash bill, and his namesake bourbon continues this tradition. It is made at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, and released each fall as one of the six whiskeys in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The 2025 release was distilled in December 2010, January 2011, and January 2013, making it 12 years and seven months old at bottling. It went into the barrel at 114 proof and came out uncut and unfiltered at 129 proof. Expect vanilla, maple, leather, tobacco, oak, and ripe fruit. Suggested retail is around $150, but the Antique Collection is heavily allocated, and this one currently sells for closer to $1,800, so finding it at anything like RRP takes luck. 3. Maker’s Mark 46 Award: Best Kentucky Finished Bourbon and World’s Best Finished Bourbon, World Whiskies Awards America 2026 | Double Gold, 99 points, San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2026 Maker’s Mark traces back to the 1950s, when Bill Samuels Sr. bought the Loretto distillery and, with Margie Samuels, settled on soft red winter wheat in place of rye. The house style has been wheated ever since, and the original bourbon arrived in 1958. The 46 came along in 2010 as the first major new expression in the range since then. Once a barrel of standard Maker’s Mark has fully matured, ten seared French oak staves are inserted into it and the barrel goes back into a limestone cellar for further aging. The number in the name comes from the stave profile the distillery settled on. The mash bill is 70% corn, 16% soft red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley, bottled at 94 proof. The soft and silky bourbon has notes of French oak, caramel, baking spice, vanilla, and a velvety finish. At around $38 and permanently in the range, this is the one bottle here you can pick up without hunting. A 99-point score in blind judging at that price is amazingly low. Pick up a bottle. You can’t really go wrong. 4. Green River Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Award: Best Wheated Bourbon and Best Overall Bourbon, New York World Spirits Competition 2025 Green River has been making whiskey in Owensboro since 1885, and is registered as DSP-KY-10, the tenth-oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky. It sat dormant for decades before returning to shelves in 2022, and now sits under the Lofted Spirits umbrella alongside Bardstown Bourbon Company. The mash bill is 70% corn, 21% wheat, and 9% malted barley, aged in new charred oak and bottled at 90 proof from a blend of four to six-year-old barrels. No finishing casks, no age statement games. On tasting, there is peppery spice up front, then honeyed grains, oats, and creamy butterscotch, with soft honey and warm barrel notes on the finish. The competition is run by The Tasting Alliance and judged blind. Green River beat a field that included Blanton’s Gold Edition and W.L. Weller Full Proof, at a suggested retail price of just $34.99. 5. Augusta Distillery Wheated Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Award: Platinum medal, Best Bourbon and Best Single Barrel Bourbon, LA Spirits Awards 2026 Augusta is the youngest name here. The distillery was founded in 2018 in a restored 1883 building in Augusta, Kentucky, on the banks of the Ohio River, under Master Distiller Alex Castle, who came by way of Wild Turkey and Old Dominick. Its first release, Buckner’s 13, was named World’s Best Bourbon at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023, and on-site distilling only began in 2024 on two 35-foot Vendome column stills. The Wheated Single Barrel launched in early 2026 alongside a Small Batch bourbon. It is cask strength, unfiltered, and aged for an average of seven years. Augusta has not published the mash bill, though it has been reported as 70% corn, 21% wheat, and 9% malted barley. The bourbon has notes of honeyed grain, baked bread, orchard fruit, toasted oak, baking spice, caramel, and vanilla. Being a single barrel release, bottles vary from cask to cask. It costs $89.99 direct from the distillery. 6. Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Specialty Barrel Series Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Award: Best of Class, SIP Awards 2026 | Double Gold, Bartender Spirits Awards 2026 Grain to Glass is Heaven Hill’s transparency project, and the labels carry detail most producers keep to themselves, including the corn varietal, the barrel entry proof, the rickhouse, and the warehouse floors the barrels sat on. The corn here is Beck’s 6225, grown by Peterson Farms in Nelson County, Kentucky, and the whiskey is distilled at Bernheim in Louisville. This bottle is part of the Specialty Barrel Series, which launched in November 2025 alongside a bourbon and a rye. The difference from the standard Grain to Glass line is the wood. All three spent a full seven years in Chinquapin oak, a separate species of American white oak, with the barrels chosen in partnership with Independent Stave Company. The mash bill is 52% corn, 35% wheat, and 13% malted barley, bottled at 105 proof, with an MSRP of $129.99. The tasting notes include maple, oak, gentle spice, caramel, and pecans. At 35% wheat, this is the highest proportion on the list by some distance. 7. Redwood Empire Screaming Titan Wheated Bourbon Award: Platinum Medal, LA Spirits Awards 2025 The last bottle on the list is not from Kentucky at all. Redwood Empire

| Text to Speech audio articles made possible on the CAST11.com podcast network by Fain Signature Group. | When championship teams collaborate, we all win. A team effort between Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc. and Granite Mountain Distillery resulted in a timeless keepsake for whiskey drinkers: Rodeo 1888 Limited Edition Bourbon. Inspired by the year it all began, the 88-proof bourbon earned an impressive 91 points and a gold medal at the 2026 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition. Congratulations to Granite Mountain Distillery Master Distiller Chris Currie, General Manager Sheryl Currie, and Owner Kenneth Knock for creating this exceptional premium bourbon that proudly celebrates the spirit and tradition of the World’s Oldest Rodeo®! At the Granite Mountain Distillery, General Manager Sheryl Currie related, “we use Charred New American Oak barrels for the bourbon, which is traditional for bourbon production and gives the bourbon many of its characteristic flavors. The New American Oak barrel we use to age the bourbon contributes notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak to its taste; these flavors emerge as the bourbon ages in the barrel. It’s an important part of developing the rich flavor and character we wanted for the World’s Oldest Rodeo Bourbon.” PFD General Manager Jim Dewey Brown, whose likeness appears on the bottle, first made his mark as a champion saddle bronc rider and two-time champion in the Prescott arena. “I’d like this to be the beginning of a long-term partnership and a way for us to continue supporting and celebrating the World’s Oldest Rodeo and our partners for years to come,” Brown said. Only 1888 bottles were crafted, so get your limited-edition keepsake today! It’s available for $100 at Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo Office, 840 Rodeo Drive, Bldg. D in Prescott or the Granite Mountain Distillery, 400 N. Washington Ave., Prescott. Contact the Rodeo Office at (928) 445-3103 or sheryl@granitemountaindistilleryaz.com Loading Comments

Nikka Whisky has released Taketsuru Pure Malt Essentials 2026, the first expression in a five-part limited edition series marking the run-up to the whisky’s 30th anniversary in 2030. The 43% ABV bottling highlights direct coal-fired distillation at Yoichi Distillery and will be available in limited quantities through La Maison du Whisky boutiques, specialist retailers and whisky.fr. The Dalmore Concludes Cask Curation Series with $47k Madeira Cask Edition READ THE STORYTaketsuru Pure Malt was created in 2000 as a tribute to Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka Whisky. The expression blends malt whiskies from Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. Nikka said the whisky combines “Yoichi’s powerful, smoky and structured character” with “Miyagikyo’s finesse, roundness and fruity notes”. The new release is the first chapter in an annual series scheduled to run from 2026 to 2030. Each edition will focus on a different element of Taketsuru Pure Malt’s identity. For the 2026 edition, Nikka has focused on Yoichi’s direct coal-fired distillation method. The technique has been preserved at the Hokkaidō distillery since its foundation in 1934. Nikka said the practice is “now exceptionally rare, even in Scotland”. The company added that the method helps create “deep and structured whiskies”. 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 official notes from the brand describe aromas of “malted and lightly toasted” cereal, with “freshly baked biscuit”, “tangy apricot jam” and “soft woody notes”. On the palate, the whisky is described as “full-bodied and rich”, with “considerable depth”. The brand said the finish is “long and lingering”, with “delicate peaty notes” and “a subtly bitter touch of cask”. Taketsuru Pure Malt Essentials 2026 is bottled at 70cl and priced at approximately $195 (£155), based on its €180 recommended price. Masataka Taketsuru was born in 1894 into a family of sake producers and later trained as a chemist. In 1918, he traveled to Scotland for an apprenticeship with Settsu Shuzo, before returning to Japan to develop whisky production. Taketsuru founded Yoichi Distillery on Hokkaidō in 1934. He later opened Miyagikyo Distillery near Sendai in 1969. Nikka Whisky continues to produce its whisky and spirits portfolio primarily from the two distilleries.

September 7, 2026 Dubai Duty Free partners with Pernod Ricard GTR to invite travelers on a personalized The Glenlivet whisky journey at DXB A new immersive pop-up experience in Terminal 3 Departures Concourse A West features a wide range of travel retail and prestige expressions Reflecting a shared ambition to elevate the travel retail experience beyond the traditional, Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail (PR GTR) and Dubai Duty Free have co-produced an immersive pop-up experience at Dubai International’s Terminal 3 Departures Concourse A West where passengers can take a journey of discovery with the definitive Speyside single malt, The Glenlivet. From August 27 to October 31, 2026, travelers will be welcomed to the open-sided, free- flowing, teal-colored space, designed to reflect the flowing waters of the River Livet, the source of this Scotch whisky’s exceptional smooth character. Here they can embark on an elevated shopping experience that combines discovery, tasting, personalization and storytelling that will deepen their understanding of the #1 malt whisky in GTR by volume and the fastest-growing brand in its category. The Dubai Duty Free pop-up showcases The Glenlivet Cask Master’s Collection - a travel retail exclusive range launched in October 2025 that features 14, 16 and 19 Year Old expressions and is the first from Cask Master Kevin Balmforth since he took the reins from Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, who retired at the end of last year. There is also a 12 Year Old Rum Cask Regional Exclusive, only available in the Middle East and India, and a selection of prestige age statements, namely the 21 Year Old, 25 Year Old and just two bottles of the exceptional, limited release 40 Year Old, issued in 2024 to mark the brand’s 200th anniversary and finished in unique sherry casks to add richness to the timeless, fruity flavor. Only one bottle remains of the ultra-rare Dubai Duty Free Exclusive 35 Year Old, produced by The Glenlivet in honor of DDF’s 35th anniversary in 2018 and the last of 35 individually numbered bottles. It is offered to collectors at 25% off list price and comes in a handmade wooden presentation box with a hand-signed letter from former Master Distiller, Alan Winchester. Guided by knowledgeable brand ambassadors, travelers can learn about each of The Glenlivet liquids at the digital discovery table, where an inlaid screen tells the stories of Speyside’s finest. By answering three short questions on the adjacent iPad and nosing a range of flavor notes at the sensory bar, their personalized tasting profile can be identified leading to the brand ambassador pouring a dram of the expression best matched to their preferences. Travelers who meet the qualifying spend threshold of US$150 will receive an exclusive branded travel pouch lined in The Glenlivet teal. Those spending US$250 at the pop-up will be gifted a luxury travel bag. Bottles can be engraved at the dedicated personalization station and the travel bag luggage tag embossed with their initials, creating unique keepsakes or gifts that remind them of their journey with The Glenlivet. Anyone who makes a purchase may also enter a prize draw to win an exclusive distillery experience for two, where they will select from a cellar of private casks to create a personalized whisky signed by the Cask Master himself. Asli Tekes, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Middle East, said, “We are delighted to have created this pop-up with our longstanding partners at Dubai Duty Free. Designed to respond to growing demand for premium single malt whisky, particularly among travelers from the Indian subcontinent, the experience brings The Glenlivet to life through discovery, tasting and personalization. It reflects our shared ambition to elevate the traditional retail experience while supporting consumer engagement and premiumization, and underlines the strategic importance of global travel retail in building The Glenlivet brand.” Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, added, “It is our pleasure to partner with Pernod Ricard again after the success of the Royal Salute Boutique in 2024 and 2025. With the focus on The Glenlivet’s superb Malts collection, this pop-up is sure to be of great interest to our discerning consumers, especially in the run-up to Diwali. The premium finish, warm ambience and discovery-led retail offer is on point and is exactly what makes Dubai Duty Free stand out from its competitors.” The Glenlivet Cask Master’s Collection is available exclusively in Global Travel Retail locations worldwide.

Ardbeg has a new whisky on the way and it’s not just any release. Ardbeg Trudernish is 15 years old and is joining the distillery’s core range. And as so often with Islay whiskies, the name is especially intriguing. So what does Trudernish actually mean? Anyone familiar with Ardbeg names knows you often have to look on Islay itself for the answer. Uigeadail references a loch, Corryvreckan a notorious whirlpool and Trudernish, too, turns out to be a piece of the island’s landscape. Trudernish is a place on Islay Trudernish may sound like a name dreamed up just for the whisky, but its origins don’t lie with a marketing agency. Trudernish is the name of an old settlement in the southeast of Islay. It sits not far from Ardbeg, in an area the distillery calls the “Enchanted Cape.” You won’t find a bustling village there today. In fact, that air of abandonment plays a key role in the story Ardbeg is telling around its new whisky. Because somewhere near Trudernish, there’s said to be a hidden spring. A mysterious well near Trudernish Ardbeg draws the name from the Trudernish Well. According to the distillery, that spring inspired the mysterious journey this whisky is meant to evoke. That makes Trudernish a perfect fit alongside the other names in the core range. Uigeadail and Corryvreckan are also deeply rooted in the Islay landscape. But with Trudernish, there’s a local legend in the mix as well. Close to Trudernish lies Claggain Bay. As Ardbeg tells it, anyone who takes a pebble from this beach home will one day return to Islay. Whether you want to risk that by packing a stone in your suitcase is, of course, up to you. Behind the mysterious name is a strikingly gentle Ardbeg The name sounds pretty rugged, but the whisky seems to reveal Ardbeg’s softer side. Ardbeg Trudernish is 15 years old and matured in a mix of bourbon casks, new charred oak, and Oloroso sherry casks. It’s bottled at 48.8% ABV and is non-chill filtered. That makes it notable for another reason: Trudernish is the first 15-year-old Ardbeg to earn a permanent spot in the distillery’s lineup. While many whisky drinkers associate Ardbeg with bold peat smoke, with Trudernish the distillery leans deliberately into words like soft, creamy, and silky. The smoke, however, hasn’t vanished. From vanilla ice cream to dark licorice In the official tasting notes, Trudernish delivers a striking interplay of earthy peat, smoke, and creamy sweetness. - Nose: Earthy peat, gentle wood smoke, and a creamy sweetness Ardbeg likens to melted vanilla ice cream with fudge sauce. Behind that come pine, fruit, and floral notes. - Palate: Wood smoke, damp forest floor, and dark licorice, rounded out by chocolate limes, mint, fruit, and milk-chocolate-coated nuts. - Finish: Long and persistent, with smoldering peat, vanilla, and roasted nuts. It paints quite a different picture than the name Trudernish might suggest. Behind that old, mysterious Islay place lies a whisky where smoke meets a remarkably creamy character. A new name among Uigeadail and Corryvreckan Trudernish is taking a permanent place in Ardbeg’s core range, alongside familiar names like Ten Years Old, Wee Beastie, An Oa, Uigeadail, and Corryvreckan. With that, Ardbeg is adding not only a new 15-year-old whisky to its lineup, but also another spot on Islay to its labels. Maybe that’s the easiest way to remember the name. Trudernish isn’t a made-up monster, an old whisky maker, or a convoluted Gaelic way of saying smoke. It’s a place. An almost-forgotten settlement on Islay, with a mysterious spring nearby and a tale of a pebble that one day draws you back to the island. FAQ - What is Ardbeg Trudernish? A 15-year-old Islay single malt Scotch whisky from Ardbeg. - What does Ardbeg Trudernish taste like? Smoky and creamy, with notes of vanilla, dark licorice, mint, fruit, and milk chocolate. - How much alcohol does Ardbeg Trudernish contain? 48.8% ABV.

Edinburgh-based independent bottler Rare Find has launched its Autumn 2026 Collection, a four-strong range of single cask single malts. The whiskies will be available via selected Rare Find stockists from September 17, 2026. The Dalmore Concludes Cask Curation Series with $47k Madeira Cask Edition READ THE STORYThe collection focuses on distilleries known for full-bodied spirit styles. It brings together expressions from Clynelish, Mortlach, Ben Nevis and Laphroaig. According to the bottler, the range "explores the relationship between spirit weight, texture and cask influence." Each whisky was matured or finished in sherry casks selected to complement the base spirit. First-fill oloroso sherry casks were used to introduce "richness, dried fruit and spice," while refill sherry maturation allowed distillery character to remain "firmly at the forefront." 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 Clynelish 8-Year-Old was fully matured in a refill sherry hogshead. It is bottled at 61.0% ABV, with 305 bottles available. The Ben Nevis 12-Year-Old was finished for 26 months in a first-fill oloroso sherry quarter cask. It is bottled at 56.6% ABV, with 167 bottles produced. Rare Find’s Laphroaig 14-Year-Old was finished for 15 months in a first-fill oloroso sherry hogshead sourced from Bodegas Barbadillo. It is bottled at 56.2% ABV, limited to 217 bottles. The Mortlach 16-Year-Old was finished for 28 months in a first-fill European oak oloroso sherry hogshead. It is bottled at 54.6% ABV, with 268 bottles available. As with all Rare Find releases, each whisky is bottled at natural cask strength, in natural color, and without chill filtration. James Zorab of Rare Find said: "These are four distilleries that naturally produce whiskies with weight, texture and unmistakable character, so our role was not to overpower those qualities, but to find casks that could further enhance them." He added: "From the gentle influence of refill sherry maturation through to the richness brought by first-fill oloroso, each cask has been selected because it complements what makes the spirit distinctive." Zorab continued: "Together, they represent what Rare Find is all about – discovering exceptional single casks and utilising thoughtful maturation to reveal new dimensions of already remarkable spirits." The independent bottling sector continues to grow in Scotland, with single cask releases increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

England is one of the most exciting countries in the broad ‘world whisky’ category, with innovations in production and stand-out visitor experiences drawing attention from its more famous whisky-making neighbour to the north. The Dalmore Concludes Cask Curation Series with $47k Madeira Cask Edition READ THE STORYWith the growing number of distilleries out there, and the amount of mature spirit coming to market, it can be hard to keep up with new releases. So, The Whiskey Wash is publishing a monthly round-up of new English whisky releases. This month, we’re treated to debut single malts from Northumberland’s first legal distillery, two annual small-batch releases from Yorkshire, and a couple of limited-edition grain whiskies. The list includes core range and limited edition whiskies, as well as some single cask releases, released between mid-July and mid-August 2026. Data is sourced from Longshot Ventures’ Craft Spirits Reports. Ad Gefrin — The Cræft Series The first single malt release from Northumbrian distillery Ad Gefrin, which began filling casks in December 2022. The series comprises three single casks: an ex-American single malt whiskey cask from Stranahan’s in Colorado; an ex-bourbon barrel from Heaven Hill; and an ex-oloroso hogshead (the whisky spent 18 months in a Stranahan’s cask before being reracked into the sherry cask for a further 18 months). Each bottle label sports an original artwork, commissioned by Ad Gefrin from artists based in the north-east of England. The 1,100-odd bottles released have sold out, but there are a further three Cræft Series releases planned over the next few years. Circumstance — 6 Year Old Organic Single Grain Whisky This is the latest release of Circumstance Distillery’s organic single grain whisky, and the first to bear an age statement. Created with a mash bill of 85% malted barley and 15% unmalted barley, it was treated to an incredibly lengthy 14-day fermentation with saison yeast (more commonly used in brewing). This Bristolian distillery is known for its experimental approach to distilling, with single malt, rye and wheat spirits also in its stable. There are 400 bottles of the 6 Year Old Organic Single Grain Whisky available (via Circumstance’s website). English Distillery — Founders’ Private Cellar 17 Year Old Heavily Smoked Rum Cask This single cask single malt was bottled as part of the English Distillery’s super-premium Founders’ Private Cellar collection: a heavily peated single malt, fully matured in an ex-rum cask. It’s one of the distillery’s oldest age-statement releases to date, distilled not long after the Norfolk site first started production in 2006. The cask yielded just 177 bottles, which are available through the English Distillery and specialist retailers. 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. English Distillery — The Norfolk Corn Whiskey While single malts are its bread and butter, the English Distillery dedicates a small amount of its production capacity each year to grain whiskies. They’re bottled under its The Norfolk brand, an homage to its home county. The latest result of these grainy forays is The Norfolk Corn Whiskey, a single cask release distilled in 2017 and matured in new oak. Roughly 350 bottles have been released, available via the distillery’s webshop. The Lakes — Whiskymakers’ Editions Rivêa Single Malt The latest bottling in The Lakes’ Whiskymakers’ Editions series, limited releases in which the distillery strays from its typical sherry-led style. This edition is designed to take us on an aromatic trip to the Italian Riviera, touting notes of blood orange, fig and wood spice. Originally bottled as a US release, it’s now available through The Whisky Shop. Old Bakery — White Wax Whiskey London’s Old Bakery Distillery has managed to secure prime placements for its spirits across the capital, counting Buckingham Palace and Whitehall among its stockists. This malt whisky was released following a request from the Ministry of Defence. It’s made with lightly peated malt, coming out at about 7ppm, matured in seasoned ex-bourbon barrels and bottled at eight years old. It’s a very limited release, though, so if you want a bottle you’ll have to contact the distillery directly. Spirit of Yorkshire — Filey Bay Yorkshire Day 2026 A limited-edition single malt from Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery to celebrate Yorkshire Day, which fell on Saturday, August 1 this year. This is a distillery-exclusive release of 1,500 bottles, matured in refill oloroso sherry hogsheads. The distillery launched its first Yorkshire Day special edition in 2020, and they’re still an important pillar in its efforts to champion its home region. White Peak — Wire Works Refill Oloroso Cask The latest limited edition from Derbyshire distiller White Peak. This single cask single malt is made with Wire Works’ characteristic lightly peated spirit, which was initially matured in a first-fill ex-bourbon barrel then finished in a second-fill oloroso sherry quarter cask to add some nutty, fruity punch. It’s limited to 161 bottles, available to buy direct from White Peak. Whittaker’s — 2026 Edition Ex-Rum/Ex-Oloroso The latest annual small batch single malt from Yorkshire distillery Whittaker’s. The whiskies that comprise the 2026 edition were distilled between August 2020 and August 2021 and matured in three casks, two ex-rum and one ex-oloroso sherry. Since Whittaker’s had its whisky debut in 2024 with the first annual edition, it has struck to small batches, with only one other release (a single sherry cask) bottled so far this year. The 824 bottles of the 2026 Edition are available from the distillery and its online shop. Missed last month’s round-up? Read it here.

Most corporate whisky gifts follow a familiar and slightly dispiriting pattern. A standard bottle, a logo printed on the box, and a recipient who smiles politely before regifting it the following December. Tailored Spirits Co, an Edinburgh company founded in January 2024, has set out to do something different by refusing to sell a whisky at all. Instead it builds one to order, so that no two clients ever receive the same liquid. For UK business travellers, that distinction matters more than it might first appear. Anyone who spends their working life shuttling between client meetings, trade shows and overseas offices knows how quickly a generic present is forgotten. A bottle that exists only because a particular company commissioned it for a particular occasion is a rather different proposition, and one that tends to stay on a recipient’s desk long after the last dram has gone. How the bespoke corporate whisky gift is made The business is run by three founders with clearly divided roles. Adam Harding leads on spirits, sales and strategy, Carl Johnstone looks after commercial and operations, and Tom Costello handles brand and creative. The company began, improbably enough, in the back of a plant shop in Leith, and it remains based in the Edinburgh port district today. The idea grew out of a gap the founders had spotted in the market. Scotch is produced at enormous commercial scale, yet an individual cask owner sitting on something rare often has no clear route to turning it into a finished product. Tailored Spirits Co positions itself as the bridge, summed up in its own phrase, from the warehouse to your house. Clients are guided through every stage of a commission. That starts with sourcing a cask and settling on the style of liquid wanted, and runs through label design to the final bottling. The firm works with private collectors, hospitality groups and premium brands, and has delivered commissions to Singapore, the United States and destinations across Europe, which will be of interest to UK companies with clients or partners overseas. Why the packaging is treated as seriously as the whisky Where the company goes further than most gifting suppliers is in the object itself. Bottles are chosen for the project rather than pulled from a default supply, and branding, label design, presentation materials, bespoke glassware and high end packaging all form part of the same commission. Closures can be engraved wooden corks carrying a company logo or brass stoppers, a detail that sounds small but is the one part of the bottle a recipient handles every time they pour. That attention to the physical product echoes what we found when reviewing the Regal Sentas handcrafted candle range for corporate gifting, where presentation did much of the work. Firms already investing in decent glassware, such as the TsukiGlass Storm whisky glass we tested earlier, will recognise the logic of pairing the liquid with something worth keeping. No tasting notes accompany this piece, and that is deliberate. Because every commission is different, any description of the whisky would only describe somebody else’s bottle. What can fairly be judged is the process, the design thinking and the quality of what arrives. What UK businesses need to plan for The practical point for any SME considering this route is timing. Because there is no range to choose from and no stock waiting in a warehouse to have a name added, each project starts from nothing and is built from the cask up. Lead times therefore run to months rather than weeks, so a company hoping to mark a year end, a major contract win or a client anniversary needs to open the conversation well in advance. Companies with a client to thank, a milestone to mark or a room full of people who deserve better than another hamper can make an initial enquiry through the Tailored Spirits Co website. For background on the rules governing what can be called Scotch, the Scotch Whisky Association is the authoritative source. Edinburgh also remains one of the strongest UK cities for combining business with leisure, so a visit to Leith to discuss a commission in person is no hardship. How we review Travelling for Business pays for the rooms, flights and products we review unless we explicitly say otherwise. We never accept paid reviews or gifted stays in exchange for coverage.

The Royal Lochnagar Distillery, has announced the launch of a new limited-edition release, honouring its Highland home and inspired by the adventures enjoyed in the Deeside area since the distillery was founded in 1845. Royal Lochnagar Pursuits Edition 26 Year Old (57.4% ABV) is a cask-strength single malt Scotch whisky, finished in French oak Cognac casks. The latest release is said to stay true to the distillery’s original character, with a richly layered flavour profile of orchard fruits, sweet vanilla and berries, complemented by warm spice, polished oak and toffee. One of Scotland’s smallest distilleries, Royal Lochnagar continues the rare and time-honoured tradition of using a cast-iron, open-topped mash tun, helping to shape the light character of its single malt. Each cask is filled by the patient and practised hands of the dedicated team, carrying forward the craftsmanship that has defined the distillery since 1845. Originally named Lochnagar, the distillery became known as Royal Lochnagar following a visit from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert during their first stay at nearby Balmoral in 1848. Each bottle comes presented in a handcrafted, one-of-a-kind leather pursuits pouch, designed and manufactured by the craftspeople at Crawford Henderson, a third-generation leather smith based in Maybole, Ayrshire, Scotland. Commenting on the launch, Laura Sharp, Brand Home Manager at Royal Lochnagar Distillery, said: “Royal Lochnagar’s rich heritage remains at the forefront of our distillery experience, and we’re excited for this to shine through in our newest 26-Year-Old release, showcasing the countryside pursuits of our Royal Deeside home. Complete with a pursuits bag to strap to a belt or basket, this bottling is sure to become a favourite among Royal Lochnagar’s most enthusiastic fans.” Limited to 840 bottles, Royal Lochnagar Pursuits Edition 26 Year Old is now available directly from the distillery, for a RRP of £900. Leave a comment

Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery has launched The Signature, its first-ever Single Estate Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The release is available from September 7, 2026, from the independent Scottish farm distillery in Angus, Scotland. The Dalmore Concludes Cask Curation Series with $47k Madeira Cask Edition READ THE STORYThe Signature marks the inaugural expression in Arbikie’s long-term single malt program. The launch date coincides with the anniversary of Arbikie filling its first-ever cask. “The Signature represents everything our team has been working towards since we filled our first casks 10 years ago,” said Iain Stirling, co-founder of Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery. Only 1,000 bottles have been released worldwide, priced at £250 (US$338) each. The whisky was produced from Odyssey barley grown on the Arbikie Estate in Angus. It was matured for 10 years in six bourbon casks and bottled at 48% ABV. Every stage of production took place on the estate. The barley was grown in the family’s coastal fields, and the whisky was matured in the estate’s former dairy warehouses. According to the official notes from the brand, The Signature opens with aromas of ripe peach, banana bread and lemon sherbet. This leads to notes of brioche, apricot marmalade and citrus, before a finish of creamy vanilla, orange blossom and lingering spice. 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. Stirling added: “It is our first Single Estate Single Malt Scotch Whisky, but more importantly it demonstrates what can be achieved when every decision, from the barley we grow to the casks we fill, happens on the same estate.” He continued: “We have never been interested in releasing a single malt simply because the market expected it. We wanted our first whisky to reflect our farm, our family, our philosophy and the dedication of everyone who has helped nurture it from field to bottle. After 10 years of patience, we believe The Signature does exactly that.” The family-owned distillery is a certified B Corp. It was named global Sustainable Distillery of the Year at the Icons of Whisky 2026. The Signature marks the beginning of Arbikie’s Single Estate Single Malt collection. Future releases are planned to explore the whisky’s evolution through age and cask character. The Signature is available at thearbikie.com and through Arbikie’s worldwide trade partners.

Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery has launched The Signature, its first Single Estate Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The expression is the inaugural release in the family-owned Scottish distillery’s long-term single malt programme and coincides with the anniversary of Arbikie’s first cask being filled. Produced using Odyssey barley grown on the Arbikie Estate in Angus, The Signature was grown, distilled, matured and bottled on the estate. Matured for 10 years in six bourbon casks and bottled at 48% ABV, the whisky is limited to 1,000 bottles worldwide with an RSP of £250. Every stage of production took place on the Arbikie Estate, from barley cultivation through to cask maturation in the family’s former dairy warehouses. The whisky offers aromas of ripe peach, banana bread and lemon sherbet, followed by notes of brioche, apricot marmalade and citrus, with a finish of creamy vanilla, orange blossom and spice. The launch follows a period of growth for the distillery, which is a certified B Corp and was named Sustainable Distillery of the Year at the Icons of Whisky 2026. The Signature marks the start of Arbikie’s Single Estate Single Malt collection, with future releases set to explore the spirit’s development through age and cask character.

Arbikie launches The Signature single estate Scotch whisky By Joe RogersThe ‘first-ever’ field-to-bottle single malt from Arbikie Distillery is limited to just 1,000 bottles worldwide. Family-owned Highland distillery Arbikie has launched the inaugural bottling in its ongoing single malt programme today (7 September), marking the anniversary of the day it filled its first casks. The Signature is made entirely with odyssey barley grown on the Arbikie Estate in Angus, where it was distilled, matured and bottled. “The Signature represents everything our team has been working towards since we filled our first casks ten years ago,” said Iain Stirling, co-founder of Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery. “It is our first Single Estate Single Malt Scotch Whisky, but more importantly it demonstrates what can be achieved when every decision, from the barley we grow to the casks we fill, happens on the same estate. “We have never been interested in releasing a single malt simply because the market expected it. We wanted our first whisky to reflect our farm, our family, our philosophy and the dedication of everyone who has helped nurture it from field to bottle. After ten years of patience, we believe The Signature does exactly that.” Arbikie The Signature is available now direct from the distillery and its off-trade partners around the world, priced at £250 (US$338) per 700ml at an ABV of 48%. The expression is described as fruity in character with aromas of peach, banana bread and lemon sherbet alongside brioche, apricot preserves, creamy vanilla and lingering spices. Arbikie opened pre-orders for its first three single malt releases earlier this year, following a series of private tastings held during the World Economic Forum in Davos in late January. Alongside The Signature, this initial tranche of expressions contained The Wild One – a £30,000 (US$40,500) no-age-statement bottling available by application only. Also available to pre-order are 500 sets of nine single malt whiskies which will be shipped annually beginning with a 10-year-old Arbikie this year and concluding with an 18-year-old expression once it becomes available. Brothers Iain, John and David Stirling began building Arbikie Distillery on their family estate in 2013. They have since produced a range of spirits including Nàdar – which is described as ‘the world’s first climate-positive gin – single estate potato vodkas, and Arbikie Highland Rye Whisky. Related news Arbikie offers NAS single malt for £30,000

The Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery, has announced the launch of its first-ever Single Estate Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a limited release of just 1,000 bottles. Arbikie – The Signature (48% ABV), produced from Odyssey barley grown on the Arbikie Estate in Angus, was matured for 10 years in ex-Bourbon barrels. The release marks a defining moment for the family-owned business and the small team behind it, bringing together more than a decade of whisky-making expertise and four centuries of family farming. Launching on September 7th, the anniversary of Arbikie’s first-ever cask being filled, The Signature lays the foundation for the distillery’s next chapter as the inaugural expression in its long-term single malt programme. Every stage of production took place on the Arbikie Estate, from barley grown in the family’s coastal fields to cask maturation in the estate’s former dairy warehouses. The result is a single malt shaped entirely by one place and by the people who know it best. The Signature is said to open with aromas of ripe peach, banana bread and lemon sherbet, leading to notes of brioche, apricot marmalade and citrus, before a finish of creamy vanilla, orange blossom and lingering spice. Commenting on the launch, Iain Stirling, Co-Founder of Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery, said: “The Signature represents everything our team has been working towards since we filled our first casks ten years ago. It is our first Single Estate Single Malt Scotch Whisky, but more importantly, it demonstrates what can be achieved when every decision, from the barley we grow to the casks we fill, happens on the same estate.” Ian, added: “We have never been interested in releasing a single malt simply because the market expected it. We wanted our first whisky to reflect our farm, our family, our philosophy and the dedication of everyone who has helped nurture it from field to bottle. After ten years of patience, we believe The Signature does exactly that.” Arbikie – The Signature is now available from the distillery’s website and selected specialist retailers, for a RRP of £250. Leave a comment

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. Mark Bostock, an integral part of the Mark Littler LTD UK content writing team since 2019, brings a genuine passion for whisky, especially independent bottlings, to his work. His commitment to expanding his knowledge through attending tasting events and building his own collection enriches his contributions, blending expertise with enthusiasm. Which English distillery just released its very first single malt—and why did the Ministry of Defence request a rare bottling from a London distiller? Find out here. Could this Outer Hebrides single malt be the perfect gentle introduction to peated whisky? We taste the signature Isle of Harris Single Malt to find out. Can a $35 bourbon really beat a $1,800 Antique Collection release? We reveal the 7 best wheated bourbons in the world, according to blind-judged competitions.

Actor Ahn So-hee, a former member of the group Wonder Girls, recalled the combination of whiskey as soon as she tasted coffee-flavored chocolate. On the 7th, Ahn So-hee's YouTube channel released a video showing her introducing desserts purchased locally after her trip to Sapporo, Japan. On this day, Ahn So-hee explained the taste after tasting chocolate with espresso, saying, "Not only coffee is in it, but chocolate is also slightly melted in espresso." Then, he immediately said, "He would go really well with whiskey," and recalled the combination of drinking with alcohol. Her taste in whisky was also naturally revealed. Ahn So-hee said, "There are some alcohols that I think will go well with," explaining that she mainly likes the "Sherry" series, which has a fragrant grape scent and sweet whiskey. He did not just think of alcohol, but also chose which whiskey would go well with the taste of chocolate. Ahn So-hee said, "This is already sweet and has a coffee scent, so I think it will go well with salty whiskey." Instead of his favorite sweet whiskey, he chose the salty taste in consideration of the sweetness and coffee scent of chocolate. Earlier, Ahn So-hee revealed her taste in whisky tasting and has consistently revealed her taste in alcoholic beverages by introducing various wines through her YouTube channel. Last year, he visited a New Zealand winery in person and introduced wine that participated in the selection of undiluted solution to label design. [MK Sports Reporter Park Hyeran]

Enuff Z’ Nuff Releasing Live At The Whisky A Go Go Album…On October 9th, 2026, Enuff Z’ Nuff will release their brand new live album. “• Hallelujah! Melodic rock true believers Enuff Z’nuff bring their peace and love gospel to the masses at Hollywood’s historic Whisky-A-Go-Go with this breathtaking live performance! - Featuring highlights from the band’s massive catalog of divine hits as well as incredible cover versions of The Beatles, of course, among others! - Immerse yourself in the holy, hard-rockin ‘ vibes of one of the most inspired groups around who are still preaching the gospel of good times, good music, and good-hearted fun! - The Church - Magical Mystery Tour - Kiss The Clown - Love Train - Heaven Or Hell - Baby Loves You - Metal Heart - Eleanor Rigby - In The Groove - Right By Your Side - Jet - Live And Let Die - Fly High Michelle - New Thing - The Gospel” You can order your copy right HERE

Media Contact: Kaleb Hoeft | kaleb_hoeft@firenet.gov | 505-546-9429 Update on Whiskey Fire-Mountainair, NM Mountainair, NM – September 07, 2026 – The Whiskey Fire has reached a point where current fire conditions and completed suppression work allow the Type 3 Incident Management Team to return command of the incident to the Cibola National Forest. The Mountainair Ranger District will assume management of the fire under a Type 4 organization at 6:00 p.m. MDT on September 6, 2026, marking an important step toward returning the incident to local oversight. Reported Date / Time: August 21, 2026 / 1350. Reported by Capilla Peak Lookout. Cause: Lightning. Size: 393 acres Containment: 42% Personnel: 52 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: Low Operations: Crews have completed construction of contingency lines and rehabilitation work on recreation sites, trails, and roads used during suppression operations. With this work complete, management of the Whiskey Fire will transition back to the Mountainair Ranger District under a Type 4 organization. District personnel will continue to assess conditions within the fire area as several heavy fuels continue to smolder within the interior of the established perimeter. The Cibola National Forest extends its sincere appreciation to the Type 3 Incident Management Team and all cooperating resources and partners who supported suppression efforts on the Whiskey Fire. Their coordination, professionalism, and commitment to firefighter and public safety were instrumental throughout the incident. Smoke has decreased to the point that it can no longer be seen from nearby communities. Area, Road and Trail Closure Order in effect for National Forest System (NFS) lands surrounding the Whiskey Fire (03-03-04-26-18). Road closure barricades are on Trigo Springs Road for road improvement operations. Review the closure orders here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/cibola/alerts. Weather for Mountainair, NM (September 6, 2026) Warm conditions are expected around Mountainair today, September 6, with highs near 86°F and minimum RH around 25%. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible along the central mountain chain, bringing the potential for cloud-to-ground lightning, gusty and erratic outflow winds, and localized heavy rainfall. 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: Privately owned 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.

Rurouni Kenshin is getting a limited-edition anime-themed whisky that draws inspiration from both sides of Kenshin Himura’s personality. Who would have thought anime and alcohol would be the perfect pairing? This year alone, we’ve had everything from premium Steins;Gate sake to horse-girl-inspired honeyed wine. Not to be overshadowed, legendary 90s anime Rurouni Kenshin has pulled up a bar stall and joined the ever-expanding list of collabs. And what better way to celebrate the legendary swordsman than to crack open a bottle of premium whisky? Rurouni Kenshin whisky reflects swordsmaster’s personality According to the official store page, the collab features a 13-year-old Miltonduff single malt Scotch whisky distilled in 2012 and bottled at 58.6% ABV. The bottle has then been given a Rurouni Kenshin makeover, with the label featuring Kenshin Himura alongside popular characters like Sanosuke Sagara, Kaoru Kamiya, and Yahiko Myojin. It’s not just the bottle that has the Rurouni Kenshin theme, as the flavour profile has been picked for its resemblance to the master swordsman’s personality. In this case, the whisky is said to have fruity notes reminiscent of grated apple and ripe plum, followed by a gentle sweetness and malty flavor. Retailer Whisky Mew mentions that the initial sweetness represents Kenshin’s compassionate nature as a wandering swordsman who has vowed never to kill again. This is then balanced with the whisky’s chili pepper-like spiciness and warm finish, which is said to evoke the strength that made Kenshin feared as the deadly assassin Hitokiri Battosai. The collaboration also draws a historical connection between the series and the drink, as Rurouni Kenshin is set during the Meiji era, the same period in which whisky was first officially imported into Japan. Related It’s a pretty neat detail (sorry), and fans can enjoy Kenshin’s whisky either over rocks or just as it is. In fact, adding water reportedly softens the whisky’s spicier qualities, just in case you want to enjoy the calmer side of his personality. Only 225 bottles of the good stuff were produced for the collab, and 116 of them will be available to purchase in Japan through a lottery beginning September 9, 2026. As for the price, each 700ml bottle will cost ¥22,000 (around $141). If whisky isn’t really to your taste, then there’s always Umamusume’s vodka lemon sour that was inspired by fan-favorite horse girl Vodka.