Latest news with #WorldWhiskiesAwards
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Kentucky's Famed Willett Distillery Breaks Tradition With Its First Long-Term Brand Collaboration
Willett Distillery has entered its first-ever long-term brand partnership with Binder's Stash, marking a significant shift for the historically independent bourbon producer. The partnership grants Binder's Stash access to Willett's rare whiskey inventory, including experimental mashbills and aged barrels. Binder's Stash will also benefit from Willett's bottling operations and distribution network, helping elevate the emerging brand's production quality and global iconic, family-owned Willett Distillery has announced its first partnership with another whiskey company, Bardstown Kentucky's Binder's Stash. Willett, founded in 1936, is one of the most sought-after Bourbon producers in the whiskey-collecting world, with its renowned purple-top Family Estate Bourbons ranking among the most coveted (and expensive, particularly in the secondary market) bottles available. In the past, the distillery has engaged in a few one-off partnerships — Kiamichi Whiskey with the Kings of Leon, which now sells for upwards of $500 a bottle, and with Metallica's Blackened Whiskey — but this is the first ongoing, long-term partnership with another bourbon brand. It appears to be a boon for both Willett fans and fans of Binder's Stash, an emerging star among collectible whiskies. Related: This Is the World's Best Bourbon, According to the World Whiskies Awards The partnership gives Binder's Stash exclusive access to Willett's highly sought-after inventory, including experimental mashbills and limited barrels, advancing the brand founder Bill Binder's mission to create deeply expressive, high-end whiskeys with unmatched provenance. The first releases will likely appear this summer, 'with some pretty cool single-barrels,' says Binder. 'They've agreed to sell us some of their really special aged whiskies, which I find kind of hard to believe myself.' 'We are excited to work with Bill and his incredibly bold brand, Binder's Stash,' says Drew Kulsveen, Willett Distillery's master distiller. 'This partnership sets the stage for future opportunities and represents a bold step forward in expanding the boundaries of what's possible in the world of aged whiskey. This limited relationship allows us to support a partner that shares our dedication to quality, innovation, and the future of American Whiskey.' The partnership started out of Kulsveen's offer of advice early on when Binder was starting his brand. 'Then later, we had an issue with our bottling — our wax was never great,' Binder says. 'People who had our whiskies knew you had to pull out a really sharp knife to get the wax off. So Drew said, Come on down here, and I'll show you how we do our wax. Then he said, Wait. I have an even better idea — why don't we just handle this for you?' As a result, Binder's Stash will now benefit from Willett's state-of-the-art bottling operations and extensive distribution platform across domestic and global markets. The first single-barrel Binder's releases using aged Willett spirit will appear this summer. 'This one-of-a-kind partnership with Willett marks a turning point for Binder's Stash,' says Bill Binder. 'We've built our reputation by sourcing and releasing some of the most distinctive American whiskeys in the country, but Willett represents a different level: generational expertise, uncompromising quality, and a legacy that elevates everything it touches. Together, we're setting a new bar for what American whiskey can be.'Willett's 'purple tops' refer to its Family Estate Bottled Bourbon and Rye, ultra-limited single-barrel expressions that are bottled at barrel proof and individually selected for their character. These whiskeys are typically aged 8 to 15 years or more, and the signature purple wax seal has become a visual cue for serious collectors. Each bottle features handwritten details like barrel number, age, and proof — making them unique, unblended, and highly contrast, Willett also produces several house brands and blended whiskeys under names like Rowan's Creek, Noah's Mill, Johnny Drum, and Pure Kentucky. These are generally small-batch, more widely distributed bourbons at lower proof points, and often made from sourced whiskey or blended with Willett-distilled stock. While still respected, these are positioned for broader access — the purple tops are the crown the original article on Food & Wine Sign in to access your portfolio
The Sun
26-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Cheapest coastal town near you revealed including ‘hidden gem' crowned the ‘whisky capital' of the world
BRITS sick of the hustle and bustle should look no further than an affordable coastal town once crowned the 'whisky capital' of the world. With a population of just 4,500, Campbeltown in Scotland, might be the perfect spot for those craving fresh air and a slower pace of life. You can expect to start your days with a walk along West Port beach, taking in the striking views of the Atlantic Ocean and distant mountains. And in the evening you need look no further than the Black Sheep Pub to enjoy a quiet pint and some food with a seafront view. This idyllic region is also soaked in history and culture. It is best known for whisky distillation and at one point had 34 distilleries, crowning it the 'whisky capital' of the world. Today, just three remain, including the beloved Glen Scotia brand, which was crowned 'World's Best Single Cask Single Malt' at World Whiskies Awards 2023. And if you are craving a picturesque life in a coastal town, don't expect to pay a fortune. That's because the area has been named as the cheapest coastal region to buy a property across the whole of the UK. New research by Lloyds found homes in the area cost an average of £103,078 – down 11% in the past year. That's also nearly £300k less than the average asking price for homes in April. Those searching for a balance between city and sea life should consider Newbiggin-by-the-Sea in the North East of England. This sleepy seaside town is just a 32-minute drive from Newcastle. Weekends here could be spent at the much-loved 18-hole golf club that offers stunning views of the beach. You could also treat yourself to a cheeky Indian meal at the Shaj Tandoori, which has gotten over 271 "excellent" reviews on Trip Advisor. A home here costs around £132,863, but the price is up 51% on the last five years. That's compared to the £310,918 you would be expected to pay for a home in Whitley Bay, the most expensive seaside town in the North East. Fleetwood and Blackpool have also been named as other affordable hotpots for a seaside home, with prices coming in at £146,338 and £146,764 respectively. DOWN SOUTH Those fantasising about a quiet life by the sea down south may find a home in East Cowes, a small town in the Isle of Wight. Your evenings could be filled with walks along the town's sea front, and enjoying some top rated fish and chips at the lifeboat pub. And those who are looking to soak up some more culture could head to Osborne House. This a former royal residence designed in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo Homes here cost £239,605, which is over £200,000 cheaper than the national average cost of a detached home in the UK. It's also significantly cheaper than Lymington, which is located in the New Forest and is the priciest area in the South to buy a house. Homes here cost, £608,253 but could go for up to £1,150,000 depending on where you are looking. Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages, Lloyds, said that those willing to look beyond the traditional hotspots, can find some "hidden gems". She explained: "In some of the UK's most desirable coastal towns, average prices have dipped slightly over the past year. But, over the longer term, values remain significantly higher – especially in the South West, where demand from lifestyle movers continues to shape the market. "At the other end of the scale, there are still pockets of real affordability – particularly in Scotland, where buyers can find coastal homes for a fraction of the price." 3 3 3
Otago Daily Times
23-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Distillery's single malt claims double gold
Cardrona Distillery. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Cardrona Distillery's single malt whisky, The Falcon, has won a double gold medal, with a score of 95 points, at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is the only New Zealand whisky to achieve double gold so far this year. The competition is the oldest and largest of its kind and is renowned for setting the industry standard of excellence. A double gold medal is awarded only to spirits that receive unanimous gold ratings from all judges in a blind tasting, placing The Falcon among the world's top single-malt whiskies. According to Cardrona Distillery, The Falcon has notes of burnt toffee, vanilla cream, pepper and sun-scorched nectarine. As well as the latest award, The Falcon was awarded two gold medals in two categories at last year's World Whiskies Awards — New Zealand's best small batch single malt and New Zealand's best single malt 12 years and under. It also received a five-star review from Yvonne Lorkin and 95 points from master sommelier Cameron Douglas. The Cardrona Distillery opened in 2015.
Daily Record
19-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Scotland's best whiskies crowned at World Whiskies Awards - see list of winners
Distilleries across the country have been recognised for their whiskies. The winners of the annual World Whiskies Awards have been unveiled. Distilleries across Scotland were recognised at the awards, which promote the best whiskies to consumers and trade around the world. The overall Best Scotch Highlands Single Malt prize was awarded to the Glenmorangie Signet Reserve. The whisky is a rare edition of the Ross-shire distillery's award-winning Glenmorangie Signet. The Glenmorangie Signet Reserve is made from specially selected Signet that spent an additional 12 months of aging in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. The process enhances the whisky's complexity and richness, resulting in a release of highly limited quantities each year. According to the Glenmorangie website, the original Signet came about when the distillery's whisky creators began exploring "the richer side" of Glenmorangie's flavour profile. One week each year is wholly dedicated to the creation of Signet, with all other operations paused. The espresso-like spirit is distilled, before being aged in bourbon, sherry, and virgin oak casks. The whisky, which was first released in 2008, is known for its depth and complexity. World Whiskies Awards judges commented: "Figs, dates, and treacle tart come to the forefront on the nose, while a luscious, velvety-textured palate offers caramel." The Glenmorangie Signet Reserve is available to purchase from retailer Master of Malt for a price of £329.90. It can also be bought from The Whisky Exchange for £330. Meanwhile, taking home the 12 Years & Under prize at the World Whiskies Awards was the Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Years Old. The release, which is from Loch Lomond Distillery, was aged in three different types of American Oak casks. The Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Years Old features fruity and sweet notes, which the distillery is known for. It also includes flavours of peach, apricot, toffee and vanilla. Judges stated: "Hints of fresh tobacco align with chocolate orange on the nose, setting the tone for an intricate sipping experience. Juicy orchard fruits and honey sit in a mouth-coating texture on the palate, before bubblegum and pineapple emerge on the finish. "A well-rounded, moreish whisky." The Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Years Old can be purchased from Master of Malt for £42.95. It is also in stock at The Whisky Shop for £56. Elsewhere, the winner of the 13 to 20 Years award was the Loch Lomond Waypoint Series - Falls of Falloch 16 Years Old. Also from Loch Lomond Distillery, the limited-edition whisky is part of a series that celebrates natural landmarks. The unpeated 16-year-old single malt was distilled in Swan Neck stills and matured in ex-Bourbon casks, before being finished for 12 months in ex-Cognac barrels. It features aromas of honeycomb, tropical fruit, and vanilla toffee, as well as tasting notes of dried apple and hints of peach. A bottle of the Loch Lomond 16 Year Old Waypoint Series Falls of Falloch can be picked up from The Whisky Shop for £84. It is also available from Loch Fyne Whiskies for the same price. Finally, the winner of the 21 Years & Over prize at the World Whiskies Awards was the Royal Brackla Sherry Cask Finish 25 Years Old. The whisky was initially matured for 25 years in opulent first-fill Bourbon barrels, before being finished in PX Sherry Casks. Praised by judges for its "uplifting and classy nose", the Royal Brackla Sherry Cask Finish 25 Years Old features aromas of toffee apple, raisin, and dried fig. Meanwhile, its tasting notes include caramel, muscovado sugar, green apple, and cookie dough. . Best Scotch Highlands Single Malt — Glenmorangie Signet Reserve 12 Years & Under — Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Years Old 13 to 20 Years — Loch Lomond Waypoint Series - Falls of Falloch 16 Years Old 21 Years & Over — Royal Brackla Sherry Cask Finish 25 Years Old
Scotsman
14-05-2025
- Scotsman
I tried the £50 ‘world's best single malt whisky' - and was surprised by one thing
We're fully into whisky month, which kicked off with the Spirit of Speyside whisky festival at the end of April, but before then, the World Whiskies Awards had named their top whiskies for 2025. There were 23 Scotch whiskies in total, among other whiskies from around the world. But it was a Scotch whisky that took home the coveted title of 'World's Best Single Malt.' There was worldwide competition from Brazil, Belgium, America, Ireland, Canada and Australia for the best single malt, but it was the GlenAllachie 12 year old whisky that took the top spot. Judges described it as having: "A nose of rich sultanas, flapjacks, and milk chocolate, alongside acetone notes. On the palate, dried apple, gourmet chutney, orange zest, nutmeg, and cinnamon emerge, complemented by vanilla custard. The finish is medium-long, oily, and slightly warm, making for a very enjoyable dram." I tried the whisky during a warm and sunny spell of weather, and was keen to see if it was one to potentially add to a highball or cocktail and enjoy al fresco. What I found was a nose of spice, red and tropical fruits, vanilla, oak and a hint of creaminess. On tasting the whisky, I got notes of stewed apples, vanilla and citrus while the sweet finish lingered. With water, there was a touch of old school cola cube sweets. What surprised me the most, was how smooth and easy to drink this whisky is. I'd highly recommend it to those curious about whisky but unsure about the strength and associated alcohol burn. At £50 it's also a bargain given the age and weight the GlenAllachie brand has. Pick up a bottle now and enjoy. Our verdict GlenAllachie 12 year old single malt Score: 5/5 Best for: whisky novices and cultured drinkers Buy a bottle for £48.50 from the Whisky Exchange here.
