BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY CONTINUES TO PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF BOURBON AGING WITH OLDEST BOURBON TO DATE FROM THE AMERICAN DISTILLERY: EAGLE RARE 30 

The World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery advances its exploration of extended maturation, setting a new benchmark for ultra-aged American whiskey 

FRANKFORT, KY (April 16, 2026) – Buffalo Trace Distillery today unveils Eagle Rare 30, its oldest age-stated bourbon to date, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing exploration of extended maturation. Building on the 2023 debut of Eagle Rare 25 – also returning alongside this release – the whiskey represents the second expression aged within the Distillery’s experimental Warehouse P, where time and environment are pushed to their limits. The result is a rare study in patience and precision, underscoring Buffalo Trace’s ability to transform aging from a constraint into a defining signature and, in doing so, to reshape expectations of what ultra-aged bourbon can become.

Driven by the belief that the world’s best whiskey has yet to be created and that the category is constrained only by convention, Buffalo Trace Distillery has conducted thousands of experiments to challenge long-held assumptions around aging and maturation in America. Eagle Rare 30 builds on the foundation established by Eagle Rare 25, with both expressions drawn from barrels aged in Warehouse P, one of the Distillery’s two purpose-built experimental warehouses. Designed to explore whether extended aging can enhance American whiskey in the same way it does in more temperate climates such as Japan, Scotland and Ireland, Warehouse P represents a deliberate effort to move beyond traditional boundaries. These ongoing experiments reinforce Buffalo Trace Distillery’s commitment to bourbon innovation, continuing to redefine the limits of the category.

“Eagle Rare 30 is not simply about time, it is about what time can reveal,” said Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “Aging whiskey in Kentucky comes with inherent challenges: evaporation increases and barrel influence intensifies, which can lead to overly dry or astringent characteristics in older bourbons. The environment within Warehouse P allows us to manage those effects, softening the extraction and preserving the nuanced flavors that define exceptional ultra-aged bourbon.”

While time in the barrel contributes to creating an ultra-aged bourbon, it is the marriage of age and maturity, or how factors including oak type, barrel char, temperature, humidity, and barrel placement alter the whiskey over time, that creates a truly outstanding taste experience.

“Through careful monitoring over time, we’ve seen how controlled, extended aging can bring a whiskey to a point of exceptional smoothness and layered complexity,” Wheatley added. “Eagle Rare 30 is a clear expression of that. It is distinctive in a category where nuance is hard-earned.”

Deep mahogany in color, Eagle Rare 30 opens with layered aromas of baked cherry, brown sugar, caramel and honey, complemented by subtle nuttiness, warm tobacco and well-integrated oak with a hint of smoke. The palate is rich and expansive, coating the mouth with sweet aged stone fruit and caramel. Its finish is long and velvety, evolving from sweetness to a gentle smokiness, with a refined oak character that remains smooth, balanced and enduring.

Echoing the design of Eagle Rare 25, Eagle Rare 30 is housed in a hand-blown, 750ml crystal decanter enveloped by a hand-hammered, gold-plated eagle’s wing and featuring a sculpted glass eagle within. The bespoke display box opens to reveal outstretched wings framing the 101-proof bourbon, a striking presentation that mirrors the rarity, distinction and craftsmanship of this exceptional release.

“Eagle Rare has long been a study in patience and progression,” said Jake Wenz, President & CEO, Buffalo Trace Distillery & Sazerac. “Eagle Rare 30 brings that philosophy into focus, revealing the depth, character and distinction that only time can achieve. It represents a new benchmark for American whiskey and affirms bourbons place among the world’s most exceptional spirits.”

To celebrate the release, Buffalo Trace Distillery has partnered with Bonhams, one of the world’s most respected auction houses, to offer the Eagle Rare 30-Year-Old Bourbon Takes Flight: The Ultimate Eagle Rare Release. The auction features 15 curated lots, highlighted by Lot #1: a complete collection of the Eagle Rare portfolio (10, 12, 17, Double Eagle Very Rare, 25 and 30) paired with a luxury experience at Stagg Lodge, the Distillery’s private, invite-only lodge overlooking the campus. The auction includes the first and second bottles ever produced of Eagle Rare 30, alongside a range of individual lots and curated collections of Eagle Rare 10, 12, and 17 Year Old – creating one of the most comprehensive Eagle Rare–focused auctions to date. The online auction will open for bidding at 7am EST / 12pm GMT on Friday, April 24^th and will close at 1-minute intervals on 11:30am EST / 4:30pm GMT on Friday, May 8^th.

Following the auction, Eagle Rare 30 will be released in limited quantities via Sazerac’s global distributor network to retailers, bars, and restaurants starting May 2026 at a suggested retail price of $12,500 (750ml; taxes and fees vary by market). The expression completes the Eagle Rare portfolio, alongside Eagle Rare 10, 12, 17 (released annually as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection), Double Eagle Very Rare, and 25.

For more information, please visit https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/eagle-rare.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its William Larue Weller, Stagg, Eagle Rare 10, and Thomas H. Handy received Gold Awards at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition and its flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon received a Master Medal at the 2025 Global American Whiskey Masters. Buffalo Trace Distillery has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

WELCOME TO ‘THE STILLROOM SESSIONS’

Whisky is made of three ingredients: water, malted barley, and yeast. But at Kingsbarns, we know there’s a fourth – the people who make it happen.

Behind every golden drop in your glass is a person with a passion, a story, and a dedication to creating our light, fruity and floral Lowland Single Malt Whisky. To celebrate this, we’re introducing a new series called The Stillroom Sessions, where we introduce you to the people turning our dream into your dram.

And who better to kick things off than Distillery Manager, Peter Holroyd. We sat down with Peter to talk about life at the distillery, his favourite whisky and his ideal way to enjoy a dram…

Peter Holroyd – Distillery Manager

Q: Tell us a little more about yourself and what you do?

Peter: Hello! My name is Peter Holroyd, and I’m the Distillery Manager at Kingsbarns. My role here is overseeing every part of the production process from malt intake to filling casks and every step in between.  However, I’m very lucky to have such a knowledgeable and hard-working team at. They’re passionate about making a spirit that people enjoy –  so my job is to nurture and encourage that passion in everything we do.

Q: If you weren’t making whisky, what would you be doing?

Peter: When I was young, I always wanted to be a chef. I’ve always loved working with my hands and producing something for other people to enjoy – and I love cooking – so it always seemed like a natural path.

So, if I wasn’t making whisky, I imagine I’d be involved in preparing food probably in one of the amazing restaurants in and around this beautiful part of the world.

Q: What’s your favourite Kingsbarns and ‘Perfect Pour’ moment?

Peter: In my opinion, whisky is absolutely made to be shared. So, my perfect pour moment would be drinking a 10 year old Kingsbarns with some good friends after a hill walk or a fishing session. Preferably beside a fireplace or a wee bonfire if out camping…That’s the stuff of dreams.

Q: What is it about Kingsbarns that makes it special in your eyes?

Peter: Every whisky is the sum of its parts and ours is no different. The barley we use is locally sourced from the farms surrounding our distillery. We also have a deliberately long fermentation period and a very slow distillation process.

These all contribute something to the product – and that’s before we even get to the cask selection. We take great care in selecting the best wood we can from highly reputable suppliers.

Q: Describe Kingsbarns to someone who has never been

Peter: The setting at the distillery is stunning. The building is an old sandstone farm steading, that has been lovingly refurbished. We’re a stone’s throw from the golden sands of Kingsbarns beach and the North Sea beyond.

The region is famous for growing Barley, due to the fertile soil and in late summer its incredible seeing the fields ripen. The area is also renowned for golf with several world-famous courses nearby and the home of golf – St Andrews – is only 10 minutes away.

Three Questions – only one-word answers allowed!

Q: Do you prefer your whisky neat, with ice or with water?

Peter: Neat

Q: Favourite distillery snack?

Peter: Soup!

Q: Kingsbarns in one word?

Peter: Delicious (one word was hard!)

Kingsbarns 10 Year Old

Distilled from local barley, our light, fruity spirit has been matured in 90% ex-Bourbon barrels and 10% STR red wine barriques. Over a decade, the casks have added richness and complexity. The ex-Bourbon barrels have imparted soft vanilla and tropical sweetness, while the STR barriques contribute depth and subtle spice. The result is an elegant single malt with aromas of summer blossom, ripe stone fruit and toasted oak.

Get Your 10 YO Now

Glenlivet 45 Years Old ULTRA

ULTRA represents the pinnacle of Murray McDavid’s accomplishments and is its finest and most treasured collection of whisky. Bringing exceptional vintage Scotch whiskies created over decades, these ULTRA-aged whiskies have been matured in oak casks lying quietly in dark, atmospheric Victorian warehouses in Scotland – they are a true product of TIME. Whilst the busy world outside has rushed by, the precious spirit inside these casks has slowly and silently developed remarkable depth and beautiful flavours that go farand beyond.

This remarkable expression of patience and craftsmanship, this 45 year old Glenlivet represents over four decades of maturation in oak. Distilled on 29th June 1977, this single malt has developed extraordinary complexity and depth, showcasing the distillery’s signature elegance refined through time. Expect layers of dried fruit, subtle oak spice, and honeyed warmth that only extended ageing can achieve. A truly exceptional dram for the discerning collector.

Bottled by Murray McDavid for their ULTRA collection, at natural cask strength, natural colour and no chill filtration. A true masterpiece of time.

Limited to 92 bottles.

£2,800.00

Exclusive: Arran 2010 15 Year Old

From the scenic island often described as “Scotland in miniature” comes this exclusive bottling from Arran, a single malt we’ve specially selected for truly capturing the distillery at its finest. Expressive and inviting, this is a dram bursting with orchard fruit and creamy texture, with cask and spirit harmonising elegantly.

With orchard fruit and mint fondant on the nose, the palate brings notes of toffee, apples, pears and pineapple, alongside sweet shop flavours, finishing with Rich Tea biscuits, apple sauce and flaked almond.

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ralfy review 1124 Extras – Brand Ambassadors and Blended Malts

DOUGLAS LAING LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION EPICUREAN LOWLAND MALT SCOTCH WHISKY:

THE EPICUREAN PEATED EDITION

Douglas Laing & Co. releases The Epicurean Peated Edition, a limited first for the brand’s Remarkable Lowland Malt. This new Small Batch bottling introduces a subtle peated influence to the traditionally fresh and vibrant Lowland spirit, offering a new dimension of flavour while celebrating the Master of Versatility at its core.

Rather than overpowering the delicate Lowland character, the gentle peat influence elevates it – bringing earthy warmth, structure and refinement. Bottled at a natural cask strength of 50.5%, and offered without colouring or chill-filtration, this Small Batch release is one of only 1,800 bottles produced globally.

On the nose, expect soft earthy peat smoke alongside thyme, green apple and toasted barley. The palate delivers honey’d cereal and Malt, leading to smoky embers, a peppery warmth and a touch of oak spice. The finish reveals drying peat smoke and a gentle ashy quality, complemented by lemon peel and a whisper of vanilla.

It’s a meeting of fresh Lowland vibrancy and true peated opulence – refined, understated and beautifully balanced.

The Epicurean Peated Edition is presented bottle-only, reinforcing the quiet sophistication of the release. Its authenticity is championed through the absence of added colouring and chill-filtration, allowing the natural character of the Whisky to shine.

In this release, The Epicurean continues to demonstrate why it is regarded as the Master of Versatility – balancing Lowland brightness with subtle smoke and spice in a manner that is both expressive and controlled. The result is a Whisky that broadens the brand’s flavour spectrum without compromising its identity.

Chloe Wood, Brand Manager, commented:

“The Peated Edition marks an exciting chapter for The Epicurean. We were keen to explore how peat could complement rather than overpower the Lowland style. The result is a Whisky that retains its trademark freshness and citrus lift, now enriched with earthy smoke, warming spice and a refined ashy character. It’s a showcase of versatility and a testament to the brand’s continued evolution.”

The Epicurean Peated Edition will be available from specialist retailers and selected international markets from April 10^th 2026 with an RRP of £50 / €57.

Our April 2026 Auction is now LIVE!

Place your bids from 7pm (GMT) Friday 17^th April until 7pm (GMT) Sunday 26th April.

www.whiskyhammer.com

Every month, we present an incredible selection of whiskies to our members right across the globe. You will find everything here from limited edition releases and vintage bottles to whole casks of rare whisky. There is certainly something for everyone – whether you are looking to collect, invest or enjoy!

Port Ellen – 37 Year Old (1981) Casks Of Distinction #1297

Glenlivet – 21 Year Old (1963) For The Chairman

Laphroaig – 1976 Vintage (75cl)

Talisker – 8 Year Old (1970s) 75cl

Selling whisky? Why not arrange the pick-up of your bottles using our global courier service? If you’re based in Scotland, you might want to arrange the personal collection of your bottles. Wherever you’re based in the world, we will make getting your bottles into our monthly auction as simple as possible. Get in touch with the Whisky Hammer team now by dropping them a message at sales@whiskyhammer.com.

🥃 From Collector to Collector – The Whisky Vault Taiwan Opens Its Private Collection

The founder of The Whisky Vault Taiwan www.whiskyvault.com.tw is opening the doors to his personal collection — but not in the usual way. This is an exclusive opportunity for collectors in Taiwan, or travelers visiting Taiwan from the US, Japan, South Korea, or anywhere else.

Over the past 20 years, he has curated rare and exceptional bottles from all over the world, building a collection that could rival any top-tier whisky store. Now, select bottles are available to fellow collectors — directly, personally, and without the middleman.

Browse, inquire, and connect through www.thewhiskycollector.com , or set up a private meeting the next time you’re in Taiwan. Discuss bottles, negotiate prices, and share your passion with someone who truly understands the art of collecting.

This is your chance to discover extraordinary whiskies at unprecedented prices — a personal, collector-to-collector experience like no other.

@whisky_collector_taiwan

www.thewhiskycollector.com

info@whiskyvault.tw

Producer Of The Year:
The Heart Cut

Winning the Best Independent Bottler award at the World Whiskies Awards in both of their first two years of operation is no small feat. But that’s exactly what husband-wife team Fabrizio Leoni and Georgie Bell have achieved with The Heart Cut.

A new-school bottler curating outstanding single cask whiskies from exciting distilleries around the globe, they take the hard work out of exploring the wide world of whisky – and discovering your next favourite dram. It’s exactly why we’ve named them our first-ever Producer of the Year.

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We love peat. And we love the flavours it creates.

The peat on our Islay home is an essential ingredient in every drop of Laphroaig, allowing us to create the unforgettable taste loved around the world.

Our love for peat also means we need to look to the future and ensure we responsibly extract and restore peatland. And so, we’re on a mission to restore and replenish Islay’s peatlands. Putting back what we take out.

The award-winning Peatland Water Sanctuary™ project on Islay has seen significant restoration already at Glenmachrie-Grianan and The Oa, a stunning coastal area owned by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Laphroaig has played a leading role in the restoration – typical of our bold character.

Check out the video below for a unique bog-based tasting…

Watch the video