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Basil Hayden Introduces New Cognac Cask Reserve, Expanding the Boundaries of Bourbon

CLERMONT, KY – September 2, 2026 – Today, Basil Hayden, the Bourbon Born to Surprise, announced the introduction of a new limited-edition release: Basil Hayden® Cognac Cask Reserve.


What is Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve?

  • Basil Hayden Cognac Cask Reserve is a new, limited-edition bourbon that retains the brand's signature high-rye mashbill and 80-proof bottling, while combining Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship with French cognac character, creating a beautifully balanced bourbon.

  • Embodying the concept of "something familiar made new," the spirit is finished in specially selected French oak casks that previously held Cognac exclusively for 20–25 years, bringing decades of Cognac character to Basil Hayden's signature light, bright and approachable flavor profile while imparting layers of elegant complexity.

  • The first expression in the Basil Hayden portfolio to reimagine the brand's approachable high-rye profile as a passport to flavors from around the world.

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Sagamore Whiskey Announces National Release of Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey

Baltimore, September 1st, 2026 - Sagamore Whiskey, the award-winning Maryland-style whiskey brand rooted in Baltimore’s historic rye tradition, today announced the national release of its Sagamore Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey, available nationwide beginning September 1st, 2026. Distilled, aged and bottled entirely in Maryland, the new expression marks a significant milestone in Sagamore Whiskey’s continued journey toward becoming a fully Maryland-made whiskey brand.

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Town Branch IMPERIUM MMXXVI Bourbon Celebrates Bourbon Heritage Month Limited Release

LEXINGTON, Ky, September 1, 2026— Town Branch Distillery, the 7th member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and the first new distillery built in Lexington, Kentucky since prohibition, kicks off Bourbon Heritage Month (September) with its high-end limited-edition bourbon built on a 50% wheated bourbon foundation, bottled at Cask Strength (115.1 Proof), non-chill-filtered, and offered at an SRP of $119.99. “This is the best of the best for us, and we only have so much to share. Once it’s gone, it’s gone, so if you see a bottle, grab it!” notes Dave Bob Gaspar, Head Distiller & Blender at Town Branch Distillery.

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American Whiskey Scholar Certification Program Introduced by Seasoned Industry Professionals

LOUISVILLE, KY (Sept 1, 2026) – Three of the biggest names in the American Spirits Industry have joined together to introduce American Whiskey Scholars (AWS), an education and certification program designed for enthusiasts interested in increasing their knowledge about whiskey, as well as for spirits enthusiasts, hospitality professionals in restaurants and bars, and retailers wishing to advance their expertise in bourbon, rye, and other American whiskey styles.

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