Major distillery shifts, milestones & M&A (Gallo-Four Roses $775M, Suntory scrap)
Key Questions
What is the significance of Gallo acquiring Four Roses?
Gallo completed a record $775M purchase of Kentucky’s Four Roses bourbon distillery, marking a major merger and acquisition in the industry.
What award did Luss Distillery receive shortly after opening?
Luss Distillery earned a five-star rating from ASVA months after opening, highlighting its rapid success.
Which Scottish firm is reviving single malt after 170 years?
A Scottish whisky firm is releasing its first single malt in over 170 years in the area, as a limited run.
What milestone is Chattanooga Whiskey celebrating?
Chattanooga is marking its 14th year with a Solera anniversary blend.
What honor did Kavalan receive at the World Whiskies Awards?
Kavalan was named Distiller of the Year at the World Whiskies Awards, noted as an underrated gem after previous wins like Best Single Malt in 2015.
What expansions are mentioned for distilleries like Starlight and Whiskey Thief?
Expansions include Sespe, Starlight, Jeptha, Town Branch, Whiskey Thief, Outlaw CA, and Kavalan Bahrain.
What is Shared Spirit?
Shared Spirit is a new whisky festival debuting in London 2026 at St Mary’s, challenging traditional spirits events.
What is Feis Ile 2026 celebrating?
Feis Ile 2026 marks 40 years of Islay's greatest whisky gathering.
Gallo acquires Four Roses $775M; Luss Distillery 5-star ASVA; Scottish firm 170yr single malt revival; Chattanooga 14th Solera; Cedar Ridge 2nd anniv; Kavalan WWA Distiller of Year; Suntory $200M scrap/Laphroaig; Pernod/Brown-Forman; Glenglassaugh mothballing; expansions (Sespe/Starlight/Jeptha/Town Branch/Whiskey Thief/Outlaw CA/Kavalan Bahrain); Feis Ile 2026; Shared Spirit/Dunedin events.