Bourbon and Distillery News For February 6, 2026

Welcome to the latest edition of the Bourbon Obsessed Bourbon and Distillery News! There’s quite a bit happening this week!

Contents: What’s New Top of News Section Four Roses Bourbon’s Economic Impact WhistlePig Barrel Craft Spirits Washington BAC Sotheby’s Auction McTavish Spirits Misunderstood Whiskey Bourbon Women Uncle Nearest

But First, Here’s What’s New on BourbonObsessed.com!

We’ve got some new reviews this week! And, in case you missed it last week, check out my Bourbon Whiskey Calorie Calculator!

• Winchester Kentucky Straight Bourbon – Winchester Ammunition has entered the whiskey world with a Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Distilled in Kentucky and crafted and bottled in Michigan, how does this 92.4 proof pour stack up? Is it worth a “shot”? Read our review to find out!
• Hurst Knoll Rye Whiskey – Hurst Knoll Rye Whiskey by Rare Character is a Kentucky straight rye aged at least seven years and bottled at 101 proof. Designed with cocktails in mind but also enjoyable neat, this citrus-forward rye brings well-balanced structure to classic drinks. Find out more in my review!
• Lost Lantern Fall 2025 Collection Triple Eight Distillery Bottlings – Lost Lantern’s Fall 2025 Scotch Lovers’ Collection features three single casks from Triple Eight Distillery, each offering a distinct take on American single malt. From lightly peated to bright and fruity to richly finished in Sauternes casks, these bottlings show impressive range. Read on for our full breakdown and tasting notes of all three.
• Bourbon Whiskey Calorie Calculator – How many calories are really in your bourbon pour? Use my simple whiskey calorie calculator to see calories, grams of alcohol, and number of standard drinks based on pour size, proof, and number of pours—so you know exactly what’s in your glass. Go to the Bourbon Whiskey Calorie Calculator.

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Bourbon and Distillery News For February 6, 2026

OK, let’s get on with the news!

Bourbon and Distillery News

This just in:

Gallo to Acquire Four Roses Bourbon Brand from Kirin

Japanese brewer Kirin Holdings said it will sell the Kentucky bourbon brand Four Roses to E&J Gallo Winery for up to $775 million, according to Reuters. The deal, expected to close in the second quarter of this year, will allow Kirin to reallocate resources toward other growth areas. A Gallo spokesperson said there are no planned changes to Four Roses’ operations, production, or distribution. Source: Reuters

We, and everyone else, had reported back in the fall that Kirin was putting Four Roses up for sale, with an asking price said to be around $1 billion. At the time, the company said it wanted to focus on its pharmaceutical business, making it sound like they were losing interest in beer, as well. So, it will be interesting to see where they go from here. On the other hand, Gallo is a relative newcomer to the whiskey business, first becoming involved with their investment in Horse Soldier Bourbon a few years back. (Top)

Kentucky Bourbon Economic Impact Report Shows $10.6 Billion Annual Contribution

As outside threats continue to jeopardize its future growth, Kentucky Bourbon remains a key and substantial contributor to the state’s economy, a new report shows. The report was conducted by noted Kentucky economist Dr. Mike Clark using the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Kentucky Department of Revenue, the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and more trusted sources and was prepared for the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

Among the report’s top findings, Kentucky’s distilling industry now contributes $10.6 billion in annual economic impact to Kentucky (up from $9 billion in the previous study released in early 2024) and supports 23,935 jobs with $2 billion in salaries, wages and benefits, an increase of more than 800 jobs in the last two years despite recent cutbacks. The eighth edition of the biennial study using the latest data for 2024-2025 also shows the distilling industry bought a record 84% of its corn from Kentucky farmers (up from 70%) and now generates an all-time high of $372 million in state and local tax revenue.

The report does mention recent headwinds with declines in production and sales. The press release states that Kentucky Bourbon’s “long-term fortunes remain a roller coaster of uncertainty and unpredictability, threatened by a volatile global trade arena, shifting generational consumer tastes, soaring barrel taxes, and evolving market and geopolitical conditions that have slowed alcohol sales and slashed exports.” You can read the full press release here and the full 83 page report here. (Top)

WhistlePig Whiskey Welcomes Charles Gibb as New CEO

WhistlePig Whiskey today welcomed Charles Gibb as its new Chief Executive Officer, noting that the appointment “marks the next stage of evolution for the WhistlePig brand and its highly awarded super premium whiskey portfolio.” Gibb brings global experience in spirits and luxury brand building, having launched Fever-Tree’s North American arm and previously spearheaded global expansion efforts at Belvedere Vodka, while also holding roles at Bacardi, Diageo and Moët Hennessy.

“As a Scot, I could not be more excited to be joining this exceptional American whiskey brand,” Gibb said. “I thrive in an innovative, dynamic and entrepreneurial environment.” “I’ve been involved with start-ups, initiated new markets and transformed developed markets by breaking apart paradigms to accelerate growth. That’s exactly what WhistlePig does with whiskey.” Wilco Faessen, Co-Founder and Chairman of WhistlePig Whiskey, said, “Post an extensive search process… we are excited to welcome Charles to the WhistlePig team as we tackle the next phases of growth.” Read the full press release here.

Editor’s Note: WhistlePig confuses me. It began as a Vermont-centric premium rye brand, and its ryes were well-respected, enjoyed, and talked about. I used to drink them all the time. Over the years, however, prices for special releases skyrocketed, the brand branched into bourbon and even single malt, and now operates a tasting room in Louisville. To me, they seem to have completely lost focus—and with it, much of their original fan base. I honestly can’t remember the last time I heard WhistlePig discussed in my whiskey circles outside of references to its new tasting room. To that point, the press release announcing the new CEO focuses entirely on brand-building and market development, with no mention of plans for the whiskey itself. That stood out.

In my view, WhistlePig already had strong branding early on, but lost sight of what made it compelling. A return to a clearly defined Vermont rye-focused identity—rather than Kentucky bourbon releases and a Kentucky tasting room—might help get the whiskey itself back into the conversation. Growth and market expansion are difficult when focus is lacking. They once had a unique product and story. Today, that story feels diluted, which isn’t helpful in an increasingly competitive whiskey market. But what do I know—I guess that’s why they didn’t call me about the CEO job… 🤣 (Top)

Bourbon and Distillery News For February 6, 2026

Barrell Craft Spirits Sells Jeffersontown Blending & Bottling Facility

Barrell Craft Spirits announced the sale of its blending and bottling facility in Jeffersontown, Kentucky, to American Craft Bottling. The company said it will consolidate all blending operations at its original Gilmore facility, which offers sufficient capacity to support current and future needs. They also will “invest in new equipment and technology to expand their operations without disrupting ongoing work.” Founder Joe Beatrice stated the move is part of an effort to “refine our commercial strategy to stay ahead of evolving industry trends to support long-term growth.” Source: Press release at Breaking Bourbon.

Editor’s Note: I can’t find any Kentucky registered business or ABC licensee under the name “American Craft Bottling”. I am assuming the company was formed for this transaction, but don’t know that for a fact, and find it odd that the company is not registered in Kentucky. Maybe there is a delay in posting that information. Also of note, Barrell had the ribbon cutting for the blending and bottling facility fairly recently, in September 2023, so they did not own it for very long. They also acquired an 8,000-barrel rickhouse close to the blending facility around that same time. The warehouse is not mentioned in the press release, so I assume Barrell is retaining ownership of that? (Top)

Washington Senate Approves Lower 0.05% Drunk Driving Limit

The Washington State Senate voted 26–23 to approve legislation lowering the state’s legal blood alcohol concentration limit for drivers from 0.08% to 0.05%. If approved by the House and signed into law, Washington would join Utah as the only states with a 0.05% limit, with the change taking effect July 1. Supporters said the measure would improve public safety and reduce fatal crashes involving impaired drivers. Opponents argued the change would not alter drinking and driving behavior, said stronger enforcement efforts such as hiring more state troopers and expanding DUI patrols would be more effective, and cited concerns about enforcing the lower limit as well as potential impacts on bars, wineries, and other hospitality businesses. Senate Bill 5067 now moves to the House for consideration. Source: Washington State Standard. (Top)

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Sotheby’s U.S. Whiskey Auction Realizes $2.5 Million

The Great American Whiskey Collection auction held by Sotheby’s on January 24 realized a total of $2.5 million in sales, more than doubling its pre-sale estimates and setting a new record for an American whiskey auction at Sotheby’s. The auction was described by Sotheby’s as the “first-ever live, single-owner American whiskey auction, offering the most valuable collection of its kind ever to come to market.”  According to Sotheby’s, 100% of lots sold and 89% exceeded their high estimates, marking a milestone for the category and reflecting strong demand for rare and historic U.S. whiskies. Below are a few of the highlights:

• Old Rip Van Winkle 20 Year Old Single Barrel “Sam’s” — $162,500 (1982, 133.4 proof)
• Very Very Old Fitzgerald 18 Year Old “Blackhawk” — $112,500 (1950, 121.0 proof)
• Van Winkle 18 Year Old Single Barrel “Binny’s” — $106,250 (1985, 121.6 proof)

Source: The Spirits Business and Sotheby’s. (Top)

McTavish Spirits Partners with DMY Brands to Support Next Phase of Growth

McTavish Spirits announced a strategic partnership with DMY Brands, a brand development and distribution firm led by industry veteran David Mark Young (formerly of the whiskey brand Golden Sheath). McTavish Spirits is co-founded by actor and author Graham McTavish and whiskey entrepreneur Connor Gilbert. The partnership brings together “founder-led storytelling and craftsmanship” with “DMY Brands’ expertise in logistics, hard-goods execution, distribution strategy, and brand development”, with a focus on expanding market presence while building the operational foundation for long-term, sustainable growth, according to the parties involved. Graham McTavish said the partnership will help bring McTavish Spirits to more people “without losing what makes McTavish Spirits unique in the marketplace,” while Connor Gilbert, Co-Founder and CEO, emphasized the importance of disciplined execution as the brand continues to grow. Source: Facebook (Top)

Misunderstood Whiskey Co. Launches Fourth Year of “Misunderstood For Good” Giving Campaign

Misunderstood Whiskey Co. announced the fourth year of its annual Misunderstood For Good charitable initiative in recognition of National Cancer Prevention Month. To date, the campaign has raised more than $20,000 for families battling cancer, with all proceeds benefiting the JDJ Charitable Foundation. Throughout February, Misunderstood Whiskey will donate $1 for every 750ml bottle sold across its core portfolio, including Misunderstood Ginger Spiced Whiskey and Misunderstood Orange Blossom Bourbon. JD Recobs, CEO and Co-Founder of Misunderstood Brands, said the company is committed to supporting the JDJ Foundation “year after year,” while Chris Buglisi, CFO and Co-Founder, emphasized the importance of giving back to the hospitality community. Bars and restaurants are also invited to participate by featuring Misunderstood cocktails during the campaign, with an additional donation and prize awarded for the most creative Misunderstood cocktail. misunderstoodwhiskey.com

The JDJ Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by James Blauvelt that provides direct financial assistance to families battling cancer, supports students affected by cancer through scholarships, and funds cancer research. jdjfoundation.org (Top)

Bourbon Women Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary in 2026

Bourbon Women, the country’s first national whiskey organization created by and for women, is celebrating its 15-year anniversary in 2026 with a year-long lineup of events and programming across its 16 branch locations. Founded by Peggy Noe Stevens, Bourbon Women plans to mark the milestone with a special 15th Anniversary Whiskey Blend, expanded premium education offerings, luxury Trippettes getaways, virtual events, and the annual SIPosium conference taking place August 13–16, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky. The organization also announced plans for its first global expansion in 2026, with additional details to be shared later in the year. bourbonwomen.org (Top)

Uncle Nearest Receivership Update

A quick recap of the Uncle Nearest court case regarding its receivership.
(Article contributed by my wonderful and knowledgeable wife and occasional podcast co-host, Karen)

Last August, Tennessee’s Uncle Nearest, Inc., producer of Uncle Nearest premium whiskies, was placed into receivership (a process where an independent, neutral third party, the receiver, is appointed to take control of a distressed business or property) at the request of Farm Credit Mid-America. The request was granted by the court after Uncle Nearest failed to continue repayment of its debt obligations to FCMA to the tune of approximately $108 million dollars. The following information comes directly from the court documents filed and thus accessible to the public on PACER (Public Access to Electronic Court Records). These records have been meticulously dissected by Michael DeKeyser, the host and talented author of thebourbonandryeclub.com. DeKeyser has followed the case from the beginning and is an expert on the topic.

On Monday, February 2nd, the Receiver filed the second quarterly report for Uncle Nearest Inc, at the behest of the court. The information presented in these documents is extensive. For the purpose of this update, only a few of the bombshells will be highlighted.

• “…Prior to the receivership, the company was unprofitable by approximately $1 million per month. Under my guidance, the unprofitability has decreased to $100,000 per month.”
• “The company’s CEO and CFO represented to the receiver that the company’s unsecured debt was substantially less than $10 million. It was discovered that it eclipsed $50 million.”
• “The Receiver discovered that the Company has not filed federal tax returns since 2018.”
• “The Company cannot operate in this Receivership in perpetuity. However, the company is insolvent. ……The cessation of business would cause the loss of nearly 70 jobs and the disappearance of a brand with significant social and cultural value.”

What’s Next? The judge overseeing the case has set a hearing for Monday, February 9th. The hearing will address motions filed by both the Receiver and the Defendants (Fawn and Keith Weaver, owners of Uncle Nearest, Inc.). The Defendants will request removal of the receivership claiming that it is eroding the brand’s value with declining sales and that they are the company’s best option to continue the brand. The Receiver on the other hand will request expansion of the receivership as he has discovered commingling of Uncle Nearest funds with other companies the Defendants own. Whichever way the judge rules, the future of Uncle Nearest looks bleak.

Editor’s Note: If you want to learn more about the Uncle Nearest case, head on over to thebourbonandryeclub.com. There you will find every detail of the case presented chronologically, with some added commentary, as well. (Top)

Bourbon and Distillery News For February 6, 2026

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