London – are you ‘rye-dy’ to try brand-new American Whiskeys?

As London’s love of American whiskey continues to grow, the capital is the preferred locale for legendary Indiana-based Ross & Squibb Distillery to launch two brand-new Rye Whiskeys – just in time for International Whiskey Day on March 27th.

These remarkable ryes don’t go on sale in the UK until June – so Ross & Squibb is giving the city’s whiskey fans the chance to be amongst the very first outside of the States to experience them.

Even better, Ross & Squibb’s first-ever Master Distiller, Ian Stirsman, will be hosting a free tasting and masterclass at this very special event – sharing his experience and expertise in distilling, ageing, and blending.

This fabulous launch event will take place at Block Soho, from 6pm until 11pm on Thursday 23rd March 2023.

Making its UK debut will be Rossville Union Master Crafted Straight Rye Whiskey which, aged for five years, delivers a smooth, slightly smoky taste and a spicy robust finish with a hint of cherry. And alongside it, is the distillery’s bold Barrel Proof variant, with its spicy caramel taste and balanced smoky finish. Ross & Squibb selects only the best barrels of seven-year-old whiskey to create this ultimate full-bodied spirit, which is sure to be a hit with those who savour a high-rye taste.

Ian Stirsman will host his first-in-the-UK tasting and masterclass at 6.30pm, for one hour, before free canapés are served, and live music begins – courtesy of bluegrass americana band The Hackney Hill-Pickers. This popular hard driving east London-based quartet will be playing a creative mix of bluegrass country and old-time tunes. The Ross & Squibb Distillery Master Distiller, said:

“Our historic distillery has been crafting renowned mash bills for over two centuries, and I’m delighted to be coming to the UK to launch our two brand-new Master Crafted Straight Rye Whiskeys under our own, recently launched Rossville Union brand.

“I’ve been in post for just over a year and am responsible for driving the most innovative product development and annual limited releases for Ross & Squibb Distillery. And I’m beyond excited to introduce Rossville Union Rye Whiskey to the UK for the very first time.

“Bottles of these remarkable ryes will soon be travelling from Lawrenceburg to London – their first destination for European sales – and we can’t wait to welcome whiskey lovers to Block Soho for what is sure to be a very special evening.

“Not only will guests get to taste our delicious new ryes, I’ll also be sharing why Lawrenceburg is the whiskey city of the USA and why Indiana is the rye capital of the world, the difference between rye and bourbon and how to taste it, what to add to it and how to serve it. This will be followed by an evening of live music and finger food – all absolutely free.