Dewar's Taps Local Terroir for U.S. Open Flagship Release
Dewar's has released Dewar's 19 Year Old 'The Champion's Edition,' finished in Cabernet Franc red wine casks from Hamptons-based Wölffer Estate, as the official Scotch whisky of the 126th U.S. Open, taking place June 19-21 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York.
The limited release, priced at $79.99 with 43% ABV, marks another iteration in Dewar's Champions Edition series, which has previously featured innovative cask finishes timed to major golf tournaments.
Blending Local Influence Into the Bottle
Master Blender Stephanie Macleod, credited as the architect of the expression, crafted the 19-year maturation to reflect what the brand describes as "the timeless ritual of the post-round toast." The Cabernet Franc finish—sourced from the Hamptons winery—introduces tasting notes that the brand characterizes as "golden honey, a medley of syrupy red berries, and warm cinnamon," layered beneath floral and blackcurrant notes in the nose.
The Lemon Wedge Returns
Dewar's is also reviving the 'Lemon Wedge' as the signature cocktail of this year's tournament. The drink combines Dewar's 12 Year Old, fresh lemonade, and club soda.
The 19 Year Old is available at dewars.com.
Why It Matters
Official tournament spirits remain a key marketing driver for major whisky brands, offering premium positioning and limited-edition appeal tied to high-profile sporting events. The partnership underscores how distillers are increasingly leveraging geographic storytelling and local partnerships to justify price premiums and create collectible SKUs.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
