New Brewer’s Coalition Finishes and Cigar Blend Debut for 2026.
Virginia Distillery Co. is building on its recognition as Best American Single Malt at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards with three new limited releases scheduled for February and March 2026. The lineup includes two additions to The Brewer’s Coalition series and the debut of VDC First Cut Cigar Blend, highlighting the distillery’s ongoing focus on collaboration, innovation, and complex cask maturation.
Brewer’s Coalition 4 Hands Madagascar Stout Cask Finish
The first release, The Brewer’s Coalition 4 Hands Madagascar Stout Cask Finish, continues the series through a partnership with 4 Hands Brewing Co. in St. Louis, Missouri. The whisky was aged more than five years in ex-bourbon barrels before finishing in Madagascar Stout barrels, with only six barrels sourced for the project. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), the whisky features aromas of raspberries and lemon curd cookies, with a palate of dark chocolate raspberry cake, roasted pecans, and ginger snaps, followed by a finish of dark cocoa and raspberry cola. A cask strength select version will be available in limited quantities at 4 Hands Brewing Co.
Brewer’s Coalition North Coast Old Rasputin Stout Cask Finish
Scheduled for release in March 2026, The Brewer’s Coalition North Coast Old Rasputin Stout Cask Finish is a collaboration with North Coast Brewing Co. in California. Made from 100% malted barley and aged more than five years in ex-bourbon barrels before finishing, the expression draws from eight sourced barrels. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), it presents aromas of almond kringle and honeycomb, followed by citrus zest, dark chocolate, and malty hops.
First Cut Cigar Blend American Single Malt
Virginia Distillery Co. will also debut First Cut Cigar Blend, an American Single Malt designed to pair with cigars. Aged a minimum of seven years, the whisky matured in a blend of Spanish Oak, Sherry, Port, STR, Château Palmer Cabernet, Armagnac, Cognac, Fino, and Islay casks. Bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV), the expression offers aromas of red berries and leather, with flavors of walnut, date cake, candied lemon peel, allspice, and clove, followed by dark chocolate and subtle smoke.
Leadership Commentary and Availability
“These releases represent the creativity and craftsmanship that define Virginia Distillery Co.,” said Gareth Moore, CEO. “Being named Best American Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards is an incredible honor, and we’re proud to continue pushing boundaries through collaboration and bold cask innovation.”
All three expressions will be available in limited quantities beginning February and March 2026 via shop.vadistillery.com and select retailers nationwide.
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