News and notes of interest to distillers and Pennsylvania spirits aficionados for June, 2026.

Rye Whiskey Booming

@ComingWhiskey published the above chart showcasing the growth of Rye Whiskey over the past ten years. TTB data shows Straight Rye Whiskey approvals grew from 40 in 2015-16 to 542 in 2026. 

Steeler legend Rocky Bleier is teaming up with Iron City Distilling to produce a line of rye whiskeys under the name, Bleier Family Whiskey. Bleier and his son, Adri Bleier, and cousin Bob Bleier are behind the brand.

A Bourbon Blended from Every State

Vermont’s Lost Lantern Whiskey set out on an ambitious mission to collect and then blend bourbons from every state in America. Liberty Pole’s Wheated Bourbon was selected to represent Pennsylvania.

Ready to Drink Still Rising

Stolen Valor and Whiskey

According to TTB label approvals, Kentucky’s Maker’s Mark appears ready to release a Pennsylvania Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. What makes it Pennsylvania? Certainly not Pennsylvania distilled spirits, rather ten virgin oak staves sacrificed in the name of the Keystone state.

In a daring theft from a Philadelphia bonded warehouse, a group of thieves made off with over 10,000 bottles worth $500,000 of Noble Oak bourbon. The suspects allegedly tricked warehouse employees into thinking they were supposed to load their truck with the cases of bourbon.

New Looks for Familiar Faces

Lancaster’s Thistle Finch has rebranded its vodka and gin bottles. Gone are the flip-tops and in are apothecary inspired bottles with Pennsylvania Dutch inspired graphics. Thistle Finch has also reshuffled its flagship whiskeys, now offering five-year and seven-year Bottled in Bond expressions.