Archives for September 2014

The Glenlivet Winchester Collection

The Glenlivet has released The Winchester Collection: the world’s first series of rare and precious 50 year old single malt Scotch whiskies from the single malt that started it all.

“Vintage 1964” is the first release from this exclusive collection, which is anticipated to become one of the most sought after and priceless whisky collections in the world.

Just 100 bottles of this remarkable Speyside single malt, priced at $25,000 each, will go on sale around the globe, with the very first bottle – Bottle No 1 – going on sale at one of the world’s most prestigious retailers, Harrods, this October.

An undisclosed number of further releases from The Winchester Collection will then follow, with “Vintage 1966” confirmed to be next in line.

No expense or attention to craftsmanship has been spared in creating the perfect vessel to house the whisky, with each element handcrafted by artisans from the British Isles, featuring hand-blown glass and the inclusion of precious materials such as rose gold and ‘Cairngorm Stone’.

The spirit inside lays claim to 50 years of unrivalled knowledge, care and craft, which started when Captain Bill Smith-Grant – the last distilling descendent of The Glenlivet’s founder, George Smith – laid this whisky down to mature in April 1964.

It was soon after identified as a whisky of exceptional promise, and was cared for by no fewer than seven Master Distillers as it slowly and steadily developed the signature flavours that make The Glenlivet an enduring benchmark of quality.

It is under the guidance of current Master Distiller, Alan Winchester – from whom the collection takes its name – that this precious Vintage has been deemed ready to be enjoyed by only the most ardent and discerning of single malt connoisseurs, bottled at cask strength (42.3%) in June 2014.

Alan had this to say: “This release marks a milestone for The Glenlivet. Casks of this age and quality are such a rare thing these days that I’m immensely proud to introduce the first of these rare Vintages of preserved stocks from the distillery’s rich past. They’re a testament to our legacy of excellence and to those who have nurtured this whisky over the years, including Captain Bill Smith-Grant, who played such a pivotal role introducing our single malt to the world.”

Nikki Burgess, Global Brand Director for The Glenlivet, said: “The release of The Winchester Collection sets a new benchmark in single malt. We are excited to share this unparalleled spirit, the product of 50 years of craftsmanship, with whisky lovers and collectors alike. Vintage 1964 allows us to tell a new chapter in The Glenlivet’s rich history and is a fitting tribute to those who shaped Speyside’s original single malt whisky.”

The Winchester Collection Vintage 1964 – Official Tasting Notes

Nose: The perfect marriage of spirit and cask releases a wonderfully rich aroma of fruity pear and peach nectar, which envelops the nose. Complemented by juicy, sweet raisins, dark chocolate and a fondant orange crème, intermingled with a tantalising honeycomb crunch sweetness that gives incredible depth.

Palate: Bursting with luscious fruit flavours of ripe pears and oranges, black cherries and smooth creamy toffee, resulting in a fantastically velvety texture. In the background, caramelised sugar and candy flavours elevate the richness of the taste.

Finish: Exceptionally smooth and luxurious, lingering on the palate and in memory for eternity.