Harrison Ford Becomes the Face of Glenmorangie

Harrison Ford wears a kilt and holds a bottle of Glenmorangie whilst filming in Scotland.

In a series of twelve episodic films directed by actor and film-maker Joel Edgerton, iconic movie legend Harrison Ford takes us on a behind the scenes journey around Scotland to the historic Glenmorangie distillery in Tain where Glenmorangie has been produced for over 180 years.

The series called ‘Once upon a time in Scotland’, clearly shows that Harrison has a passion for whisky, each episode being a great advert for Scotch Whisky in general, not just for Glenmorangie. Using his trademark wry humour and sense of adventure, Ford along with the Glenmorangie distillery team work together to give a real sense of the people and places behind Glenmorangie whisky. Being an unscripted series, each episode is packed full of real conversations and Ford’s soft spot for Glenmorangie and passion for the project clearly shine through in what is an entertaining 12 part series.

Harrison Ford sits on a hill over looking a loch and holds a bottle of Glenmorangie whilst filming in Scotland

The idea for the episodic films was to go beyond the previous campaign Delicious and Wonderful, which was to introduce drinkers to whisky and Glenmorangie in particular, by sharing a little more of the brands heritage and history. It shows Ford getting to grips with the nuances of Scottish pronunciation and kilt etiquette, and bonding with locals over a dram of single malt. There is a feel of a real Scottish experience from a newcomer’s point of view. Harrison Ford said of the experience “I loved working with the team at the Distillery — they were all great. The whole process of filming was full of unanticipated joys: little unexpected moments. It’s a tribute to Glenmorangie’s sensibilities that they let us be less than totally serious. I think what Joel has produced has a certain charm to it, because it’s unpretentious and just amusing.”

Glenmorangie’s flagship whiskies, Glenmorangie Original 12 Years old and Glenmorangie Infinita 18 Years Old also take centre stage in the episodes. Beyond the film, there is no change to the whiskies Glenmorangie is producing, for now the core range will stay the same and as the packaging has only recently been overhaled, there is no change there either. So, Glenmorangie drinkers can enjoy their dram just as they have done but now in the knowledge that they are sharing their love for the brand with a true global icon!

Once Upon a Time in Scotland will roll out globally from 28 January 2025 spanning online video, connected TV and social media. Six full-length episodes and an array of behind the-scenes content will initially be available to view on glenmorangie.com, with the rest released throughout 2025.

The Argument for Aber Falls

Aber Falls Distillery Front View with Mountains behind.

Distilling in Wales, like Scotland, has been around for hundreds of years. Although, unlike Scotland, it died out at the beginning of the 20th Century when the last notable distillery, built by R.J. Lloyd Price in 1887 at Frongoch, was closed in 2010. Historically Welsh whisky was made in the same way as Scotch using a double distillation method rather than the Irish method of triple distillation. The style of whisky these days, however, is quite different with single, double and triple distillation methods used.

In the new world of whisky making, Welsh whisky isn’t that new. Penderyn distillery, which uses a Faraday still with a single distillation method, was built in 2000 and will celebrate its 25th birthday this year. The Aber Falls distillery in Abergwyngregyn, Gwynedd, started production of it’s triple distilled whisky in 2017 and released its first whisky in 2021. There are also much newer distilleries such as, In The Welsh Wind and Coles distilleries built after the Covid-19 pandemic, and Swansea Copperworks which opened in 2023.

With the number of distilleries in Wales growing, the distilleries grouped together to try and gain a geographical indication (GI). This is a legal right that protects the name of a product that is linked to a specific geographical area, and following in the footsteps of Scotch whisky, which has had a GI for many years, Welsh whisky was granted their own in 2024. English whisky has applied for one, but it has not been granted yet.

With investment in Welsh whisky distilling increasing and having obtained a GI, Welsh whisky is naturally growing in popularity. Arguably, Aber Falls, which is set on the edge of Snowdonia in a stunning location next to the sea, has become the better known of the Welsh distilleries. Being only 90 minutes from Liverpool and 2 ½ hours from Birmingham, it is easier to visit than its Scottish counterparts. The distillery was built by Halewood Artisanal Spirits, which have a strong history of distilling all types of spirits at their distilleries in Edinburgh and Blackpool, but it is whisky that they are most known for.

Aber Falls is stocked by most specialist whisky retailers and is also readily available on Amazon and in Tesco supermarkets. It offers customers a high-quality, smooth triple distilled whisky at a very affordable price. Maturing well in a mixture of casks including ex bourbon, ex sherry and ex red wine casks, it is bottled at a relatively young age and yet still gives a rich smooth whisky. With a bottle of Aber Falls costing under £25, it would be easy to think that the quality of the whisky falls short of other more expensive single malt whiskies but this is far from the truth. Aber Falls is frequently ranked as better than many of its competitors and this was borne out by its winning a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge in 2024.

Now, although one may not consider collecting Aber Falls bottles, their casks might well be worth thinking about. Aber Falls sell new casks directly to customers at a reasonable price, but for a bargain, at the moment Cask Trade have a sale on Aber Falls casks which are about to turn three years old this year. Cask ownership interest can be registered here.

For those who want to get their hands on a bottle to try first, you can find more information below:

Aber Falls Single Malt Welsh Whisky bottles

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.75

Beyond The Sweet: Exploring The Bold World of Savoury Spirits

Best Savoury spirits Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

In cocktails, sweetness can often take centre stage, but there’s a new flavour frontier among mixologists and spirit enthusiasts shaking up the bar scene: savoury spirits. These characterful and complex flavours offer a new dimension to the drinking experience for those who crave depth over sugar - and there’s definitely a growing trend for savoury offerings. From herbaceous and coastal gins to earthy vodkas to peppery tequilas, smoky mezcals and peated whiskies, savoury options redefine what it means to enjoy a well-crafted, spirited drink. 

No ingredients are off the table to bridge the gap between the bar and the kitchen, and there’s much to savour; think cooking spices, earthy root veg, olives, garden herbs, foraged seaweeds, warming chilli peppers, roasted agave and smoky peat. Producers can work with almost anything that adds flavour to a spirit as long as it's approved for human consumption. 

‘Botanicals’ although not a legally defined word in spirit production, is an overarching term for any part of a plant used to flavour a spirit such as fruit, leaves, roots, barks or seeds. Animal flavourings can also be used in production (eg pechuga mezcal as touched on below) but these are less common.

If you’re ready for new adventures in flavour, check out these are nine savoury spirits below!

Portobello Road No.171 Savoury Gin (London, UK)

Best Savoury spirits Portobello Road Gin Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Let’s begin with herbaceous botanicals and a Mediterranean-inspired gin produced with restaurateurs and foodies in mind. Portobello Road created this stand-out product to prove that gin doesn’t need to hide behind a floral or fruity identity to be popular. It’s a vibrant juniper-led gin made with a supportive blend that includes Calabrian bergamot peel, rosemary, basil, green olive and a pinch of Mediterranean sea salt to masterfully bring delicious notes of citrus, herb and delicate spice to the palate. Pair this savoury gin with Mediterranean or Mallorcan tonic for a refreshing gin and tonic and garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary. Particularly loved by Martini lovers, this also makes a splendid Dirty Martini or Gibson by adding dry vermouth, olive, brine or onion respectively. Once you’ve poured your drink, settle in for a cosy movie night with a Richard Curtis romcom set in Portobello such as Notting Hill or Love Actually. The absolutely perfect gin bottle, standing in front of a gin lover, asking them to love her.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £37.94

Isle of Wight Distillery Mermaid Gin (IOW, UK)

Best Savoury spirits Mermaid Gin Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Leaving London, if sea air inspires you, you may already know about rock samphire - a plant that clings precariously to sea cliffs all around the British Isles. The people who make Mermaid Gin on the Isle of Wight hand-pick this botanical from chalk cliffs where it’s known locally as ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’, hence the gin’s name. In Shakespeare’s King Lear, the harvesting of Samphire was described as ‘a dreadful trade’. When Edgar tries to convince the blinded Gloucester that he’s standing on a clifftop at Dover, he describes the scene to him, explaining that “halfway down hangs one who gathers samphire - a dreadful trade - methinks he seems no bigger than his head.” A risky business to harvest, rock samphire (also known as sea fennel) stands out in this gin with a characterful citrus zing bringing you coastal notes, combined with peppery spice from the other ingredients which include juniper and grains of paradise. 

No cliffhangers here, this is definitely a gin worth trying.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £36.05

Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin (Australia)

Best Savoury spirits Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Love olives? Then now let’s head down under to explore a multi-award-winning, bright and delicious savoury Aussie gin made with three types of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, olive leaf tea, rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts and lemon myrtle. The aroma, flavour and texture of fresh olive is stunning. Very Mediterranean yet also very Australian at the same time. 

Perfect for a Gibson martini or in a G&T garnished with rosemary to accentuate the positively olivey notes. Bonzer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43.8%
Find here: £36.25

Shanty Seaweed Botanical Vodka (Dorset, UK)

Shanty Seaweed Botanical Vodka Robbie Jerram three drinkers

Heading back to the UK now to expand on the coastal theme, here’s an expertly crafted small-batch vodka from Dorset that blends five hand-foraged British seaweeds to create stunning undercurrents of umami flavour. The subtle depth of flavour is further enhanced by ‘ripples’ of Asia with wasabi, galangal, yuzu, bergamot and sea buckthorn together with a pinch of local Dorset sea salt to remineralise the purest of water with which the spirit is cut.  Sip this and your taste buds instantly transport you somewhere quite magical and evoke the shoreline’s magnetic pull - you can almost hear waves softly lapping, whichever continent you’re on. The bottle itself is a work of art, fabulously reminiscent of a ship’s decanter, featuring a wrap-around design by Dorset artist Emma Brownjohn. As you turn the bottle around, the image distorts through the glass like you’re viewing the scene underwater! A vodka to savour, whether on its own or with a mixer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £32

St George Distillery Green Chile Vodka (California, USA)

Best Savoury spirits St. George Distillery Green Chile Vodka Old Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Staying with vodka, we now head to the US for a grain vodka that has a distinct flavour. In the glass, freshness meets a juicy, vegetal quality for a truly unique and delicious spirit. St George’s Green Chile vodka is made with five types of pepper with varying sweet/savoury qualities, all of which are grown in California: Jalapeño, Serrano, Habanero, Red Bell and Yellow Bell Pepper. The peppers in this spirit, combine with lime peel and coriander and result in rich and earthy aromas and flavours that dance on the palate to provide a spicy, perfect punch for the ultimate Bloody Mary.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £40.25

1800 Silver Blanco Tequila (Mexico)

Best Savoury spirits 1800 Silver Blanco Tequila Old Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Moving south from California into Mexico, here we find the brand that makes the world’s most-awarded Tequilas - with good reason. The key to 1800 Tequila’s excellence lies in its meticulous production process. Using 100% blue Weber agave, hand-picked from the fertile fields of the Jalisco region in Mexico, the brand embodies craftsmanship, quality and flavour. This unaged, pepper-forward, delicate spice tequila serves as a true representation of the pure essence of the agave plant. It offers a clean and crisp taste with subtle hints of citrus and pepper giving depth of flavour on which to base a refreshing Margarita. 

Don’t let the reasonable price fool you, this is quality Tequila: the solution to all of life’s prickly situations. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £26 (normally £33)


QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga Mezcal

Best Savoury spirits QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga Mezcal Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Next we have a niche subcategory of Mexican spirit distilled from the agave plant: Pechuga mezcal. This is a nuanced, centuries-old, artisanal distillation method that remains unsung. Most pechugas follow a family formula passed down through generations, and call for local ingredients. Uncooked meat is usually suspended in the still to add animal protein/fats to the distillation process making it quite unique...  

But the thing about QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga is, it’s vegetarian-friendly! A small batch mezcal made with local Espadin agave that’s roasted, fermented and distilled using traditional methods. Then, instead of meat, homemade black mole paste is rested in the spirit for two weeks before the second distillation. The mole paste is made with chillies, sesame seeds, almonds, peanuts, garlic, onions, raisins, bananas and cacao. This intriguing expression combines the characteristic thick mouthfeel of pechuga mezcal with aromas of leather, earth, black pepper and chocolate complemented by notes of toasted nuts, stewed fruit, earthy spice, roasted cacao and peppery spice throughout the palate.

As savoury spirits go, this is so intriguing, it’s one you just have to try - whether you’re veggie or not.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £69.25

Caol Ila 12 year old Single Malt Whisky (Islay, Scotland)

Best Savoury spirits Coal Ila 12 Year Old Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Caol Ila’s 12 year old (Pronunciation: "kool-eela") is Islay’s hidden single malt aged in ex-bourbon casks. Presenting lighter and more subtly than other Islay peated whiskies with a malt smokiness, it’s a whisky that’s highly prized by connoisseurs. Following our theme of savoury spirits, this is the one that best fits a flavour profile reminiscent of summer barbeques. Think savoury, grilled food aromas and BBQ flavours with a light fragrant smokiness on the nose, and a pleasant brine on the palate. In Gaelic, Caol Ila means “Sound of Islay”, referring to the distillery’s location overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura.  It’s a nice, uncomplicated, easy-drinking Islay Single Malt. Although peated whiskies aren’t to everyone’s tastes, I will say, many people who claim to not usually like peated whisky have said they enjoy drinking this one - just saying - a dram good trip - Islay be back.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £48.95

Linie Aquavit (Norway)

Best Savoury spirits Linie Aquavit Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Finally, if you like an aged spirit but want something younger than 12 years old with a fine story, this one’s a must. On any trip to Scandinavia, one can be inundated by a complexity of spicy and savoury flavours, especially charismatic herbs such as dill, anise, coriander and caraway seeds. These are showcased perfectly in Norway’s national spirit, Linie Aquavit, which is now finding favour in some of the world’s more innovative bars. The distilled potato-based spirit derives its curious name from its unusual maturation at sea in oak casks, on board Norwegian trade ships that cross the equator (linie) twice en route to Australia and back again. This method results in many changes in temperature during the voyage which speeds up maturation. Check out the story on the label: “sailed to the other side of the world and back again for more than 200 years”. A bottle of Linie Aquavit on your table will provide both a talking point for your next family gathering and a delicious after dinner digestif best enjoyed the Scandinavian way - as a neat shot served at room temperature - with everybody drinking the shot in one. It can also be sipped of course. Aquavit’s herbal flavours will soothe the stomach and help with digestion after a large meal or family celebration. It complements many foods, and if you get a taste for it, you may even try pairing different styles of aquavit with different dishes. If you prefer to go your own way, it can also be served with a mixer over ice - but there’s no need to chill this bottle. It wouldn’t do those savoury flavours justice.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £37.83

I hope you feel inspired to try some new savoury spirits, either to drink on their own, with a mixer or in a delicious cocktail. There are plenty of new flavours out there to savour - as they say, the world’s your oyster!

By Robbie Jerram

To see more from Robbie either click on her bio above or here!

The Best Christmas Advent Calendars of 2024: A Boozy Countdown to Christmas

Best Alcohol Advent Calendars 2024

The countdown to Christmas is well and truly underway, with only mere days left before the daily excitement of opening that little door to find your treat inside arrives. But why should kids have all the fun? Grown-ups deserve a little holiday indulgence too! So this year, why not embrace the season with an advent calendar that offers something a bit more spirited?

We’ve taken on the important (and very enjoyable) task of tasting and testing a wide variety of alcohol-filled advent calendars to find you the best options for 2024. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur, a gin enthusiast, a rum aficionado, or simply looking for something non-alcoholic, there’s a calendar waiting to delight your senses this holiday season.

While these calendars may seem a little expensive at first glance, they offer incredible value for money when you consider the opportunity to sample an array of different styles and brands—without the need to commit to full bottles. So sit back, relax, and we ho, ho, ho-pe you have a very Merry Christmas when it arrives!

The Best Gin Advent Calendar: Craft Gin Club 2024 Advent Calendar

The Best Gin Advent Calendar: Craft Gin Club 2024 Advent Calendar

For gin lovers, the Craft Gin Club Advent Calendar is a true showstopper this year. Packed with 25 expertly curated gins, this calendar features a stunning array of classic, dry, and citrus-infused craft gins, many of which are new for 2024. Some of these will put you into the perfect Christmassy mood such as the exclusive Christmas cake gin from Tarquin’s, some will make you reminisce about some of the beautiful gins you’ve enjoyed throughout the year and let’s not forget the five mystery gins waiting to be discovered throughout the month. Each gin is thoughtfully paired with tasting notes to enhance your experience and transport you to the heart of Christmas. Cheers to that!

Cost: £89.99
Bottles: 25 x 50ml
Find it here: Craft Gin Club

The Best Rum Advent Calendar: The Rum Company Advent Calendar

The Best Rum Advent Calendar: The Rum Company Advent Calendar

Rum fans, rejoice because this year, The Rum Company brings you an exciting selection of rums from the UK! With a mix of rich, smoky, sweet, and tropical notes, there’s something for every rum lover’s palate. One standout inclusion is the seasonal Lytham Jamaican Gingerbread Rum, perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit. Whether you prefer sipping your rum neat or mixing it into cocktails, this calendar is certain to get you excited about new brands to look out for in 2025.

Cost: £139.99
Bottles: 24 x 50ml
Find it here: The Rum Company

The Best Whisky Advent Calendar: The Whisky Exchange ‘Whiskies of the World’ Advent Calendar

The Best Whisky Advent Calendar: The Whisky Exchange ‘Whiskies of the World’ Advent Calendar

This year's The Whisky Exchange 2024 Advent Calendar features 25 stunning whiskies from some of the world’s most renowned distilleries and includes a wonderful mix of Scotch, Irish, American, and Japanese whiskies. From smooth single malts to bold small-batch blends and rye, there is something for every whisky lover to enjoy. The calendar also has a free perfect measure glass to really elevate each tasting experience. Cheers to that!

Cost: £130
Bottles: 25 x 30ml
Find it here: The Whisky Exchange

The Best Vodka Advent Calendar: Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar

The Best Vodka Advent Calendar: Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar

For a twist on the traditional, the Drinks by the Dram Vodka Advent Calendar is a must-try. Containing some familiar favourites from previous years as well as plenty of new treats to explore, this year’s calendar features 25 different vodkas from some of the world’s best producers. Expect a mix of classic and flavoured vodkas, from fruity infusions to more festive options, which offer a great way to introduce yourself to some of the amazing choices there are out there.

Cost: £74.95
Bottles: 25 x 30ml
Find it here: Master of Malt

The Best Cocktail Advent Calendar: NIO Cocktails 12-Day Advent Calendar

The Best Cocktail Advent Calendar: NIO Cocktails 12-Day Advent Calendar

Put the jigger and shaker back in the cupboard as NIO has you sorted with this fabulous selection of 12 expertly crafted cocktails—two servings of each, so you can share the joy. From festive favourites like the Winter Sidecar to a holiday twist on the Christmas Margarita there is something for everyone to enjoy. Who knows, you might just find your 2025 go-to cocktail right here!

Cost: £135
Cocktails: 24 cocktails
Find it here: NIO Cocktails

The Best No-Lo Advent Calendar: DryDRINKER Beer Advent Calendar

Best non alcoholic Advent Calendar 2024 DryDrinker Beer Advent Calendar

We were so impressed with DryDRINKER’s Dad’s Day calendar for Father’s Day that we couldn’t miss the chance to give them another shout out for their seasonal advent. Featuring a variety of lagers, pilsners, stouts, porters, and IPAs, each with an ABV ranging from 0.0% to 0.5%,  the DryDRINKER Beer Advent Calendar offers a perfect selection of no and low-ABV craft beers. This would be the ideal gift for the beer lover in your life who wants to countdown to Christmas enjoying all the flavour with none of the buzz.

Cost: £67.95
Cans: 24 x 330ml cans
Find it here: DryDRINKER

So there we have it! We hope this list helps you discover your new favourite festive indulgence and brings plenty of cheer to your countdown to Christmas!

Beyoncé Launches ‘SirDavis’ Whiskey

beyonce launches sirdavis whiskey the three drinkers

Beyoncé has swapped stage for distillery with the launch of her whiskey, SirDavis. Partnering with the very capable hands of Moët Hennessy, this venture is more than just a business move; it’s a personal tribute to her great-grandfather, a known ‘moonshiner’ back in the day.

“I’ve always been drawn to the power and confidence I feel when drinking quality whisky and wanted to invite more people to experience that feeling,” says Beyoncé.

“When I discovered that my great-grandfather had been a moonshine man, it felt like my love for whisky was fated. SirDavis is a way for me to pay homage to him, uniting us through a new shared legacy.”

Some celebrity liquor brands are very much hands-off affairs; but Queen Bey its involved in carefully crafting the product. Beyoncé and her team worked closely with Moët Hennessy’s expertise to create a whiskey that’s both sophisticated and approachable, appealing to both whiskey connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. She didn’t just slap her name on the bottle; she chose the single malts and grain whiskies, and she designed a bottle as glamorous and stylish as herself, in keeping with her personal aesthetic.

But don’t be fooled by the star power; SirDavis is a serious whiskey that stands up on its own. Master Distiller Dr. Bill Lumsden who has previously worked with Glenmorangie and Ardbeg led the technical side of things, masterminding a rare 51% rye 49% malted barley mash bill. The aim was to achieve the elegant mouthfeel and textures of Japanese and Scotch whiskies, without losing the robust and deep American rye. Sherry cask maturation was the final touch, bringing juicy, red fruits and warm spices. Tradition and innovation, with some glitz’n’ glam thrown in.

For a keen Beyhive bee, or just someone that likes to keep tabs on the latest whiskey releases, SirDavis offers an exciting opportunity to experience a whiskey that’s rich in history, flavour, and celebrity appeal.

When Beyoncé’s great-grandfather produced his booze, it was stored in the empty knots of cedar trees. This project from his great-granddaughter is an altogether different proposition, gracing the stores of Selfridges, Master of Malt, Hedonism, Berry Bros and The Whisky Exchange. It’s expected to retail for £79 across the UK, US, Paris and Tokyo, so time will tell if it lives up to the price tag!

A New Original Glenmorangie

New Original Glenmorangie 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky The Three Drinkers

The regular expressions created by the big names in Scotch distilling rarely change. There might be differences in packaging over the years, but the liquid is as consistent as possible with most brands starting their age statement ranges with a 12 year old single malt Scotch whisky.

One brand has bucked this trend to create a whisky they feel is an improvement on their existing lowest age statement, and that brand is Glenmorangie. The Glenmorangie Original was a 10 year old whisky, and over the years, Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation & Whisky Stocks has tried to improve it. How to improve on perfection was always the conundrum.  

Incredibly, over the last year, Dr Bill has managed to do just that, and he’s done so not by improving the 10 year old, but by creating a 12 year old. Now this might seem an obvious move, however, when they had such a great expression of Glenmorangie in the 10 year old, the 12 year old would need to reflect its predecessor’s character and increase in quality. There are plenty of The Original drinkers who would be very upset if their favourite flavours in a whisky were taken from them.

The new Original 12 year old has all the elements of the 10 year old, but with more. More richness and fruitiness, it is as if they have taken the 10 year old and turned the volume up past 10. To 12 shall we say?! There are heightened creamy notes, and the fruits are that little bit more intense. There are elements which were incredibly subtle in the 10 year old that now come through with more prominence. For example, there are some delicate spicy notes which develop on the palate that were not there before.

There are also subtle changes to the packaging. A slightly darker orange is used, and the swirls on the packaging have also been darkened, these small changes reflecting the difference in the liquid. But the biggest difference is the age statement. The price is almost the same with an increase of just £1, which for the improvements in flavour is an absolute bargain.

ABV: 40%
Size: 70cl
Find here: £40

Words by Colin Hampden-White

The Remarkable £93,750 Dalmore Whisky

the remarkable £93,750 dalmore whisky the three drinkers

Now and again in the world of whisky a creation comes around that demands attention, but few, if any, like this. The recent sale of The Dalmore Luminary No.2 ‘The Rare’ marks an extraordinary meeting of tradition, art, and architectural brilliance, all converging to create a historical masterpiece. This exceptionally rare 49-year-old single malt, housed in a stunning glass sculpture co-created by Melodie Leung of Zaha Hadid Architects, fetched a remarkable £93,750 ($117,400) at Sotheby’s, with all proceeds donated to V&A Dundee – who were also involved in its conception.

The journey of Luminary No.2 began as a unique collaboration between the V&A and The Dalmore Distillery, renowned for its exquisite single malts. The partnership, initiated in 2020, aims to inspire through design, leveraging the rich heritage and innovative spirit of both institutions. This project is the second release in The Luminary Series, a three-part partnership celebrating the fusion of whisky craftsmanship and contemporary design.

At the heart of this prestigious collaboration lies the remarkable glass sculpture designed by Melodie Leung – an ambitious endeavour in itself. This piece is not just a container for the whisky; it’s a representation of the meticulous process of whisky making itself. Crafted from a continuous piece of glass, the sculpture embodies the layers of age and the intricate interactions of flavours developed over nearly five decades. Fiaz Elson from The Glass Foundry played a crucial role, using a handmade mould and carefully managing the kiln temperatures over a tense 12-week period. The result is an 80kg sculpture with a liquid-like texture and a high gloss finish achieved through over 500 hours of hand polishing. What a thing of beauty.

The whisky inside this artistic vessel is equally remarkable. Created through the combined expertise of The Dalmore’s master whisky makers Gregg Glass and Richard Paterson OBE, Luminary No.2 ‘The Rare’ is a testament to their skill and dedication. The whisky was matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in an assemblage that includes a rare Port Colheita Pipe 1963, an exceptionally rare 30-Year-Old Apostoles Sherry Cask, and select Bourbon barrels. But it’s not done there!

The final touch was a finish in a 1951 Virgin oak hybrid cask, air-dried at The Dalmore and hand-toasted by Gregg Glass himself. The result of this unique finish process is a rich and nuanced whisky with aromas of Madagascan vanilla, rich dark berry fruits, cinnamon, and dark cacao, complemented by a palate of freshly roasted chestnuts, blackcurrant, Doyenné pears, and soft patisserie spices, finishing with notes of sugared almonds, plums, roasted Colombian coffee, and a hint of sweet wood smoke. Just three bottles and two sculptures have been made. Oh, to have just a sip.

The Dalmore’s commitment to design and community is evident in their decision to donate all proceeds from the sale to V&A Dundee. This generous contribution supports the museum’s mission to generate joy, spark curiosity, and deepen social impact through design. Leonie Bell, Director of V&A Dundee, emphasized the importance of this partnership, highlighting how it brings together the worlds of design, whisky, and Scottish heritage in a meaningful way.

The collaboration between The Dalmore, Zaha Hadid Architects, and the V&A (who will receive the hefty donation) has set a new standard for what can be achieved when different forms of artistry, heritage and craftsmanship collide - highly aged whisky, high concept design, and a worthy cause.

Glen Moray Begins Partnership With Senior Open Golf Tournament

Europe’s only senior major, The Senior Open, is a big deal in golf, and as it returns to Scotland between the 25th and 28th July, it arrives with new Official Whisky and fellow Scottish icon – Glen Moray.

It marks the teeing off of a three year, six-figure partnership during which Glen Moray’s team will serve dreamy drams and cocktails, one of which will be a bespoke commission, at their whisky bar in the Championship Village. 35,000 spectators are expected to see golf’s greatest legends in action over four days of play at the Carnoustie Golf Links.

But Glen Moray’s foray into golf doesn’t end there. They’ve also become the Official Whisky of the Tartan Pro Tour, which develops male and female golfers and was founded by 1999 Open Champion, Paul Lawrie. Glen Moray’s prestigious drams will be served at every leg of this 13-golf course tour.

If you’re not familiar with Glen Moray, then you must have no interest in Scotch whatsoever! It’s been created in historic Elgin, Speyside since the 19th century and is now one of the UK’s largest selling single malts. They have a diverse range but are known for their light, smooth and fruity style, as well as their innovative finishes.

For anyone lucky enough to be attending any of these picturesque golf events, you can now get a round of Glen Moray with your round of golf for the ultimate Scottish day out.