Joining the chorus of rare whisky satisfying top-shelf palates, legendary bottler Gordon & MacPhail announced an upcoming release of what will be the longest-aged single malt Scotch on the market.
The 80-year-old whisky produced at the Glenlivet Distillery was poured into Cask 340 more than eight decades ago in Northern Scotland, according to a Tuesday press release.
On Feb. 3, 1940, George Urquhart and his dad John sealed Cask 340 with the intention that it be enjoyed by future generations. Urquhart, identified by renowned whisky writer and historian Charlie MacLean as the “father of single malt Scotch,” was passionate about the importance of aging whisky until the subtle notes of cask and spirit blended harmoniously. He once said, “The future is shaped by what you do today.”
Longer than any Scotch in history, and practically 80 years to the date, the cask was unsealed on Feb. 5, 2020 and poured into 250 bespoke decanters — the design of which (along with the price) will be revealed in September.
Gordon & MacPhail collaborated with acclaimed architect Sir David Adjaye, known for his award-winning works, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C, to produce what is being described as a “stunning design.”
Decanter #1 will be auctioned off by Sothbey’s upon release, with proceeds benefiting the Trees for Life charity, a Scottish non-profit committed to rewilding the Caledonian forest.
The recent announcement follows the label’s highly successful release of the Mortlach 75-year-old Scotch in 2016. At the time, 100 bottles were offered at approximately $28,000 each. Today, a 750 milliliter bottle will set you back $32,100.
For those of us not fortunate enough to pick up a bottle, the tasting notes of the 2016 release mention dried fruit, apricots, pomegranate, vanilla, and spice with a smoky finish.
