Renowned whisky author Charles Maclean MBE has initiated a unique whisky auction with the aim of raising both funds and awareness for The Maclean Foundation, a charity dedicated to clean water initiatives. Maclean, celebrated for his books including ''Whiskypedia: A Gazetteer of Scotch Whisky'' and "Malt Whisky: The Complete Guide," collaborated with the Scotch whisky industry to assemble a collection of "very rare and highly collectible" spirits to be auctioned, with a fundraising target of £60,000.
The auction comprises 39 exceptional lots, featuring a diverse array of remarkable whiskies. Among the highlights is a one-of-a-kind offering from Port Ellen, a 35-year-old bottle of Port Ellen from 1979, part of the Douglas Laing Old & Rare selection. Additionally, a 36-year-old Glengoyne from the Russell Family cask is featured in this extraordinary collection.
Charles Maclean emphasized that each whisky in the auction possesses captivating stories. He stated, "Some are very rare and highly collectable, although some lots are easily affordable—appealing to consumers as well as collectors and investors. The provenance of every item is flawless."
One exceptional rarity available for auction is one of only six bottles in existence of Karuizawa Omoiyari, a single malt Japanese whisky. This lot also includes the first bottle of 278 from the Chichibu Distillery's thousandth cask.
The Maclean Foundation, established by Ewan, Jamie, and Lachlan Maclean alongside their father Charles Maclean MBE, is committed to raising funds for clean water projects. Charles Maclean expressed the significance of this fundraiser, stating, "The auction is unusual in many respects. Assisted by other trustees, who have or had long involvement with the Scotch whisky industry, we approached a number of friends and colleagues, and they have been hugely generous."
The auction, hosted by Whisky.Auction, a London-based auction website, is open for bids until 19:30 on September 12, 2023. Isabel Graham-Yool, director of Whisky.Auction, commented, "This is one of the most remarkable auctions of my career. What is so special is that every single one of the 39 lots has particular significance, not only to whisky enthusiasts but also to the Maclean family and their generous friends who donated such rare and exceptional bottles from their own private collections."
In addition to the whisky lots, a library of 40 primarily first-edition whisky books donated from the personal libraries of 15 whisky writers, including Gavin Smith, Ian Buxton, Alice Lascelles, Nicholas Morgan, Dave Wondrich, Ingvar Ronde, and Charles Maclean, will be available for auction.
This exceptional charity auction represents a unique opportunity for whisky enthusiasts and collectors to acquire rare and significant bottles while contributing to a noble cause dedicated to providing clean water to communities in need.
About The Maclean Foundation
The Maclean Foundation is a charitable organization committed to the noble cause of providing clean water to communities in need. Founded by Ewan, Jamie, and Lachlan Maclean alongside their father Charles Maclean MBE, the foundation embodies a deep sense of philanthropy and a dedication to making a positive impact on society.
Clean and accessible water is a fundamental human right, and The Maclean Foundation recognizes the importance of addressing the global water crisis. Their mission is to raise funds and awareness for clean water projects, with a focus on improving the lives of those who lack access to safe drinking water.
The foundation's commitment extends beyond the mere provision of water; it encompasses the broader goal of enhancing the overall well-being and health of communities by ensuring they have access to this essential resource. By initiating and supporting clean water initiatives, The Maclean Foundation plays a vital role in alleviating water-related challenges that many communities face worldwide.
Charles Maclean, a renowned whisky author and a driving force behind the foundation's initiatives, seeks to leverage his expertise and network within the Scotch whisky industry to raise both awareness and the necessary funds to support clean water projects. Through unique and innovative fundraising efforts, such as rare whisky auctions, the foundation harnesses the generosity of individuals and organizations to contribute to the cause of clean water.
In a world where access to clean water remains a pressing concern for many, The Maclean Foundation stands as a beacon of hope, working diligently to make clean water a reality for those who need it most. Through their unwavering commitment to this vital mission, they are making a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of communities facing water challenges.
Auction lots
Ardbeg Rare Cask #93
Ardmore 1986 100th Ann
Arran 27 Year Old pair
Balblair Boutique-y & Print
Balvenie/Kininvie/Glenfiddich
Ben Nevis 1991 31 Year Old Platinum
Benromach 20th Anniversary
Benromach Distillery Exclusive
Bladnoch 1991 Connoisseurs Choice
Cameronbridge 1978 43 Year Old XOP
Caol Ila Cask Strength 12 Year Old & 18 Year Old Cask Strength
Chichibu 2010 #1000
Chivalry 18 Year Old Special Reserve
Craigellachie 1993 27 Year Old
Glen Scotia 1991 31 Year Old
Glenfiddich 21 Year Old Reserva
Glengoyne 1984 36 Year Old Russell Family
Glenrothes 1966 38 Year Old
Highland Park 25 Year Old Royal Mile Whiskies
Johnnie Walker Black Collector’s Edition
Karuizawa Omoiyari
Lagavulin Feis Ile 2011 & 2012
Macallan En Primeur 12 Year Old
Michael Jackson Special Blend/Spirit of Unity/Twenty Twenty
Mortlach 1987 26 Year Old Adelphi
Octomore Masterclass 08 Ed. 1-4
Oishii Wisukii 36 Year Old Highlander Inn
Port Charlotte 2001 19 Year Old
Port Dundas 2006 Signatory
Port Ellen 1977 35 Year Old Platinum
Port Ellen 1979 1 of 1
Royal Lochnagar 1994 26 Year Old & Auchroisk 1982 38 Year Old SMWS
Scotch Whisky Industry Leaders
Teaninich 1972 23 Year Old Rare Malts:
The Keepers of the Quaich Talisker/Highland Park/Tamnavulin
The Loch Fyne Ben Nevis & Dalmore
Whisky Library
Whyte & Mackay 25 Year Old Millennium Blend
