Speyside distillery The Glen Grant has revealed its most aged release to date, a 70-year-old single malt whisky, with one decanter anticipated to fetch £70,000 to £110,000 at auction.
The Glen Grant introduces its oldest whisky release yet, The Glen Grant Devotion 70-year-old single malt. This exceptional whisky boasts a robust 55.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) and hails from a single French oak butt, seasoned with oloroso sherry and filled at The Glen Grant distillery in 1953.
The collaborative efforts of Master distiller Dennis Malcolm OBE, craftsman John Galvin, and hot glass master Brodie Nairn of Glasstorm have brought this remarkable release to fruition. A limited series of seven hand-blown decanters have been meticulously crafted, each featuring a unique design celebrating a different decade of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.
Master distiller Dennis Malcolm expressed, "In the true spirit of The Glen Grant, we bring together the inspiring legacy of our story with the personal devotion of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, to realize this exquisite masterpiece. To be devoted is to show unwavering loyalty and love for something deeply cherished, which lies at the core of our whisky-making philosophy, as well as shining through with our creative collaborators. This is a lifetime of character and legacy captured in a magnificent creation, unlike anything we have ever seen."
To champion the preservation of Scotland’s native woodlands, the very first decanter will go under the virtual gavel at Sotheby’s in an online auction running from September 11 to September 22, 2023. All proceeds from this auction will be donated to the Royal Scottish Forestry Society, of which Queen Elizabeth II was the Patron. This unique decanter, Number One, features The Queen Elizabeth Rose, a tribute to Her Majesty, adorned in gold engraving and distinct embellishments exclusive to this auction piece.
Following the auction of decanter Number One, the remaining six decanters will be available for purchase, with prices available upon request starting in October 2023.
These seven decanters, each adorned with a silver capsule featuring individual floral engravings, will be accessible for sale in select global markets:
UK – Rose
Singapore – Orchid
Hong Kong – Daffodil
US – Daisy & Clematis
China – Begonia
Japan – Stephanotis
Jonny Fowle, global head of spirits at Sotheby’s, commented, "This whisky embodies so much of what is important in whisky collecting: quality, rarity, age, and most of all provenance, as the oldest whisky ever to be released directly from The Glen Grant Distillery itself. This whisky displays a fantastically deep, dark color after seven decades of oak maturation, which contrasts beautifully with John Galvin’s opulent light wood structure, making it the perfect centerpiece for the world’s most impressive whisky collections."
The decanters rest within a handcrafted wood sculpture created from a fallen elm tree discovered within the distillery gardens. Engravings on the sculpture’s silver diameter pay homage to Her Majesty’s favorite flowers, the Lily of the Valley, and feature the proud Thistle of Scotland.
About The Royal Scottish Forestry Society (RSFS)
The Royal Scottish Forestry Society (RSFS) is a distinguished organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Scotland's rich forestry heritage. Founded in 1854, the RSFS has a long and illustrious history of championing sustainable forestry practices, conservation, and the responsible management of Scotland's woodlands.
One of the society's primary objectives is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of forests and trees among its members and the wider public. To achieve this, the RSFS regularly organizes events, educational programs, and initiatives that aim to share knowledge about forestry, tree cultivation, and woodland management. These activities help raise awareness about the importance of sustainable forestry for both the environment and the Scottish economy.
The RSFS also plays a vital role in supporting research and innovation in forestry-related fields. By collaborating with experts and institutions, the society contributes to the development of best practices and the advancement of forestry science. This commitment to research ensures that Scotland's woodlands are managed effectively and that they continue to thrive for future generations.
Furthermore, the RSFS actively engages with conservation efforts to protect Scotland's native woodlands and biodiversity. It advocates for the responsible use of natural resources, taking into account the ecological significance of forests. The society's initiatives align with broader environmental goals, making it a key player in Scotland's sustainability and conservation landscape.
As a testament to its enduring commitment to forestry, the RSFS receives support and recognition from influential figures, including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who served as its Patron. Through its dedication to promoting responsible forestry practices and preserving Scotland's natural heritage, the Royal Scottish Forestry Society remains a vital organization in the stewardship of Scotland's forests and woodlands.
About Glen Grant
The Glen Grant Distillery, nestled in the heart of the renowned Speyside region of Scotland, is a historic and revered name in the world of Scotch whisky. Founded in 1840 by brothers James and John Grant, this distillery boasts a rich heritage that spans over 180 years. It is celebrated for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and its dedication to producing exceptional single malt Scotch whisky.
One of the defining characteristics of Glen Grant whisky is its light and delicate style, which sets it apart in the Speyside region. This style is achieved through a combination of factors, including the distillery's tall, slender copper pot stills and the use of purifiers on the distillation process. The result is a whisky known for its smooth, fruity, and floral notes, making it highly approachable for both seasoned whisky connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of Scotch.
Glen Grant has a legacy of innovation in whisky production. Under the ownership of the Grant family, the distillery was one of the first in Scotland to introduce electric lighting, hydraulic power, and even a railway line to facilitate distribution. This forward-thinking approach extended to the development of its whisky, setting a standard for quality and consistency that persists to this day.
The distillery's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident through its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and support eco-friendly practices in the whisky industry. Glen Grant is actively involved in programs to conserve and protect the natural surroundings of its Speyside location, highlighting its dedication to preserving the region's natural beauty.
Over the years, Glen Grant has received numerous awards and accolades, further solidifying its reputation as a producer of world-class Scotch whisky. Its range of expressions includes both age-statement and non-age-statement releases, catering to a wide spectrum of tastes.
Visitors to the Glen Grant Distillery can explore its rich history through guided tours and tastings, gaining insights into the artistry and tradition that go into each bottle. Today, Glen Grant remains a beloved name in the whisky world, revered for its elegance, quality, and the enduring spirit of innovation that has defined its legacy for generations.
