In a momentous celebration of 125 years of whisky craftsmanship, Aberfeldy, the esteemed Highland single malt distillery under the Bacardi umbrella, has unveiled a collector's dream—a limited edition 25 Year Old expression. This golden elixir, encased in a specially designed commemorative pack, pays homage to the rich legacy of Aberfeldy, a distillery founded in 1898 by John Alexander Dewar, a trailblazer in the Scotch whisky realm and one of the iconic "Whisky Barons."
This milestone release, described as "luxuriously succulent," undergoes a meticulous maturation process. Distilled with care in Highland Perthshire, the whisky matures for over two decades in a harmonious blend of refill hogsheads and refill butts. Adding a touch of opulence, it then rests for more than a year in first-fill Oloroso Sherry casks, imparting complex flavors that dance on the palate.
Stephanie Macleod, Aberfeldy's accomplished Malt Master and a five-time recipient of the International Whisky Competition's 'Master Blender of the Year' award, expressed the significance of the occasion. "The walls of our charming distillery are steeped in history and heritage, standing testament to a tradition of whisky making stretching back over generations," she noted. "Aberfeldy is truly at the heart of Scotland, and, as soon as you arrive, it’s easy to see why John Alexander Dewar chose this area to build his first and only distillery."
This limited edition, bottled at a robust 46% alcohol by volume and devoid of chill filtration, promises an exquisite sensory journey. With Highland honey, wild strawberries, and ripe peaches caressed by the sun, the nose is a prelude to a palate where delicate fruit intertwines with a malty, cereal base, accompanied by hints of vanilla-infused coffee. The grand finale is a "long, satisfying" finish, a testament to the artistry within each bottle.
For those eager to savor this exceptional expression, it is available for purchase at the price of $549.99. Enthusiasts can secure their bottles online or through select specialist retailers. The release date for this limited edition is November, a fitting tribute to the distillery's 125-year journey of excellence.
But the celebration doesn't end with the liquid gold; Aberfeldy has collaborated with master goldsmith Nigel O'Reilly to create an exclusive line of unisex jewelry inspired by the distillery's rich history. The Aberfeldy Collection boasts bespoke pieces, including the Highland Honeycomb Ring, drawing inspiration from Aberfeldy's water source, and the Pitilie Burn Cufflinks, reminiscent of whisky being poured into a rocks glass. O'Reilly, known for his craftsmanship and use of naturally sourced precious stones, remarked, "I find inspiration in the beautiful landscape of the Scottish Highlands and the brilliant character of naturally sourced precious stones gilded in gold – two elements Aberfeldy has in spades."
Aberfeldy's commitment to sustainability is evident, with a notable 90% reduction in carbon footprint since 2015, attributed to the installation of a biomass boiler. Water efficiency has also seen a commendable improvement of over 30% in the last 15 years.
As a final note of distinction, Aberfeldy proudly garnered five Gold awards at The Scotch Whisky Masters 2023, reinforcing its position as a paragon of quality and craftsmanship in the world of single malt Scotch whisky. With each bottle, Aberfeldy invites enthusiasts to partake in a sensory journey that encapsulates the essence of 125 years of dedication and mastery.
Buy the Aberfeldy 25 Year Old Limited Edition.
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About Aberfeldy Distillery
Aberfeldy Distillery is a renowned Scottish single malt whisky distillery located in the picturesque town of Aberfeldy, situated in central Scotland. Founded by the John Dewar & Sons Company in 1898, Aberfeldy has a rich history of producing high-quality Scotch whisky. The distillery is often associated with the Dewar's blended Scotch whiskies, where the Aberfeldy single malt serves as a key component.
Nestled near the River Tay and surrounded by the scenic landscapes of Highland Perthshire, Aberfeldy Distillery is known for its traditional approach to whisky production. The distillery sources its water from the Pitilie Burn, renowned for its pure and abundant water supply, a crucial element in the whisky-making process.
Aberfeldy single malt Scotch whisky is characterized by a mellow and accessible profile, often described as honeyed and fruity. The distillery primarily uses copper pot stills in the distillation process, contributing to the smooth and well-rounded character of its whiskies. Aberfeldy is often considered an ideal introduction to single malt Scotch, appealing to both novices and connoisseurs alike.
Visitors to Aberfeldy Distillery have the opportunity to explore the production process through guided tours and tastings. The distillery offers a visitor center that provides insights into the history of Aberfeldy and the craftsmanship involved in producing its whiskies. The interactive experience allows guests to appreciate the artistry and tradition that goes into every bottle.
Aberfeldy has a core range of single malt whiskies, including expressions like Aberfeldy 12-Year-Old and Aberfeldy 16-Year-Old, each offering a distinct flavor profile. These whiskies often showcase the influence of oak casks in maturation, with a balance of sweet, fruity, and subtly spicy notes.
The distillery's commitment to producing quality single malt Scotch and its picturesque location make Aberfeldy a notable destination for whisky enthusiasts looking to explore the heritage and flavors of Highland Scotch whisky.