Glen Grant distillery has introduced a new collection of single malt whiskies, known as the Glasshouse Collection. This collection features some of the oldest whiskies in the distillery’s permanent range: the 21, 25, and 30 Years Old single malts. The collection pays homage to the distillery’s rich history and its founder, James ‘The Major’ Grant, who was known for his love of travel and his Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants he collected from around the world.
A Tribute to Tradition and Mastery
The Glasshouse Collection is not just about the age of the whiskies but also the craftsmanship behind them. Each whisky has been matured in American oak bourbon barrels and oloroso sherry casks, giving them unique and complex flavors. The taller-necked copper stills, a signature of Glen Grant, were used in the distillation process, ensuring that the spirit maintains its character and integrity over time.
This collection also marks a significant milestone for Glen Grant as it is the last collection overseen by master distiller Dennis Malcolm, who is retiring after more than six decades in the whisky industry. Malcolm worked closely with his successor, Greig Stables, to create this collection. Stables expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future, saying, "Working alongside Dennis for nearly two decades has been an incredible journey. I am thrilled to lead Glen Grant into this new chapter and showcase how exceptionally the Glen Grant spirit ages over time."
The Whiskies and Their Stories
The Glen Grant Glasshouse Collection is designed to take whisky enthusiasts on a journey through different times of the day, each represented by one of the whiskies.
- The Glen Grant 21 Years Old (46% ABV): This whisky symbolizes "first light" with its fresh and vibrant character. It features tropical fruit and creamy butter notes, capturing the essence of the early morning light. It is available across the UK with a recommended retail price (RRP) of £250 (US$360).
- The Glen Grant 25 Years Old (46% ABV): Representing "golden hour," the time of day when the sun sets and casts a warm, golden hue, this whisky has dried stone fruit and toffee notes. It will be exclusively available online at Berry Bros & Rudd from June 14 to July 11, 2024, and subsequently from other retailers, priced at £734 (US$1,000).
- The Glen Grant 30 Years Old (48% ABV): This whisky embodies "twilight," with intricate layers of oak, hints of nectarine, honey, and dried fruit. It will be released later in 2024, with an RRP of US$3,000.
Celebrating a Legacy
To celebrate the launch of the Glasshouse Collection and Dennis Malcolm’s legacy, Glen Grant has partnered with artist Lachlan Turczan. Turczan’s installation, "A Day in the Glasshouse," is part of his Optical Resonance series and uses light and water to create reflections that represent each whisky’s character and the time of day they are associated with in the Glasshouse Collection.
The Glasshouse Collection will be available in select markets worldwide, including the US, UK, and Asia, beginning in 2024. This new range not only showcases the depth and complexity of Glen Grant’s aged whiskies but also honors the traditions and innovations that have defined the distillery for 180 years.
In summary, the Glen Grant Glasshouse Collection is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to quality and tradition. It offers whisky enthusiasts a chance to experience the rich history and craftsmanship of Glen Grant through its oldest and most exquisite expressions.
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.
