In a landmark moment for whisky enthusiasts, Royal Brackla has astounded the spirits connoisseur community with the unveiling of its oldest proprietary bottling to date - a venerable 45-year-old whisky, adorned with a distinguished finishing touch. This extraordinary expression, a testament to the distillery's unwavering commitment to craft and heritage, has been matured with meticulous care, promising an unparalleled sensory journey for those fortunate enough to partake.
Distilled on the auspicious date of August 28, 1975, this exceptional elixir has spent over four and a half decades evolving in re-fill hogsheads, before embarking on a transformative one-year sojourn within the sanctuary of a single first-fill oloroso sherry cask. The provenance of this cask is none other than Bodegas Jose y Miguel Martin in Jerez, Spain, a venerable partner renowned for its commitment to excellence.
Bottled at an exacting 46.6% alcohol by volume (ABV), the 45-year-old Royal Brackla is an embodiment of sophistication and refinement. The alchemists behind this liquid gold, as the producers affectionately refer to it, describe its flavor profile as a harmonious symphony of a biscuit base, decadent rich coffee, and the comforting embrace of silky milk chocolate. The tasting notes alone are enough to evoke a sensory journey through time, offering a glimpse into the careful orchestration of flavors that only the passage of years can bestow upon such a rare spirit.
The vessel housing this liquid masterpiece is no less than a work of art. Encased in an intricately engraved bottle, the whisky is ensconced in a bespoke wooden box crafted from solid walnut. The box, a tactile testament to craftsmanship, is luxuriously lined with leather, echoing the opulence contained within.
Stephanie Macleod, the revered malt master at Royal Brackla, has poured her expertise and passion into the creation of this exceptional expression. Reflecting on the release, she notes, "Spending this amount of time in oak has given great depth and maturity to the whisky, showing off the qualities of the casks we use for maturing Royal Brackla." Her meticulous approach shines through in the "Finishing Touch," a culmination of the first-fill Oloroso cask that draws out aromatic spices, elevating the whisky to new heights of complexity.
The exclusivity of this release is underscored by the scarcity of the product - a mere 172 bottles exist, destined solely for Taiwan. The Royal Brackla 45-year-old whisky commands a price tag that befits its rarity, with a recommended retail price of £8,500 GBP or $10,500 USD per bottle. This elixir is not merely a beverage; it is an invitation to savor a moment of unparalleled extravagance, reserved for those who appreciate the extraordinary, those who seek the epitome of craftsmanship in every sip. Royal Brackla's oldest expression is an embodiment of time, skill, and dedication, encapsulated in a single bottle for the discerning few who understand that some things only get better with age.
Shop Royal Brackla
- Master of Malt (UK/WW)
- The Whisky Exchange (UK/WW)
- ReserveBar (US)
- Drizly (US)
- Wine.com (US)
About Royal Brackla
Royal Brackla Distillery holds a significant place in the history of Scotch whisky production, situated in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. Established in 1812 by Captain William Fraser, it is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland and was the first to receive a royal warrant, earning it the "Royal" designation in 1833. This distinction was granted by King William IV, and as a result, Royal Brackla became known as "The King's Own Whisky."
The distillery is located near the town of Nairn, close to Inverness, in an area known for its lush landscapes and historic significance. The setting, with its proximity to both the coast and the Highlands, contributes to the distinctive character of the whisky produced at Royal Brackla. The distillery draws water from the nearby Cawdor Burn, ensuring a pure and pristine water source for the whisky-making process.
Royal Brackla is celebrated for its single malt Scotch whiskies, which are often characterized by a rich and robust flavor profile. The distillery employs traditional copper pot stills to distill its spirit, allowing for a careful and controlled production process. The whisky is typically aged in a combination of oak casks, contributing to its complexity and depth.
One of the notable expressions from Royal Brackla is the Royal Brackla 12 Year Old. This whisky is known for its well-balanced combination of sweet, fruity, and malty notes, with a touch of spiciness. As a brand with a royal heritage, Royal Brackla whiskies have a sense of regality and prestige, making them sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Visitors to Royal Brackla Distillery have the opportunity to explore its historic premises, learn about the traditional methods employed in whisky production, and indulge in tastings of the distinctive expressions crafted at the distillery. The royal connection and the distillery's long-standing history contribute to the allure of Royal Brackla whiskies, making them a fascinating part of Scotland's whisky heritage.
