Fettercairn Distillery, owned by Whyte & Mackay, proudly announces its third annual release of the 18-Year-Old Single Malt, finished in responsibly sourced Scottish oak. This limited-edition whisky, first introduced in 2022, highlights both provenance and innovation, underscoring the distillery’s commitment to sustainable craftsmanship.
Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains, Fettercairn celebrates its 200th anniversary this year. The distillery remains true to its roots, using locally sourced barley from farms within a 50-mile radius, ensuring a strong connection to the land.
One of the distillery’s unique features is its use of copper cooling rings, which cascade ice-cold water from the nearby mountains down the exterior of the stills. This innovative design cools the stills, allowing only the lightest vapors to rise, giving Fettercairn whisky its signature tropical house style.
The 18-Year-Old release is part of Fettercairn’s broader efforts to incorporate Scottish oak into its whisky production. Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass introduced the Scottish Oak initiative eight years ago, aiming to future-proof the industry while promoting sustainability. This groundbreaking program encourages the use of 100% native wood in whisky making, creating a circular economy for the industry.
The 18-Year-Old Single Malt is matured initially in first-fill and refill ex-Bourbon American White Oak barrels before being fully finished in Scottish Oak, responsibly sourced for this unique expression.
Glass reflected on the project, stating, “The Scottish Oak Programme is one of my proudest achievements. Each annual release of the Fettercairn 18 Years Old is a reminder of the journey our team has undertaken to bring this to life. Over the last three years, we’ve built a loyal following for this special whisky, and we hope more people discover the incredible flavors Scottish Oak imparts to Scotch.”
In 2021, Fettercairn replanted an ancient forest near the distillery, with the saplings now visible from the site. “While these trees won’t be used in whisky making for generations, they serve as a powerful reminder that our work is for the future,” added Glass.
Bottled non-chill filtered at 46.8% ABV, this 18-Year-Old Single Malt delivers a sensory experience with notes of sugared almonds, baking spices, passion fruit, and guava on the nose. The palate offers exotic syruped fruits, patisserie sugars, brioche, and spices, with subtle berry hints leading to a cacao and natural vanilla finish.
The 2024 limited release will be available from specialist retailers starting in October, with a recommended retail price of £212 (US$277).
Earlier this year, Fettercairn also marked its bicentenary with the unveiling of a 200th Anniversary Collection featuring six single malts, retailing for £100,000 (US$127,640).
