Glenfarclas, one of Scotland’s revered few remaining family-owned distilleries, has made history with the release of its oldest whisky to date: an extraordinary 70-year-old single malt. This highly anticipated expression comes with a price tag of £20,000 and represents an unparalleled moment in the distillery’s storied legacy.
Distilled on November 20, 1953, this remarkable whisky harks back to a time when barley was still hand-turned on the malting floors – a testament to traditional whisky-making methods. It was initially laid down in first-fill sherry casks and has since matured gracefully in the distillery’s traditional dunnage warehouses in Speyside, soaking up the unique character of its surroundings for over seven decades.
The exclusivity of this release is striking, with only 262 bottles made available globally. These exceptionally rare bottles will be distributed across 50 markets through a carefully selected network of specialist retailers, making them a coveted acquisition for collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.
According to the producers, this 70-year-old Glenfarclas is the “pinnacle in the distillery’s legacy, embodying over seven decades of meticulous ageing and expertise.” It stands as one of the very few remaining casks from that specific era, underscoring its immense historical and intrinsic value.
In a move that speaks volumes about the brand’s philosophy, the whisky is presented in Glenfarclas’s customary understated red packaging. This deliberate choice by the family is intended “to let the whisky speak for itself,” allowing the liquid’s exceptional quality and heritage to take center stage without unnecessary fanfare.
John Grant, chairman and fifth-generation of the Grant family, described the release of this milestone cask as “a true milestone.” His words emphasize not only the age and rarity of the whisky but also its significance as a testament to the enduring commitment and expertise of the Glenfarclas family.
This 70-year-old Glenfarclas isn’t just a whisky; it’s a piece of history, a liquid legacy, and a must-have for serious whisky enthusiasts looking to own a truly unique and aged Speyside single malt.
