Simon Wittenberg takes a look at Glen Scotia’s first release of 2023, and the latest addition to the Scottish distillery’s award-winning line-up.

The small Glen Scotia whisky distillery based in Campbeltown on Scotland’s west coast has started the new year with the unveiling of a new limited edition 21-year-old single malt, priced at £265. With just 2,500 bottles set to be released annually, the latest expression (46% ABV) bridges the gap between the brand’s 18-year-old and its globally renowned 25-year-old.

Carrying the Glen Scotia Aged 21 Years name, this non-chill filtered whisky has been laid down in a combination of refill bourbon barrels and American oak hogsheads, which have been personally chosen by the distillery’s expert team, before being finished for six months in first-fill Oloroso sherry casks to add a series of perfumed floral notes.

The result of using the aforementioned casks is a delightfully smooth and aromatic dram sporting a natural colour, with sweet perfumed Oloroso, spiced red apple, and peppercorns on the nose. The palate is treated to baked red apples, plump raisins, star anise, cinnamon, and spice, whilst the finish is long, complex, and incredibly balanced, with a lingering touch of sea salt and sherry dryness.

Master Distiller and Distillery Manager, Iain McAlister, said that he was delighted with the 21-year-old and couldn’t wait to see what people thought about the new whisky. He added that one of the things that he is most grateful for at Glen Scotia, is the distillery’s growing and supportive fan base across the globe, and that he hoped that whisky lovers worldwide enjoy the latest addition to the brand’s line-up.

The new 21-Year-Old expression is housed in Glen Scotia’s premium and elegant bottle, sporting deep hues of purple and gold, and features an elegant metal coin of the Glen Scotia entwined ‘GS’ logo set into the shoulder. The bottle is complemented by a solid display box, ideal for collectors or gifting to whisky connoisseurs.

Glen Scotia Aged 21 Years whisky – Where and How?

The new Aged 21 Years whisky is available to purchase from the Glen Scotia online store and worldwide through specialist retailers.

To find out more, visit: www.glenscotia.com/products/21-year-old-single-malt-whisky.

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