Glenfiddich celebrates anniversary with limited-edition bottle

Consisting of just 200 numbered bottles, Glenfiddich Rare Collection Cask No. 20050 (57.6% ABV) was laid down on Christmas Day (25 December) in 1987 – Glenfiddich’s centenary year – and matured in American oak hogsheads.

The release of the single malt comes as Glenfiddich, owned by William Grant & Sons, celebrates the 50th anniversary of its Speyside distillery visitor centre.

The family-owned distillery in Dufftown, Scotland – described as the “first of its kind” for the Scotch whisky sector – opened its doors in the summer of 1969.

Brian Kinsman, malt master at Glenfiddich, spoke of his enthusiasm for the rare expression.

'Visitor centre'

“This whisky is inspired by the 1969 bottling gifted to VIP guests at the original visitor centre opening,” he explained.

“At 30 years old, it is a true connoisseur’s choice with a host of seductive flavours and subtle aromas.”

Available exclusively from the visitor centre – priced at £1,600 per 700ml bottle – Kinsman added that its tastes and aromas see it worth every penny.

“Walnut in colour, on the nose, you’ll discover rich Christmas cake, woody spice and warm dried fruits, hints of cinnamon, antique leather and coffee grinds with a subtle citrus note enveloped in vanilla sweetness,” he boasted.

“Then to taste, a beautiful silky smooth texture, rich and fruity with a sweet spicy flavour and an incredible deep darkness.

'Luxurious mouth coating'

“The oak tannin creates an intriguing balance of sweet and dry with a luxurious mouth coating oiliness.

“All culminate in a long lasting, sweet oakiness – a rare and golden whisky experience to share and enjoy.”

David Grant, a former Glenfiddich brand manager – who was present at the 1969 opening – recalled how the visitor centre was their “most successful weapon”.

He said: “Today, people can’t receive how difficult it was in the 1960s to launch not just a malt whisky to the world, but the whole concept of a single malt whisky.

According to recent figures from the Scotch Whisky Association, more than 2m people visited Scotch distilleries in 2018.