World’s oldest single malt Scotch whisky to be released this year

Whisky specialist Gordon & MacPhail is set to release the world’s oldest single malt Scotch whisky this year – an 85-Years-Old from Glenlivet Distillery.

In February 1940, in a quiet corner of the north-east of Scotland, George Urquhart and his father, John, laid down spirit from Glenlivet Distillery in a Gordon & MacPhail American oak cask to be enjoyed after his lifetime by future generations.

George Urquhart knew he would never taste it, and Cask 336 came to be 85 years – longer than any other single malt Scotch whisky in history. But earlier this year, the decision was taken to finally empty the cask, and 125 decanters of the whisky were bottled by specialists Gordon & MacPhail.

Stephen Rankin, director of prestige at Gordon & MacPhail, is a member of the fourth generation of the family behind the company.

George Urquhart, member of second generation of the family to own Gordon & MacPhail. Credit: Gordon MacPhail

‘This whisky is truly exceptional due to its remarkable history and unique maturation process,’ he said.

‘The influence of the cask, combined with the rarity and scarcity of the liquid, creates a whisky with a strength of 43.7% ABV that is not only extraordinary in its taste but also a living piece of history.’

Over it’s 130-year history, Gordon & MacPhail has worked to match its own casks with spirit from over 100 Scottish distilleries.

The firm has collaborated with internationally acclaimed American architect Jeanne Gang, to create a unique decanter to house the world’s most precious whisky to date. The product design – themed around ‘Artistry in Oak’ – will be revealed later this year.

‘I was excited to learn about everything involved in whisky’s creation,’ said Jeanne.

Cask 336 laid down on 3 February 1940. Credit: Gordon MacPhail

‘Each careful step lends something to a whisky’s unique flavor. Then, there are years of protecting the casks so they can age. In architecture, these elements of materiality and time also play a critical role in the design process.

‘Both are about creating something enduring, so this is what I found inspiring about this opportunity to design a decanter for Gordon & MacPhail’s 85-year-old single malt whisky.’

Jeanne’s stunning decanter will be revealed in October, with the first decanter destined to be auctioned by Christie’s New York in November. Auction proceeds (minus costs) will be donated to the oldest national non-profit conservation organisation in the United States, American Forests, a leader in forest restoration.

‘Given the importance of oak in our craft, this partnership was a natural fit, aligning with our mission to leave a meaningful legacy for ongoing generations, via fundraising for the sustainable future of American oak trees,’ Stephen said.

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