The Glen Grant’s Extraordinary 65-Year-Old Single Malt Unveiled
The world of whisky transcends mere consumption; it encompasses artistry, tradition, and meticulous craftsmanship. The Glen Grant has taken this ethos to new heights with the launch of its 65-year-old single malt, a remarkable addition to their collection, unveiled at the prestigious Art Basel Hong Kong, an event that unites the realms of art and fine spirits.
Aged to Perfection
The Glen Grant 65 has undergone an exceptional maturation process in a single French oak sherry butt, resulting in a profound depth of flavor and color. While its mahogany hue and aromatic profile suggests an influence of sherry—marked by notes of molasses and rich raisins—the palate reveals a more nuanced experience. The whisky is delicately balanced, showcasing layers of flavor that begin with brioche spread with marmalade, transitioning into dark cherry notes, and finishing with gentle hints of cedar smoke, leading to a satisfying conclusion.
The Inaugural Release in the Splendours Collection
This unique whisky is the inaugural expression from The Glen Grant’s Splendours Collection, which takes inspiration from the 27-acre Garden of Splendours, a botanical haven established at the distillery since the late 19th century. The delicate nature of this whisky mirrors the elegance of its floral namesake, making it a fitting tribute to the distillery’s legacy.
Craftsmanship Behind the Bottle
The 111-proof spirit was carefully aged in the oldest stone dunnage warehouse at the distillery, where stable temperature and humidity levels facilitated a gradual aging process, enhancing its interaction with the wood. However, the angel’s share—whisky lost to evaporation—limited the yield to only 151 bottles, each one designed with meticulous care.
To capture the essence of this remarkable whisky, The Glen Grant collaborated with designer John Galvin of Glasstorm. Galvin crafted a stunning decanter, characterized by its ovular shape and sharp metallic ends, which encases a crystal core showcasing the vibrant liquid. The decanter rests on a round wooden base, its design reminiscent of a Möbius strip, symbolizing the endless cycle of nature.
Symbolism and Presentation
The natural materials used in the decanter—wood sourced from the Garden of Splendours—substantiate the whisky’s connection to its heritage. Furthermore, the exterior features engravings of Himalayan blue poppies, which were cultivated at the distillery by the passionate botanist and second-generation master distiller, James “The Major” Grant, in 1886.
This combination of wood, metal, and glass artistry ensures that the presentation of The Glen Grant 65 is worthy of an art gallery, aligning perfectly with its debut at Art Basel Hong Kong. While the whisky’s artistic presentation is undeniable, tasting it promises to be a highlight of the exhibition, elevating it beyond mere visual appeal.
