Bacardi rolls out ‘last great’ single malts in US

John Dewar & Sons’ “Last of the Great Malts” series has arrived in the US with the launch of Craigellachie and the new-look Aberfeldy Scotch single malts.

The newly-designed Aberfeldy, along with new single malt Craigellachie, will roll out in the US this month

Since its grand unveiling at the Stockholm Whisky Show in September 2014, the series has been gradually rolling out to leading single malt markets around the world.

Lead by Craigellachie and Aberfeldy, the range also includes never-before-released single malts from Aultmore, Glen Deveron and Royal Brackla.

First to enter the US market this month are a 13-year-old and 23-year-old single malt from Craigellachie, which is known for its signature sulphuric, meaty style. Further expressions from the Speyside distillery are due to follow later down the line.

Also launching in the US this February is the newly-designed Aberfeldy range, which with a new look by design consultancy Stranger and Stranger, features a 12- and 21-year-old in its range.

John Dewar & Sons, which is owned by Bacardi, has also revealed the rest of the Last Great Malts portfolio will roll out into the US market throughout the rest of this year, starting with three expressions from Royal Brackla.

Following the limited edition launch of a US$15,000 35-year-old expression in April 2014, Royal Brackla, which has a heavily-Sherried character, will be permanently available in the US through 12-, 16- and 21-year-old.single malts.

Three whiskies from Glen Deveron, released under the Deveron brand, will be released later this summer as 12-, 18- and 25-year-old whiskies, while two expressions from Aultmore – a 12- and 25-year-old, will be rolled out later this year.

Stephen Marshall, single malts global marketing manager, said: “We have been patiently reserving casks and we are now ready to share the distinguished malts with whisky lovers around the world – each release features an age statement.

“Up until now, these amazing liquids have been Scotland’s best-kept secret, known only to a few. Now we’re appealing to single malt drinkers – people who like stories and enthusiasts who are interested in exploring the aromas of the world’s most complex spirit. We are excited to bring two of these single malts to the United States this year with the rest to follow in the future.”