Cask 88 launches 45-year-old Ben Nevis single malt

Scotch whisky specialist Cask 88 has launched a 45-year-old Ben Nevis whisky, the first in a series of single cask bottlings inspired by legends of Scottish folklore.

45 Year Ben Nevis 1972 Single Malt has been inspired by Cù-Sìth – a terrifying large hound with a murderous bark, said to stalk the Highlands of Scotland.

Aged for 45 years in an ex-Sherry hogshead, the 1972 Ben Nevis expression is bottled at 43.2% abv and has an intense nutty aroma, while the palate has “notes of dark chocolate journeying into a mixture of tobacco leaves, dried herbs and a subtle oakiness”.

European sales director, Jonny Fowle, said: “The bold spirit of the Ben Nevis, which has matured for four and a half decades in the Scottish Highlands, is matched only by the equally indomitable spirit of the legendary Cù-Sìth.

“Both have drawn upon the region to develop in character and repute throughout the ages, making for a fine match.”

To produce the series of folklore-inspired whiskies, Cask 88 worked closely with art historian and Celtic Revival specialist Dr Frances Fowle to understand the history of the Cù-Sìth legend and its place in Scottish folklore.

The Cask 88 Scottish Folklore Series will consist of six single cask expressions, each featuring a mythical beast who has roamed the Highlands, stalked the Lowlands or inhibited the islands.

The first bottling in the Cask 88 Scottish Folklore Series, Cù-Sìth, is available for purchase from the Cask 88 online bottle shop for £650 per 70cl bottle.