Bladnoch unveils ‘ultra-rare’ collection

The oldest working Scotch whisky distillery in the Lowlands, Bladnoch, has launched The Samhla Collection, an ‘ultra-rare’ series of single malts.

Derived from the Scots Gaelic word meaning ‘symbol’ or ‘likeness,’ Samhla is a family of exceptionally rare single malt whiskies that is said to embody three generations of Bladnoch’s history.

The collection includes three vintages: The McClelland, distilled in 1966 and limited to only 15 bottles; The Prior, distilled in 1990 and limited to 50 bottles; and The Sage, distilled in 2008 and limited to 100 bottles.

Bladnoch Distillery, which boasts a storied history dating back over 200 years, was brought back to life in 2015 by David Prior, and The Samhla Collection is said to serve as a tribute to the ‘authentic human relationships that have shaped Bladnoch’s legacy’ since.

“To preserve and nurture Bladnoch’s heritage is a profound honour, and it symbolises the preservation of a legacy that has  weathered the test of time,” commented Prior.

“The Samhla Collection stands as a tribute to the remarkable journey Bladnoch has undertaken. It is a privilege to ensure its continued existence, and to carry the torch of tradition, innovation, and excellence  for generations yet to come.”

Representing the distillery’s past and honouring its provenance, the 1966 whisky stands as Bladnoch’s oldest release to date.

It is described as delicate yet complex, having been matured in an American oak cask.

It boasts a gentle and delicate nose, with fresh green apples along with herbal fresh cut grass and forest aromas, with orange peel, chocolate, hints of mint leaves and polished oak on the palate.

The 1990 vintage, representing Bladnoch’s present, was distilled in the same year Prior began his entrepreneurial journey, and is said to encapsulate his vision and leadership in restoring the distillery as the heart of the local community.

Its aroma is rich with liquorice sticks, dried apricots and dark dates, and its finish is long and viscous with a slight pepperiness.

Finally, The Sage was distilled in 2008 – the year Prior’s daughter, Sage, was born.

Drawn from two American oak red wine hogsheads, this expression symbolises Bladnoch’s commitment to sustainable whisky production, and its laying down of innovative casks of the highest quality in its warehouses so that it can one day hand over a ‘treasure chest’ of whisky to the next generation.

It is described as having flavours of black cherries with strawberry jam and cracked black pepper.

Prior said: “In recent years, we have witnessed an unprecedented surge in the appreciation and demand for rare whiskies, with collectors and enthusiasts recognising their inherent value as both liquid assets and cultural artefacts. These extraordinary expressions, carefully crafted over time, embody the essence of craftsmanship, history, and exclusivity that discerning investors seek.” 

Those interested in purchasing can register their interest at www.bladnoch.com/thesamhlacollection.

Bladnoch recently launched The Dragon Series – a collection of five single malts that celebrate the ‘natural unpredictability’ of whisky making.