Glen Scotia expands Icons of Campbeltown series
Loch Lomond Group-owned Glen Scotia Distillery has unveiled the third edition in its annual Icons of Campbeltown series.
The third expression in the five-part limited series, inspired by Scottish folklore, is based on the Wulver, a wolf-like creature said to be formidable yet gentle in nature.
Previous releases in the series were inspired by the mermaid and dragon.
The new Tawny Port Cask Finish 12-year-old is a unpeated single malt created by Ashley Smith, master blender of Glen Scotia.
After initial maturation in Bourbon barrels, the whisky was finished for nine months in tawny Port casks, resulting in aromas of forest fruits, candied nuts, caramel, and crisp red apple. The palate offers notes of dried figs, orange peel, praline, and vanilla.
Smith said: “The ancient market cross that inspired the Glen Scotia Icons of Campbeltown series gives us an exciting starting point to experiment with the single malts to match the mythical icons.
“For the third release in the series, I wanted to create a unique 12-year-old expression using the finest tawny Port casks to finish the whisky, which have imparted rich fruity flavours paired with the subtle maritime notes that are a well-loved distinction of Glen Scotia.”
To bring the Wulver to life, Glen Scotia has partnered with artist John Holtzman, known for his work with Disney, Marvel, and Macmillan.
Icons of Campbeltown Release No.3 is offered at 51.7% ABV and is now available from the distillery’s website and visitor centre, as well as exclusively at Fortnum & Mason.
The limited release has a suggested retail price of £80 (US$108).
The legend
The tales of the Wulver describe a creature with the head of a wolf and the body of a man, covered in a thick coat of brown fur. However, these stories are not typical tales of witchcraft or terror. Instead, depictions of the Wulver reflect the generous spirit that has been a part of Campbeltown’s identity for nearly two centuries, particularly in the context of Glen Scotia.
According to legend, the Wulver lived in a cave carved into the side of a wooded hill, a place where few dared to venture.
Stories describe the Wulver as a solitary creature who spent his days fishing. He was known for his generosity, often leaving fish on the windowsills of his poor neighbours during the night.
The beast is another of the mythical icons depicted on Campbeltown’s medieval market cross.
The 14th-century cross features intricate stone carvings, created by unknown artisans over the course of several centuries. The surface is adorned with figures of saints, mythical creatures, warriors, and enemies, each representing different eras of Campbeltown’s history.
Iain McAlister, distillery manager and master distiller at Glen Scotia, added: “Our distilling community knows a thing or two about supporting each other in times of need, just like the Wulver did, as the tales are told. That same bold Campbeltown spirit is still very much alive in the town today, and it is this character and quiet generosity that Glen Scotia is honouring in this latest instalment in our Icons of Campbeltown series.”
Earlier this year, Glen Scotia unveiled the first expression with a new brand identity, a 12-year-old core range single malt.
Related news
The Whisky Exchange and Speciality Drinks rebrand
