Last duel of London inspires Berry Bros release
London-based spirits merchant Berry Bros & Rudd has unveiled a set of two single malt whiskies inspired by the capital’s last duel.
The last duel of London is said to have taken place at the merchant’s premises in Pickering Place, St James Street.
To commemorate the fabled duel, Berry Bros & Rudd has launched a duo of single malt Scotch whiskies, representing two sides of the story: Justice and Honour.
The new release aims to explore the ambiguity of two intertwining narratives, with the spirits themselves providing distinct voices for each side of the story.
Felix Dear, spirits curator at Berry Bros & Rudd, said: “Our position as an independent bottler allows us the rare opportunity to bring together two whiskies that would never normally collide. The Duel invites an extremely limited number of buyers to immerse themselves in a sensory exploration of the intersecting and contrasting narratives of both Justice and Honour and decide for themselves who triumphs.
“This exquisite release offers the opportunity to own two of the finest and rarest bottlings from Scotland’s most coveted and contrasting whisky regions. It’s also a rare moment for collectors to step into Berry Bros & Rudd’s 327-year history themselves, as a decision maker in London’s last historic duel.”
Representing the factual retelling of the story, Justice is a 54-year-old Speyside single malt from an unclassified distillery, distilled in 1970. Bottled at 43.4% ABV, the expression offers aromas of golden honey, citrus peel, and seasoned oak, followed by notes of orange marmalade, apricot, and vanilla on the palate.
Honour, representing the more romantic and poetic side of the event, is presented through a 34-year-old Laphroaig single malt, distilled in 1991 and drawn from a single hogshead, at 43.3% ABV.
The Islay single malt offers aromas reminiscent of a summer barbecue, with notes of soot and smoke. On the palate, the whisky displays meaty notes, soft sugar, and coal dust.
Lizzy Rudd, chair at Berry Bros & Rudd, added: “With a tapestry as rich and enduring as Berry Bros & Rudd, we have our fair share of stories. Over my time as chair, I have heard many wildly different versions of the story, with each one capturing the imagination. The Duel is our way of bottling that intrigue.”
Both whiskies are presented in hand-blown, lead-free crystal decanters crafted by the British maker Dartington Crystal. Honour features a mottled texture that enhances its smoky Islay profile, while Justice is adorned with flutes that emphasise its Speyside character.
The display case, crafted from eco-friendly jesmonite, highlights the contrasts between Honour and Justice, with the former featuring a swirling texture, while the latter has a polished finish. A brass coin sits between them, symbolising authenticity and referencing the tradition of duelling.
Inspired by the ritual of a duel, where opponents turn to face each other, the cabinet reflects that choreography. When closed, the decanters are in counterpose; as the doors open, they rotate 180 degrees, bringing the two spirits face-to-face.
The Duel is limited to 50 sets, available exclusively from Berry Bros & Rudd, with a recommended retail price of £20,000 (US$26,900).
Earlier this year, the London merchant appointed Rob Symington as its new managing director for the UK.
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