The Balvenie Unveils the Oldest Whisky in the World

In a remarkable display of craftsmanship and history, The Balvenie distillery has launched its 88-year-old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, now recognized as the oldest whisky in the world. Located in Dufftown, Scotland—renowned as the 'malt whisky capital of the world'—The Balvenie has a rich heritage dating back to 1892.

This extraordinary whisky was distilled in 1931 and only bottled in 2019 by the distillery's Malt Master, Kelsey McKechnie. The release not only surpasses the previous record held by Gordon & MacPhail’s 85-Year-Old Glenlivet but also marks a significant milestone in whisky history.

To celebrate this historic release, The Balvenie has collaborated with American artist Daniel Arsham. The whisky is encased in a hand-blown crystal decanter, designed as a tribute to the distillery's unique copper stills. Arsham's work, a bronze sculpture that supports the decanter, symbolizes the whisky's lengthy maturation, featuring eight layers to represent each decade spent in cask. The design aims to evoke the essence of time and craftsmanship inherent in The Balvenie's legacy.

Additionally, the 88-year-old whisky is part of a special 1931 Collection, which also includes a 15-year-old and a 12-year-old whisky, both made from home-grown barley. Arsham’s design extends to the packaging of these younger whiskies, creating a cohesive aesthetic across the collection.

The year 1931 holds historical significance for The Balvenie, marking the establishment of its Home Malt Floor, where the barley for this whisky was malted. This liquid, aged in a European oak sherry butt from Jerez, was carefully monitored over the decades until McKechnie determined it was finally ready for bottling.

With only 17 bottles of this exclusive 88-year-old whisky available, tasting notes describe a rich complexity of honey, mint leaf, buttery fudge, and floral heather tones. The Balvenie will showcase the 1931 Collection at Frieze Seoul, where attendees can experience an immersive performance directed by Arsham, celebrating this monumental achievement in whisky-making.

Source: www.wallpaper.com