Aberfeldy marks 125 years with 25YO whisky

Bacardi-owned whisky Aberfeldy has released a limited edition whisky to mark 125 years of whisky making at its distillery.

The brand has also partnered with master goldsmith Nigel O’Reilly to create a unisex line of jewellery inspired by Aberfeldy’s history. Aberfeldy has been creating whisky in Highland Perthshire since 1898. John Alexander Dewar, a pioneer in the Scotch whisky world, founded the distillery. The 25-year-old limited edition comes in a commemorative pack celebrating the distillery's heritage. The whisky is matured in a combination of refill hogsheads and refill butts and finished for more than a year in first-fill oloroso Sherry casks. It is described as ‘luxuriously succulent’, with notes of Highland honey, wild strawberries and ripe peaches ‘warmed by the sun’. On the palate, delicate fruit rests on a malty, cereal base, with a hint of vanilla coffee and a ‘long, satisfying’ finish. The expression, which has an ABV of 46% and is non-chill filtered, can be purchased online and at specialist retailers for US$549.99. Aberfeldy’s malt master Stephanie Macleod said: “The walls of our charming distillery are steeped in history and heritage, standing testament to a tradition of whisky making stretching back over generations. “Together with the distillery team, led by distillery manager John MacKenzie, and the team of talented blenders, we have the honour of balancing past, present and future in every bottle of Aberfeldy to create the consistent premium quality and taste people enjoy around the world. “Aberfeldy is truly at the heart of Scotland and, as soon as you arrive, it’s easy to see why John Alexander Dewar chose this area to build his first and only distillery.” The jewellery range created by O’Reilly features one-of-a-kind bespoke pieces, including the Highland Honeycomb Ring, which is inspired by Aberfeldy’s water source and environs. The Pitilie Burn Cufflinks are inspired by whisky being poured into a rocks glass. Five additional pieces complete the Aberfeldy Collection, which can be purchased directly from O’Reilly’s website. “When crafting my pieces, I find inspiration in the beautiful landscape of the Scottish Highlands and the brilliant character of naturally sourced precious stones gilded in gold – two elements Aberfeldy has in spades,” said O’Reilly. “When designing the Highland Honeycomb Ring and Pitilie Burn Cufflinks, as well as selecting additional items from my line to fall under the Aberfeldy Collection, I utilised gold, citrine and intricate detailing to evoke the golden liquid and the beautiful place in which it’s produced.” Aberfeldy won five Gold awards at The Scotch Whisky Masters 2023.