Filliers reveals two new single malts

Belgian family-owned Filliers Distillery has launched two new expressions: Pedro Ximénez (PX) Cask Strength and a 15-year-old single malt.

The two new single malts join the distillery's previous releases in the 10-year-old and non-age statement Bourbon cask-matured whiskies. Revealed on 1 October 2024 at an event at the Filliers Distillery, the new expressions are intended to reflect the brand's evolution, dedication to the craft, and passion for creating spirits that invite people to enjoy together. Filliers Distillery, situated in Bachte-Maria-Leeme, Belgium, dates to 1880 and began making malt whisky in 2008. The distillery is currently run by sixth-generation distiller Benoit Filliers. Benoit commented: “Growing up in the house next to the distillery, it always felt like coming home. Choosing to join the family business was never an obligation; it had to be a passion. Our spirits have always been crafted to be enjoyed together, serving as a connecting element between friends and family.” The family's love for distillation and craftsmanship has been passed down from generation to generation. From Karel Lodewijk, who transformed the agricultural business into a distillery, to the current generation shaping the future of Filliers Distillery, every generation has contributed to the evolution of the family business. Benoit remains faithful to the distillery’s foundations while venturing into new and innovative paths: “Preserving our traditions is essential, but we also want to look ahead and continue refining our products, always with the thought that our whiskies are meant to be shared during special moments.” Grain-to-glass approach The two new expressions are said to embody the family's long-lasting dedication to craftsmanship. The 15-year-old Filliers single malt is the first of its kind produced in Belgium. Aged a minimum of 15 years in Sherry oak casks, the expression is bottled at 43% ABV and offers aromas of apple and pear, followed on the palate by red fruit and dry Sherry notes. As another first for Belgian whisky, the second release is a cask-strength, non-age-statement single malt aged exclusively in PX Sherry casks sourced from the 'finest Spanish bodegas'. The whisky is bottled at 58.5% ABV and offers a 'rich bouquet of sweet tropical fruits, honey, and caramel' with a long finish of dark chocolate and coffee. Both expressions are available now at speciality shops and merchants. The 15-year-old has a suggested retail price of €72.95 (US$80), and the cask strength retails at €69.95 (US$77). Filliers Distillery plans to regularly introduce special editions, bringing the distillery’s stories and craftsmanship to life. “There will be a new bottling every year, giving our consumers the opportunity to explore unique flavours and experiences,” Benoit shared. “Our whiskies are crafted to be shared, connecting the enjoyment of fine spirits with the time spent with those around you.” While the distillery continues to innovate, the focus on sustainability and quality control remains paramount. Benoit added: “We sample from our casks daily, selecting only those products that are perfect for bottling. The combination of our craftsmanship, carefully selected Belgian grains, our distillation process, and distinctive maturation conditions gives our whiskies a unique character you won’t find anywhere else—a character that invites people to taste and enjoy together.” The distillery remains committed to its Belgian roots, focusing on a grain-to-glass approach, using locally produced ingredients such as Belgian grains and pure groundwater sourced from its surroundings.