Glenrothes unveils ‘smashable’ 51YO whisky

Edrington-owned The Glenrothes has unveiled its oldest whisky to date – a 51-year-old single malt that can only be accessed by destroying its packaging with a custom hammer.

The whisky, called The 51, is described as the brand's 'most daring' release yet, and celebrates the 'strength in fragility' that is found in both the 'exceptionally soft water' used in the distillation and dilution process, as well as the wild orchids that grow on the brand's Speyside estate. Crafted from just two casks, The 51 is said to present a complexity and vibrancy that is 'rarely found' in whiskies of this age. While one cask delivers deeply perfumed notes that 'evoke the fragility of an orchid's scent', the other offers 'luxurious' richness and depth. The resulting whisky, limited to only 100 bottles, is described as a rare and fragrant wonder, and 'the orchid of The Glenrothes collection'. “The 51 is a testament to those rare moments in whisky making when patience, nature, and craft align perfectly," said Laura Rampling, master whisky maker. "This whisky defies expectations – elegant yet powerful, it offers a singular experience for those who truly understand and appreciate rarity. “Each sip unveils new layers, from soft floral notes to deep complexity, much like the orchids that bloom year after year on our estate. We are thrilled to share this extraordinary and exclusive release with the world.” Just as orchids are uniquely designed to attract a single pollinator, the packaging of The 51 is crafted to be entirely unique to its owner. In what is described as a ‘daring’ evolution of the luxury whisky experience, The 51 is encased in a solid, sustainably sourced Jesmonite column, and as such is the first whisky in the world that can be accessed only by destroying its packaging: smashing the column with a hammer provided, each column breaking in its own unique way. The 'orchid' hidden inside is a prize reserved 'exclusively for those who dare to discover'. Upon retrieving the whisky, the owner is then invited to return the fragments of the column to The Glenrothes, where a Kintsugi artist will restore them with precious metal, transforming the remains into a one-of-a-kind vase in which a real orchid can grow, creating a lasting piece of art that is unique and theirs alone. Jonny Fowle, global head of whisky at Sotheby’s, highlighted the unique appeal of The 51: “In the past few years, the whisky market has overwhelmed collectors with ultra-premium whiskies at extremely high price points, making collectors less likely to open their bottles. Collectors are looking to be incentivised to drink their whiskies, and herein lies a great new approach to this very problem. "The 51 is for the true lovers of whisky; those who interact, drink, and enjoy Scotch.” On the liquid itself, Fowle said he found tropical fruit characteristics that are bright and expressive, with a vitality that is rare to find in a whisky of such an age. "It’s simultaneously energetic and sophisticated — this reflects The Glenrothes distillery’s ability to age, with each layer of flavour playing its own discrete role but with perfect integration. There have been some whiskies to achieve this, all of which are hailed with legendary status by collectors.” On the nose, succulent watermelon and the perfumed scent of peach kernels and fresh almonds can be found, while the palate boasts ripe melon, rose water, Earl Grey tea and a hint of antique oak. The finish finds a velvety sweetness that is preceded by a lingering nutty quality. With only 100 bottles available globally, each priced at £37,000 ($46,500), The 51 is an extremely limited release. It is available through select whisky specialists such as Sotheby's, boutique whisky shops, and luxury retailers including Harrods.