The cask has been cared for by the Gordon & MacPhail family (All photos: Scotch Whisky Investments)
Dutch-based trading house Scotch Whisky Investments has acquired bottle No 1 of the world’s oldest whisky, the 80-Year-Old Glenlivet, for £140,000. The remaining bottles of this precious liquid are expected to be sold for more than £100,000 each when they eventually reach the market.
This whisky from the Glenlivet Distillery was distilled on Feb 3, 1940, and has become a landmark in Scotland’s history. George Urquhart, from the second generation to own the company, had the foresight and vision to lay down spirit from Glenlivet in a bespoke Gordon & MacPhail oak cask, knowing it would be enjoyed after his lifetime by future generations.
Over the last eight decades, the cask has been cared for by the Gordon & MacPhail family and has finally been bottled through a collaboration with internationally acclaimed architect and designer Sir David Adjaye.
“Along with three of our investors, we were able to acquire this unique decanter containing the oldest single malt whisky in the world,” said Scotch Whisky Investment CEO Michael Kappen. “It goes without saying that this ‘#1’ will remain unopened, will get a special place in our office and will serve as a talking piece for anyone interested in investing in the Scottish ‘water of life’.”
As part of its release of 250 decanters, Gordon & MacPhail is supporting Trees for Life, whose mission is to rewild the Caledonian forest. Proceeds from sales will be donated to resource the Scottish charity’s nursery that grows 100,000 rare, native trees, including oak, from seeds each year.
This article first appeared on Nov 29, 2021 in The Edge Malaysia.
