INVER House Distillers has revealed a major shake-up to its Balblair single malt range, writes Scott Wright.
The Airdrie-based distiller will next month begin marketing the Highland malt under four key age statements, replacing its traditional “vintage-only” philosophy. Until now barrels of Balblair have only been selected for sale when they are believed to be ready, but from April its core collection will comprise a 12, 15, 18 and 25 year old single malt. All four are matured initially in American oak ex-bourbon casks, with the 15, 18 and 25 year old versions then finished in a range of Spanish oak and Oloroso sherry casks.
READ MORE: Saturday Interview: Flood fails to dampen spirits of Inver House boss Leonard
Inver House, which expects the whiskies to range from £45 to £500 in price, said it will launch the core collection in the UK today, before its subsequent roll-out in global markets such as Russia, France, Germany and China from April.
Balblair distillery manager John MacDonald said: “As one of the oldest working distilleries in the Scottish Highlands, Balblair has a long and rich history of crafting premium single malt Scotch whisky. We are proud of our heritage and we will continue to honour our centuries-old traditions, but we also look forward in a quiet pursuit of perfection.
“Our new collection is intrinsically linked to our heritage and is testament to the place and the people behind our whisky.”
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