Glen Scotia has launched the first whisky in a new five-part limited-edition annual series, ‘The Icons of Campbeltown,’ a celebration of the ‘Wee Toon’ community inspired by its market cross.
Each release will be based on icons which were carved into the face of the medieval cross once found in the centre of the town, which dates from the 14th century. Saints, beasts, heroes and their foes are said to vividly capture tales of Campbeltown’s prevailing spirit, creativity, and history.
The first release, The Mermaid, is a 12 Year Old unpeated single malt (54.1% ABV, RSP £90). Aged in ex-bourbon barrels, the liquid was then transferred into Palo Cortado finishing casks for a further eight months.
The result is a whisky with a sweet and nutty character interwoven with subtle maritime nuances, bracing Atlantic Sea breeze notes on the nose, and a signature Glen Scotia saltiness on the palate. It has been released at cask strength and its natural colour without chill filtration.
Diving into Campbeltown’s mythical past, the Glen Scotia team pieced together detailed local sightings of mermaids along the coast, before crafting a whisky whose flavour profile would pay homage to this maritime legend.
The whisky is presented in a bespoke box, designed by illustrator and artist Joel Holtzman, and an on-pack QR code links to an animation and story book of the tale of the mermaid in Campbeltown.
Iain McAlister, distillery manager and master distiller at Glen Scotia, said: “Our local community has played a huge role in the survival and re-emergence of whisky-making in Campbeltown, and the market cross remains an important historic symbol of that enduring spirit. We’re all proud to be able to release a series of single malt whiskies that pays homage to those that have supported us on the journey.”
The Mermaid is now available from the Glen Scotia website and select specialist retailers in the UK and further afield.
