
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has announced a new premium whisky collection celebrating its historic headquarters in Leith, Edinburgh. The Homecoming collection features four aged single malts with custom labels designed by local artist Shona Hardie.
The collection, priced at around $1,635 (£1,295), is now available to purchase, with individual bottles ranging from ~$246 to ~$536 (£195 to £425).
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Heritage Meets Art
Each bottle in the collection represents a different aspect of The Vaults, SMWS’s spiritual home since 1983. With a history dating back to the 12th century, the current iteration of The Vaults building was completed in 1787. The building originally served as a wine merchant’s bonded warehouse, making it the oldest building in Scotland to have the same continual use throughout its lifetime.
SMWS Homecoming Collection
The SMWS Homecoming collection comprises the following whiskies:
- Home Is Where the Hearth Is – A 20-year-old lightly peated whisky, evoking the comforting warmth of The Vaults’ fireplace.
- Snug and Toasty – A 32-year-old spicy and sweet expression, reflecting the convivial gatherings in the venue’s snug.
- Bar-Room Buzz – A 32-year-old fruity whisky, encapsulating the vibrant energy of the members’ bar.
- Shore Reflections – A 30-year-old whisky matured in an ex-sherry cask, with notes of leather and demerara sugar, honouring Leith’s storied history in the sherry trade.
In Collaboration With Shona Hardie
Shona Hardie, known for her storytelling murals of Leith’s characters, began her relationship with SMWS in 2023 when she created a mural for The Vaults. The artist’s new label designs aim to capture the essence of the historic building, which dates back to the 12th century.
“Homecoming is about reconnecting with the past and with your community – something I have tried to capture in my label designs,” said Hardie. “I wanted to tie in the fire and the hearth with the building itself. Walking through the gates to the warmth of the heart of the building, that to so many members is symbolic of a homecoming of sorts. The clinking of glasses signifies friendship – sharing a dram and finding like-minded people in the community The Vaults creates.”
Celebrating SMWS’ Heritage
SMWS Head of Whisky Creation Euan Campbell emphasized the collection’s significance: : “The Homecoming collection is not just about whisky; it’s about a journey back to where it all began for the Society. We’ve come a long way in the last 40 years, with members all over the world, but The Vaults remains our spiritual home. This collection is about reconnecting with our past, honouring tradition and bringing those timeless values into the present.
“With this collection we’re inviting our members – wherever they are in the world – to experience a deeper connection to The Vaults, making every sip a celebration of tradition and a tribute to the enduring spirit of our heritage.”