Super Rare Craigellachie Single Cask Drops Into Heathrow Duty Free

Those passing through the Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom in the near future have a new high end Scotch whisky single malt to choose from in duty free stores should they have the money to burn to buy it. The Craigellachie distillery, owned by Bacardi, has released a rare single cask expression that is 39 years of age and offered up in just 138 bottles.

The new Craigellachie 39 Year Old Single Cask, according to those behind it, heralds from a whisky that was originally distilled back in 1980 and filled into a refill Bourbon Hogshead. Last year it was singled out by the distillery’s Malt Master Stephanie Macleod as being ready for bottling, and is noted as being the oldest and rarest expression from Craigellachie that’s ever been available to buy.

“First launched in travel retail in 2016,” said David Hughes, Regional Director Europe, Bacardi Global Travel Retail, in a prepared statement, “Craigellachie has gone from strength to strength thanks to its multi-award winning success and the following of its many fans who adore its bold character.  We are excited to launch the 39 Year Old expression in the luxury retail setting of World Duty Free at Heathrow, giving us the opportunity to share this special release with a discerning, international audience.”

As it stands now the whisky is bottled at 51.5% ABV, with no caramel coloring added and non-chill filtration. It prices around £3,500, or about $4,500 USD. Limited official tasting notes suggest “charred pineapple dipped in honey, delicate oak, toasted cereal and polished antique leather.”