Old Pulteney has marked a major milestone in 2026, celebrating 200 years of whisky making on Scotland’s northern coast with the launch of a limited-edition single malt. The Old Pulteney 200th Anniversary Distillery Exclusive pays tribute to the distillery’s long-standing home in Wick and the maritime conditions that have shaped its character since 1826.
The 10-year-old single malt reflects both tradition and innovation. Initially matured in American oak ex-Bourbon casks, the whisky has been further refined in ex-Manzanilla and ex-Oloroso casks – a notable step for the distillery. Throughout its maturation, the spirit has been influenced by the salt-laden winds of the North Sea, a defining feature of Old Pulteney’s coastal style.
Malcolm Waring, Distillery Manager at Pulteney Distillery, said: “Reaching 200 years is a truly significant milestone for Old Pulteney and a proud moment for everyone connected to our distillery, both past and present. For two centuries, the distillery has remained deeply rooted in its coastal home of Wick, with its location and maritime climate playing an integral role in shaping the distinctive character of our whisky.”
He added: “This special anniversary release is both a celebration of that rich heritage and a reflection of the skill, care and dedication passed down through generations of craftspeople. At the same time, it highlights Old Pulteney’s continued commitment to innovation, exploring new cask influences while staying true to the coastal character that weaves through all our whiskies.”
Golden in colour, the whisky delivers a complex profile, with notes of vanilla, citrus, spiced dried fruits, polished oak and caramelised pear on the nose, lifted by a distinctive saline edge. On the palate, flavours of crème caramel, rich vanilla, lemon zest, salted chocolate and cinnamon combine to create a balanced finish of sweetness and salinity.
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Sarah Burgess, Master of Whisky Creation at Old Pulteney, said: “In my role, there are three things I always strive for: to create exceptional whiskies, to ensure every drop embodies the true character of our distillery, and to leave behind treasures for future generations to uncover.”
She added: “Old Pulteney has long been referred to as the ‘Manzanilla of the North’ so finding whisky laid down by previous generations that had been further matured in ex-Manzanilla casks felt like discovering a hidden gift within our warehouses. The gentle salinity offered by these casks, enriched by the depth of further refinement in ex-Oloroso casks, has created a whisky that beautifully marries sweetness with our unmistakable coastal character.”
Bottled at 48% ABV, the Old Pulteney 200th Anniversary Distillery Exclusive is priced at £99. It has been available since 25 May 2026 from the distillery’s Brand Home in Wick and to members of Old Pulteney’s mailing list.
