WOLFCRAIG Distillers is toasting a ‘historic moment’ after bottling its maiden release, a 30-year-old Premium Blend, produced by two icons of the Scotch Whisky industry.
Two of the world’s most revered Master Blenders, Richard ‘The Nose’ Paterson OBE and Ian MacMillan, have formed the ‘ultimate partnership’ to introduce a unique blended Scotch, described by Richard as a ‘rare and luxurious whisky that really is something out of the ordinary’.
Richard Paterson, affectionately known as ‘The Nose’ for his renowned palate, retains legendary status within the whisky industry, largely on account of his outstanding accomplishments at Whyte & Mackay, where he served as Master Blender since 1975.
Ian MacMillan is an award-winning distiller boasting over 40 years’ experience and is distinguished for having created some of the sector’s most recognised single malts, working for the likes of Bunnahabhain, Tobermory and Deanston.
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The pair joined forces in 2020 at the helm of Wolfcraig Distillers, which was co-founded by Jamie Lunn and John Moore in 2017. The founding team also included former Whyte & Mackay Michael Lunn, who sadly passed away in January.
The £425 Premium Blended Scotch Whisky is composed of rare casks that have been hand selected by the legendary duo, with each bringing their own individual style. Richard and Ian have utilised their long friendship combined with their peerless knowledge to produce a whisky that Richard describes as ‘impeccably groomed and polished as a unique experience for the true whisky connoisseur.’
Speaking following the launch of the Wolfcraig 30 Year Old Premium Blend, which is now available on the Wolfcraig Distillers website, Richard described the spirit as a ‘flawless diamond’ and said: “The first bottling of our rare 30 years old Wolfcraig Premium Blended Scotch whisky marks a true milestone.
“This pursuit of excellence has taken many years of dedication, commitment and a relentless passion – it has been a memorable journey. It has taken 30 long years to craft this noble icon but it will only take a matter of seconds to recognise the blend’s outstanding credentials.
“First filled American white oak ex-bourbon barrels have played a major part in creating this outstanding blend along with the final marrying in special selected PX and Oloroso sherry butts from Bodega San Andres in Jerez de la Frontera, it takes this one-of-a-kind whisky to a higher level of true luxury.
“We are so proud of what we have achieved over the years and this rare blend confirms our relentless dedication and passion. Producing our Wolfcraig 30 Years Old Premium Blend has given us a treasure chest of pure liquid gold for you to enjoy. Toast and taste its rare excellence and unsurpassed beauty, you will not be disappointed.”
Meanwhile, Ian marked the occasion by commenting that the process of producing the Wolfcraig whisky alongside his close friend Richard was one of the most enjoyable of his distinguished career in the industry – “between Richard and I, we have almost 100 years of experience. I don’t think there’s ever been another project like it.”
Wolfcraig director Jamie Lunn hailed the iconic first release as a ‘historical moment’ in the Wolfcraig Distillers’ story. He commented on the enviable pairing of Richard and Ian by adding: “It is very rare that two Master Blenders collaborate on one project, and we’re very proud to have both Richard and Ian working under the Wolfcraig banner. This partnership is what makes our offering to the world whisky market so unique and special.”
“They’ve each been pouring through their exclusive and extensive contacts books over the past 3 years to source the very best casks and parcels of whisky to form a curated production plan that will produce rare and aged releases for the next four years.
“After three years of hard work behind the scenes, it is an incredible milestone for Wolfcraig to have our first release bottled and ready to be shipped to our valued customers. We are really proud as a team of the product we have put together and are excited for the feedback from whisky lovers around the world.”
Wolfcraig’s mission is to produce an innovative and premium spirits brand out of the heart of Scotland.
Wolfcraig will be continuing the releases in this collection later in 2023 on the Wolfcraig website – Wolfcraig.com, sign up to their newsletter at the bottom of their homepage or follow them on all socials @wolfcraig_distillers to be kept in the loop with launch dates.
