By Andy Young
William Grant & Sons is releasing a new expression of its Glenfiddich whisky, "The Original" is a re-creation of the original 1963 Glenfiddich Straight Malt.
The Straight Malt was the first ever single malt which was actively promoted around the world, helping to establish to single malt category as it is known today.
Prior to the launch of the Straight Malt, blended whisky dominated the market with single malts only available upon request to a select few.
Glenfiddich's malt master Brian Kinsman used the original recipe and samples of the original 1963 whisky to recreate The Original.
Peter Gordon, Glenfiddich company director said: "'Glenfiddich The Original' is testament to the family's vision and independence, which has allowed us to continuously strive to innovate and create superior whiskies. 'Glenfiddich The Original' is a prime example of this and a tribute to my father, Sandy, and Uncle Charles' achievement of introducing single malt Scotch to the world."
To mark the launch of its newest expression, Glenfiddich will host a five day pop-up bar at The Lord Dudley Hotel in Sydney from Wednesday 3 June to Sunday 7 June, offering exclusive tastings of 'Glenfiddich The Original'. Over the duration of the pop up bar Glenfiddich will be running tastings of this new whisky, these will take place from every hour from 6pm -9pm on Wednesday to Friday and then 12pm – 6pm on the weekend. Tickets can be bought here, with proceeds being donated to Soldier On, a charity supporting our emotionally and physically wounded return service men and women.
William Grant & Sons will also launch The Original Grant on 1 June 1, which is a nationwide competition to find Australia's most 'Original' small or medium-sized business. Entrants will submit 63 words or less on "What makes their business original", with finalists announced mid July and the winner crowned at the end of July.
The winner will be rewarded with expert business advice from Behavioural Researcher and Strategist and regular on ABC's The Gruen Transfer, Dan Gregory, and business partner Kieran Flanagan of The Impossible Institute, valued at $15,000. The prize will include a Glenfiddich Original Blend tasting kit for their team and a Glenfiddich specialist to host the tasting, valued at $1,500.
Available from 1 June in luxury whisky retail outlets and premium establishments, 'Glenfiddich The Original' has a recommended retail price of $100.