By Andy Young
A 42-year-old, 1972 vintage, limited Ledaig expression will be brought to Australia later this year by premium beverage distributor, island2island.
There are just 500 bottles of the spirit in existence and six, each valued at £3,500 will be making their way to Australia.
Allan Shearer, CEO of island2island, distributor of Ledaig in Australia, said: "Ledaig has a somewhat underground but dedicated following in our country, so loyalists will be really interested in this release.
"We believe Australians shouldn't have to search overseas to get their hands on limited editions so we work hard at island2island to ensure we make some available here, even if it's just a few bottles. We will let you know as soon as they land."
The expression is named "Dùsgadh", which means "awakening" in Scots Gaelic and reflects the long dormant period of maturation. The liquid was distilled using peated barley and laid to rest in hogshead and butts in 1972.
Described as being a "rich, smoky taste eruption of sweet nectar" the 42-year-old whisky also boasts "a stunning chestnut colour".
Master Distiller, Ian MacMillan said: "I've been distilling for almost 40 years and the smoky aroma retained in Ledaig 42YO is the highest I have ever come across in a 40YO island whisky.
"It's the intricate and unusual process that has allowed this liquid to keep its strong, peaty characteristic. Under close supervision and moving homes, this liquid has been allowed to develop into a truly unique malt.
"The precious copper that released the first spirit in 1972 has reached the end of its distilling life and has produced exceptional vintage malt, which I am looking forward to sharing with an exclusive group of whisky lovers across the globe."
The packaging for this rare whisky was inspired by retired copper stills at Ledaig and each box contains a special copper card for the buyer. The card entitles the buyer to inherit a bottle of Ledaig from the final distillation of the stills; that spirit has been laid in first fill bourbon casks and will be available from 2024.
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