Every year on July 27th, whisky lovers around the world unite to celebrate National Scotch Day, a moment that honors the enduring legacy of Scotland’s most iconic spirit.
This day is more than a simple toast. It’s a tribute to centuries of tradition, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines distilleries like Glenfiddich.
Located in Dufftown, Glenfiddich—whose name means “Valley of the Deer” in Gaelic—stands as a monument to the vision of its founder, William Grant. In the summer of 1886, Grant, with the help of his seven sons and two daughters, began building the distillery by hand, stone by stone. By 1887, the first precious drops of whisky flowed from the copper stills, marking the beginning of a legacy that would shape the world of single malt Scotch for generations. Today, Glenfiddich remains fiercely independent and family-owned, a rarity in the whisky world, and every bottle is a tribute to the Grant family’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.
Glenfiddich’s flagship 12 Year Old is the perfect introduction to single malt Scotch, offering a radiant golden hue and a nose that is distinctively fresh and fruity, with a signature hint of pear. This whisky’s characteristic sweetness unfolds on the palate, revealing lively fruit notes that evolve into butterscotch, cream, and subtle oak, all culminating in a long, smooth, and mellow finish. The freshness of this expression is owed to the Highland spring water used since 1887 and the high cut point in distillation, a technique insisted upon by William Grant himself.
For those seeking a deeper, more complex experience, Glenfiddich’s 14 Year Old Bourbon Barrel Reserve is a revelation. Matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks and finished in charred new American oak barrels, this whisky glows with a rich copper oak color. Its nose is lush with deep, vibrant vanilla, hints of citrus, caramelized brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon, while the palate is beautifully rich and sweet, layered with creamy toffee, woody spices, candied orange peel, and fresh toasted oak. The finish lingers with a satisfying sweetness, making it a favorite among both Scotch and bourbon enthusiasts.
The Glenfiddich 15 Year Old, crafted using the pioneering Solera vatting process, is a masterclass in complexity and consistency. This golden whisky, tinged with a red hue, greets the senses with an intriguingly complex aroma of sweet heather honey, vanilla fudge, and rich dark fruits. On the palate, it is silky smooth and full-bodied, revealing layers of sherry oak, marzipan, cinnamon, and ginger, all leading to a satisfyingly rich finish with lingering sweetness. The Solera vat, handcrafted from oak and never emptied since 1998, allows each new batch to build upon the rich layers of flavor left by the previous one, ensuring a whisky of exceptional depth and character.
“Over the past 135 years, Glenfiddich has grown to become one of the most recognized single malt scotch brands across the globe and remains family-owned to this day,” comments Jamie Johnson, National Brand Ambassador for Glenfiddich in Canada. “With each dram of Glenfiddich’s award-winning single malts, you are indulging in a tribute to the legacy of innovative whisky-making carried out over generations.”
Glenfiddich’s dedication to tradition and innovation has made it a cornerstone of whisky culture worldwide.
From the first drop that flowed in 1887 to today’s celebrated range, every dram is a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the bold vision of its founder.
This National Scotch Day, savor a spirit shaped by history, perfected by passion and the unforgettable taste of Scotland in every sip. Slàinte!
