The Perfect Fifth, a respected name in the world of rare whiskies, has just dropped two exceptional releases that are sure to excite anyone who appreciates a fine dram. This summer, they’re bringing out a 50-year-old single grain Scotch from the long-closed North of Scotland distillery and a 15-year-old American whiskey from their Canongate line. These limited-edition bottles are a testament to craftsmanship, history, and the unique bond between American and Scottish whiskey traditions. Here’s a deep dive into these two remarkable offerings.
A Sip of History: North of Scotland 50-Year-Old Scotch
The North of Scotland 50-Year-Old Single Grain Scotch is a rare find, hailing from a distillery that shut its doors back in 1980. Located in Scotland’s Lowland region, the North of Scotland distillery was only operational for two decades but earned a reputation for producing some of the most flavorful grain whiskies of its time. What made their spirits stand out was the distillery’s approach to retaining a higher number of congeners—those flavor-packed compounds—in the spirit cut, ensuring the whisky’s character deepened beautifully with age.
Distilled in 1973, this particular barrel was acquired by The Perfect Fifth from its original owner and carefully bottled in 2025. The result is a whisky that’s light, floral, and brimming with tropical fruit sweetness—a true collector’s piece. With only 90 bottles available, this release is as exclusive as it gets. Each bottle comes presented in a hand-crafted miniature barrel engraved with The Perfect Fifth’s logo, making it not just a drink but a stunning display piece for any home bar.
Karl Schoen, the founder and CEO of The Perfect Fifth, didn’t hold back his enthusiasm for this release. He noted that the North of Scotland distillery holds a special place in whisky history for its innovative approach, and snagging a barrel from this lost distillery was a no-brainer. “It’s a testament to the craftsmanship that this whisky still tastes so elegant and refreshing after over half a century,” Schoen said. At 45.6% ABV and priced at $915, this Scotch is a premium offering for those who value rarity and flavor in equal measure.
A Transatlantic Journey: Canongate 15-Year-Old American Whiskey
The second release, the Canongate 15-Year-Old Single Barrel American Whiskey, tells a different but equally compelling story. Part of The Perfect Fifth’s “Born and Bottled” series, this whiskey celebrates the long-standing connection between Kentucky and Scotland in the world of whiskey-making. Distilled in 2009 in Bardstown, Kentucky—a hub for American whiskey—this spirit spent its first three years aging in the intense, fluctuating climate of Kentucky before crossing the Atlantic to mature for another 12 years in Scotland’s cooler, more temperate environment.
This unique aging process, influenced by two distinct climates, has created a whiskey with a rich and layered profile. Expect waves of vanilla, subtle cocoa notes, and a touch of light spice that dances on the palate. With an ABV of 63.53% and only 236 bottles available in the United States, this is another limited release that’s bound to disappear quickly. Priced at $185 for a 750ml bottle, it’s a more accessible entry point for those looking to experience The Perfect Fifth’s craftsmanship without breaking the bank.
Schoen highlighted the significance of this release, calling it a celebration of the “symbiotic relationship” between American and Scottish whiskey traditions. “The Canongate 15-Year-Old is special because of its transatlantic journey,” he explained. “It started in Kentucky, soaked up the Scottish climate for over a decade, and now it’s back in the U.S. It’s a whiskey that tells a story of two worlds coming together.”
Where to Find These Exclusive Releases
Both the North of Scotland 50-Year-Old Scotch and the Canongate 15-Year-Old American Whiskey are available in select markets—New York, New Jersey, and California—as well as online through The Perfect Fifth’s website. Given the limited quantities (90 bottles for the Scotch and 236 for the American whiskey), these releases are expected to sell out fast, so enthusiasts will want to act quickly to secure a bottle.
The Perfect Fifth: A Legacy of Quality
The Perfect Fifth, founded in 2019 by Karl Schoen, is built on a passion for exceptional whisky. Schoen’s love for the spirit was sparked by watching his family toast life’s big moments with Scotch. That personal connection drove him to explore the world of single-cask bottlings, eventually teaming up with his brother Ben to create The Perfect Fifth. The duo scours Scotland for the finest casks, selecting only those that meet their exacting standards. The result is a portfolio of limited-edition releases that are as rare as they are delicious.
The name “The Perfect Fifth” is inspired by a musical interval, symbolizing the layered complexity of their whiskies. Each bottle is meant to be shared with good company, bringing depth and harmony to any gathering. Whether it’s the historic North of Scotland Scotch or the transatlantic Canongate American Whiskey, these releases embody the care and dedication that define The Perfect Fifth’s mission.
Why These Whiskies Matter
For anyone who enjoys a well-crafted whiskey, these releases are more than just drinks—they’re a chance to own a piece of history. The North of Scotland 50-Year-Old Scotch offers a rare taste of a distillery that no longer exists, while the Canongate 15-Year-Old American Whiskey showcases the magic that happens when two whiskey-making traditions collide. Both bottles are crafted for those who appreciate the finer things, whether it’s the story behind the spirit or the flavors that unfold with every sip.
As summer rolls on, these whiskies are perfect for savoring during a quiet evening on the porch or sharing with friends at a backyard barbecue. They’re a reminder that the best things in life—like a great whiskey—take time, care, and a little bit of adventure. So, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just someone who loves a good pour, The Perfect Fifth’s latest releases are worth seeking out.
