Tomatin Distillery is making waves in the world of Scotch whisky once again with the introduction of a trio of new expressions under its revered Antiquary brand. This latest release not only showcases the craftsmanship synonymous with Tomatin but also breathes new life into a brand steeped in history.
Crafted by blending malt whiskies sourced from the renowned Highland and Speyside distilleries with grain whisky from the Lowlands, these new expressions stand out not just for their quality but also for their unique aging processes. Each whisky has been carefully matured to bring out its distinctive character, housed in redesigned bottles inspired by antique Victorian and Edwardian glassware, accompanied by updated packaging that reflects both tradition and modernity.
The trio includes The Antiquary 15 Years Old, priced at £45, which has been matured in Bordeaux claret red wine casks. This aging process imparts a delicate balance of flavors, combining the whisky's inherent richness with subtle fruity undertones. For those seeking a deeper, more complex experience, The Antiquary 21 Years Old, priced at £100, offers maturation in tawny port casks sourced from Symington Family Estates in Portugal. This aging method infuses the whisky with layers of depth and a rich, velvety texture that culminate in a truly luxurious tasting experience. At the pinnacle of the range is The Antiquary 30 Years Old, available for £275, which has spent over three years maturing in sherry casks from Jerez. This extended maturation period results in a whisky of exceptional refinement, with pronounced sherry influences and a complexity that evolves with each sip.
Scott Adamson, Tomatin's global brand ambassador and blender, spearheaded an extensive research project delving into Antiquary's heritage and the historical techniques pioneered by its founder, J & W Hardie. This exploration not only reaffirmed the brand's commitment to quality but also inspired the creation of these exceptional new releases, each a testament to the artistry of whisky making.
"Tomatin may be considered a modest producer today, but our legacy as one of the largest distilleries in the world provides us with an unparalleled collection of high-quality whiskies," commented Adamson. "Our goal with this new lineup was to honor the traditions upheld by J & W Hardie while bringing a fresh perspective that resonates with modern whisky enthusiasts who appreciate both history and innovation."
Derek Scott, Tomatin's marketing director, echoed Adamson's sentiments, noting the strategic significance of these releases in a dynamic whisky market. "With a resurgence in the popularity of blends, now is the perfect time to reintroduce the Antiquary brand with a renewed focus on premium quality," remarked Scott. "The combination of our rich heritage and the bold, contemporary packaging design ensures that these whiskies not only stand out on the shelf but also deliver an exceptional drinking experience."
The Antiquary's latest expressions will be available through select retailers and Tomatin's official website, inviting whisky aficionados to explore and savor the culmination of craftsmanship, history, and innovation. For further details, enthusiasts are encouraged to visit tomatin.com/the-antiquary and embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Scotch whisky tradition.
About The Antiquary
"The Antiquary" is a brand of blended Scotch whisky produced by Tomatin Distillery. It is named after a novel by the Scottish author Sir Walter Scott and is known for its smooth and well-balanced flavor profile.
Tomatin Distillery, located in the Highlands of Scotland, has been producing whisky since 1897. The Antiquary whisky blends together a variety of single malt and grain whiskies, carefully selected to achieve a consistent and distinctive taste. The exact composition of the blend is a closely guarded secret of the distillery, but it is renowned for its complexity and depth.
The Antiquary whisky is characterized by its gentle and approachable style, with flavors of vanilla, honey, citrus fruits, and subtle spices. It is often described as having a creamy texture and a lingering finish, making it a versatile choice for both casual sipping and mixing in cocktails.
In addition to its standard expression, The Antiquary offers a range of aged variants, including 12-year-old and 21-year-old releases. These older expressions typically showcase richer flavors and more pronounced oak influences, appealing to connoisseurs seeking a more mature whisky experience.
Overall, The Antiquary whisky by Tomatin Distillery represents a blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and Scottish heritage. It continues to be enjoyed by whisky enthusiasts around the world for its quality and distinctive character, reflecting the expertise and dedication of the distillery's master blenders.
About Tomatin
Tomatin is a prominent Scotch whisky distillery located in the village of Tomatin in the Scottish Highlands. Known for its rich history and quality spirits, Tomatin has been producing whisky since 1897, although the site has a much longer history of illicit distillation dating back centuries.
The distillery is situated near the Monadhliath Mountains, which provide an abundant supply of pure, soft Highland water from the Alt na Frith (Free Burn) river. This water source is crucial to the production of Tomatin whisky, known for its smoothness and purity.
Tomatin Distillery has a large production capacity and once boasted the title of Scotland's largest distillery by production volume. The distillery has a total of 12 stills, which include a mix of traditional pot stills and more modern, smaller stills. This allows Tomatin to produce a wide range of whisky styles, from light and floral to richer and more complex expressions.
The core range of Tomatin whiskies includes various age statements, such as Tomatin 12 Year Old, 18 Year Old, and 36 Year Old, each showcasing the distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Tomatin is also known for its peated expressions, such as Cu Bocan, which offers a smokier profile compared to their traditional non-peated whiskies.
In recent years, Tomatin has gained recognition for its innovative approaches to whisky-making, including special cask finishes and limited-edition releases. These expressions often highlight unique flavor profiles and allow whisky enthusiasts to explore different facets of Tomatin's production.
Beyond whisky production, Tomatin Distillery offers visitor experiences, including tours and tastings, allowing guests to learn about the distillery's history, production processes, and sample their range of whiskies. The visitor center provides a glimpse into the craftsmanship and tradition that define Tomatin whisky.
Overall, Tomatin Distillery remains a respected name in the whisky industry, celebrated for its Highland single malts that embody the natural beauty and character of the Scottish Highlands. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and tradition, Tomatin continues to appeal to whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
