The Balvenie Distillery has released four new limited-edition single cask expressions into its Stories Range.

Named A Collection of Curious Casks, the release is said to bring to life the environment of the Balvenie warehouses and to showcase the collaborative power of the distillery's malt master Kelsey McKechnie and warehouse and samples coordinator George Paterson. 

The casks have been selected by McKechnie and inspired by warehouse tastings run by Paterson, which he has used to showcase rare whiskies and unusual casks. 

A Collection of Curious Casks comprises: the 14-year-old American Bourbon Barrel and 18-year-old French Pineau Cask, available in the UK; the travel-retail-exclusive 11-year-old Hungarian Red Wine Cask; and the 17-year-old New Spanish Oak Cask, exclusively available at the Balvenie Distillery.

They join other Balvenie Stories bottlings including the 12-year-old Sweet Toast of American Oak, the 14-year-old Week of Peat, and the 19-year-old A Revelation of Cask and Character.

McKechnie said: “This collection exemplifies the rare and limited Balvenie casks making their debut. Collaborating daily with talented craftspeople like George, who dedicates his time and expertise to our casks, is a privilege. I'm thrilled to share this opportunity with him, showcasing his knowledge of our warehouses.”

Paterson added: “I have one of the best jobs in the world, working in our warehouses, monitoring special casks. Identifying hidden gems and bringing them to light is a true highlight, and it is from these moments shared throughout history and relentless curiosity at the Balvenie that conversations come to life and brilliant ideas are born.”

A Collection of Curious Casks will be available to purchase from specialist whisky retailers.