Whisky specialist Gordon & MacPhail is set to release the oldest single malt Scotch whisky ever. Releasing in October, the 85-year-old whisky from Glenlivet Distillery will stake its claim as the oldest single malt Scotch in the world, in partnership with American architect and designer Jeanne Gang.
On 3 February 1940 in the north-east of Scotland, George Urquhart (fondly known as Mr George) and his father, John, laid down spirit from Glenlivet Distillery in an American oak cask to be enjoyed after his lifetime by future generations. George Urquhart knew he would never taste it.
On 5 February 2025, the decision was taken to finally empty the cask, with the whisky deemed ready to be shared. A total of 125 decanters of the 85-year-old whisky were bottled in line with Gordon & MacPhail’s family expertise to produce liquid of the highest quality.
Director of prestige and member of the fourth generation of the family that owns the company, Stephen Rankin, commented: “This whisky is truly exceptional due to its remarkable history and unique maturation process. The influence of the cask, combined with the rarity and scarcity of the liquid, creates a whisky with a strength of 43.7% ABV that is not only extraordinary in its taste but also a living piece of history.”
Jeanne Gang’s decanter will be revealed in October 2025, with decanter #1 auctioned by Christie’s New York in November 2025. To continue the legacy theme, auction proceeds (minus costs) will be donated to the oldest national non-profit conservation organisation in the United States, American Forests, a leader in forest restoration.
Earlier this year, Gordon & MacPhail released a 70 Years Old as the concluding part of the Mr George Legacy Series.
Those keen on learning more about the whisky ahead of its release are encouraged to register their interest at the brand’s official website at gordonandmacphail.com.
