Global Scotch Whiskey brand Johnnie Walker is releasing the fourth instalment in its limited-edition Ghost and Rare series with the Speyside “ghost” distillery of Pittyvaich.
The series has been designed to explore the distinct character of exceptional and very rare whiskies from Scotland’s most short-lived distilleries.
“It may only have thrived for a short period, but the whisky laid down by this distillery is something unmistakable,” said Jim Beveridge, Johnnie Walker Master Blender, as the brand announced the release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Pittyvaich.
Pittyvaich, which opened in 1974 closed in 1993 after only 18 years of life, left a distinct and growing legacy and is now considered as a hidden gem whispered about the world over for its unique Speyside style.
Johnnie Walker Master Blender Jim Beveridge and his team hand-selected two other “ghost” whiskies from the distilleries of Port Dundas and Carsebridge. He combined these with exceptionally rare Scotch from a quartet of Speyside distilleries including Mannochmore, Auchroisk, Cragganmore and Strathmill as well as the Highland whisky of Royal Lochnagar – crafting something exceptional.
Jim Beveridge continued, saying “We have waited patiently for that perfect moment when we turn our thoughts to this fleetingly rare gem of the whisky world. Its distinct autumnal character has always intrigued us and fired our imagination to create something really special that would pay tribute to the whisky makers of this Speyside distillery.”
When tasted, sweet, fruit notes of fresh apple gather with the autumnal flavours of Pittyvaich, beautifully balanced with the delicate subtle sweetness of honeycomb and softwood from the “ghost” whiskies of Port Dundas and Carsebridge. Other very rare whiskies bring aromas of dark fruit and berries before revealing gentle butterscotch, stewing orchard fruits and a dash of cinnamon.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Pittyvaich follows the release of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Glenury Royal (2019), Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Port Ellen (2018) and Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost and Rare Brora (2017). Each edition in the series offers a fleeting opportunity to savour the depth of character of whiskies from distilleries whose spirit lives on in their dwindling stocks.
For more information, go to johnniewalker.com