Glenfiddich revives landmark ‘Straight Malt’

Single malt whisky was referred to as ‘Straight Malt’ when it was first marketed in 1963 (Photo: William Grant & Sons)

The Original harks back to the whisky which established the single malt category in 1963, the company says.

Previously, blended whisky dominated the market and single malt was only available to connoisseurs.

The Original, which will be launched at the Goodwood Revival vintage motor racing festival, has a recommended retail price of £85 and in taste is described as “light and fruity with hints of sherry spice”.

A spokesperson for Glenfiddich said: “In 1963, our family began actively marketing our Straight Malt to the world, effectively establishing the single malt category as it is known today. A reproduction of the original Glenfiddich Straight Malt, this release is an exclusive addition our collection of whiskies.”

Glenfiddich’s Malt Master, Brian Kinsman, has replicated the taste of Glenfiddich Straight Malt by tasting a sample of the original 1963 Straight Malt and following the original recipe from the distiller’s ledger.

Kinsman commented: “Glenfiddich has an unrivalled collection of rare and aged single malts from which we can draw on to create innovative whiskies. Using this collection we were able to replicate the original Glenfiddich Straight Malt. Glenfiddich The Original is a true taste of history.”

Peter Gordon, Glenfiddich company director added: “Glenfiddich The Original is a tribute to my father, Sandy, and Uncle Charles’ achievement of introducing our single malt Scotch to the world.”