Gordon & MacPhail returns with another impressive lineup of rare whiskies. The
independent bottler has unveiled the Dram Takers Collection Vol. 2: an exclusive set of six exceptionally old single malts ranging from 44 to an astonishing 74 years of age. In addition, a remarkably mature Talisker is on the way, clocking in at no less than 39 years old.
The Talisker whisky from
Gordon & MacPhail isn’t the oldest ever from the Skye distillery. That record belongs to the recently released 47-year-old Talisker Magma. Still, this release is special, independently bottled Taliskers of such age are exceedingly rare. Before we spotlight the Talisker, let’s first take a look at the Dram Takers Collection Vol. 2.
Six ultra-rare whiskies in a single case
With the Dram Takers Collection Vol. 2, Gordon & MacPhail once again underlines its reputation as an independent bottler of rare gems. The collection comprises six Speyside and Highland whiskies that have spent decades in carefully selected casks, primarily ex-sherry. According to the bottler, each release reflects the expertise the family business has honed since 1895.
The series name nods to the illustration on the packaging: the “Dram Takers,” figures sharing a glass of whisky. The image is inspired by the famed Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 8th century. The new lineup consists entirely of venerable Scotch whiskies. Here are the bottles in the series:
- Glen Grant 1948/2022 – 74 years – First Fill Sherry Butt – 50.4%
- Glenlivet 1949/2023 – 74 years – Refill Sherry Butt – 49.3%
- Glenburgie 1963/2023 – 60 years – First Fill Sherry Butt – 54.4%
- Longmorn 1966/2021 – 55 years – Refill American Hogshead – 43.5%
- Teaninich 1977/2022 – 45 years – Refill Sherry Puncheon – 63.3%
- Speyburn 1977/2021 – 44 years – Refill Sherry Butt – 59.2%
Pricing for this special case has not yet been announced, but it will undoubtedly be out of reach for most.
Exceptionally old Talisker single malt bottled
Impressive as these whiskies are, another release is also turning heads. Gordon & MacPhail has brought out an old Talisker in the Connoisseurs Choice Heritage series, which launched earlier this year.
This Talisker was distilled on March 3, 1987 and bottled on May 1, 2026, making it 39 years old. Notably, it’s an independent bottling of Talisker, something you seldom see.
Gordon & MacPhail opted for a classic presentation in a vintage bottle design as a tribute to George Urquhart, the visionary who helped shape the company’s original mission: making exceptional whiskies accessible to enthusiasts.
The Talisker matured entirely in a Refill Sherry Butt, cask number 22601101. Only 300 bottles are available worldwide. It’s bottled at cask strength of 51.4%, non-chill filtered and with no added color.
The price for this bottling has not been disclosed either.
FAQ
- What is Gordon & MacPhail?
Gordon & MacPhail is one of the most renowned independent bottlers of Scotch whisky. Founded in 1895 in Elgin, Scotland, the company is known for rare and long-aged whiskies. - What is Gordon & MacPhail known for?
The brand is especially known for exclusive single malt releases, exceptionally old whiskies, and collaborations with famous distilleries such as Macallan and Glenlivet. - Is Gordon & MacPhail a distillery?
No, Gordon & MacPhail is originally not a distillery but an independent bottler. However, the company now also owns distilleries, including Benromach.