Glenfiddich has launched its new Experimental Series, a collaborative range that redefines the boundaries of whisky. The unique expressions are created through partnerships with like-minded ‘mavericks’. The first two of the series have now been released - the IPA Experiment and Project XX.


Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman teamed up with a local Speyside craft brewer to create the first variant, a single malt Scotch whisky finished in India Pale Ale (IPA) craft beer casks. The pair designed three separate IPA craft beers of varying strengths and levels of hops, and experimented with seasoning up to nine American oak casks at a time with the brews for differing lengths at a time. The casks, penetrated with the IPA flavours, were then filled back up with whisky and finished with the IPA.

Commenting on the new expression, Kinsman said, “The Experimental Series builds on Glenfiddich’s long tradition of innovation and takes us to new levels of experimentation in a way no distillery has ever done before. The idea was quite unusual but one we were passionate about – we wanted to really play with the flavours to see what we could create. The result is a liquid with a zesty citrus note followed by soft, sweet vanilla and a hint of fresh hops. The innovative flavour comes from carefully hand-selecting the right malt whiskies to complement the extra hoppy notes.”


Project XX (pronounced “twenty”) was the second addition to the series, an ambitious experiment involving a collaboration between 20 whisky experts from 16 countries around the world. The experts were given full reign to choose from some of Glenfiddich's most unusual and unrivaled stocks that have been amassed over 130 years. Once 20 single casks were picked, Kinsman married the drams to create Project XX.


Kinsman said, “Bucking the tradition of malt whisky being chosen and vatted by only a Malt Master, we set out to create an unpredictable whisky by involving 20 whisky experts in the process. The final liquid was exceptional – it has the warm summer fruity character of a classic Glenfiddich but then its ‘multiple personalities’ are revealed as the flavours of candyfloss, cinnamon spice, almonds and rich port tannins kick in with the odd hint of liquorice.”


The Glenfiddich IPA and Project XX are now available from select retailers nationwide, at RRP $130 and $140 respectively.


You may also be interested in Willie Smith and Lark Distillery’s Christmas Cider

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