Aberlour has marked a major moment in its long Speyside story with the introduction of its first 50 Year Old single malt whisky, an ultra-rare release limited to just twenty bottles worldwide. This remarkable expression represents five decades of quiet maturation, expert cask stewardship and a heritage shaped by generations of craftspeople who have upheld the distillery’s reputation for depth, character and precision.
Created under the careful guardianship of Master Distiller Graeme Cruickshank and his team, the 50 Year Old reflects techniques and knowledge passed down over more than a century. Aberlour has long been admired for its use of exceptional oak and thoughtful blending traditions, and this release sits at the very peak of that philosophy. The whisky has evolved slowly over its fifty-year journey, drawing richness from its casks while retaining the signature Speyside elegance that defines the distillery.
In the glass, the 50-Year-Old delivers a sensory profile that is both intricate and inviting. The nose opens with ripe apricot, red apple, pear, and cantaloupe, followed by toasted hazelnut, soft meringue, marshmallow dipped in chocolate, and a dusting of nutmeg and cinnamon. The palate moves through layers of sweet orange marmalade, creamy vanilla fudge, and notes reminiscent of a classic custard tart, lifted by the brightness of stem ginger in syrup. The finish lingers with gentle sweetness and a measured hint of warming spice.
The presentation is designed to honour the whisky’s age and rarity. Each decanter is showcased in a bespoke oak cabinet created by designer John Galvin, known for his contemporary approach to traditional materials. Crafted from twelve individual staves, the cabinet mirrors the textures and contours of natural oak, echoing the casks that protected the spirit for half a century. Every detail is considered, from the sculpted curves to the hand-finished surfaces.
You will also find a special granite plinth accompanying each bottle. This stone has been milled from the distillery’s former warehouse, now decommissioned, bringing a piece of Aberlour’s past into the presentation.
The Aberlour 50 Year Old is now available exclusively at The Whisky Exchange with a retail price of £31,000
