Glen Scotia Unveils Second Icons of Campbeltown Whisky, Honoring Local Legends

Glen Scotia Distillery has announced the release of its second whisky in the Icons of Campbeltown series. This new release, titled Icons of Campbeltown: Release No. 2, is part of a five-part collection that pays tribute to the rich history and traditions of Campbeltown, Scotland. The collection is deeply inspired by the legends depicted on the town’s historic Market Cross, with each whisky connecting the distillery’s character to stories of the past.

A Series Rooted in History

The Icons of Campbeltown series, which launched in 2023, is a celebration of the cultural heritage of the region. The 14th-century Market Cross in the center of Campbeltown is adorned with etchings that tell stories from the town’s history. These tales have inspired each release in the collection, with the second expression drawing its theme from one of the most dramatic carvings on the cross—the legend of Saint Michael slaying a fire-breathing dragon. This mythical battle symbolizes protection and courage, themes that resonate with Campbeltown’s enduring spirit.

The dragon featured in this release is brought to life through a stunning label design by Joel Holtzman, a renowned illustrator who has worked with major names like Marvel and LucasFilm. His artistic touch captures the vivid imagery of the dragon entwined around the Market Cross, echoing the fiery and powerful nature of the whisky inside the bottle.

A Tribute to Campbeltown’s Resilience

Although the tale of Saint Michael and the dragon is a myth, Glen Scotia's latest release reflects the real-life resilience of Campbeltown’s people. Distillery manager and master distiller Iain McAlister has drawn parallels between the historic fires that once devastated the town’s distilleries and the brave efforts of the community in overcoming these hardships. One such incident occurred on December 17, 1899, when Glen Scotia, with the help of local townspeople, battled a fierce blaze at the nearby Dalintober distillery, saving it from ruin. McAlister explains, “Hard times have a way of pulling our distilling community together. While there are no living saints or dragon-slayers here, the community continues to endure by its prevailing spirit of unity.” This latest release honors the determination and collaboration that have long defined Campbeltown, particularly during challenging times.

The Whisky: A Masterful Blend

The Icons of Campbeltown: Release No. 2 is a 14-year-old single malt whisky with a distinct character that captures the essence of both the distillery and its coastal surroundings. The whisky was initially aged in American oak casks before being finished for six months in Barolo red wine casks, a technique carefully chosen by Glen Scotia’s master blender, Michael Henry.

Henry describes the whisky as “decadently smoky,” with flavors of red candied fruits and berries, followed by a long and dry finish. The combination of the wine cask finish and the peated whisky results in a rich, smoky flavor profile that also includes Glen Scotia’s signature maritime salinity. This subtle hint of the sea is a hallmark of the distillery’s>The influence of the Barolo casks brings a vibrant red hue to the whisky, a visual echo of the fiery imagery tied to the dragon legend. Henry notes that the swirling smoke and the deep red color are meant to evoke the dragon’s fire, connecting the whisky’s flavor and appearance to the mythic story that inspired it.

Unique Packaging and Global Availability

In addition to the whisky itself, the packaging of Icons of Campbeltown: Release No. 2 has been meticulously designed to reflect its fiery inspiration. The label’s amber, orange, and yellow tones complement the rich color of the whisky and transport the drinker into the legend of Saint Michael and the dragon. Holtzman’s artistic interpretation of the dragon climbing the Market Cross is both a tribute to Campbeltown’s history and a visual cue to the whisky’s bold and complex flavors.

This limited edition whisky, bottled at 56.8% ABV, is available for purchase through Glen Scotia’s website and select retailers worldwide. With an RRP of £98 (around $130 USD), whisky enthusiasts can find it in regions including the UK, US, Europe, Australia, Canada, Asia, China, and other parts of the EMEA.

A Continuing Legacy

The Icons of Campbeltown series represents Glen Scotia’s ongoing effort to honor the town’s rich past while producing exceptional whisky that embodies the spirit of the region. While the second release focuses on the dragon-slaying legend, each whisky in the series will continue to draw from the stories and symbols found on Campbeltown’s Market Cross. This unique approach blends history with craft, ensuring that each release not only delivers a memorable tasting experience but also tells a story deeply rooted in Campbeltown’s heritage.

For whisky lovers and collectors alike, the Icons of Campbeltown: Release No. 2 offers more than just a complex and enjoyable dram. It provides a connection to a town that has weathered many storms, both literal and figurative, and continues to stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of community, resilience, and craftsmanship.

Looking Ahead

With three more releases yet to come, Glen Scotia’s Icons of Campbeltown series promises to further explore the legends and history of this storied region. As each new whisky is unveiled, it will continue to showcase the depth of flavor and character that Glen Scotia has become known for, all while preserving and celebrating the cultural fabric of Campbeltown.

About Glen Scotia

Glen Scotia is a historic and renowned Scotch whisky distillery located in the coastal town of Campbeltown, Scotland. Established in 1832, it has a long and storied history in the world of single malt Scotch whisky production. Glen Scotia is one of the three remaining distilleries in Campbeltown, a region that was once a thriving center for whisky production and is known for its distinctive maritime-influenced>The distillery's location near the sea plays a crucial role in shaping the character of its whisky. The coastal environment infuses the whisky with briny and maritime notes, contributing to its unique flavor profile. Glen Scotia's whiskies often display a balance of sweet, fruity, and salty notes, with some expressions also showcasing peaty and smoky elements.

Glen Scotia offers a diverse range of single malt Scotch whiskies to cater to various preferences. Their core range includes expressions such as Glen Scotia Double Cask and Glen Scotia 15 Year Old. The Double Cask, for example, is known for its combination of bourbon and Pedro Ximénez sherry cask maturation, resulting in a rich and well-rounded flavor profile.

In addition to their core range, Glen Scotia has released limited edition and special cask finish expressions that showcase their commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. These releases often feature unique cask types and aging techniques, appealing to collectors and whisky enthusiasts seeking unique flavor experiences.

The distillery is open to visitors, offering tours and tastings that provide insights into its history, production process, and the opportunity to sample a selection of their whiskies. The opportunity to explore the distillery and its coastal surroundings adds to the charm of a visit to Glen Scotia, making it a memorable experience for whisky enthusiasts.

In summary, Glen Scotia is a respected name in the world of single malt Scotch whisky, known for its maritime-influenced character, diverse range of expressions, and commitment to quality and tradition. Its role as one of the few remaining distilleries in Campbeltown solidifies its place in the rich history of Scotch whisky production.