In the heart of the Highlands, amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, lies GlenWyvis Distillery, a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the world of whisky. Recently, this pioneering spirit was celebrated in the form of The Pioneers Cask 1501/02, a remarkable single malt bottled by London-based premium independent bottler Berry Bros & Rudd as part of their esteemed single cask series.
The Pioneers is the brainchild of Berry Bros & Rudd's innovative new project, aimed at spotlighting the 10 most forward-thinking distilleries in terms of sustainability. Each distillery faces its own challenges and, consequently, devises its own solutions. Among these, GlenWyvis stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The distillery harnesses wind, solar, and hydro energy in its operations, but perhaps most notably, it brings the local community of Dingwall together by allowing them to share in the ownership of the distillery.
Distilled in 2018 and bottled in 2023, The Pioneers Cask 1501/02 represents a marriage of traditional craftsmanship and modern sustainability practices. Matured in hogsheads with a quarter cask finish, this expression showcases the depth and complexity that define GlenWyvis whisky.
Upon nosing The Pioneers, one is greeted by bright citrus notes intertwined with hints of vanilla, enticing the senses with their freshness. On the palate, flavors of lemon and orange marmalade dance alongside notes of toffee, creating a symphony of sweet and tangy sensations. The finish is long and flavorful, leaving a lasting impression that beckons another sip.
With only 409 bottles released as part of Berry Bros & Rudd's Collective #1, The Pioneers Cask 1501/02 is a rare gem sought after by whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike. Each bottle is a testament to the spirit of innovation and sustainability that defines GlenWyvis Distillery, making it a prized addition to any collection.
In conclusion, The Pioneers Cask 1501/02 is more than just a whisky – it is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and community. With its exceptional taste profile and commitment to sustainability, it stands as a shining example of what the future of whisky-making holds.
Angus McRaild (86)
From part of a very cool series that Berry's did last year. Colour: white wine. Nose: greener, more on finger limes, chalk, mineral oils and some fatter notes suggestive of sheep wool, lanolin, freshly milled grist and rye bread. This rather green-tinged sharpness that makes you think of nettles, kiwi and gooseberry - or sauvignon blanc perhaps - is very impressive. With water: pure, sharp green fruits, full of acidity, crushed nettles, snapped flower stems, vase water and limestone. Mouth: we're going really towards fruit eau de vies here. Loads of mirabelle, kirsch, poire williams etc. More of these lovely tart, crisp cereal notes beneath that, under ripe cider apple and things like bramble leaf and lemon rind. With water: a little rounder, a notch sweeter but still plenty of these lovely fruit eau de vie impressions and still this perfect green sharpness. Finish: medium length, getting a little peppery and, funnily enough, a little salty again. Comments: don't get me wrong, it's a young whisky, but in my view it's a very good young whisky that makes an asset of its youth with all these rather wonderful sharp, green fruity edges that bring a playfulness and brightness to the drinking experience which is both fun and pleasurable. I also think the sensitive use of the quarter casks is really well done, there's no excessive oak getting in the way of the distillate.
