Master Blender Dr. Stuart Morrison Leads a Cultural Odyssey with Eight Distinctive Single Malts, Celebrating Global Crafts and Artistry
In a remarkable celebration of global cultures and the art of whisky making, Diageo proudly announces the launch of the “Spirited Xchange” 2023 Special Releases Scotch Whisky Collection. This year’s collection is a tapestry of tastes, crafts, and stories, woven together in eight unique single malt expressions.
Curated by renowned Master Blender Dr. Stuart Morrison, the collection is a testament to the journey of Scotch whisky across continents and cultures. Each of the eight rare and collectible Single Malts has been carefully selected to spotlight the distinctive characteristics of their respective distilleries, showcasing Diageo’s commitment to unparalleled quality in Scotch making.
“Spirited Xchange Special Releases 2023 is a series of distillery-first expressions that celebrate the flavors and ideas inspiring our creative process,” said Dr. Morrison. “This collection allows us to experiment with both traditional and innovative cask types, including various wine and local spirit casks, to craft one-of-a-kind expressions that are both unexpected and delightful.”
The collection is not only a sensory experience but also a visual feast, thanks to the collaboration with eight global artists. Each artist has crafted a unique piece of artwork for the beloved distilleries and spirits in the collection, offering a powerful storytelling element. These artworks serve as visual tasting notes, making each expression’s flavors and stories come alive.
Among the highlights of the collection:
- Lagavulin ‘The Ink of Legends’: A tribute to the ancient art of tattooing, this expression is finished in Don Julio Añejo tequila casks, merging Lagavulin’s iconic smokiness with bright herbs and juicy plums. SRP: $170.
- Mortlach ‘The Katana’s Edge’: Representing the flash of umami, this expression is finished in ex-Kanosuke Japanese whisky and ex-Pinot Noir casks, revealing ripe, fruity sweetness. SRP: $280.
- The Singleton ‘The Silken Gown’: Finished in Chardonnay de Bourgogne French Oak casks, it exudes warm toffee and buttery golden fruit textures, reminiscent of a luminous silk gown. SRP: $135.
- Talisker ‘The Wild Explorador’: A celebration of the sea, this expression is finished in a combination of White, Tawny, and Ruby Port Casks, offering spice, dark fruit, and a hint of sea salt. SRP: $135.
- Roseisle ‘The Origami Kite’: Marking its first public release, this expression brings sweet vanilla notes with a touch of molasses. SRP: $150.
- Glenkinchie ‘The Floral Treasure’ 27 Year Old: One of its most mature bottlings, it carries lush floral aromas and sweet flavors of a Spring morning. SRP: $400.
- Oban ‘The Soul of Calypso’: Epitomizing Caribbean energy with vibrant flavors of tropical fruit mango and sugar cane from Caribbean pot still rum casks. SRP: $140.
- Clynelish ‘The Jazz Crescendo’: A symphony of vanilla spice and smooth caramel notes from its exclusive maturation in ex-bourbon American Oak casks. SRP: $200.
This year’s collection is a journey of discovery, exploring a variety of ages and spirit characters, delivering new depth and complexity. It captures the essence of cultural exchange through layers of unique flavors, offering Scotch whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs an unparalleled experience.
Diageo’s “Spirited Xchange” 2023 Special Releases Scotch Whisky Collection is more than a range of exceptional whiskies—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, artistry, and the boundless journey of flavors across the globe.
