In 2015, Australian entrepreneur and whisky aficionado David Prior set his sights on reviving a Scottish distillery dating back to 1817. In doing so, he returned Bladnoch to its former glory as one of Scotland’s earliest whisky distilleries and the oldest privately-owned Scotch Whisky Distillery.

This summer, Bladnoch has set another milestone with the release of The Samhla Collection, in what it calls a ‘celebration of past, present and future’.

The Samhla Collection from Bladnoch

Derived from the Scots Gaelic word for “symbol” or “likeness”, Samhla is a family of rare single malt whiskies that each represent different generations in Bladnoch’s storied timeline. The Sage is named in honour of Prior’s daughter, born in 2008, and the whisky is drawn from two perfect American oak red wine hogsheads from the same year. Going back further, The Prior 1990 represents the year Bladnoch’s owner started on his entrepreneurial journey. The spirit is aged in a Spanish Pedro Ximénez butt and limited to only 50 bottles.

Rarest of all, limited to just 15 bottles, is The McClelland 1966, distilled on 14 July of the same year and named in honour of the brothers who founded Bladnoch over two centuries ago. This exceptional whisky is an intoxicating yet delicate hit of fresh green apples with fresh cut grass and forest aromas inspired by Bladnoch’s lush surroundings. It is the oldest ever release from Bladnoch and a truly special drop.

Samhla is the work of Bladnoch’s master distiller, Dr Nick Savage, formerly at The Macallan. David Prior described the exclusive new collection as ‘a tribute to the remarkable journey Bladnoch has undertaken’, adding that it has been ‘a privilege to ensure its continued existence and to carry the torch of tradition, innovation and excellence for generations yet to come’.

The McClelland 1966

Each bottle comes in a presentation case. The McClelland 1966 also has a commemorative plaque inside the draw and a key, while The Sage and The Prior feature a plaque on the sides. Speaking about The Samhla Collection, Prior acknowledged what he calls ‘an unprecedented surge’ in the current demand for rare whiskies. ‘Collectors and enthusiasts recognise their inherent value as both liquid assets and cultural artefacts,’ he explained. ‘These extraordinary expressions, carefully crafted over time, embody the essence of craftsmanship, history and exclusivity that discerning investors seek.’

Register your interest at bladnoch.com