Chivas Brothers launches Scapa Skiren whisky

September 2015 marks the launch by Chivas Brothers of Scapa Skiren, a single malt forged by the elements of Orkney island.

The whisky, which gets its name from the Old Norse word for glittering bright skies, is distilled in a unique barrel-shaped Lomond wash still – the only remaining working Lomond in the Scotch whisky industry – and matured in first fill American Oak casks.

Scapa recently opened its distillery to the public, for the first time since its launch in 1885, on the beautiful, wild and untameable Orkney mainland. It is situated on the shore of the Scapa Flow, a natural harbour and one of Britain’s most historic stretches of water.

Scapa master distiller, Brian MacAulay says: “It has been a real pleasure to bring the dynamic and unexpected contrasts of Orkney to life in Scapa Skiren. It is a product of our island; forged by the elements and the expertise of our dedicated team who use traditional methods and skills honed over several generations to create our distinctive Island malt with its unique smooth honeyed taste.”

Scapa Skiren, RRP US$60, will be released in September 2015, in selected retailers in the UK and France.

20 July 2015 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor