Sips & Sites & Bites

Old Pulteney’s worldwide journey collection features four limited-edition whiskies matured in coastal casks.

It’s a good showing of a variety of coastal flavors for whisky lovers from sea to shining sea.

Old Pulteney has done something unique … they’ve matured their whisky in ex-Pineau des Charentes wine casks. This brings the essence of the French coastline to their Maritime Malt.

This is the first time they’ve done this, and it adds a special touch to the whisky. The infusion captures the delightful flavor nuances of the renowned sweet aperitif, which hails from the Charente-Maritime region on the southwest coast of France.

The notes eortlessly harmonize with the unique northern flavors that have garnered Old Pulteney single malt its renowned reputation. The outcome is none other than the first-ever expression in The Coastal Series, appropriately called Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes.

Old Pulteney whisky is profoundly influenced by its coastal origins in Wick, situated on the northern extremities of the Caithness Coast in rural Scotland.

Each passing year, the casks breathe in the invigorating North Sea air, infusing the whisky with a distinctly briny essence that truly embodies the sea. Demonstrating the same meticulous craftsmanship that defines all their expressions, Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes introduces an unprecedented level of innovation in cask maturation for the brand. It introduces a lighter, sweeter layer atop the classic Old Pulteney foundation.

The whisky’s journey begins in ex-bourbon casks, followed by a further maturation process in hand-picked ex-Pineau des Charentes French oak casks, thoughtfully selected by Stuart Harvey, the master blender. In these specially chosen casks, the whisky gradually absorbs the delightful sweetness of the aperitif, offering a harmonious counterpoint to the distinctive briny character of Old Pulteney, resulting in a beautifully balanced dram.

This expression conjures the comforting warmth of sun-soaked coastal days, with
delightful and gentle notes of candied oranges, warm spices, and velvety vanilla. As each sip lingers, it unfolds to reveal subtle hints of caramelized hazelnuts and finely ground spices. The flavor profile gracefully broadens with sweetness before gently tapering o into a savory coastal minerality.

“We’re very pleased to introduce Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes, the first in a new, exciting series by the brand. Old Pulteney’s past, present, and taste are influenced by its home by the sea on the Caithness Coast, and The Coastal Series beautifully explores cask maturations that highlight wonderful expressions influenced by their global coastal homes,” said Malcolm Waring, the Distillery Manager at Old Pulteney.

“Our Pineau des Charentes expression is a beautifully light, fruity single malt that
showcases both the flavors of our wonderfully matured spirit but balanced with the rich sweetness of the Pineau des Charentes, resulting in a truly exquisite expression.”

Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes will be presented in a sophisticated gold gift box that beautifully reflects the color of golden sands and adorned with a meticulously crafted illustration of the French coastline. It will be conveniently available in various markets across the U.S. starting later this summer priced at $79.99.