Saltire Rare Malt, a fledgling independent whisky bottler based in Falkland, Fife, is celebrating its remarkable ascent in the whisky industry as it prepares to expand into new global markets by 2025. Established in 2024, the company has quickly established a footprint that spans not only the UK but also reaches as far as Japan, Latin America, and the Netherlands, with recent stockist additions in Belgium and Uruguay.
Following the successful launch of its first products, Saltire Rare Malt is on the verge of releasing a highly anticipated 14-year-old Linkwood single malt whisky in May. This limited-edition offering, which has been carefully drawn from a Refill American Oak Ex Bourbon cask and bottled at a cask strength of 54.1% ABV, is priced at £160 and is limited to just 74 bottles.
Key to this expansion is the recent hiring of seasoned industry professionals. Jan Damen has been appointed as European Sales Director, bringing over 25 years of experience from prestigious roles, including Operations Director for Europe at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Additionally, Paul Bryant has been named as the USA Brand Ambassador to spearhead Saltire's push in the American market. Both new hires join a talented team that includes UK & Europe Brand Ambassador David McCallum and Business Development Director Andre de Almeida.
The whisky selection process at Saltire is backed by the expertise of Hans and Becky Offringa, renowned figures in the whisky community, known collectively as “The Whisky Couple.” With over 50 years of experience, they are respected judges at various international whisky competitions and have a pivotal role in advising which casks are deemed suitable for bottling.
Saltire Rare Malt was founded by Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie, who share a long-standing partnership in whisky collecting, which ultimately led to their venture into independent bottling. Their aim is not only to present sought-after rare whiskies but also to honour the rich heritage of Scotch whisky, which traces its origins back over 530 years to Falkland. This historical connection is further emphasised by the company’s location, directly opposite Falkland Palace, where record-keeping of Scotch whisky dates back to 1494.
Keith Rennie, co-founder of Saltire Rare Malt, expressed pride in the brand’s global reception, stating, “Saltire Rare Malt was born out of friendship, vision, and a passion for the very best Single Malt Scotch Whisky… the sheer quality, knowledge, and experience we have across our team at Saltire makes the future very exciting.”
The company’s strategic focus appears poised for continued growth, as it takes calculated steps to secure a prominent place in both established and emerging whisky markets. As Saltire Rare Malt heads towards its first anniversary, industry insiders and whisky enthusiasts alike are keenly anticipating what the future holds for this ambitious bottler.
Source: Noah Wire Services