This summer, the Scotch Whisky Masters disclosed the results of their 2024 competition, cementing itself as one of the pinnacle events in the whisky-tasting calendar. This annual event gathers a panel of esteemed tasters from the UK, each bringing their discerning palate to assess a wide range of whiskies without any bias. The results this year were nothing short of spectacular, with an impressive lineup of over 30 expressions receiving the prestigious title of “Master.” This honor spans various categories, including blended, blended malt, blended grain, single grain, and single malt whiskies. Among these, the single malt category particularly stands out, showcasing whiskies that have captured the hearts of connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Amongst the array of winners, one distillery emerged as a standout: Royal Brackla. With a rich history spanning 212 years, Royal Brackla has established itself as a significant player in the whisky scene. This year, they secured two Master medals for their exceptional Highland single malts, aged 21 and 25 years. The 21-year-old expression, which is matured in a medley of Oloroso, Palo Cortado, and Pedro Ximénez barrels, is a masterpiece that tantalizes the senses. On the other hand, the 25-year-old whisky, which undergoes exclusive maturation in Pedro Ximénez casks, offers a depth of flavor that is sure to impress even the most seasoned palates.
The 21-year-old whisky, bottled at a potent 92-proof, dances on the tongue with vibrant notes of cinnamon, cocoa, and maple syrup—some might argue it’s a perfect companion for a hearty breakfast. Its complexity is what makes it truly remarkable, as it weaves together layers of flavor that evolve with each sip. Meanwhile, the 25-year-old offering dives into a tapestry of rich dark fruit flavors, showcasing dried figs, raisins, and a whisper of leather. Both expressions provide an incredibly luxurious mouthfeel, leaving a lasting impression that beckons you to take another sip.
Despite being relatively limited in availability, Royal Brackla’s whiskies can typically be found on U.S. shelves, priced around $600 per bottle. However, the older 25-year-old variant poses more of a challenge to find, primarily targeted towards the British market and retailing at approximately £1,025. This pricing not only reflects the age and quality of the whisky but also speaks to the market dynamics, revealing a complex relationship between rarity and demand.
Beyond Royal Brackla, the Scotch Whisky Masters also recognized other exceptional whisky creators, such as The GlenAllachie for its peat-smoked Meikle Toir Sherry expression and Kilchoman, which dominated the non-age-statement Islay category. Royal Brackla operates under the umbrella of John Dewar & Sons, which also garnered awards for its Aultmore’s Oloroso Sherry Cask and Craigellachie’s 13-Year-Old expression.
The recognition bestowed upon these distilleries may not come as a shock to keen observers of the U.S. whisky market. Recent reports from the Distilled Spirits Council indicate a booming interest in Scotch whisky, particularly single malts, evidenced by an astounding 140% surge in super-premium single malt sales in 2023. This increasing demand signals a shift in consumer preferences, as more Americans seek artisanal and high-quality spirits.
Despite the notable acclaim that Royal Brackla has garnered, it may still not hold the recognition it deserves among American whisky drinkers. Its signature style—marked by rich and fruity flavors cultivated through extended fermentation processes and sherry cask aging—is precisely what many aficionados seek. With such a distinctive profile that resonates with whisky lovers, it’s time to shine a light on this venerable distillery. If you’ve yet to explore the offerings from Royal Brackla, now is the perfect opportunity to awaken your palate and embrace the nuanced pleasures of its exceptional whiskies.