At Glen Scotia, we’re incredibly proud to announce our collaboration with The Maclean Foundation on their second charity whisky release. In support of their mission to provide clean water to the people of Madagascar, we have donated a limited-edition single cask of Glen Scotia whisky, aptly named ‘Enigma’. This eight-year-old single malt, aged in first-fill bourbon casks, is not just an exceptional whisky but a lifeline. Each of the 210 bottles sold will provide one person with clean water for life.
The Maclean Foundation was founded by legendary Scottish whisky expert Charles Maclean MBE and his three sons—Ewan, Jamie, and Lachlan—who are as passionate about helping others as they are about adventure. Their first whisky release sold out in weeks, providing 700 people with clean water for life, and they are now working towards raising £1 million to fund the construction of clean water boreholes in Madagascar.
The Inspiration Behind ‘Enigma’
Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, ‘Enigma’ takes on a whimsical narrative. Charlie Maclean himself likened the whisky to the famous “Drink Me” potion that leads Alice into a world of wonder. The stylish bottle, designed by the Scottish creative agency Contagious, carries this theme, blending storytelling with the artistry of whisky-making.
Charlie, who helped select the cask, was full of praise for the whisky. Describing it as a “triumph,” he said:
“It’s a lovely golden colour, completely clean and remarkably mature for its age. There are fruity top notes, possibly white grape and melon. It is complex. I’m getting a slightly mineralic note too; it somewhat reminds me of aromatherapy oil. It starts sweet, then becomes distinctly salty with some white pepper and peppery-spice in the mid-palate. It’s very pleasant and very easy to drink. I’m also detecting a vanilla and toffee note, which you would expect from American oak. It’s a triumph and will do so much good. Every single one of those bottles will provide clean water for life for at least one person in Madagascar.”
“It’s a lovely golden colour, completely clean and remarkably mature for its age. There are fruity top notes, possibly white grape and melon. It is complex. I’m getting a slightly mineralic note too; it somewhat reminds me of aromatherapy oil. It starts sweet, then becomes distinctly salty with some white pepper and peppery-spice in the mid-palate. It’s very pleasant and very easy to drink. I’m also detecting a vanilla and toffee note, which you would expect from American oak. It’s a triumph and will do so much good. Every single one of those bottles will provide clean water for life for at least one person in Madagascar.”
The Glen Scotia Touch
Our Master Distiller and Distillery Manager, Iain McAlister, was particularly excited about this project. For him, ‘Enigma’ is a prime example of Glen Scotia’s signature style—young, unpeated, and matured in first-fill bourbon casks. This whisky is a testament to the character of our distillery and its unique Campbeltown flavour.
Iain explained:
“This young, unpeated, first-fill bourbon liquid is a real sweet spot for Glen Scotia, demonstrating our signature distillery style – a whisky full of tropical fruit, oiliness and that distinct hint of the sea. It’s unmistakably Campbeltown and we’re so pleased Charlie went with this selection for such an important project.”
“This young, unpeated, first-fill bourbon liquid is a real sweet spot for Glen Scotia, demonstrating our signature distillery style – a whisky full of tropical fruit, oiliness and that distinct hint of the sea. It’s unmistakably Campbeltown and we’re so pleased Charlie went with this selection for such an important project.”
Iain credits our traditional dunnage warehouse as a key factor in the complex flavours of this whisky. The rich oiliness, maritime saltiness, and creamy texture are hallmarks of Glen Scotia and Campbeltown, making ‘Enigma’ a standout addition to our whisky range.
A Partnership Built on Friendship
For us, this collaboration is deeply personal. Charlie Maclean has been a long-time friend of Glen Scotia, and we’ve shared many afternoons together in our dunnage warehouse, swapping stories and enjoying whisky. His work with The Maclean Foundation and his sons’ dedication to helping those less fortunate has been inspiring.
Iain reflected:
“Charlie has become a wonderful friend to us over the years and I’ve loved spending many an afternoon with him sharing stories in our dunnage warehouse or around Campbeltown talking whisky, life and, of course, family. Family is important to us both and I’m in awe of all of the adventures his boys have been on and the impact of the project – incredible, incredible stuff.”
“Charlie has become a wonderful friend to us over the years and I’ve loved spending many an afternoon with him sharing stories in our dunnage warehouse or around Campbeltown talking whisky, life and, of course, family. Family is important to us both and I’m in awe of all of the adventures his boys have been on and the impact of the project – incredible, incredible stuff.”
We are truly honoured to support Charlie and The Maclean Foundation by donating this cask to help fund their clean water projects in Madagascar. It’s a pleasure to be part of such a meaningful cause, and we’re proud to play a small role in making a difference.
Get Your Bottle of ‘Enigma’
‘Enigma’ is now available at Royal Mile Whiskies, and with only 210 bottles available, it’s expected to sell out quickly. This limited-edition release not only offers a unique whisky experience but also supports a life-changing cause. By purchasing a bottle, you’ll be providing clean water to someone in Madagascar, making a lasting impact.
Don’t miss your chance to own this extraordinary whisky and be part of something bigger. Get your bottle today from Royal Mile Whiskies Royal Mile Whiskies.
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