Saltire Rare Malt No.40 is an 18-year-old single malt Scotch whisky from Glenlossie Distillery, bottled at 48.8% ABV from first-fill Pedro Ximénez sherry hogshead cask #2393. This limited release delivers a fascinating flavor journey from candied orange peel and carrot cake on the nose to milk chocolate richness on the palate, showcasing the elegant complexity that emerges when quality Speyside spirit meets premium sherry wood.

Saltire represents the independent bottling tradition at its finest, selecting exceptional single casks from Scotland's most respected distilleries. Glenlossie Distillery, nestled in the heart of Speyside since 1876, produces whisky renowned for its delicate character and ability to showcase wood influence beautifully. This particular expression, distilled in 2008 and aged for 18 years in first-fill PX sherry wood, exemplifies how traditional Speyside elegance transforms under the influence of rich, sweet Spanish oak.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Candied orange peel, carrot cake spices, clover honey, dark treacle, barley sugar, sweet dried hay
• Palate: Milk chocolate richness, fruity complexity, traditional Highland character with sherried sweetness, round and balanced mouthfeel
• Finish: Medium to long, dried cherries, lingering fruit notes with gentle spice warmth

Product Details

Perfect For

• Single Malt Collectors: Rare independent bottling from respected Speyside distillery with unique cask provenance
• Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: First-fill PX influence creates exceptional depth and sweetness
• Contemplative Sipping: Complex flavor evolution rewards patient tasting and appreciation
• Special Occasions: Limited release perfect for marking memorable moments or gifting to whisky connoisseurs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Saltire No.40 taste like?

This 18-year Glenlossie offers a unique flavor profile starting with candied orange peel and carrot cake spices, developing into milk chocolate richness with clover honey sweetness. The first-fill PX sherry cask adds layers of dried fruit and treacle, while maintaining the elegant, fruity character typical of quality Speyside single malts.

Is this whisky good for cocktails?

At 48.8% ABV with such distinctive character, this rare single malt is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its complexity. The limited availability and premium price point make it more suited to contemplative sipping rather than mixing, though it would create an exceptional Old Fashioned for very special occasions.

How should I drink Saltire No.40?

Serve neat in a Glencairn glass at room temperature, allowing 10-15 minutes for the aromas to open up. Add a few drops of water if desired to release additional flavors, particularly the fruit and spice notes. The non-chill filtered nature means it may cloud slightly with water, which is natural and indicates minimal processing.

Is this whisky worth the investment?

With only 138 bottles available, this represents a rare opportunity to own an exceptional single cask Speyside with 18 years of maturation in first-fill sherry wood. Independent bottlings from quality distilleries like Glenlossie often appreciate in value, making this both a drinking pleasure and potential collector's item.

What makes this different from other Speyside whiskies?

The combination of 18-year maturation specifically in first-fill PX sherry wood creates unusual complexity for Speyside, with the carrot cake and dried hay notes being particularly distinctive. Most Speyside expressions show more floral or orchard fruit character, while this develops deeper, richer flavors that bridge traditional Highland and Speyside styles.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.