Gordon & MacPhail has introduced what is now recognised as the oldest whisky in the world, named Artistry in Oak. Distilled at Glenlivet in 1940 and nurtured for eight and a half decades, this release marks a historic milestone in Scotch whisky. With only 125 decanters produced, it stands as both a rare collector’s item and a symbol of the family-run company’s foresight.
The whisky was officially raised from its cask on 5 February 2025, reclaiming the world record from an 84-year-old Macallan released in 2024. Bottled at 43.7% ABV, it embodies not only rarity but also the endurance of craftsmanship across generations.
A vision carried through generations
The story of Artistry in Oak began on 3 February 1940, when John and George Urquhart of Gordon & MacPhail decided to lay down spirit from Glenlivet in an American oak cask. At a time when wartime rationing had cut the supply of barley, their decision was a striking act of optimism. Eighty-five years later, the oldest whisky ever released carries forward that legacy of patience and vision.
Stephen Rankin, the company’s Director of Prestige and great-grandson of John Urquhart, emphasised that this release reflects knowledge passed down through four generations. It stands as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding traditions even in difficult times, with the aim of creating something that future generations could experience.
An architectural collaboration
To honour this extraordinary release, Gordon & MacPhail partnered with acclaimed American architect Jeanne Gang. Her design for the decanter suspends the liquid within twisted bronze stems, echoing the form of an oak tree encasing amber. The whisky’s golden colour became the centrepiece of her creation.
Gang explained that her design was inspired by the parallels between architecture and whisky making, both of which rely on time, materiality and enduring craftsmanship. The result is a vessel that not only preserves the liquid but also tells the story of how nature and human creativity intertwine. This collaboration adds further depth to the narrative of the oldest whisky, showing how legacy can be captured not only in taste but also in design.
Rare liquid, enduring profile
Only 125 decanters exist, priced at £125,000 each, with one to be auctioned at Christie’s in New York. Proceeds from that sale will benefit American Forests, a conservation organisation committed to restoring oak woodlands. Gordon & MacPhail’s choice reflects the vital role oak plays in whisky maturation and its ongoing importance for sustainable futures.
The flavour profile of Artistry in Oak is as intricate as its history. On the nose, soft leather gives way to marmalade and tropical fruits. The palate begins with spice before mellowing into notes of tobacco and cigar box, balanced by orange zest and golden sultanas. The finish is long, layered and gently herbal, with a subtle smokiness that reflects the coal-fired stills and maltings of Speyside in 1940.
A legacy sealed in oak
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For whisky enthusiasts and collectors, Artistry in Oak is not just a bottle but a story of endurance. More people will climb Mount Everest this year than will ever taste this spirit, underscoring its rarity. By producing the oldest whisky on record, Gordon & MacPhail has not only reclaimed a title but has also reinforced its identity as a family company dedicated to foresight, heritage and sustainability.
The unveiling of Artistry in Oak reminds us that the world’s most remarkable creations often come from decisions made with an eye on the distant future. Eighty-five years in the making, this release is proof of the power of patience, craftsmanship and belief in legacy.
Quick summary – Gordon & MacPhail (World’s oldest Whisky)
- 🥃 Gordon & MacPhail unveils Artistry in Oak, the oldest whisky ever released at 85 years old
- 📜 Distilled in 1940 at Glenlivet and raised from cask in 2025
- 🌳 Decanter design by architect Jeanne Gang reflects oak and amber
- 💎 Only 125 bottles exist, retailing at £125,000 each
- 🌱 Proceeds from the first auction benefit American Forests conservation
- 👃 Flavour profile: leather, marmalade, tropical fruits, spice, and long herbal finish
