Glenfiddich has introduced Glenfiddich 28 Years Old, a limited-edition single malt developed in collaboration with Aston Martin. The release brings together the Scottish distillery’s approach to whisky maturation and the British carmaker’s design language, with the expression shaped by several oak influences over nearly three decades.

The whisky was developed by Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman, who brought together spirits matured in American and European oak casks. A notable component is whisky initially matured in American oak before undergoing a second maturation in virgin American oak, contributing spice and vanilla sweetness.

This is combined with spirit matured in European oak Oloroso sherry-seasoned hogsheads, which adds depth and a sherried character, alongside traditional ex-bourbon casks that contribute the orchard fruit notes associated with Glenfiddich. The combination creates a layered profile, balancing fruit, spice and richer oak characteristics.

The selection and marriage of these casks form the basis of the 28-year-old expression, reflecting Kinsman’s work with different maturation techniques while retaining the distillery’s established flavour profile.

Packaging draws on Aston Martin design

The collaboration extends beyond the whisky itself to its presentation. Developed with Aston Martin’s design team, the packaging features flowing forms inspired by the lines and movement of the marque’s sports cars. Layered detailing and the use of light are intended to reflect the different stages of the whisky’s maturation.

The limited-edition presentation combines Aston Martin’s Podium Green with copper finishes and Glenfiddich’s stag emblem. The design brings together visual elements from both brands without departing from their respective identities.

The whisky’s maturation period also coincided with a significant period in Aston Martin’s development. When the spirit was laid down in casks in the late 1990s, the carmaker was working on Project Vantage, a concept that would form the basis of the Vanquish. The V12-powered DB7 Vantage was also introduced during this period, marking another development in the company’s performance-car range.

Kinsman said the intention was to explore how different oak influences could work together while maintaining Glenfiddich’s characteristic fruit notes. The process also drew on the distillery’s 139-year history of whisky making and the experience passed down through successive Malt Masters.

According to Stefano Saporetti, Aston Martin’s Director of Brand Diversification, the release reflects the brands’ respective approaches to craftsmanship and design, with the packaging conceived as a collector’s piece.

Glenfiddich 28 Years Old is scheduled for release from January 2027. The limited edition whisky will be made available in the United States and through selected international airport outlets.