A new limited-edition single malt created in tribute to Edinburgh Castle has gone on sale, with just 232 bottles released.

The whisky, named Defender of the Nation, is available through Historic Scotland’s online shop and at the Edinburgh Castle Whisky and Finest Food Shop. Each bottle costs £195.

A Whisky Tied to One of Scotland’s Best-Known Landmarks

Edinburgh Castle sits above the city skyline and draws more than a million visitors each year. Historic Scotland released the whisky to mark the castle’s place in Scottish history and culture.

The release focuses on scarcity. With only 232 bottles available, the run is small even by modern limited-edition standards.

Distilled at Tamdhu and Matured for 17 Years

Defender of the Nation was distilled at Tamdhu Distillery in Banffshire.

The whisky matured for 17 years in refill oak casks before spending a final year in a first-fill European oak Oloroso sherry hogshead.

Historic Scotland describes the profile as layered and rich, with notes of golden syrup and vanilla alongside sherry influence, oak, and light spice on the finish.

Each 700ml bottle comes in at 58.2% ABV.

Historic Scotland on the Release

Natasha Troitino, head of retail and product licensing, connected the whisky directly to the character of the castle itself.

She said:

“Edinburgh Castle has been an iconic part of Edinburgh’s skyline for over a thousand years, and is a symbol of Scotland’s resilience and history.

Just like the castle, the Defender of the Nation whisky is strong, nuanced and brimming with character.”

Sales Will Support Scotland’s Historic Sites

Proceeds from the release support Historic Environment Scotland, the organisation responsible for more than 300 historic sites across the country, including Edinburgh Castle.

Purchases are restricted to customers aged 18 and over. Delivery is currently limited to UK addresses.

Interest in Collectable Scotch Whisky Remains Strong

Small-batch and location-linked releases continue to attract collectors, especially when bottle numbers stay low and the story behind the release feels tied to Scottish heritage.

A release of 232 bottles places Defender of the Nation firmly in the collectable category. The combination of age statement, sherry finishing, and Edinburgh Castle branding will likely keep demand high among both whisky enthusiasts and collectors.

Looking for Rare and Collectable Whisky?

UKV International works with collectors, investors, and whisky buyers looking for rare Scotch whisky, limited-edition releases, and cask opportunities.

Whether you’re building a collection or tracking market demand for collectable bottles, UKV International provides access to sought-after releases across the secondary whisky market.

Image Credit: Historic Scotland