Gordon & MacPhail has once again redefined the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship with the unveiling of Artistry in Oak—a masterpiece that unites time, creativity, and nature. This release marks the launch of the oldest single malt Scotch ever bottled, the Gordon & MacPhail 85 Years Old from Glenlivet Distillery, presented in a breathtaking decanter designed by internationally renowned American architect Jeanne Gang.

Collaboration Between Gordon & MacPhail and Jeanne Gang

The partnership between Gordon & MacPhail and Jeanne Gang was born out of shared values: respect for time, dedication to craft, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. Tasked with creating a vessel worthy of holding the most precious whisky in the company’s 130-year history, Gang turned to nature for inspiration.

Her design features four solid bronze branches that gracefully cradle a handblown glass decanter, evoking the oak casks that have nurtured the whisky for over eight decades. The form mirrors the organic growth and resilience of trees—symbols of patience and endurance, much like the whisky itself.

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A Masterpiece Eighty-Five Years in the Making

Matured in Cask 336, originally filled on 3 February 1940 at Glenlivet Distillery, this extraordinary whisky has been patiently evolving through generations. At 85 years old, it stands as the oldest single malt ever released, a testament to Gordon & MacPhail’s unparalleled expertise in cask maturation.

Stephen Rankin, Director of Prestige and fourth-generation family member, reflected on the achievement:

“We’re the first to mature a whisky for 85 years. Every year that goes by is a journey into the unknown. Working with nature demands patience and trust.”

Only 125 decanters of this historic release are available worldwide, each priced at £125,000.

The Artistry of Jeanne Gang

For Jeanne Gang, whose architectural works often explore the interplay between nature and structure, the decanter design was a natural extension of her philosophy.

“It was essential that the quality of the whisky was reflected in the design. The glass and bronze both express their inherent qualities while protecting the liquid within,” explains Gang.

The bronze branches represent strength and endurance, evolving over time as they develop a rich patina—much like whisky deepens in colour and complexity. The suspended glass vessel, supported by these branches, captures the balance between fragility and permanence.

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A Whisky of Unparalleled Depth

The whisky itself tells a story written by time. Matured in a cask that once held sherry, it boasts remarkable depth and character at 43.7% ABV.

• Aroma: Soft aged leather, apricot compote, and cinnamon with hints of waxy citrus and beeswax polish.
• Flavour: Layers of cracked black pepper, dried tobacco, and Seville orange peel, balanced by plum and cherry.
• Finish: A rich, lingering finish with delicate herbal notes.

Each sip reveals not just flavour, but history—an experience shaped by 85 years of careful stewardship and natural evolution.

Christie’s Auction and the Legacy of Oak

To mark this momentous release, Decanter #1 will be auctioned online through Christie’s from 7–21 November 2025, with proceeds (minus costs) benefiting American Forests—the United States’ oldest conservation nonprofit dedicated to forest restoration and sustainability.

“Given the importance of oak in our craft, this partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to leave a meaningful legacy,” notes Rankin.

The winning bidder will also receive an exclusive whisky tasting hosted by a fourth-generation member of the Gordon & MacPhail family, a signed sketch by Jeanne Gang, and the cask end of Cask 336, beautifully framed as a piece of whisky history.

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Historic Whisky Release

Christie’s Global Head of Wine and Spirits, Adam Bilbey, summed it up perfectly:

“The unveiling of Gordon & MacPhail 85 Years Old is a celebration of time, tradition, and craftsmanship. Over eight decades, this spirit has been carefully nurtured, culminating in a truly extraordinary moment.”

This release stands as more than a whisky—it is a symbol of artistry, patience, and human dedication intertwined with the forces of nature. The Gordon & MacPhail 85 Years Old from Glenlivet is not only the oldest whisky ever bottled; it is a living legacy in liquid form.

For the Discerning Collector

Opportunities to own a piece of living whisky history are exceptionally rare. The Gordon & MacPhail 85 Years Old from Glenlivet Distillery represents not only the pinnacle of maturation mastery but also a tangible legacy of craftsmanship and patience spanning four generations.

For seasoned collectors and new investors alike, this release stands as a cornerstone in any fine whisky portfolio — a timeless asset where artistry meets provenance.