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stunning display of contemporary modelling through computer programming , this art piece brings subtle intricacies that are testament to the craftsmanship at the heart of every creation from The Glenlivet .
Kevin Balmforth , The Glenlivet Cask Master who was responsible for directing the final maturation years of the 55 Year Old whisky , describes the taste experience as “ a medley of autumn fruits , sun-drenched Seville oranges and sticky dates enveloped by the spiced warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg on the nose , alongside the sweet , warming flavours of homemade blackcurrant jam and vanilla fudge , balanced with zesty citrus notes on the palate .”
Speaking about the inspiration behind the sculpture Michael
Hansmeyer , computational architect & programmer , explained : “ My work captures the intersection of architecture and the arts . It is a laboratory for experimenting with new possibilities , and that is where I saw the harmony in collaborating with The Glenlivet . Weaving threads of intelligent technologies to create something that escapes conformity and classification to celebrate such an aged whisky has been a thrill . I created this sculpture as a tribute to the complexity of The Glenlivet ’ s oldest expression and the rugged beauty of the distillery ’ s Scottish landscape , capturing the spirit of where innovation meets tradition .”
This exceptional 55 Year Old single malt is the First Edition of The Glenlivet Eternal Collection – a new range of highly collectable precious whiskies , released annually . All future releases , each taken from a single , extraordinary cask , will be aged for one additional year and will be accompanied by an original artform crafted by a new visionary artist . Together , this will create a collection to cherish .
Kevin Balmforth , The Glenlivet Cask Master added : “ The 55 Year Old is the highest age Scotch ever released from The Glenlivet Distillery , and combined with the incredible talent of Michael , it tells of the timelessness of The Glenlivet . Thanks to decades of collaboration from our team of cask experts , past and present , the introduction of The Eternal Collection represents a monumental moment for whisky connoisseurs and luxury appreciators to add a pivotal piece of Scotch whisky legacy to their collection . It epitomises The Glenlivet ’ s commitment to excellence within Scotch innovation as we continue to push to creative new heights in single malts .”
The First Edition of The Glenlivet Eternal Collection , will be released in September 2024 . The masterpiece was first unveiled during an exclusive 200 year anniversary celebration hosted at The Glenlivet ’ s iconic distillery in Speyside , Scotland . The Glenlivet Distillery is open for guests to explore the full portfolio from The Glenlivet and enjoy interactive visitor experiences .
In tandem with the launch of its oldest single malt , and to further honour its 200th anniversary , The Glenlivet has partnered with Sotheby ’ s to create a unique auction lot . A bespoke 55 Year Old single malt whisky presented with a oneof-a-kind Hansmeyer sculpture will be available exclusively at auction from 22nd October – 5th November 2024 , with all proceeds to benefit National Trust for Scotland , dedicated to conserving Scotland ’ s natural and cultural heritage .
The Glenlivet Eternal Collection , First Edition : 55-Year-Old in collaboration with Michael Hansmeyer , will be available at The Whisky Exchange for RRP € 50,000 .
For more information , visit theglenlivet . com or follow @ theglenlivet . To register early interest in the one-of-one auction , visit www . sothebys . com / theglenlivet55