Saltire Rare Malt Debuts in Sweden: Online Tasting Event

Scottish Best Newcomer Independent Bottler Expands into Nordics with Virtual Tasting of Aged Cask Craftsmanship

Following its recognition as Best Newcomer at the 2025 Scottish Whisky Awards, Saltire Rare Malt has officially announced its entry into the Sweden market. The brand will host its first-ever online tasting on February 17, 2026. Based in the historic Scottish town of Falkland, this independent bottler is dedicated to bringing a deep virtual sensory journey to Swedish enthusiasts through high-quality single malt whiskies.

This online event features Klaus Bitschnau, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Whiskykalendern & Whiskysnack, co-hosting with Saltire Rare Malt’s European Sales Director and Keeper of the Quaich, Jan Damen. This virtual session will guide participants through the brand's core values while sharing professional insights on cask selection and maturation. Jan Damen noted that Swedish whisky lovers possess deep knowledge and strong curiosity, making it an ideal place to promote Saltire Rare Malt's unique tasting philosophy.

Luxury Tasting Lineup: Showcasing the Depth of Aged Cask Maturation

The tasting lineup is truly luxurious, featuring six selected expressions aged at least 14 years. Highlights include a Dailuaine 14-year-old matured in a first-fill Bourbon hogshead, a Royal Brackla 16-year-old (refill American oak) showcasing raw spirit character, and a Tamnavulin 17-year-old slowly matured in second-fill ex-Oloroso European oak.

The session also includes Speyside Distillery 18-year-old (first-fill PX hogshead), dubbed "The Cigar Malt," and the uniquely flavored Ardmore 14-year-old (second-fill ex-Marsala barrique). Finally, the tasting will showcase a Speyside single malt from its sister brand, The Falkland Collection.

Brand Foundations: History and Heritage of Falkland

Saltire Rare Malt was co-founded by Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie, with professional guidance from internationally renowned whisky writers The Whisky Couple (Hans and Becky Offringa). Headquartered in Falkland, Fife, the brand sits in a location with a rich history, where Scotch whisky production records date back to 1494.

The brand is rapidly expanding its footprint across Europe, including markets like the Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Poland. The brand emphasizes thoughtful maturation craftsmanship and limited releases, aiming to present the purest aged flavors to discerning drinkers.

📅 Release Date: 2026-02-03

🔗 Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/saltire-rare-malt-debuts-online-tasting/