Lot #31 The Glenlivet SPIRA 60 Year Old 1965
Sale Price: £650,000
Hammer Price: £520,000
Estimate: £60,000—£110,000
Brand: The Glenlivet — Chivas Brothers International Limited Founder
Format: Bottle | 1.5l
Overview
The oldest and most distinctive expression from The Glenlivet. This 60 year old single malt is presented in the timeless Spira decanter (‘spiral’ in Latin).
Details
Destined for The 2025 Distillers One of One Charity Auction, The Glenlivet introduces the oldest and most distinctive expression from the distillery to-date. This single malt is presented in the timeless Spira decanter (‘spiral’ in Latin), an artistic vessel inspired by the dance of the vapours within The Glenlivet's iconic stills and the flowing River Livet, embodying the distillery's signature elegance and smoothness. It represents the pinnacle of craftmanship and unwavering pursuit of liquid perfection that defines The Glenlivet. Within the stunning decanter lies a 60 Year Old whisky, distilled in 1965 and matured for six decades in a single hogshead cask.
Age of whisky: 60 years old
Maturation details: Single Hogshead
ABV: Will be bottled at cask strength therefore TBC post-bottling (48.3% at last regauge)
Fill size of lot: 1.5L (min.)
Fill/Distillation Date: 1.10.1965
Bottling Date: 1st week of October 2025 (exact date TBC)
The striking, magnum-sized SPIRA One of One is the culmination of collaboration between a number of highly skilled artists and craftspeople. The decanter itself is hand-blown and shaped by Brodie Nairn at Glasstorm in Tain, Scotland using multiple master glass blowing techniques and finished with hours of hand polishing. It is adorned with a Verdigris copper lid, reminiscent of the copper stills at The Glenlivet, completing the elegant, curved appearance of the piece. The lid is removed via a key mechanism, revealing the opening to the decanter and the precious The Glenlivet 60 year old single malt Scotch whisky that lies within.
The piece proudly sits upon a carved oak plinth, meticulously hand crafted by the master craftsmen at NEJ Stevenson, cabinet makers to the British Royal family and holders of the Royal Warrant.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Bright notes of homemade orange marmalade blend with the warmth of apple and sultana cake. Hints of sweet liquorice and salted caramel are balanced by fresh lemon peel and subtle Earl Grey tea. Underneath, gentle spices of nutmeg and clove mingle with a touch of rosemary.
Taste: The palate is fresh and juicy, featuring ripe pear and sweet kiwifruit alongside smooth vanilla nougat and ripe apricot slices. Heather honey adds a soft sweetness, while roasted pistachios bring a delicate nuttiness. Orange peel and warming spices of cinnamon and cardamom provide depth and intensity.
Finish: Long and complex with enduring spice.