THE 50TH OF 50
It’s been 140 years since we established our distillery.
We have achieved much in that time.
Yet we recently had perhaps our finest hour.
This is the story of the 50th of 50.
THE LAST PRECIOUS DROP
In 2020, we released 50 bottles of our first ever 50 Year Old single malt: a testament to half a century of passion and craft.
The 50th of 50 was to be the jewel in our crown. So we partnered with Hamilton & Inches, Edinburgh, Royal Warrant Holders and jewellers of international repute.
Two Scottish brands steeped in history and heritage, both quietly dedicated to craftsmanship, tradition and artistry.
As we draw whisky from the pure springs of Rothes, Hamilton & Inches drew gold from Scotland’s only gold mine to craft a decanter beyond compare. The rare was transformed into the remarkable.
AND THEN THERE WERE NONE
On a February afternoon in the grand Georgian home of Hamilton & Inches, this one-of-a-kind decanter went to auction, streamed live to potential bidders and a small selection of Spirit Of Rothes members.
The virtual event was expertly delivered by Charles Graham-Campbell of Bonhams, one of the world’s most renowned auctioneers of fine art and jewellery.
We were delighted, and incredibly humbled, that the 50th of 50 eventually sold for £39,000, with all proceeds going to a charity of the winning bidder’s choice.
The charity chosen was Lead Scotland, who support disabled people and carers facing barriers to education. The £39,000 raised will specifically benefit Moray, the community in which The Glenrothes Estate is based, ensuring up to 100 local people are supported over a period of 18 months, helping to build their confidence and attain qualifications.
Being able to support such a wonderful Scottish charity is the perfect ending to a memorable chapter in our history.
WATCH THE AUCTION
THE DECANTER
The decanter had to be extraordinary.
The rarity of the whisky demanded it.
Discover the joint craft, care and commitment
that went into creating the 50th of 50.
THE PARTNERSHIP
For such an important release, we wanted to partner with the best of the best. Hamilton & Inches has been a beloved Edinburgh institution since 1866, using highly-skilled techniques passed down through generations.
A Royal Warrant is not something that’s awarded for life: it’s granted for a tenure of five years maximum. Hamilton & Inches have held a Royal Warrant as silversmiths to Her Majesty the Queen for more than 120 years. This was the coming together of two masters of craft. Precious liquid combined with precious metal, both shaped right here in Scotland.
Thanks to the 50th of 50, the legacy of
this unique partnership lives on.