Whisky, especially in the rarefied realm of single malt scotch, is meant to be enjoyed in one’s own good time. Every pour invites you to slow down and explore the notes and aromas in the spirit, whether neat, on the rocks, or with a few drops of water.
As we enter a new year, Speyside distillery Glenfiddich is giving whisky lovers something more to appreciate with its stunning special-edition boxes, designed by up-and-coming Chinese illustrator Rlon Wang. Presented in four colour palettes for the Glenfiddich Reserva Rum Cask 21 Year Old as well as the 12, 15, and 18 Year Old Malt Whisky variants, the beautifully-designed gift packs features the brand’s mascot — the royal stag — in a rainbow of colours and surrounded by a smorgasbord of whimsical images including dancing lions, whisky-carrying birds, cask-carrying hot air balloons, Glenfiddich-branded steamships and trains, Chinese lanterns, and reunion scenes. If you’ve ever pored over Where’s Wally books, you’ll love the enormously detailed world that Wang has created for the distillery.
Classically trained in traditional Chinese painting, Wang’s work is a beautiful melange of visual elements from the East and West. His collaboration with Glenfiddich tells the story of “The Great Homecoming”, inspired both by the tradition of returning home to family for Chinese New Year, and Charles Gordon’s (son-in-law of Glenfiddich founder William Grant) journey home after bringing the Speyside Scotch whisky to Asia.
“‘The Great Homecoming’ is an apt sentiment for Lunar New Year, a festive period that inspires the biggest global annual human migration, with people travelling countless miles homeward to see loved ones and celebrate together,” says Nigel Ng, Head of Brand Marketing for William Grant & Sons in Southeast Asia. “In a year when this migration may not be possible for all, we honour festive memories with families and traditions past, while looking towards a future full of promise.”
Says Wang of his latest work with the world’s most awarded single malt scotch: “I wanted to tell a story that evokes the warmth and excitement of Lunar New Year – the irreplaceable feeling and anticipation of finally coming home to loved ones. Inspired by the Glenfiddich spirit of experimentation and adventure, I created an illustration that comes alive with symbols of generations old and new. I loved playing with the symbiosis of Chinese and Scottish cultures – two connected countries on opposite sides of the world.”
Glenfiddich has also launched an Augmented Reality experience, where you can send customised messages to your loved ones via GlenfiddichAR.com with every purchase.
The CNY boxes are available on the William Grant & Sons flagship store on LazMall or the The 1887 Bar via GrabFood, as well as other authorised retailers.
(All images: Glenfiddich)
