LUXE Serendipity magazine

From Scotland’s northern shores to your glass, Old Pulteney captures the maritime character and coastal flavours of a true single malt

By Donna Richardson

Along Scotland’s far northern shores, where the salt winds sweep over rugged cliffs and the North Sea whispers its secrets to the land, something extraordinary takes shape. In the town of Wick – once a thriving fishing port and now home to one of Scotland’s most distinctive distilleries – Old Pulteney has been crafting single malt Scotch whisky for nearly two centuries.

Known affectionately as The Maritime Malt, Old Pulteney captures the spirit of the sea in every drop. Its whiskies are shaped by their coastal home — the salt air, the brine-soaked breeze, the rhythm of tides — resulting in a collection that’s unmistakably tied to the elements.

A Taste of the Coastline

The Old Pulteney core collection is a voyage through flavour, craftsmanship, and coastal character. Each expression reflects a harmony between land and sea — a timeless meeting of tradition and modernity.

Old Pultney Harbour – 40 per cent ABV RRP £35

Harbour takes its name from the point that connects Wick to the North Sea, and it’s a fitting introduction to Old Pulteney’s maritime spirit. On the nose, creamy vanilla and coconut mingle with zesty citrus and a hint of lemon drizzle cake. There’s an inviting warmth here — soft oak spice, raisins, and tropical fruit on the palate, balanced beautifully by notes of toffee and tobacco leaf.

The finish? A gentle build of fruit and spice with that signature coastal brine — a reminder of Wick’s sea-swept heritage. Approachable yet complex, Harbour is ideal for both new whisky drinkers and seasoned fans seeking a touch of coastal charm.

Available at Amazon, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and oldpulteney.com.

Old Pultney 12 Years Old- 40 per cent ABV RRP £40

The 12 Years Old is the whisky that defines Old Pulteney’s legacy — a hallmark expression matured for 12 years in American oak ex-bourbon casks. The result is a shimmering golden dram that marries sweetness and sea air in perfect balance.

Aromas of honey, vanilla, and dark caramel invite the first sip, followed by layers of cream, orchard fruit, and a lively touch of spice. A delicate salt note — born from the maritime climate that envelops the distillery — lingers long into the finish.

It’s refined yet approachable, making it just as at home beside a crackling fire on a quiet evening as it is raised in celebration among friends.

Available at Amazon, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and oldpulteney.com.

Forged by the Elements

Old Pulteney is more than a whisky – it’s a story of endurance, craftsmanship, and place. Since its founding in 1826, the distillery has stood steadfast against the winds of Caithness, drawing inspiration from the community and coastline that shaped it.

This connection to the sea continues to define Old Pulteney’s whiskies — not just in flavour, but in spirit. The distillery’s award-winning range includes Harbour, 12 Years Old, Huddart, 15 Years Old, 18 Years Old, and 25 Years Old — a journey that deepens in complexity with each step.

At the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the collection earned top honours, with Old Pulteney 12 Years Old taking home Platinum, and Huddart and 15 Years Old securing Double Gold. The 18 Years Old, too, shone with Gold – testament to the distillery’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Maritime Malt – Then, Now and Always

From the windswept cliffs of Caithness to the glass in your hand, Old Pulteney embodies the spirit of Scotland’s northern shores. Every sip carries whispers of sea air, echoes of craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of the coast.

Bold yet refined, Old Pulteney isn’t just a whisky — it’s a journey. One best enjoyed slowly, with good company and a view of the horizon.

For more information on Old Pulteney please visit https://www.oldpulteney.com/