Experimental phase: initial rating derived from official awards and critic reviews
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2022
Highland Shepherd Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a refined offering from Brave New Spirits, crafted as an homage to Scotland's pastoral heritage. This Highland single malt is sourced from a single distillery and aged in bourbon oak casks for at least six years, achieving a harmonious balance of flavors before being bottled at 46% ABV.
On the nose, it reveals vibrant notes of zesty orange marmalade, apple peel, digestive biscuits, and dried grass. The palate unfolds with warm cinnamon, tart fruits, freshly cut hay, and creamy vanilla-rich fudge. The finish is smooth and lingering, with delicate hints of honey and mixed peels.
Brave New Spirits is an independent whisky bottler and blender based in Glasgow, established in 2015. Dedicated to producing premium Scotch whiskies, the company blends traditional craftsmanship with innovative approaches, creating a diverse portfolio of distinctive ranges that celebrate the rich heritage of whisky-making.
Their offerings include WhiskyHeroes, a collection of single cask or small-batch releases, each matured or finished in select Sherry casks or Bourbon barrels to highlight unique expressions from various Scottish distilleries. The Cask Masters range features exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies, hand-selected and matured in Scotland, with each bottle individually labeled to honor tradition.
Additionally, the Whisky of Voodoo series showcases small batches of single malt and grain whiskies, chosen by the Master of Ceremony, with fine cask maturation and detailed information on age and region, though the distillery name remains undisclosed.
In August 2023, Brave New Spirits secured planning permission for their first distillery, Witchburn, located in Campbeltown. With a production capacity of over 2 million liters per year, this milestone represents a significant step forward for the company, with spirit production scheduled to commence in late 2024.