Mortlach distillery, renowned for its bold single malt Scotch, has launched L’Evolution, its first whisky collection designed by acclaimed creator Philippe Starck. The collection features three expressions—BEGIN, BECOME, and BEYOND—each symbolizing different stages of whisky evolution and paying homage to Mortlach’s unique 2.81 distillation process.
Starck, as Mortlach’s new Creative Director, collaborated with Dr. Craig Wilson, the distillery’s Master Blender, to craft a trio of whiskies that blend Mortlach’s heritage with modern innovation. The design and packaging reflect the whisky’s essence and Starck’s distinct creative vision.
The Three Expressions:
- BEGIN: Captures the spirit of Mortlach’s raw essence, highlighting its ‘new make’ barley spirit before maturation. Paired with BEYOND, it offers a glimpse of Mortlach’s beginnings.
- Starck describes it as “a beautiful sunny spring walk in an orchard.”
- BECOME: Celebrates Mortlach’s adventurous side, influenced by a combination of virgin oak, red wine, and refill casks. It represents the brand’s bold yet refined spirit.
- Starck calls it “rebellious and refined, a spirit with a thunderous heartbeat.”
- BEYOND: A whisky matured in casks spanning five decades, delivering deep complexity and richness.
- Starck describes it as “dark like an obscure dawn, with a fire inside.”
The Unique Packaging
Each whisky is encased in 3D-printed cages, inspired by the ‘gyri’ of the brain, reflecting the subconscious layers of the spirit. The innovative cases are crafted from materials like aluminium and pink copper, designed to protect the whisky while offering aesthetic and functional appeal.
Starck emphasized that the whisky itself was the focal point, with the cage acting as both protection and an extension of the whisky’s essence.
Pricing and Availability
- BEGIN and BEYOND are paired together at an RRSP of $10,000.
- BECOME stands alone with an RRSP of $365.
This bold collection is available in select markets, offering a fresh interpretation of Mortlach’s legacy through the visionary lens of Philippe Starck.