Old Pulteney Flotilla: The Vintage Heart of the Maritime Malt

Set sail with Old Pulteney Flotilla, a remarkable Single Malt Scotch Whisky that captures the essence of the sea in every drop. Unlike the core range, the Flotilla series is released in specific vintage batches, representing a snapshot of the distillery's finest spirit matured exclusively in the rugged, salt-sprayed environment of Wick on the Caithness coast.

The Vintage Distinction: Matured by the Atlantic

Old Pulteney Flotilla is defined by its careful selection of ex-Bourbon American Oak barrels. This specific maturation path allows the "maritime" character to take centre stage. Because it is a vintage release, the whisky benefits from long-term aging in the distillery’s traditional dunnage warehouses, where the porous stone walls breathe in the Atlantic Sea air, imparting a unique, briny complexity to this Highland Single Malt.

Sensory Profile

  • Nose: Rich and complex. Vibrant notes of zesty lemon and green apple are softened by sweet vanilla and a distinct, savory undertone of freshly gathered sea salt.
  • Palate: A beautifully rounded texture. Deep flavours of warm honey and creamy butterscotch are punctuated by hints of orange peel and freshly ground spices.
  • Finish: Long, warm, and exceptionally clean. The sweetness of the malt is perfectly balanced by the signature Old Pulteney saltiness, leaving a crisp, coastal tingle on the tongue.

A Legacy of the Herring Queen

Founded in 1826, Old Pulteney is inextricably linked to the maritime history of Wick, once the herring capital of Europe. The distillery's unique pot stills—notably lacking a "swan neck"—contribute to a heavier, oilier spirit that can withstand the intense coastal aging process.

Old Pulteney Flotilla was bottled at a slightly higher strength 46% ABV and is non-chill filtered, preserving the natural oils and full-bodied mouthfeel that connoisseurs demand. It is a tribute to the "Flotilla" of fishing boats that once filled the harbor, bringing the world to Wick’s doorstep.