Interview: The Nairobi Launch of Glenfiddich 21 with Global Ambassador, Struan Grant Ralph

I had the pleasure of having a sit down with Glenfiddich Whisky Global Brand Ambassador, Struan Grant Ralph, who's popped into Nairobi for the first ever launch of their 21 year old bottle in East Africa.For our chat at Westland's Sankara Hotel, the bearded Scotsman waxes lyrical about the elegance and uniqueness of this particular range of whisky, and why it sets the bar high for luxury single malts.KenyaBuzz: What is the story behind Glenfiddich?Struan: Glenfiddich is a family owned distillery started in the 1880's in Speyside. It's innovative creations pioneered with their whisky for quite a long time. Their fruity, vibrant flavors of oak and vanilla gives their whisky a sweetness you can enjoy.KenyaBuzz: When did Glenfiddich become globally available?Struan: In the 1960's. The Scottish market pushed for export of their single malt and I believe, a decade later, it was available globally.KenyaBuzz: What are you launching today?Struan: The 21 year old single malt whisky for the first time in East Africa.KenyaBuzz: What's special about it?Struan: It's very rare to find a 21 year old finished off with rum soaked in a Gran Reserva cask. The whisky is kept for 6 months and brings out that fiery but sweet flavor. It has a tropical, fruity flavor that brings out the sweetness. Compared to the other like the 15 year old which has depth or the 18 year old which is bold because of the sherry, the 21 year old is sweet and tropical.KenyaBuzz: Where do you source the rum from?Struan: We get the rum from the Caribbean.KenyaBuzz: How is the 21 year old Glenfiddich packaged?Struan: Vibrant orange! Its a whisky you take in the late evening when you have more time to enjoy it.KenyaBuzz: Is the 12 year old whisky still your favourite?Struan: Definitely.

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Lunch ?

A post shared by Struan Grant Ralph Glenfiddich (@the_whisky_beard) on Dec 11, 2018 at 2:47am PST