Whisky During the Beijing Olympics
The year 2008 was marked by the Beijing Olympics and the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States. In whisky, Ardbeg Corryvreckan was released, an expression known for its swirling whirlpool of flavors and intense peaty kick. The release became an instant classic, lauded for its powerful complexity and balance. GlenDronach 15-Year-Old Revival also made its debut this year, a sherry-aged expression that quickly rose to prominence and became a must-have for any aficionado of sherried whiskies.
In the independent bottling sector, Compass Box launched its Spice Tree Extravaganza, a variation of the original Spice Tree but with older components and a portion of sherry-cask matured whisky. This limited edition took blending artistry to a new level. Meanwhile, Gordon & MacPhail continued to gain attention with their Connoisseurs Choice range, which often featured whiskies from lesser-known or closed distilleries, adding an air of mystery and exclusivity.
For collectors and investors, 2008 was a vibrant year that showcased the industry's ability to innovate and capture new audiences, even in the midst of global events.