Le Clos and Gordon & MacPhail collaborate for the launch of the exclusive global duty-free launch of Gordon & MacPhail 1948 scotch whisky in celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III
1st May 2023: On April 27th, 2023, Le Clos proudly launched an extraordinary whisky, exclusively available in its airport boutiques. This limited-edition release by Gordon & MacPhail, bearing the Glen Grant Distillery name, is an exceptionally rare single malt that commemorates the Coronation of King Charles III. Le Clos holds the worldwide duty-free exclusivity for this one-of-a-kind edition.
Introducing the distinguished Gordon & MacPhail 1948, aged for an impressive 74 years and attainable by only a select few with a global quantity of just 281 bottles. Le Clos boutiques at Dubai International Airport have secured exclusive rights to eleven bottles for the select lucky few.
With over seven decades of maturation, flaunts a lively, aromatic profile of celebratory spices, mulled berries, subtle raisin notes, and lemon zest with a cask strength of 50.4%.
Le Clos held an exclusive intimate launch celebration for the highly coveted Whisky at its flagship airport store, with the presence of distinguished guests including Mike Glen, the Managing Director of MMI, Alison Macdonald, the Vice President of Dubai Airports, and Ed Cottrell, General Manager Spirits at MMI.
“Dubai Airports is delighted to see Le Clos continue to deliver world-class standards and to source and offer innovative and exclusive products that truly elevate our guest experience. This ultra-rare edition captures the global interest and unique nature of this historic event, and we are pleased that Dubai International Airport is the first in the world to offer it. This exclusive launch highlights our strong partnership with Le Clos and our joint commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences in premium travel retail. “- Alison Macdonald, the Vice President of Dubai Airports.
On 10th April 1948, Glen Grant Distillery filled this exquisite spirit into Gordon & MacPhail’s cask the same year King Charles was born. Charles is the longest-serving heir apparent and, at age 73, became the oldest monarch to ascend the throne, following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
With a pioneering approach to long-term aging passed down through four generations of the family, it is only now that Gordon & MacPhail release this cask to celebrate this milestone moment in history. Bottled on the 15th of December, the same date as His Majesty was christened, this whisky is a fitting tribute to a man who has continually promoted and protected enduring traditions and excellence, pioneering efforts for many decades to bring about something exceptional.
Editor’s notes:
Gordon & MacPhail 1948 from Glen Grant Distillery Tasting notes:
Matured in cask 1365, a first-fill Sherry Butt, and bottled at 50.4% ABV. Outturn of 281 bottles.
Colour: Amber
Nose: Fragrant festive spices complement mulled berries with a hint of raisin. Lemon zest comes to the fore alongside demerara sugar and subtle beeswax polish.
Taste: Red apple flavours infuse with bitter orange and milk chocolate. Subtle smoke develops accompanied by fresh peppermint leaves.
Finish: Full finish with lingering grapefruit and mature oak.
About Le Clos
Established in 2008, Le Clos is a distinguished purveyor of Fine Wines and Luxury Spirits, showcasing an enviable array of global products within Dubai International Airport. With 9 locations throughout the airport, including select spots in the Emirates First & Business Class Lounges, as well as arrivals sections in terminals 1 & 3, Le Clos is celebrated for its exceptional service and unparalleled retail experiences. From discerning collectors to budding enthusiasts, Le Clos’ carefully curated offerings are sourced directly from acclaimed producers, assuring an exceptional selection for all.
Le Clos, a premier Fine Wine and Luxury Spirit retailer, is proudly owned in entirety by Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI), a subsidiary of Emirates Group. Boasting a meticulously curated collection of products hand-picked by an expert buying team, Le Clos prides itself on offering a highly relevant, boutique selection. Over the past 12 years, Le Clos has garnered more than 20 awards and accolades, including the distinguished “Airport Drinks Retailer of the Year” at the Drinks International Travel Retail Awards in 2017 and 2018. For additional information, please visit www.leclos.net, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ExploreLeClos.
About Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies
For over 125 years, Gordon & MacPhail has been driven by a simple mission: to create single-malt Scotch whisky of exceptional quality. The company has matched spirit from over 100 Scottish distilleries to its bespoke casks through four generations of family ownership. It is this unique depth and breadth of experience that enables Gordon & MacPhail to combine oak, spirit, and time to create a portfolio of iconic whiskies found nowhere else in the world.
