Rare whiskies go up for auction online in aid of drinks industry workers
More than 300 tempting lots are going under the hammer, for charity, finds Rosalind Erskine
William Grant and Sons, who own big name brands including Glenfiddich, Hendrick’s and The Balvenie, have released details of an online charity auction.
The auction is being held as part of their UK #Standfast campaign – a relief effort to support the on-trade community in the immediate future and on an ongoing basis. The Standfast auction will raise funds for charities, The Drinks Trust and The BEN Scotland, both of whom offer support and services to those working in the industry. The William Grant and Sons team have searched the archives of Hendrick’s Gin, Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, Monkey Shoulder, Sailor Jerry, Tullamore D.E.W., Grant’s, Drambuie, Ailsa Bay and Reyka Vodka to create a catalogue of more than 300 items to auction.
These include rare and aged liquids, unique virtual and in-person experiences and bartending essentials perfect for budding cocktail creators. Some of the highlights include: an exclusive Glenfiddich Single Malt never intended for public sale; a hand-crafted Morgan vintage-style sports car from The Balvenie; the chance to join the longest-serving malt master of any distillers in the industry, The Balvenie’s Malt Master David C Stewart MBE, alongside his Apprentice, Kelsey Mckechnie, behind the scenes in their Blending Lab; and a bottle of Glenfiddich Cask Collection Finest Solera, presented in a hand-blown Baccarat decanter.
Gin fans can bid on experiences, such as being the first to visit the Hendrick’s Gin Palace, and meet master distiller, Lesley Gracie.
Ross Carter, CEO of The Drinks Trust, said: “This auction comes at a time where the drinks and hospitality industry is in need of assistance more than ever. We are truly grateful to William Grant & Sons for creating this one-of-a-kind #STANDFAST Charity Auction, which is set to deliver much-needed support to our industry which has been affected by the pandemic like no other.”
Chris Gardner, CEO The BEN in Scotland added: “It’s heart-warming to have received such support from leading spirits brands for workers who’ve seen significant impacts to their livelihoods.”
The auction runs from 19-28 July 2020, online at Whisky.auction. com. Registration to bid is £5.