Antarctica might now be known as an international outpost for the scientific community studying the effects of climate change on the polar ice caps, but in the past, it was one of the last frontiers of mankind. An arid, snow-swept landscape devoid of vegetation or food, Antarctica’s siren song captured the hearts and minds of intrepid explorers for years.
One of these explorers was Sir Ernest Shackleton who made several attempts to be the first man to reach the South Pole, creating records along the way such as reaching latitude 82 and 88. A consummate explorer, he carved a name for himself as a keen leader in the face of great danger. He was also a lover of whisky, carrying several bottles of the amber liquid on his trips.
It was one of these bottles supplied to the 1907 British Antarctic Expedition that was the basis for the new Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch Whisky. The whisky was created under the supervision of Whyte & Mackay master blender Richard Paterson. The whisky was created from a blend of Highland single malt whiskies with the aim of recreating the flavor of the whisky which was produced by a distillery that has long closed down.
The result is a whisky that lends itself well to being enjoyed cold. Keeping true to its Antarctic heritage, the Shackleton whisky can be chilled to below freezing while still retaining its character.
On the nose are notes of vanilla, toffee, cinnamon and ginger. On the palate, as the whisky warms up, dark sugar, sweet dried fruits and glazed pineapple tickle the taste buds. The finish might not be as long and complex as other whiskies, but notes of praline chocolate and a final wisp of smoke makes it an enjoyable experience.
Whyte & Mackay brings to the Philippines the blended malt whisky brand in a way that lets whisky lovers experience the thrill of its discovery — the Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is now touring select spots in Metro Manila via a roving iceberg museum.
Inside the truck, temperatures can go as low as -15 degrees Celsius. There, visitors can also learn about the unique history of Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch Whisky through a lights and sound show.
“We are bringing the Antarctic experience closer to whisky aficionados with our Shackleton ice truck.
Through this, we will be giving an interactive tasting experience where the flavor notes of our blended malt will come to life,” said Pia Bonalos-Mercado, brand manager for Shackleton Blended Malt Scotch Whisky.
