forbes.com
2025 IWSC Awards: Two Single Malt Scotch Whiskies Win Top Honors
At the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC), A'glac Charrann 27-Year-Old and Loch Lomond 18-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whiskies won the Single Malt Scotch Whisky Trophies for whiskies over and under 20 years, respectively.
- What are the key characteristics and origins of the winning single malts?
- A'glac Charrann (98 points) is a 27-year-old single malt from the demolished Imperial Distillery (Speyside), bottled by Chivas Brothers. Loch Lomond 18-Year-Old (98 points) is from the Loch Lomond Distillery (Highlands), known for its unique Lomond stills and use of both pot and column stills.
- What is the significance of these awards, and what insights do they offer into the future of Scotch whisky?
- The awards highlight the diversity in Scotch whisky production. A'glac Charrann represents a rare echo of a past distillery, while Loch Lomond 18 YO demonstrates modern technique's ability to create timeless character. These wins suggest a continued appreciation for both traditional methods and innovative approaches within the industry.
- How do the production methods and aging processes of the winning whiskies contribute to their distinct qualities?
- A'glac Charrann, matured exclusively in American oak barrels, exhibits bold and fragrant qualities with candied bubble gum sweetness and layered complexity. Loch Lomond 18 YO, matured in three types of American oak casks (including re-charred barrels), combines spirit from pot and column stills, resulting in a subtle savory aroma with notes of cold smoke and dried fruit.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of both whiskies, highlighting their unique qualities and production methods. There is no apparent prioritization or emphasis favoring one over the other, although the description of A'glac Charrann's history and limited availability might subtly suggest greater value or rarity.
Language Bias
The language used is largely descriptive and avoids loaded terms. Words like "bold," "fragrant," "smooth," and "creamy" are used to describe both whiskies, but these are relatively neutral descriptors in the context of whisky reviews. The descriptions are evocative, but not biased.
Bias by Omission
While the article provides detailed information, it omits discussion of pricing strategy or market positioning for both whiskies, and does not mention the judging criteria of the competition.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a contrast between the two whiskies—one representing tradition (A'glac Charrann) and the other representing modern innovation (Loch Lomond)—but does not frame this as a mutually exclusive choice. The concluding sentence explicitly states that excellence exists in many forms.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the craftsmanship, quality, and aging process of two award-winning Scotch whiskies. This indirectly relates to responsible consumption and production by showcasing sustainable practices in the production of high-quality spirits. The focus on the use of aged casks and the attention to detail in the production process can be seen as promoting responsible use of resources and minimizing waste. The article does not, however, directly address sustainability metrics or certifications related to the production of the whisky.