In the world of whisky, where tradition reigns supreme, a new independent bottler has emerged to challenge the status quo: Expedition Whisky.
Founded in 2023 by father-and-son duo Garth and Dave Dooley, this pioneering brand arrives with a fresh perspective, inviting connoisseurs and newcomers to embark on a journey of whisky exploration, storytelling, and the joy of discovery.
Expedition Whisky’s inaugural release, the Macallan Aged 33 Years, distilled in 1990 and matured in a PX Sherry Hogshead cask, is a remarkable introduction to this adventurous spirit. Bottled at 47.7 percent ABV, only 249 bottles will be available worldwide, making this expression not just a drink, but a rare piece of liquid history.
The Macallan Aged 33 Years is more than just whisky; it embodies rarity and heritage, setting the stage for what Expedition Whisky aims to achieve. “When setting up Expedition Whisky, we wanted it to be an independent bottler that explores Scotland in search of exceptional spirits,” says Dave Dooley. Its Macallan release serves as a tangible symbol of the brand’s commitment to unearthing hidden gems and crafting stories that resonate with every sip.
Expedition Whisky’s portfolio is thoughtfully divided into three distinct collections: Pinnacle, Chronicles, and Meridian. Pinnacle represents the apex of the brand, featuring rare and highly coveted releases like the Macallan Aged 33 Years, catering to the discerning drinker who appreciates not just the spirit, but the rich tapestry of its story. Chronicles encompasses premium, hand-selected expressions that celebrate adventure and storytelling, evoking a sense of timeless exploration. Each bottle tells a tale, inviting drinkers to savour the whisky and the experiences it represents. Meridian serves as a welcoming entry point for those new to whisky. Named after the prime meridian, this collection invites Spirits enthusiasts to step into the world of Expedition Whisky and embark on their own adventure of discovery.
Bringing depth and expertise to this vision is commercial director Bonnar Fulton, a seasoned figure in the world of whisky with a career spanning some of the industry’s most respected names, including Chivas Brothers and Johnnie Walker. His work across a broad spectrum of the industry, from cask sales to brand development, brings a sharp, intuitive edge to Expedition Whisky’s approach. His passion lies in unearthing rare and remarkable single malts, selecting each cask for its character, provenance, and potential. With an expert eye and a profound respect for tradition, Fulton is helping guide Expedition Whisky into its most exciting chapter yet—ensuring that each bottle is not only exceptional in taste but meaningful in story.
Expedition Whisky’s product design further enhances this narrative of exploration. The Macallan Aged 33 Years is housed in a bespoke illuminated display case that highlights its Speyside origins. Each hand-blown crystal decanter features a compass-inspired stopper. This attention to detail reflects the brand’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship, ensuring that each release is not just a drinking experience but a celebration of the journey behind it.
As Garth Dooley explains, “We chose The Macallan 1990 as our inaugural release because it symbolises more than just a spirit—it’s a masterpiece, an opening chapter.” It is this ethos that resonates strongly throughout the Expedition Whisky brand, reinforcing the idea that whisky should be an invitation to explore, discover, and connect.
Expedition Whisky seeks to shift the perception of whisky from a traditional spirit to a canvas for exploration. In an age where the whisky landscape is evolving, the Dooley duo brings a refreshing lens to this age-old craft, inviting drinkers to think beyond the bottle and to embrace the stories and experiences that each whisky embodies.
Dave Dooley’s personal journey into whisky began with a fascination sparked by his father’s love for the spirit, and this passion has now blossomed into a mission to create a whisky brand that resonates with the curious and discerning drinker. “Each release, bottled at peak maturation, tells a unique story of character, place, and time,” he says.
As Expedition Whisky prepares to launch its inaugural bottling, the brand invites readers to register their interest on their website. It is not just about securing a rare bottle—it’s about joining a community of explorers eager to delve into the world of exceptional whisky. With future releases already in the pipeline, including a 30-year-old Springbank within the Pinnacle collection, Expedition Whisky promises to keep whisky enthusiasts engaged and intrigued. The Macallan Aged 33 Years is a statement piece that marks the beginning of something special, and for those who appreciate the finer things in life, this inaugural release offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of whisky history.
As the whisky landscape continues to evolve, Expedition Whisky stands at the forefront, merging heritage with modern exploration. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this brand invites you to rethink how independent bottlers curate and share whisky.
If you’re ready to begin your own journey of whisky discovery, visit expeditionwhisky.com to register your interest for the inaugural release, and exclusive updates on those to follow. Join Expedition Whisky as they chart a course through the rich and varied landscape of whisky, where every bottle is an invitation to explore and savour the stories that lie within.
All images courtesy of Expedition Whisky.
