Ladyburn Returns with a 50-Year-Old Single Malt in Artful New Collection
For the first time in nearly five decades, a rare gem from the closed Ladyburn distillery has resurfaced — and it’s making headlines not just for its age, but also for its artistic presentation. Aged for half a century, this single malt is part of an exclusive limited release that bridges the worlds of fine whisky and contemporary art.
Resurrecting a Silent Distillery
Ladyburn was a Lowland distillery in Scotland that ceased operations in 1975, making its whiskies exceedingly rare. Owned by William Grant & Sons, the distillery is now being revived through a small-batch luxury bottling that highlights its unique heritage. The 50-year-old single malt is among the few casks that survived the distillery’s closure and has since matured in American oak for five decades — a significant feat in whisky aging.
Art and Whisky: An Unlikely Collaboration
This release is more than just a bottle of fine whisky. Each edition is accompanied by artwork from acclaimed Korean artist Ha Chong-Hyun, a leading figure of the Dansaekhwa (monochrome painting) movement. His distinctive technique, which involves pushing oil paint through the reverse side of burlap canvas, has been visually translated into the packaging and design of the Ladyburn bottle, delivering a multisensory experience.
The collaboration marks the beginning of a new chapter where whisky craftsmanship meets modern artistry. Each whisky bottle is housed in a museum-quality display case, finished in textures that nod to Ha Chong-Hyun’s signature art style.
A Limited and Luxurious Offering
Only 210 detailed decanters of this 50-year-old expression have been produced. The whisky inside comes from a single distillation in 1973, a point of pride considering the distillery’s short operational span. The result is a Scotch that not only carries deep historical value but also reflects decades of skilled maturation.
Tasting notes hint at layers of honey, warm spices, oak, and dried fruit — classic traits enhanced by 50 years of careful aging. This release targets collectors, investors, and whisky enthusiasts looking to own a piece of lost Scotch history.
Global Presentation and Cultural Connection
The collection has made its debut in South Korea, with the launch accompanied by an exhibition of Ha Chong-Hyun’s work. The message of the event spoke to how both whisky and art require patience, discipline, and integrity. This cultural tie strengthens the narrative behind the Ladyburn bottle, positioning it as much more than just a luxury product — it’s a story, a bridge, and a legacy.
This unique fusion of heritage whisky and modern art makes the collection appealing to a broad audience, from seasoned whisky connoisseurs to art collectors. It also shines a light on the growing appreciation for rare liquor as an art form in its own right.
Learn More About Korean Contemporary Art
If you’re interested in understanding more about Ha Chong-Hyun and the Dansaekhwa movement, you can explore this Tate article on Korean monochrome painting.
Common Questions About the Ladyburn 50-Year-Old Release
Where was this Ladyburn whisky distilled?
The whisky was distilled at the original Ladyburn distillery located in the Lowlands of Scotland. It operated under William Grant & Sons but was shut down in 1975.
How many bottles were made?
Only 210 bottles have been produced, making it one of the rarest releases in recent whisky history.
What makes this whisky unique?
Aside from being aged for 50 years, this release uniquely incorporates visual art from a renowned contemporary Korean artist, making it both a collectible and a cultural piece.
Is the Ladyburn brand coming back permanently?
There hasn’t been official confirmation about a permanent return, but this limited release could be a signal of more archival editions in the future.
How is Ha Chong-Hyun involved?
His artwork inspired the bottle design, label, and presentation case. The collaboration emphasizes the shared qualities between whisky-making and art: craftsmanship, patience, and authenticity.