Our BIG Wins at the 2024 Scottish Whisky Awards
The Scottish Whisky Awards is a respected institution in the whisky world, bringing together producers from across Scotland to celebrate the craft of whisky-making. It’s an opportunity for distillers and independent bottlers alike to showcase their work and to stand out in a crowded field of incredible whiskies.
With entries judged blind by an experienced panel of industry professionals, the focus is purely on the quality and character of the whiskies. Unlike some awards that focus solely on mainstream or large-scale releases, the Scottish Whisky Awards include categories that celebrate the full spectrum of Scotch whisky, from traditional single malts to innovative grain and blended whiskies. For us, it’s great to be part of a platform that recognizes the diversity of Scotch and celebrates the craft behind it.
We’re delighted to share that two whiskies from our Cask Noir series —"Flamenco for the Badger Clan” and “Take It to the Brig” —have been awarded Gold Medals at this years Scottish Whisky Awards. These wins mean a lot to us, as they celebrate the work we pour into creating distinctive whiskies that tell a story, and offer something unique to the whisky world.
A Closer Look at Our Winning Whiskies
Flamenco for the Badger Clan
12 year old Dailuaine, 1st fill 0loroso Sherry Hogshead, 56,4% abv.
Gold Medal Winner in "Single Cask Scotch 12 Years and Under" category
This Speyside single malt stands out for its lively character—bright, fruit-forward notes balanced with spice and a clean, lasting finish. Its label art, inspired by the energy of flamenco and the whimsy of storytelling, reflects the whisky’s playful yet sophisticated personality. This cask-strength dram has a boldness that resonated with the judges, and it’s clear why. The Scottish Whisky Awards medal is the latest accolade for this dram, which was also given a rating of 96 points by the IWSC this year.
Take It to the Brig
12 year old Cameronbridge, 1st Fill Pedro - Ximenez Sherry Hogshead, 57% abv.
Gold Medal Winner "Single Grain & Blended Grain Scotch" category
Representing the often-underappreciated grain whisky category, this bottling from the Cameronbridge Distillery won over the judges with its layers of flavour. Sweet caramel and vanilla mingle with toasted oak in a whisky that’s approachable yet complex. The ship-and-sea imagery on the label feels fitting—this one is a quiet force, sailing confidently on its own course.
Important win
For us at Brave New Spirits, these wins are less about trophies and more about validation. We’ve always aimed to create whiskies that break the mould, combining tradition with personality and creativity. The Cask Noir range is all about small-batch, characterful whiskies with stories to tell, and these awards remind us that whisky drinkers—and experts—appreciate that approach.
While we’re incredibly proud of these awards, they’re not the end goal. They’re milestones on our journey to keep exploring what whisky can be and how it can connect with people. Whether it’s through bold new expressions, collaborations, or unexpected cask finishes, we’re excited for new discoveries.
For now, we are raising glasses of these two wonderful drams of Cask Noir and we hope you’ll join us in celebrating the whiskies that made it possible. Sláinte!
Other News
Introducing our Yellow Edition
Brave New Spirits proudly presents our Yellow Edition range. This is an exclusive selection of whiskies specially chosen to reflect the whisky regions of Scotland alongside distillery character. With The Yellow Editions, we aim to present whiskies to delight connoisseurs the world over, whiskies which have a focus on provenance, individuality, quality, and of course flavour.
World Whisky Awards 2024
The World Whiskies Awards is a highly anticipated event in the spirit industry. It brings together whisky enthusiasts, industry professionals and distinguished experts to celebrate the diversity and craftsmanship of the whisky industry. Paul Dempsey from Brave New Spirits Ltd. had the privilege to attend two wonderful evenings organized by the Whisky Magazine and collect a couple of meaningful awards for our amazing spirits.
Witchburn Distillery – Planning Permission Granted
We are delighted to be able to share with you the exciting news that the planning permission for the Witchburn Distillery has been finally granted from Argyll & Bute council. The single malt whisky distillery will be built at the former RAF Machrihanish Airbase in Campbeltown, located between Campbeltown Airport and Machrihanish Village.