The First Step to Great Whisky? Nailing the New Make Spirit

What is New Make Spirit?

When it comes to making top-quality whisky, everything starts with the new make spirit—the clear, freshly distilled liquid that will eventually mature into whisky. While ageing in casks brings depth and complexity, the foundation of a great dram is laid long before it ever touches wood.

That’s why winning "Best in Category" for our new make spirit in 2025 is such a big deal. It’s not just an award—it’s a statement. It shows that Stirling Distillery is producing a spirit of exceptional quality right from the start, turning heads in the industry and setting the stage for something truly special when our whisky is ready.

Why This Award Matters

New make spirit isn’t just a blank canvas—it carries the core flavours that will develop over time. If the base spirit is clean, well-balanced, and full of character, it’s a clear sign that the final whisky will be exceptional. Our award-winning new make has already impressed industry experts, giving us confidence that our matured whisky will stand out in a crowded market.

What Comes Next?

While new make spirit is the backbone, the next critical step is maturation—and that’s where cask selection plays a key role. Even the best spirit can be let down by poor casks, which is why we’re taking a meticulous approach, carefully choosing casks that will enhance and elevate our whisky over time. From ex-bourbon barrels that bring vanilla and caramel notes to rich sherry and port casks adding depth and spice, every decision is made with the end result in mind.

This award isn’t just about what we’ve done—it’s about where we’re going. It’s a clear indicator that when our whisky is ready, it’s going to be worth the wait.

Watch This Space

For whisky lovers, collectors, and investors, this early recognition is a strong signal that Stirling Distillery is one to watch. We’ve nailed the first step—now, we’re making sure the rest of the journey lives up to the promise.

Would love to hear from fellow whisky fans—what’s the first thing you look for in a great whisky? 👇