In Asian mythology, there are many symbolisms associated with the stag. Several Chinese Tang dynasty scrolls had revered it as a symbol of longevity and prosperity whereby the God of longevity himself was often accompanied with one. In another country — namely the Jataka Tales native to India — it was a symbol of selflessness and courage (perhaps, some kind of pre- shadowing to Bambi’s plot). In Glenfiddich’s case however, the stag (the animal is emblazoned on every bottle) is a literal nod to its origins. Glenfiddich means “valley of the deer” in Scottish Gaelic.

This year, the second parter sees three Glenfiddich Lunar New Year special edition packs continue its own interpretation of the majestic animal with the deft strokes of Chinese illustrator, Rlon Wang. Titled “The Great Homecoming” (the first parter had Charles Gordon, son-in-law of Glenfiddich founder William Grant bring the Glenfiddich dream to Asia), the artwork on the four whisky variants — 12, 15, 18 and 21 Year Old Malt Whiskies — takes on a more profound meaning in 2021.

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Glenfiddich Our Original Twelve

“‘The Great Homecoming’ is an apt sentiment for Lunar New Year, a festive period that inspires the biggest global annual human migration, with people travelling countless miles homeward to see loved ones and celebrate together. In a year when this migration may not be possible for all, we honour festive memories with families and traditions past, while looking towards a future full of promise. We’re proud to work with Rlon Wang once again to bring to life the maverick spirit at the heart of what we do in his signature bold, imaginative and vivid way,” shares Nigel Ng, Head of Brand Marketing for South East Asia at William Grant & Sons.

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Glenfiddich Our Solera Fifteen

A sentiment brought to life by Wang with the scenery surrounding the majestic stag. The kaleidoscopic colours of Wang paint Chunyun (the 40-day period when Chinese people head home) in great detail by illustrating the largest migration of people from the land, air and sea. However, the magic lies also in the details best observed before one drinks from the dram — dancing lions, whisky-carrying birds and casks of whisky being transported by hot air balloons.

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Glenfiddich Our Small Batch Eighteen

“I wanted to tell a story that evokes the warmth and excitement of Lunar New Year — the irreplaceable feeling and anticipation of finally coming home to loved ones. Inspired by the Glenfiddich spirit of experimentation and adventure, I created an illustration that comes alive with symbols of generations old and new. I loved playing with the symbiosis of Chinese and Scottish cultures — two connected countries on opposite sides of the world,” expounds Wang.

The Lunar New Year design by Rlon Wang is available with the Glenfiddich Reserva Rum Cask 21 Year Old — a refined whisky finished in Caribbean rum casks for spicy warmth and indulgent toffee sweetness — as well as the 12, 15 and 18 Year Old Malt Whisky variants.

It can be purchased on the William Grant & Sons flagship store on LazMall or The 1887 Bar via GrabFood, as well as other authorised retailers.

This story about the Glenfiddich Lunar New Year special edition bottles and Rlon Wang first appeared in our February 2021 issue.