By Paul Atkins
Copyright walesonline
The first blended Welsh malt whisky to reach the market since the revival of Welsh whisky production in the early 2000s will be released this October.
In the Welsh Wind Distillery will unveil Brychan, its debut blended Welsh malt whisky, on October 1.
Positioned as a landmark release for Wales’s growing whisky industry, Brychan brings together single malt Welsh whiskies from selected Welsh distilleries in a carefully crafted blend.
The mixture includes a single malt aged in red wine casks from In the Welsh Wind itself, combined with port- and bourbon-matured single malt whiskies sourced from other selected Welsh distilleries.
This combination creates a flavour profile designed to be greater than the sum of its parts.
Ellen Wakelam, founder and CEO of In the Welsh Wind, said: “Brychan represents a new chapter for Welsh whisky.
“We’re excited to showcase the quality and diversity of single malt whiskies now being produced across Wales.”
Taste and appearance
Brychan takes its name from the Red Kite character created by local printmaker Marian Haf.
Its appearance is described as “rose gold”, and it offers a rich and complex sensory experience.
On the nose, aromas of malt and cereal open into apples and pears, honey, vanilla and cinnamon spice, deepening into chocolate, red fruits and hints of wine gums.
The palate is rich and oily, with cherries, chocolate and soft spice balanced by malty cereal sweetness.
The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of malt, red fruit and delicate oak.
Ellen explained: “Our goal with Brychan was balance.
“We wanted to reflect the variety of casks and distillery traditions while producing a whisky that’s approachable and distinctive.”
How to enjoy Brychan
Brychan has been designed to suit both traditional whisky drinkers and those seeking new ways to enjoy the spirit.
It can be savoured neat, with a splash of water to open up the flavours, or even with a cube of ice.
The blend also lends itself to cocktails. In the Welsh Wind recommends a Boulevardier – a twist on the classic Negroni that swaps gin for whisky.
Innovation in blended whisky
In the Welsh Wind sees blended Welsh malt whisky as a creative counterpart to single malt releases rather than a lesser product.
Joe Lewis, Business Manager at In the Welsh Wind, said: “Blending whisky isn’t about compromise – it’s about creation.
“Brychan combines heritage and innovation, showing how Welsh distillers are moving the craft forward.”
The distillery plans to release two further blended Welsh malt whiskies, each with its own character and flavour profile, to form a trilogy.
The next two releases will feature label artwork based on Marian Haf’s characters Meirion and Ceredig, already developed for the brand.
Welsh whisky on the world stage
In the Welsh Wind has already released two limited-edition single malt Welsh whiskies in 2024, both of which sold out within days. More limited editions are planned for 2026.
With the launch of Brychan, the distillery is signalling its intention to build on Wales’s growing reputation for whisky making.
Ellen concluded: “Welsh whisky is increasingly recognised for its quality and individuality.
“Brychan shows how collaboration across distilleries can deliver something truly distinctive.”
Find out more
Brychan Blended Welsh Malt Whisky will be available from October 1 through In the Welsh Wind’s website at www.inthewelshwind.co.uk and at the distillery shop at Gogerddan Arms, Tanygroes, Cardigan SA43 2HP.
Retailers may also stock Brychan by ordering via wholesalers or directly from the distillery.
Trade and wholesale enquiries can be directed to Joe Mansfield in the In the Welsh Wind Sales Team at joem@inthewelshwind.co.uk or on 07943 968587 / 01239 872300.
Over 18s only. Please drink responsibly. Do not drink alcohol if you are pregnant. For more information, visit drinkaware.co.uk
