Glenfiddich and Aston Martin Formula One™Celebrate British Craft with the Ultra-Rare Glenfiddich 1959 At Harrods

This summer we take on a remarkable moment in British heritage and innovation, as Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky and the Aston Martin Formula One™ Team collaborate on a historic partnership through the launch of the Glenfiddich 1959. Released in tribute to the year Aston Martin first entered Formula 1®, this ultra-rare expression is set to be available exclusively at Harrods from July, with only a handful of bottles in existence.

Timed perfectly with the 2025 British Grand Prix, the Glenfiddich 1959 embodies the enduring spirit of two icons whose craftsmanship and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire. First revealed at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, this exceptional whisky stands as a testament to Glenfiddich’s pioneering Malt Masters across generations, drawn from a rare sherry butt to deliver layers of complexity,  from deep oak and aged leather to hints of cloves, dark chocolate and a rich tannic finish.

New Wave had the privilege of joining Glenfiddich for an intimate tasting of this rare release, an experience that, to date, fewer than 80 people in the world have shared. The exclusive dinner, held at Harrods, was set within an exquisitely dressed dining space where guests were greeted by a 1959 heritage display at the entrance and the breathtaking sight of an Aston Martin F1 car, assembled on the iconic Harrods Helipad just for the occasion. The tasting itself was woven seamlessly into a delightful three-course meal, with the prized dram served just before the main course, an unforgettable pairing of world-class cuisine and whisky craftsmanship.

In the glass, the Glenfiddich 1959 is an experience unlike any other. On the nose, it opens with rich oak, aged leather, tannin and beeswax, mingling with the unmistakable earthy aroma of an earthen-floor dunnage warehouse. Just a drop of water reveals an added wave of sweetness, dried fruits, raisins and sun-dried prunes. On the palate, it is intensely complex, delivering layer upon layer of flavour, from oaky spice and cloves to dates, walnuts, Christmas pudding and dark chocolate, drifting effortlessly from sweet to dry and back again. The finish lingers with a dry, rich tannin aftertaste that epitomises the skill of generations of Glenfiddich Malt Masters.

Prior to the dinner, New Wave caught up with Jessica Hawkins, driver and leader of the Aston Martin F1 Academy team, for an insight into the drive and determination behind the brand’s next generation. She describes the partnership by saying “Firstly, it’s a perfect fit with Aston Martin. Two truly premium brands coming together. Both have rich histories, and it’s exciting to see them make history together for the future as well. It’s a powerful partnership in every sense, and I’m thrilled to be working alongside two such iconic names.” The Glenfiddich journey continued trackside as we headed down to Silverstone for Practice Day at the British Grand Prix. From witnessing Lewis Hamilton clock the fastest lap early in the day to watching Lando Norris lead the later sessions, the energy was palpable. The pit lane tour offered a rare glimpse behind the scenes, from the meticulous car prep to the mighty Mercedes engines powering Aston Martin’s machines. Between the roar of engines, Glenfiddich ensured guests were wined and dined in style within the Aston Martin lounge, complete with its own Glenfiddich bar and Paddock Club, both overlooking the track as the cars flew past. We also asked Jessica about what her preferred Glenfiddich beverage would be after a successful race and she said, “enjoying a whisky spritz post-drive, although not very often.”

Completing this extraordinary collaboration, Glenfiddich has commissioned Glasgow designer John Galvin to craft a bespoke presentation case for the Glenfiddich 1959. Drawing inspiration from Aston Martin’s cutting-edge engineering and Glenfiddich’s Dufftown heritage, Galvin’s design will blend ash, copper and sleek detailing to create an objet d’art worthy of this rare liquid, an icon in itself, just like the brands it honours. The Glenfiddich 1959 is a salute to British excellence, a celebration of past milestones and a promise of future innovation, a perfect partner for the required precision and luxury synonymous with high level motor racing. The Glenfiddich 1959 is poured into a glass, savoured by only a fortunate few.