Penderyn Distillery, proudly known as the home of Welsh whisky, is thrilled to celebrate St. David’s Day on Saturday, March 1, 2025, by showcasing its exceptional and diverse range of single malt whiskies. As Wales’ pioneering whisky distillery in over a century, Penderyn invites whisky enthusiasts and patriots (“Make Welsh Whisky Great Again”) alike to raise a glass to the patron saint of Wales with its world-renowned spirits, crafted in the heart of the Brecon Beacons and beyond.
And to celebrate St David’s Day, a new release of Icon No12, Penderyn ‘Copperopolis’, which is for the copper industry in Swansea and also Penderyn’s Swansea Copperworks Distillery, which is housed in the copperworks powerhouse. This can be pre-ordered from 1st of March and ships to the UK by the end of the month.
Penderyn has revitalised Welsh whisky-making, blending tradition with innovation. Today, operating from three distilleries—Penderyn (Brecon Beacons), Llandudno, and Swansea—the distillery continues to produce award-winning expressions that reflect the purity of Welsh spring water, the expertise of its all-female distilling team, and the artistry of its unique Faraday stills. With a global reputation solidified by over 100 Double Gold, Gold, and Masters awards, Penderyn’s St. David’s Day celebration is a testament to its journey from a visionary idea in a Welsh pub to an internationally celebrated brand.
A Diverse Range of Whiskies for Every Palate
Penderyn’s whisky portfolio is as rich and varied as the Welsh landscape, offering something for every connoisseur. The distillery’s signature style shines through its Gold Range, bottled at 46% ABV, featuring five distinct expressions:
- Madeira Finish: The original Penderyn “house style,” matured in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in Madeira wine casks, delivers a smooth, creamy profile with notes of toffee, sultanas, and apples—a perfect balance of fruit and finesse.
- Sherrywood: Rich and complex, this whisky, finished in sherry casks, offers sweet stewed fruits, caramel, and hints of dark chocolate, appealing to those who savor depth and warmth.
- Portwood: With its rosy hue and maturation in ex-Tawny Port casks, this expression bursts with dried fruits, salted caramel, floral honey, and a spicy black pepper kick, ending in a tannic dryness.
- Peated: A delightful surprise born from an accidental purchase of ex-Islay peated casks, it combines gentle peat smoke with citrus, seaweed, and a lingering sweetness—an unexpected gem in the lineup.
- Rich Oak: A robust offering with vanilla, oak, and a savory spice, this whisky highlights the influence of carefully selected casks for a bold yet harmonious finish.
For those seeking an accessible introduction, the Dragon Range, bottled at 41% ABV, embodies Welsh spirit with three expressions:
- Legend: Finished in Madeira casks, it’s light and fruity with a hint of oak, reflecting the dragon of the Welsh flag.
- Myth: Matured in bourbon barrels and finished in red wine casks, this sweeter whisky boasts a rounded balance of fruits and candy.
- Celt: A peated delight with light smoke and ripe fruit notes, finished in ex-Islay casks, it’s a nod to Wales’ rugged heritage.
Penderyn also dazzles with its Icons of Wales series, commemorating Welsh history and culture. Past releases like The Headliner, honouring David Lloyd George, showcase Penderyn’s knack for storytelling through whisky.
For collectors, Penderyn’s Single Cask offerings, such as the rare ex-Tawny Port Single Cask #PT266 (only 18 bottles), provide exclusive, handcrafted experiences. These limited editions, signed by the distillery team, are highly sought after for their bespoke flavours and rarity.
Celebrating St. David’s Day in Style
Penderyn’s Llandudno and Brecon Beacon distillery shops will now open on Weds-Sun (Tours on Thurs to Sun and masterclasses), and the Swansea Copperworks will open on Weds-Sat (Tours on Thurs to Sat and masterclasses).
Visitors can explore the distilling process, sample the range, and discover what makes Penderyn whisky uniquely Welsh. The distillery’s commitment to sustainability shines through its pulp packaging, made from recycled cardboard, aligning with its ethos of honoring Wales’ natural beauty.
“St. David’s Day is a moment to celebrate our heritage and the global journey of Welsh whisky,” says Stephen Davies, Penderyn’s CEO. “From our Gold Range to our Icons of Wales, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship and pride. We invite everyone to join us in toasting Wales this March 1st.”
Penderyn whiskies are available at www.penderyn.wales and select retailers worldwide. Whether neat, with a splash of water, or paired with Welsh fare like lamb or dark chocolate, Penderyn’s range promises a St. David’s Day experience that’s as unforgettable as Wales itself.