The Glenlivet has released its 12 Year Old Provence Edition, a limited-edition single malt inspired by the sun-soaked landscapes, vivid flavours and relaxed pace of Provence. It is the latest addition to the distillery’s Beyond Speyside series, which invites whisky drinkers to experience single malt through a different regional lens.
A first for The Glenlivet
Created under Cask Master Kevin Balmforth, the Provence Edition is the first Glenlivet expression finished in French white wine casks. A portion of the whisky is finished in three types of French wine cask*, including rare cru classé casks from Château Sainte Marguerite in Provence. The estate is one of only 18 to hold the Cru Classé des Côtes de Provence designation.
Each cask type adds its own character:
- Château Sainte Marguerite white wine casks bring bright citrus and elegant floral notes.
- Rivesaltes casks add nuttiness and warming spice.
- Sauternes casks contribute rich marmalade and crème brûlée flavours.
The result is a balanced single malt that pairs The Glenlivet’s elegant, mellow house style with delicate floral complexity and ripe orchard fruit. White peach, nectarine, pear and bright citrus come together with a hint of spice.
“With the Provence Edition, we wanted to take The Glenlivet somewhere unexpected,” said Balmforth. “The challenge was introducing new layers of flavour inspired by Provence while remaining unmistakably The Glenlivet. By actively monitoring the finishing process and carefully balancing the influence of Château Sainte Marguerite, Rivesaltes, and Sauternes wine casks, we have created a whisky that delivers vibrant orchard fruit, elegant floral notes and exceptional complexity; capturing the vibrancy and elegance that inspired this release.”
Aurélie Torre, Vice President of Marketing Specialty Whiskies, said the release shows how the brand can “remain true to the character that has defined us for generations, while continuing to surprise and delight whisky lovers with a new taste experience.” The expression has already won a Gold medal at the 2026 Scotch Whisky Masters, organised by The Spirits Business.
Tasting notes
Nose: Vibrant bursts of fruit, including white peaches in syrup, lemon peel and orange marmalade, give way to layers of coconut, homemade shortbread, toasted almonds and floral hues.
Palate: Juicy nectarines move into crisp orchard fruits, with ripe pears and tangy red apples. Richer layers of crème brûlée, marzipan and white chocolate follow, ending with whispers of chamomile and warming spice.
Finish: Floral sweetness, complex and ultra smooth.
Suggested pairings
- Comté cheese: its nutty, sweet and savoury character complements the whisky’s layered profile.
- Roasted peaches with honey and rosemary: a Provençal-inspired pairing that brings out the orchard fruit and floral notes.
Packaging
The bottle and box take their cues from Provence’s vivid landscapes. Rich lavender hues and warm golden tones, along with refined design details, evoke the region’s vineyards, flower fields and Riviera glamour. The Glenlivet’s signature teal ties it back to the brand.
Availability and price
The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Provence Edition launched in Ontario on 28 September 2026 and will roll out across Canada through the holiday season. In Ontario, you can try it at pop-up tastings in select LCBO stores.
For more information, visit theglenlivet.com or follow @theglenlivet.
*A portion of the whisky is finished in French wine and Provence cru classé wine casks.
About The Glenlivet
Founded by George Smith in 1824, The Glenlivet is a pioneer of the single malt category. Recent innovations include The Glenlivet Code and The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, and the distillery has reopened its renovated Brand Home in the Livet Valley to visitors.
