Abbey to auction cask for Australian wild fire victims

The cask, a 300L LPA American Hogshead, was previously filled with Australian De Bortoli 15 y/o Muscat and will be auctioned online through Whisky Auctioneer, which has waived its selling fees to support the charity.

The auction opens on February 28 and runs for 11 days, with bids accepted until March 9.

The cask has been generously donated by Nebb Whisky Barrels, an Australian company which sources casks from the best wine producers in Australia, many of whom have had their businesses ravaged by the flames.

The winning bidder will be able to fill the cask themselves at Lindores Abbey Distillery, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour with distillery manager, Gary Haggart.

All profits from the sale of the cask will be directly donated to two charities: the SA Bushfire Appeal and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal.

Many major wine growing regions of Australia have been affected by the fires, including Adelaide Hill, Cudlee Creek and Kangaroo Islands.

Drew McKenzie Smith said: “We have been horrified by the images of devastation coming from Australia.

“We have many Australian members of our Preservation Society who kindly contribute to the upkeep and conservation of our Abbey and its natural surroundings, so we feel compelled to do the same for them in their country’s time of need.”

Ian McClune, the founder of Whisky Auctioneer, added: “We very much appreciate Lindores Abbey distillery asking us to assist with the auction of this cask for charity.”

To register to bid, visit the Whisky Auctioneer website.