AWARD-WINNING SCOTCH BOTTLER EXPANDS INTO CALIFORNIA AS US GROWTH CONTINUES – Scotch Whisky News


AWARD-WINNING SCOTCH BOTTLER EXPANDS INTO CALIFORNIA AS US GROWTH CONTINUES
Scotland / California, April 2026; Award-winning independent Scotch whisky bottler Saltire Rare Malt is strengthening its presence in the United States with two exclusive tasting events in California this spring, bringing its rare single cask Scotch whiskies to new audiences on the West Coast.
Named ‘Best Newcomer’ at the 2025 Scottish Whisky Awards, the Falkland-founded company will host back-to-back showcases in partnership with two respected California retailers – Hi-Lo Liquor Market and Vintage Wine & Spirits.
The events will introduce guests to a hand-selected range of ultra-rare single cask releases from some of Scotland’s most respected distilleries, offering Californian whisky lovers the opportunity to discover the diversity, craftsmanship and character of Scotland’s whisky regions.
Guests will explore a rotating collection of expressions from distilleries including Tormore, Ardmore, Dailuaine, Glenburgie, Linkwood, Benrinnes and Teaninich, alongside Falkland, Saltire Rare Malt’s sister Speyside single malt brand.
The California programme follows Saltire Rare Malt’s recent expansion into Texas and Louisiana last month, where a successful run of tastings introduced the brand to new US audiences. After strong demand in the South, California marks the next step in the company’s growing American presence.
Saltire Rare Malt Global Brand Ambassador David McCallum will travel over specially to host the evening, guiding guests through the collection and the stories behind each whisky. He will be joined by Laura Sol, Business Development Manager, with both in attendance making this a particularly special occasion as Saltire Rare Malt continues its growth in the US market.
The first event takes place at Hi-Lo Liquor Market, a popular independent California retailer known for its strong community spirit, quality-led range and carefully curated drinks selection. Its modern neighbourhood approach and focus on discovery make it a fitting partner for Saltire Rare Malt’s West Coast debut.
The second tasting will be held at Vintage Wine & Spirits in Los Angeles, a fast-growing specialist retailer that has built a reputation for premium spirits, fine wine and expert curation. Located in Lake Balboa, the store has quickly become a destination for enthusiasts seeking rare and distinctive bottles.
Keith Rennie, Co-Founder & Director of Saltire Rare Malt, said: “California is an exciting market for premium spirits and we’re delighted to bring Saltire Rare Malt to two fantastic independent retailers on the West Coast. These tastings are about sharing Scotland’s whisky heritage, the stories behind each cask and the remarkable diversity of flavour that single cask whisky can offer.”
Founded in Falkland – the historic birthplace of Scotch whisky more than 530 years ago – Saltire Rare Malt specialises in sourcing exceptional single casks from Scotland’s finest distilleries and bottling them only when the whisky has reached peak character.
Founded by lifelong friends Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie, the company continues to connect Scotland’s rarest whiskies with collectors, hospitality partners and enthusiasts around the world.

CALIFORNIA TASTING EVENTS
Wednesday, 29th April 2026
Hi-Lo Liquor Market
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM PST
Friday, 1st May 2026
Vintage Wine & Spirits
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM PST
About Saltire Rare Malt Whisky
Saltire Rare Malt are bottlers of a unique range of limited-run single malt whiskies. The independent bottling company was born from a longstanding partnership between friends & founders Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie – the pair have collected fine and rare single malts over three decades. A shared passion for the ‘water of life’ led to the creation of Saltire Rare Malt – a global vehicle to share their outstanding collection of Single Malt Whiskies.
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