Charles Rennie Mackintosh Whisky

Inspired by a genius, a whisky that reflects both past and future.

This single malt whisky translates the spirit of Charles Rennie Mackintosh into a highly crafted, design-led expression. Drawing on his typography, forms and architectural details, the bespoke bottle and packaging combine historic references with contemporary materials and techniques. From sculptural glass to intricate embossing and etched detail, the result is highly unique and disruptive whisky brand.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh Single Malt Whisky was created for the exclusive design innovation project developed by Estal, Avery Dennison and KURZ. Inspired by the Scot whose artistic vision created a modern movement, we wanted to use form and materials to create something that reflected the past, came from the future, and felt uniquely Glaswegian.

For inspiration, we drew upon Mackintosh’s drawings, stained glass designs, typography and furniture. We designed the bespoke bottle to have the dramatic mouth and neck of Estal’s Tramo Alto, combined with the chunky glass base of Philos Bold. The label and branding are influenced by Mackintosh’s typography, containing die-cut squares to create texture, light and movement. The neck label seal is embossed with detailing from the Glasgow School of Art’s bronze doors. The wooden stopper is detailed in copper with hints of Mackintosh’s stained glass designs. The bottle “cage” is inspired by his 1903 Willow chair, with the light from the whisky glowing through to provide a textural feel. Finally, etched into the base of the bottle is a line taken from Mackintosh’s writings.

An artisanal single malt whisky distilled and blended in tiny batches by hand in Glasgow, it’s aptly named after Glasgow’s genius son.