Fife-based independent bottler expands international reach with new accolade
Fife-based independent Scotch whisky bottler Saltire Rare Malt has achieved international recognition, being named a Rising Star Brand at Taiwan’s Golden Whisky Awards. This accolade marks another international success for the Scottish business as it continues to build its presence on the global whisky stage.
The awards, organised by Want Want China Times Media Group, one of Taiwan’s leading media organisations, are now in their fourth year. They are designed to recognise brands and businesses within the country’s thriving drinks industry.
This achievement represents an important milestone for Saltire Rare Malt, which is actively establishing its presence in the Taiwanese market alongside its official importer and distributor, FeelGood Inc. Adding to the brand’s growing profile in the region, Saltire Rare Malt was recently showcased at a dedicated whisky tasting event in Taipei.
The tasting was hosted by Steven Lin, described as one of Taiwan’s most prominent and influential whisky authorities, in partnership with FeelGood Inc. Steven Lin, a Master of the Quaich and a respected whisky educator and author, provided a valuable opportunity to introduce Saltire Rare Malt to new audiences in Taiwan.
Founded in 2024 by friends and whisky enthusiasts Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie, Saltire Rare Malt collaborates with internationally acclaimed whisky experts Hans and Becky Offringa, known as The Whisky Couple. Together, they curate a collection of rare single cask and limited-edition Scotch whiskies.
From its base in the historic Fife village of Falkland, the independent bottler has rapidly expanded its international reach, with its whiskies now enjoyed by enthusiasts across Europe, North America, Asia, and South Africa.
Keith Rennie, Co-Founder of Saltire Rare Malt, commented on the recognition: “It’s fantastic to see Saltire recognised in Taiwan, an important market for Scotch whisky and one where we’re continuing to build some brilliant relationships. We’re a small independent business from Fife with big international ambitions, so to see our whiskies gaining recognition and reaching new audiences on the other side of the world is incredibly exciting. It’s a brilliant moment for everyone involved in Saltire.”
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The award adds to a growing list of achievements for Saltire Rare Malt. The company was crowned Newcomer of the Year at the 2025 Scottish Whisky Awards and has since secured six finalist spots across four categories at the 2026 awards, including Independent Bottler of the Year and Excellence in Branding.
The Saltire Rare Malt Collection is available for purchase online via their website.
