Girvan 2007 18yo Corporal Ciapek Vol. 1

Region:  Lowland

Distillation:  Column

Bottler: Precious Liquors

Barrel: Belize Rum Cask - Travellers

Bottled: 2026

Aged: 18 years-old

Bottles:  284

ABV: 51%

Volume: 700 ml

Bottling info:

This is the inaugural release in the Corporal Ciapek series by Precious Liquors, a range dedicated to exploration, diversity, and pushing the boundaries of traditional Scotch whisky.

Inspired by the legendary RAF mascot Ciapek, this series reflects his adventurous spirit, moving beyond a single region or style and embracing a broader whisky philosophy.

While the Corporal Wojtek series focuses on:
– Speyside single malts
– ex sherry cask maturation
– rich, structured, classic profiles
– releases such as Benrinnes and undisclosed Speyside distilleries

The Corporal Ciapek series is designed to:
– explore single grain Scotch whisky
– incorporate innovative cask finishes such as rum, wine, and experimental woods
– showcase whiskies from multiple regions of Scotland and beyond
– deliver diverse and unexpected flavour profiles

Future releases in the Ciapek range will include:
– aged grain whiskies with tropical cask finishes
– single malts from different Scotch regions and beyond
– cross category maturation styles
– limited, highly curated small batch releases

This first bottling, an 18 year old Girvan single grain finished in a Belize rum cask, sets the foundation for the series, combining elegance, sweetness, tropical influence, and depth.

The Story of Ciapek:

This remarkable whisky pays tribute to Ciapek, the loyal dog who became a beloved mascot of the Polish RAF No. 305 Bomber Squadron during World War II. Known for his fearless nature and close bond with the airmen, Ciapek accompanied crews on missions, reportedly flying with his own oxygen equipment at high altitudes. He shared in the daily life of the squadron, offering comfort, morale, and companionship in the face of danger. After surviving even a crash at sea, Ciapek’s story became a lasting symbol of bravery, resilience, and the quiet heroism found beyond the battlefield.

Tasting note:

Nose,
An inviting wave of soft vanilla and creamy coconut rises first, wrapped in golden honeyed sweetness. It opens into a vibrant burst of tropical fruit, ripe pineapple and banana, gently dusted with brown sugar and lifted by a delicate touch of oak spice.

Palate,
Silky and comforting at first, with layers of caramel and toasted oak unfolding into a rich, exotic sweetness. Hints of molasses and sun dried tropical fruits build depth, while a subtle spice keeps everything in perfect balance.

Finish,
Warming and elegant, with a gently drying edge that lingers beautifully. Sweetness fades slowly into soft spice and a lingering whisper of tropical rum cask character.