Is the Glencairn glass in danger of extinction? Is the jello shot dead? Move over Tide Pods because the world is getting introduced to The Glenlivet Speyside Single Malt Scotch Pod, something they call the ‘Capsule Collection.’ Unlike Tide Pods that are NOT meant to be consumed these pods are definitely designed to be consumed, enjoyed and savored.
The World’s First Glassless Cocktail Wrapped in Seaweed
Would you like a whisky cocktail wrapped in seaweed-extracting casing? Oh yum. Now before the hard core whiskey lovers stick their noses up let’s be real, people enjoy whisky in lots of different ways. Some prefer it neat, some prefer it with a splash of water to open it up, some prefer it with ice while others prefer it in a poured in a cocktail. What’s the best way? Any way you please.
Launched during London Cocktail Week in partnership with cocktail legend Alex Kratena, the limited-edition The Glenlivet ‘Capsule Collection’ is a range of three whisky cocktails served in a seaweed-extract casing, one of nature’s most renewable resources. A first of its kind for a spirit brand, the edible capsules are 23ml in size, fully biodegradable and provide a flavor-explosion experience in one’s mouth.
What is a Seaweed Whisky Pod?
The bio-degradable and edible pods are made of Notpla, a revolutionary material made from seaweed. This type of seaweed grows up to 1m per day, it doesn’t compete with food crops, doesn’t need fresh water or fertilizer and actively contributes to de-acidifying the oceans. Notpla biodegrades in weeks, naturally and even is edible.
According to the manufacturer the machines that encapsulate the cocktail into the seaweed cell is portable and can be operated locally.
Citrus, Wood and Spice Whisky Cocktails
To launch the ‘Capsule Collection’ The Glenlivet partnered with Tayēr + Elementary, one of the world’s leading bars. Award-winning bartender and co-owners of Tayēr + Elementary, Alex Kratena and Monica Berg, created three original cocktails for the capsules, which are inspired by the elements and flavors of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve: Citrus, Wood and Spice.
“When we saw The Glenlivet Capsule Collection for the first time we knew we wanted to be involved with the launch – the cocktail capsules are unique and push the boundaries of how drinks can be served. This is something we always look to do at tayēr and so it felt like a natural fit.” said Alex Kratena.
“When The Glenlivet approached us to create single malt whisky cocktails we knew it was going to be an exciting partnership. At Notpla we want to create original solutions for how to serve and consume drinks, and The Glenlivet is a brand that is looking to do just the same” added Rodrigo Garcia Gonzalez, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Notpla.
“As a brand that celebrates originality, we are always looking to break the conventions that have determined how single malt Scotch has historically been enjoyed,” said Miriam Eceolaza, Director of The Glenlivet. “The Glenlivet Capsule Collection does exactly that, and we’re excited to see how people react when they try our glassless cocktails. Our founder, George Smith, always went against the grain, bucking tradition and doing things differently. The Glenlivet Capsule Collection continues his pioneering spirit today.”
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The Glenlivet Capsule Collection is available now at Tayēr + Elementary, Old Street, London.
What do you think? Would you try it? Would you like to make one with your own whiskey?
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