This Icons of Wales #13 – Penderyn Bad Wolf – is a 10-year-old whisky fully matured in Tawny Port pipes, which are very old and have held port for around 60 years.

“Tell them stories. They need the truth. You must tell them true stories, & everything will be well. Just tell them stories.”

Philip Pullman

“From TV studios in the beating heart of Cardiff, entire worlds have been imagined, conjured, and brought to life for audiences around the world. For a decade now, the storytellers of Bad Wolf have committed to strengthening the creative sector in Wales – where timeless tales are told for all generations. In celebration of this bold creative spirit, Penderyn has crafted this special edition whisky. Matured in our Brecon Distillery, it captures the same sense of drama, depth, and imagination that flows through every frame produced by Bad Wolf. A toast to the tales that shape us all.”

Jane Tranter, CEO and Co-Founder of Bad Wolf Studios, said: “There is something characteristically bad ass and unexpected in marking our 10th year of Bad Wolf by having a whisky in our name. I love the idea that while we have been producing hundreds of hours of drama in Wolf Studios Wales, in parallel this ten-year-old whisky has been quietly biding its time, maturing until ready to be appreciated. Great things come to those who wait.”

Tasting Notes

Nose: Delicate floral tones drift in first — orange blossom and soft rose petals — followed by the warm, spiced richness of fruitcake. A medley of red and golden raisins, fig jam, and fresh red berries — ripe strawberries and tangy raspberries — add both brightness and depth.

Palate: A luscious blend of stewed dark fruits and lighter orchard notes opens the palate with richness and grace. Sweet and saline dance in harmony, revealing layers of toffee, marzipan, and bittersweet marmalade. There’s a remarkable balance here — depth without heaviness, lifted by gentle oak and subtle spice, a veritable pack of flavours.

Finish: The finish unfolds slowly, long and evolving. Dried apricot and salted caramel linger with a dusting of nutmeg. It begins sweet and generous, tapering to a dry, elegant close, that will leave you howling at the moon.