Ewan McGregor Raises £135K for CHAS with Auction of Rare Arran Whisky
We are thrilled to share the incredible news that Ewan McGregor has raised £135,000 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) through the auction of 150 exclusive bottles from his personal 1998 cask of Arran Single Malt, distilled at Lochranza Distillery. The auction, which ran on Whisky Auctioneer’s renowned platform, saw a global community of whisky lovers come together for a great cause.
With 543 bidders from 28 countries placing over 7,000 bids on Ewan’s Cut, the auction generated a remarkable response, including a 160% surge in new registrations. The final hammer price reached £119,893, with an additional £15,107 contributed through Whisky Auctioneer’s generous decision to waive its seller’s commission and donate its buyer’s fees, ensuring that every penny possible went to CHAS.
We’re also proud to announce that Bottle #1 of Ewan’s Cut set a new record for the highest price ever achieved for a bottle of Arran Single Malt at auction, fetching £4,350. This rare 26-year-old Arran Whisky, matured in an ex-Sherry Hogshead cask, is among the oldest whiskies ever produced at Lochranza Distillery. The cask was originally gifted to Ewan McGregor back in 1998, and we were honoured to assist in bottling and preparing the whisky for this special auction.
The Leith Agency, working alongside Ewan and his brother Colin McGregor, brought the vision of Ewan’s Cut to life with bespoke label designs that reflect Ewan’s celebrated film career and adventurous spirit. Each of the 150 bottles is unique, with labels inspired by his iconic roles and personal journeys, such as Trainspotting, Star Wars, and Long Way Round.
Reflecting on the auction, Ewan McGregor expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, noting how much CHAS’s mission means to him personally:
"What a total! I just want to thank each and every one of our partners for putting the time, effort, and work into this endeavour. CHAS has always been very close to my heart, and I am so proud that we were all able to raise such a sum for them. I know it's the children they help and their families who will benefit a lot from this—so thank you very much to everyone involved and to those that placed generous bids in the auction."
The funds raised will have a direct and lasting impact, helping CHAS in its vital work supporting children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Scotland. CHAS CEO Rami Okasha thanked Ewan and all the partners who made the auction possible, stating:
"Three children die each week in Scotland from an incurable condition. We can only be there for families with the support of kind donations like this."
At Isle of Arran Distillers, this project has been a big part of our story since the day Ewan visited Lochranza Distillery in 1998 to toast our first cask of whisky. Seeing a cask from our distillery play a part in such a meaningful cause is deeply rewarding for everyone on our team.
Euan Mitchell, Managing Director of Isle of Arran Distillers, said:
"We are absolutely delighted that the auction of 'Ewan’s Cut' has raised an incredible £135,000 for CHAS. It has been a privilege to collaborate with Ewan, Whisky Auctioneer, and the Leith Agency to bring this unique whisky to life. The funds raised will make a significant difference in supporting the vital work of CHAS, helping families during their most challenging times."
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the partners involved, and especially to the bidders who helped raise this remarkable sum. This auction was about more than whisky—it was about making a tangible difference in the lives of children and families who need it most.
To everyone who played a part in this extraordinary journey, we raise a glass of Arran Single Malt in your honour.
Slàinte!
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