The Classic Malt series was launched by United Distillers and Vintners (now Diageo) in 1988 and is regarded as a pivotal movement in introducing newcomers to the world of single malt scotch whiskies.

A special wood and brass plinth was designed to glorify the original six whiskies included in the series in 1990-2000s - Glenkinchie 10 Year Old, Lagavulin 16 Year Old, Oban 14 Year Old, Cragganmore 12 Year Old, Talisker 10 Year Old, Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old.