Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky has announced its sponsorship of Sir Robin Knox-Johnston as he prepares to complete the Velux 5 Oceans round the world yacht race.

Known as the Genuine Maritime Malt, Old Pulteney has come on board to support Sir Robin as he sets sail from Norfolk (USA) this Sunday competing against four other competitors with the aim of a podium place in Bilbao, Spain.

Old Pulteney’s choice to support Sir Robin in his efforts relates to the whisky’s maritime heritage. The Pulteney Distillery is the most northerly on the UK mainland, situated in the Highland coastal town of Wick, which during the herring boom of the 19th century was the busiest fishing port in Europe. The distillery has maintained a strong connection with its surroundings – whisky connoisseurs even say they can detect a faint hint of the sea in the delicious malt thanks to its windswept location and close proximity to the North Sea.

Commenting on the partnership, Iain Baxter, Marketing Manager of Old Pulteney said: “With our maritime heritage Old Pulteney has been involved in sailing sponsorships for some time and so we jumped at the chance to support Sir Robin who is undoubtedly one of the most inspirational sporting heroes in Britain. His race so far has been strong and he is certainly giving his competitors a real run for their money. Sir Robin is renowned for his love of single malt whisky, and we hope he’ll be able to take a well earned rest and celebrate with a dram of Old Pulteney when he arrives in Bilbao.”

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have Old Pulteney on board, it’s a fantastic whisky and I’m looking forward to savouring many a happy dram after a tough days sailing.”