The link between art and whisky may seem somewhat abstract to the uninitiated. However, the parallels between the process of creating an artistic masterpiece and the craftsmanship required to produce an exceptional whisky will not be lost on those who appreciate the beverage.

Much like a beautiful piece of art, fine whisky requires two vital ingredients: love and time.

It is this very principle that sits at the heart of The Balvenie's whisky-making process, and how it continues to maintain its true craft in a world of automation. Based in the Scottish Highlands for over 125 years, The Balvenie is the only distillery that harvests its own barley fields, uses traditional floor maltings, and employs both coppersmiths and coopers on site; with this commitment from the ground up, it's safe to say that the team is dedicated to pouring heart and soul into their craft. The craftsmen at the distillery also understand that excellence can’t be rushed, as the richness of delicately-crafted single malt whisky increases over time.

Someone else who appreciates the fusion of passion and patience to create something extraordinary is world-renowned illustrator, Phannapast "Yoon" Taychamaythakool. A Bangkok-born Thai-Chinese contemporary artist, Yoon draws much of her inspiration from the traditional Thai and Chinese myths she heard as a kid and whose whimsical style you may recognize from past collaborations with brands such as Gucci and Instagram.

As part of a global campaign celebrating its spirit of craftsmanship, The Balvenie unveils The Makers Project, collaborating with and showcasing what it takes for like-minded creators to fully give themselves to their craft.

In Thailand, The Balvenie has collaborated with Yoon to celebrate how she elevates her craft from ‘great’ to ‘exceptional’. As a tribute to their shared passion and respect for ultimate craftsmanship, The Balvenie and Yoon have come together to present an art piece titled “Love & Time” that’s featured in a limited edition whisky gift set.

Inspired by the epic Thai poem "Phra Aphai Mani", Yoon's piece tells of a quest to go beyond the ends of the earth to find that "special something". Her signature flora and fauna patterns are used to illustrate a journey that parallels the process of creating The Balvenie, one that only comes from the pursuit of ultimate craftsmanship.

"For me, the taste of Balvenie whisky that has gone through the meticulous process of 'time' feels like poetry," shared Yoon, adding, "it tells a story beyond imagination. Inspired by classic Thai literature, this design tells of a quest."

Whether you're a whisky aficionado or just someone who appreciates the craftsmanship of beautiful artwork, the "Love & Time" inspired gift set from The Balvenie has something to offer. Each gift set includes a ceramic whisky cup and coaster, specially designed by Yoon. Along with each handcrafted bottle of The Balvenie, it reflects a reverence for time-honored craftsmanship and makes for a meaningful gift.

Available for a limited time only from Tops Supermarket, Tops Food Hall, and via Line, the gift set comes in two different versions that are The Balvenie's flagship expressions: The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 and The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14.

Speaking on the collaboration, Brett Bayly, Southeast Asia Brand Ambassador for The Balvenie, described the significance of partnering with Yoon: "At The Balvenie, we are continually striving to collaborate with like-minded people who share our passion for creating the extraordinary, and our partnership with Yoon Phannapast in Thailand is a testament to this.”

He added: "Our Makers are thoughtful creators, artists, and craftsmen in their own right," continuing that "just like the craftspeople at the distillery, they each have a unique story to tell, and I'm thrilled to see these stories unfolding as we present these visually-stunning gifts with purchase sets across the region."