Glenmorangie Unveils Once Upon A Time in Scotland with Darey Art Alade and African Creatives

Glenmorangie is making its biggest move yet into African storytelling. The iconic Highland single malt has launched Once Upon A Time in Scotland, a landmark pan-African campaign that places three of the continent’s leading creative voices at the centre of the narrative.

Nigerian artist and creative executive Darey Art Alade, Kenyan actress Kate Kamau and South African author Khaya Dlanga were invited to experience Scotland through the lenses of creativity, craft and character — and then to share those experiences in their own words.

How the Campaign Took Shape

The campaign follows the trio as they explore the people, landscapes and meticulous craft behind Glenmorangie at its 180-year-old home in Tain, Scotland. Content is rolling out across films, storytelling and cultural conversations in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa from July to December 2026.

What makes this initiative distinctive is that a global brand has chosen to let African talents tell the story through their own perspectives. It arrives at a moment when African creatives are already shaping global culture, and when international brands are increasingly expected to engage African audiences on African terms.

The Essence of the Partnership

Darey Art Alade described the journey as going to the source. “Going to Scotland felt like going to the source; meeting the people behind the craft and understanding the discipline, patience and intention that shape the finished experience,” he said. “Whether you are making music, directing a production, building a platform or crafting whisky, character is shaped over time. The most meaningful work cannot be rushed.”

Derek Ruediger, Glenmorangie International Marketing & Commercial Director, added that Africa’s creatives are defining the next era of storytelling. By placing African voices at the centre, the brand aims to bring greater relevance and fresh perspectives to local audiences.

The Lagos Activation and What Comes Next

Darey’s involvement gave the campaign a strong local anchor. He hosted the Lagos premiere through The Circle of Influence Dinner: Founders Edition, bringing together trailblazers from across industries, including Deola Art Alade, Ugo Mozie, Ijeoma Balogun and other founders and innovators shaping their fields.

The campaign reflects Glenmorangie’s continued investment in meaningful cultural collaborations. It creates new opportunities for African creatives to influence global conversations around craftsmanship, creativity and luxury. More about the brand can be found on the official Glenmorangie website, while Darey Art Alade’s work and updates are available via his platforms, including Instagram @dareynow.

By inviting African storytellers to experience and interpret its heritage, Glenmorangie is not simply marketing a whisky — it is opening a dialogue between Scottish craft and African creativity that feels both timely and authentic.