New ‘smart fabric’ smells of whisky

Scottish researchers have developed a ‘smart fabric’ that permanently gives off the smell of whisky.

Heriot-Watt University’s textile technology experts along with Harris Tweed Hebrides developed the new fabric using ’microencapsulation technology’ which involves encapsulating liquid or solid substances in tiny thin-walled natural or synthetic bubbles. Encapsulation has allowed moisturisers, therapeutic oils, and insecticides to be incorporated into fabrics.

The new Harris Tweed reflects the colours of the whisky ingredients while the fabric carries a unique scent - named Aqua Alba - designed to replicate aromas released from a glass of Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky. The cloth smells of rich malt, golden vanilla, red fruit and dark chocolate tones.

To create the fabric, researchers developed a process that allowed the scent to be layered into the fabric throughout the finishing process, so that it is permanently imbued in the tweed.

“This is a very natural partnership of two great Scottish brands with input from one of our cutting-edge academic centres,” said the chairman of Harris Tweed Hebrides, Brian Wilson.

“The early indications are that the finished products are creating a high level of interest in the target markets,” he said.