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A limited edition bottle of Ballindalloch Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky was available for purchase to commemorate the milestone

King Charles travelled to the Ballindalloch estate in Scotland last Friday, where he presided over celebrations marking a century and a half of the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society's herd book.

Close to 300 breeders from across Britain and internationally gathered for the occasion.

The monarch, who serves as patron of the society, unveiled the 150th edition of the herd book, bringing to a close a summer of anniversary festivities.

The event capped what the society has branded its "150 and Beyond" programme, organised by chief executive Robert Gilchrist alongside staff, council members and Lumphanan breeder Ken Howie of the Cairnton herd.

Ballindalloch's Aberdeen-Angus herd, founded in 1861, holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously maintained herd of the breed anywhere in the world.

It is also the sole herd globally to feature in every single edition of the society's herd book.

Guy MacPherson-Grant, representing the 23rd generation of his family at the estate, welcomed attendees.

He expressed "large respect" for farm manager David Johnstone, who arrived at Ballindalloch with his wife Susan and daughters Claire and Amy roughly two decades ago.

"We are tremendously pleased and proud to now be generations seven, eight and nine breeding Aberdeen-Angus cattle here," Mr MacPherson-Grant said. "We don't have the largest of herds here but I would argue it is perfectly sized."

He added: "David and his team are now continuing that professionalism and expertise."

Aberdeen-Angus has become Britain's dominant breed type, according to figures from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

The data reveals that Angus and Angus-cross cattle represented 29 per cent of prime-aged cattle slaughtered in the UK during 2025, with 57 per cent of those animals originating from dairy beef systems.

The breed's profile extends well beyond farming circles — it is now recognised as the second most famous brand on the planet, trailing only Coca-Cola.

Looking ahead, Mr Gilchrist highlighted forthcoming technological developments within the society, with new systems expected to be introduced during the autumn months.

Many of those present had attended the Grantown Show the previous day, where the society staged its 150 Grand Prix competition.

Devon-based breeders Mike and Melanie Alford took the top prize with their bull.

Guests at Ballindalloch were treated to a walking tour of the cattle grazing beside the castle, as well as a visit to the Ballindalloch Distillery.

Society president Matthew Currie reflected on the breed's remarkable history, noting that one herd book contains an entry for a cow that reached 35 years of age.