The Isle of Raasay Distillery, considered one of Scotland’s most dynamic new-wave whisky producers, has unveiled its first-ever Marsala Cask Single Malt. Matured fully in uncommon Marsala Vergine casks from the historic Frazzitta vineyard in Sicily, this 50.7% ABV restricted version provides whisky lovers a compelling union of two coastal terroirs. Solely 12,300 bottles will likely be launched worldwide, marking it as a particular addition to the distillery’s rising portfolio.
The casks themselves are steeped in heritage. Marsala Vergine, very like a bone-dry sherry, is understood for its oxidative depth and nutty, savoury character. Frazzitta, considered one of Sicily’s oldest Marsala producers, seasons these barrels with their wine for as much as three many years earlier than releasing them into the palms of the Raasay group. The affect on the whisky is profound, layers of baked apple, maple syrup, dried pear, apricot, and toasted nuts unfold on the palate, balanced with a balsamic sweetness and a lingering smoky end with roasted espresso notes.
As with all Raasay expressions, the whisky has been distilled, matured, and bottled on the island. Its flippantly peated fashion comes from a cautious marriage of peated and unpeated spirit, every matured individually to protect complexity earlier than mixing. This launch additionally marks the debut of a recent visible identification for Raasay’s restricted editions, with a cool slate gray palette echoing the island’s volcanic panorama and fossil-studded geology.
Since its founding in 2015, the distillery has not solely produced award-winning whiskies and Hebridean gin but in addition revitalised the island’s economic system, using over 25 folks, a notable determine for a neighborhood of simply 161 residents. This Marsala Cask bottling is each a celebration of Raasay’s spirit of innovation and a testomony to the affect of place, uniting the rugged Atlantic shoreline with the sun-warmed vineyards of western Sicily.
The Isle of Raasay Marsala Cask Restricted Launch is accessible now by unbiased UK retailers and the distillery’s on-line store.
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