From windswept Scottish coastlines to the snow-capped mountains of New Zealand, the world of whisky continues to offer extraordinary stories in every sip. To celebrate World Whisky Day, we’ve handpicked six releases that capture the spirit of innovation, heritage, artistry and terroir. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, these bottles represent our personal favourites from 2025 so far.
Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Harris Reed Edition
In an inspired collaboration with fashion designer Harris Reed, Royal Salute has released the latest in its Fashion Collection – a theatrical, artful take on the classic 21-Year-Old blend. Reed, known for his gender-fluid couture and dramatic flourishes, reimagines the Royal Salute decanter with feathered crowns and bold, avant-garde colourways. Beneath its eye-catching exterior lies an equally expressive blend. Sherry-matured Braeval whisky contributes rich dried fruit and spice, American oak imparts a mellow sweetness, and virgin grain whisky adds creamy vanilla and toasted depth. This is whisky as performance art, ambitious, luxurious, and thoroughly modern in both concept and execution.
Cardrona The Falcon Single Malt Whisky
From one of the most remote and ambitious new-world whisky regions comes Cardrona’s flagship dram: The Falcon. Crafted using ex-Bourbon, Sherry and Pinot Noir casks, it is a vivid reflection of both terroir and technique, distilled high in the Southern Alps in bespoke copper stills. The Falcon opens with burnt toffee and vanilla cream, evolving into layers of sun-scorched nectarine, pepper, and alpine spice. The influence of the Pinot Noir casks introduces a vinous complexity, while the wild climate of Cardrona shapes a flavour profile unlike anything else in the world. Founder Desiree Reid’s vision has been realised in a whisky that feels both timeless and pioneering.
Aberfeldy 22-Year-Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish
To commemorate 25 years since the opening of its visitor centre, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery has unveiled a limited 22-Year-Old release finished in Oloroso sherry casks from Jerez. The whisky was hand-selected by Stephanie Macleod, Dewar’s Malt Master, and forms part of the distillery’s Exceptional Cask Series. Having spent over two decades in traditional oak before being transferred to sherry wood, the result is a layered dram with Aberfeldy’s signature honeyed sweetness elevated by orchard fruits, soft vanilla and warming spice. Notes of caramelised pear and apple mingle with toasted oak and delicate clove, delivering a long, velvety finish. It’s a refined Highland malt that celebrates both place and people – available only through the distillery and its online store.
Torabhaig Sound of Sleat – The Legacy Series
The fourth release in Torabhaig’s Legacy Series is named after the Sound of Sleat, the body of water separating Skye from the mainland. Distilled by a small team of nine local craftspeople, this edition returns to a classic ex-bourbon cask profile, using American oak to draw out both coastal clarity and a warming spiciness. This is a whisky shaped by maritime weather, heritage and intent. On the nose, citrus, popcorn and seaweed create a bright yet earthy introduction. The palate brings bonfire smoke and waxy texture, layered with honey, vanilla, and the minerality of storm-washed stone. A painting by local artist Ellis O’Connor features on the label, bringing the elemental nature of the liquid to life. It’s evocative, poetic and unmistakably Skye.
The Lakes Distillery Signature Single Malt
The first permanent release from The Lakes Distillery, Signature reflects over a decade of exploration and refinement. Crafted by Whiskymaker Sarah Burgess, formerly of The Macallan, it draws on the distillery’s pioneering use of élevage a process of careful, continuous cask management more commonly associated with fine wine. Signature is a symphony of stewed fruit, dark chocolate, baking spices and polished oak, underpinned by a bright seam of orange zest and treacle. The finish is rich and enduring, evolving in the glass with each sip. It’s a bold benchmark for the English whisky category, and a masterclass in how patience and precision can elevate a spirit to new heights.
Cotswolds Distillery Hearts and Crafts Calvados Cask
The sixth release in the Cotswolds Distillery’s Hearts and Crafts series celebrates orchard fruit and traditional design. Matured in Calvados casks and adorned with a William Morris-inspired floral motif, this small-batch expression is a beautifully curated marriage of form and flavour. Expect a fruit-forward character, with apples, pears and soft honey meeting light oak spice and vanilla. Its 55% ABV offers depth without overwhelming, making it an ideal dram for spring and summer evenings. Available exclusively through the distillery’s online store and retail spaces across the region, this release is a delicate and elegant interpretation of the English countryside.
