The Isle of Raasay Distillery, one of Scotland’s most dynamic new-wave whisky producers, has unveiled its first-ever Marsala Cask Single Malt. Matured entirely in rare Marsala Vergine casks from the historic Frazzitta winery in Sicily, this 50.7% ABV limited edition offers whisky lovers a compelling union of two coastal terroirs. Only 12,300 bottles will be released worldwide, marking it as a distinctive addition to the distillery’s growing portfolio.
The casks themselves are steeped in heritage. Marsala Vergine, much like a bone-dry sherry, is known for its oxidative depth and nutty, savoury character. Frazzitta, one of Sicily’s oldest Marsala producers, seasons these barrels with their wine for up to three decades before releasing them into the hands of the Raasay team. The influence 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 finish with roasted coffee notes.
As with all Raasay expressions, the whisky has been distilled, matured, and bottled on the island. Its lightly peated style comes from a careful marriage of peated and unpeated spirit, each matured separately to preserve complexity before blending. This release also marks the debut of a fresh visual identity for Raasay’s limited editions, with a cool slate grey palette echoing the island’s volcanic landscape and fossil-studded geology.
Since its founding in 2015, the distillery has not only produced award-winning whiskies and Hebridean gin but also revitalised the island’s economy, employing over 25 people, a notable figure for a community of just 161 residents. This Marsala Cask bottling is both a celebration of Raasay’s spirit of innovation and a testament to the influence of place, uniting the rugged Atlantic coastline with the sun-warmed vineyards of western Sicily.
The Isle of Raasay Marsala Cask Limited Release is available now through independent UK retailers and the distillery’s online shop.
