DramMaster Daily — 17 April 2026

Auchentoshan Adds Sherry Cask Finish to Permanent Range

Auchentoshan has launched a new permanent expression — Sherry Cask Finish (40% ABV). The triple-distilled Lowland single malt is matured in ex-Bourbon barrels before a finish in Spanish Oloroso Sherry casks, delivering maraschino cherries, treacle cake, and cinnamon spice. Aimed at the growing demand for affordable quality in Europe and Asia, it lands at €26.90 RRP — a proper bargain for a sherry-finished single malt. Rolling out to specialist retailers from late April.

Fettercairn Expands into the US with 12- and 16-Year-Olds

Fettercairn has officially entered the US market with two new core expressions. The 12-Year-Old (46% ABV, $54.99) is matured entirely in ex-Bourbon American white oak, while the 16-Year-Old (46.4% ABV, $89.99) uses a mix of first-fill and refill bourbon barrels and hogsheads. Both are non-chill filtered, natural colour, and showcase Fettercairn's signature tropical house style — achieved by cascading Cairngorm mountain water over the stills to cool the copper. The 12-Year scored 93 points with Wine Enthusiast; the 16-Year hit 95.

Bowmore 21 Crowned World's Best Single Malt

The World Whiskies Awards 2026 results are in, and Bowmore 21 Year Old has taken the top title — World's Best Single Malt. Ballantine's 23 Year Old claimed World's Best Blended. Other notable Scotch winners include InchDairnie's RyeLaw 2017 (Best Scotch Rye), Glasgow 1770 Ruby Port Cask Finish (Best Lowlands Small Batch), and Caol Ila 18 Jazz Festival Edition (Best Islay Small Batch). A big year for Islay and a reminder that age-statement whisky still dominates the top tier.

Johnnie Walker Targets New Drinkers with "Red Soul"

Johnnie Walker has unveiled Red Soul, a sweeter twist on the iconic Red Label designed to bring new drinkers into Scotch. Master Blender Emma Walker has softened the profile with vanilla, caramel fudge, and gentle oak notes — built to be served with lemonade, sea salt, and a strawberry garnish. At £25 RRP, it's an accessible entry point. Clever or gimmicky? Either way, Diageo is betting big on the RTD-adjacent cocktail crowd.

Bruichladdich Goes Back to Basics with "Old Skool"

Bruichladdich celebrates 25 years since its 2001 resurrection with Old Skool — a 10-year-old single malt made entirely from Islay-grown barley supplied by 14 local growers within a nine-mile radius of the distillery. Matured mainly in American oak bourbon casks with a touch of first-fill Sauternes, it delivers stoned fruits, citrus zest, and caramelised vanilla at 50% ABV for £60. The first of three anniversary releases planned for 2026.