Whisky News — 20 April 2026

Talisker Magma: 47 Years of Fire and Stone

Talisker has unveiled one of its most extraordinary releases yet — Talisker Magma 47-Year-Old. What makes this Skyedrall truly unique is its pioneering maturation: after decades in American oak, the whisky was finished in new oak casks toasted with volcanic rock from Skye instead of traditional flames. The controlled, flame-free toasting deepens the profile and amplifies fruit notes, creating a complex interplay of smoke, minerality, and spice. Just 622 bottles worldwide at ~$5,250. Bottled at 48.8% ABV, it opens with sea salt and wet stone, building to toffee and gentle smoke with Talisker's signature peppery kick. The bottle itself — made from 100% recycled glass that shifts from clear to black — mirrors the journey from ocean to solidified lava.

The Macallan Red Collection Turns 79

The Macallan has quietly added a new crown jewel to its Red Collection: The Macallan 79 Years Old, now the oldest expression in the series. Distilled nearly eight decades ago and matured in sherry-seasoned oak casks, it delivers resinous old oak, refined peat smoke, heather honey, and stewed stone fruits on the nose, with a palate of pineapple, blackberry jam, black tea, and cedarwood. Bottled at 40.8% ABV. Availability is extremely limited through select luxury retailers and specialist auctions. The Red Collection previously topped out at 78 Years Old — a complete set once sold at Sotheby's for over £750,000.

Bruichladdich Goes Back to Its Roots

To mark 25 years since the distillery's resurrection in 2001, Bruichladdich has released Old Skool — a 10-year-old single malt distilled using 100% Islay-grown malting barley from 14 growers within a nine-mile radius of the distillery. Matured mainly in American oak bourbon casks with a splash of first-fill Sauternes barrels, it delivers stoned fruits, citrus zest, and caramelised vanilla with a layer of floral sweetness. £60, 50% ABV. This is the first of three anniversary releases planned for 2026.

Fettercairn Crosses the Atlantic

Fettercairn has announced its US expansion with the introduction of 12-Year-Old and 16-Year-Old single malts. The Eastern Highlands distillery, known for its unique cooling ring that runs water down the still necks, is bringing its distinctive tropical fruit and rich toffee character to American whisky drinkers for the first time.

Johnnie Walker Targets New Drinkers with Red Soul

Johnnie Walker has unveiled Red Soul, a sweeter, more approachable take on the iconic Red Label. Master Blender Emma Walker crafted it with notes of vanilla, caramel fudge, and gentle oak — designed to be served with lemonade, sea salt, and strawberry garnish. At £25 RRP, it's clearly aimed at recruiting the next generation of whisky drinkers. Whether purists will embrace it remains to be seen, but the strategy signals where the industry sees growth.