Mac-Talla Virgin Oak: A Sweet and Smoky Revolution in Islay Whisky
On 13th February 2025, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers will unveil a true gem for whisky lovers: Mac-Talla Virgin Oak. This limited-edition whisky captures the rugged essence of Islay’s peaty heritage, softened and enriched by the alluring sweetness of virgin oak maturation. Priced at £74, this one-of-a-kind expression will be available across select markets, including the UK, Europe, Japan, Australia, and Israel.
An Exploration of Flavour and Innovation
The name "Mac-Talla," meaning "echo" in Gaelic, has always reflected Islay’s rich whisky-making traditions. With Mac-Talla Virgin Oak, the distillers take a bold step forward, pairing Islay’s signature smoky character with the distinctive sweetness of virgin oak casks. This no-age-statement whisky represents the first Mac-Talla expression to feature virgin oak prominently, offering an experience that’s both innovative and unmistakably Islay.
The whisky is fully matured in a combination of bourbon barrels and #4 Char Virgin American Oak casks sourced from the prestigious Kelvin Cooperage in Kentucky. After its initial maturation, it undergoes a final period in virgin oak barrels, which amplifies its flavour complexity and depth. The result is a whisky that’s simultaneously indulgent, balanced, and utterly unforgettable.
What Makes Virgin Oak Special?
Virgin oak casks, crafted from untreated American oak, are charred to unlock intense caramelised sugars and toasty flavours. These casks have never housed any other spirit, meaning they impart pure, bold flavours to the whisky. For Mac-Talla Virgin Oak, this process tempers Islay’s bold peat smoke, unveiling layers of sweetness and richness not typically associated with heavily peated whiskies.
This departure from Mac-Talla’s classic range—like the peaty Mara and earthy Terra—offers a uniquely sweet and smoky profile. It’s a whisky that balances boldness with refinement, allowing both new and seasoned whisky lovers to savour something truly special.
Tasting Notes
Here’s what you can expect from this limited-edition release:
Colour: Golden Barley – a warm, inviting hue.
Nose: Deep oak spice mingles with toffee apples and muscovado sugar, offering a rich and complex aroma.
Palate: A symphony of flavours unfolds—smoked oak, sticky toffee pudding, baking spices, and creamy butterscotch.
Finish: The sweetness lingers, leaving a satisfying smoky trail.
Craftsmanship at its Core
Mac-Talla Virgin Oak’s journey is a meticulous process from start to finish. Its maturation in 27 new American oak barrels ensures consistency and quality. Once the whisky is ready, it’s vatted, married, and bottled at the state-of-the-art Aberargie Distillery—a testament to Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers’ commitment to excellence.
A Must-Have for Whisky Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a passionate collector or an adventurous whisky enthusiast, Mac-Talla Virgin Oak is a treasure not to be missed. With its limited production, this whisky is poised to become a sought-after addition to any whisky collection. It’s the perfect blend of Islay tradition and modern craftsmanship, offering a sensory journey that’s as rich as it is rewarding.
Mac-Talla Virgin Oak isn’t just a whisky—it’s a celebration of innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of Islay. By blending the island’s robust peat smoke with the sweet embrace of virgin oak, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers have created something extraordinary. Mark your calendar, pour a dram, and prepare for a whisky experience like no other.
Where to Find Mac-Talla Virgin Oak
The whisky will be available from 13th February 2025, exclusively through select stockists in the UK, Europe, Japan, Australia, and Israel. To find your nearest retailer, visit Mac-Talla’s Stockist Page.