The remote Ardnamurchan Distillery, perched on Scotland’s rugged western peninsula, has quickly built a reputation for adventurous, terroir‑driven whiskies. For 2025, the team has unveiled something truly distinctive: a limited edition Mezcal Cask Release, marrying Highland peat with the wild, vegetal soul of Mexico’s agave spirit. Distilled in 2017 from Ardnamurchan’s peated 30ppm spirit, the whisky first matured in ex‑bourbon casks for six years before spending an additional 18–20 months in Mezcal casks. Bottled at a robust 55% ABV, only around 4,968 bottles were produced worldwide.

In the glass, the whisky shines a bright gold, hinting at its coastal freshness. The nose is immediately expressive, opening with green apple, gooseberry, and grassy Highland heather, before the Mezcal influence emerges—roasted agave, aloe vera, and lime zest—all wrapped in a veil of ashy bonfire smoke. On the palate, it is crisp and layered: tart green fruits, eucalyptus, and chalky minerality mingle with salty brine, olive brine, and earthy peat, while a creamy, slightly oily texture carries the flavours across the tongue. The Mezcal casks lend a distinctive savoury edge, with notes of damp herbs, capers, and roasted agave sweetness balancing the Highland smoke. The finish is medium to long, lingering with lime zest, sea spray, earthy peat, and gentle smoke that smoulders softly.

This release is a bold statement of Ardnamurchan’s experimental spirit—a whisky that bridges two traditions of smoky distillation, Highland peat and Mexican agave. It’s a dram that will intrigue collectors and delight adventurous palates, offering a fresh perspective on what peated Scotch can be.

700mL | 55%ABV