Mossburn kicks off Cask Collaboration series

Marussia Beverages-owned Mossburn Distillers has launched the first release in its new limited edition series.

The 12-year-old Speyside blended malt is aged in ex-Bourbon casks before being finished in rum casks shipped directly from the Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados.

The series will release a new expression annually, with the brand blending and finishing different Scotches in different cask finishes, sourcing barrels from distilleries across the world.

Richard Seale, CEO and master distiller of R L Seale, the owner of Foursquare Distillery, said: “When Neil asked if we could collaborate on ageing his whisky in Foursquare casks, I was immediately keen to be involved. It’s intriguing to see the character our rum casks will impart on the blend and it’s an excellent opportunity to engage whisky drinkers to bring them into the world of rum.”

This year’s release has peppermint and nutmeg on the nose, with toffee apple and gingerbread on the palate and a long, sweet, spicy finish.

The packaging nods to the shared heritage of both companies and features the flags of both nations and illustrations of palm trees.

Whisky maker Neil Macleod Mathieson commented: “Pairing casks to a whisky is a delicate business for Mossburn. We are looking to enhance the character of the chosen whiskies and add nuances from the spirit that the new casks used to contain. It’s all about balance.

“These Barbados casks complement rather than fight with our Speyside malt whisky blend and together they create a whisky both rum and whisky lovers will surely enjoy.”

Mossburn Speyside Blended Malt Scotch is bottled at 57.7% ABV and retails at £65 (US$80).

Only 10,000 bottles are available worldwide, with 1,500 in the UK.

Mossburn opened its first single malt distillery, Torabhaig, on the Isle of Skye in 2017.

In September, Torabhaig concluded a chapter of its Legacy Series.