Talisker finishes whisky in ice-fractured casks

Isle of Skye-based Talisker has released its ‘wildest whisky yet’, a 45-year-old single malt.

Talisker Glacial Edge 45-Year-Old is the final release in a ‘wild’ whisky-making series. The expression was finished in ice-fractured oak, a new experiment in whisky craft and a first for the Diageo-owned brand. Talisker took 12 heavily charred American Oak casks to Canada’s ice fields, where a specialist cooper removed the ends of the casks. They were then exposed to sub-zero temperatures and Arctic winds for 96 hours, which fractured the wood. The process increases the surface area of the casks, which the whisky then interacts with during the finishing period in Scotland. The whisky is also Talisker’s first 45-year-old single malt Scotch, with the brand citing its ‘unexplored richness, complexity and a unique untamed flavour’ and ‘spicier and sweeter aromas’ from the ex-Bourbon barrels. The expression has an ABV of 49.8% and an RRP of £4,500 (US$5,500) per 700ml bottle. The journey to the ice fields was a partnership with environmental organisation Parley For the Oceans. Glacier scientist Dr Alison Criscitiello accompanied the voyage. Talisker has worked with Parley for three years, raising awareness about the importance of marine ecosystems and supporting their preservation globally. A portion of the profits from Talisker Glacial Edge 45-Year-Old will be donated to support the cause. As part of the launch, Talisker hosted a voyage to Iceland, where guests explored the Langjökull Glacier. Parley ambassador and surfer Greg Long, who took part in the trip, said: “I have spent nearly my entire life immersed in the ocean and, in that time, I have come to realise just how intimately connected the mountains and ocean truly are. “The mountains play a vital role in regulating climate patterns, influencing rainfall patterns and temperature variations that directly impact the health of the ocean. “Protecting and preserving both is essential to maintain the delicate balance of these ecosystems and ensure the well-being of countless species, including humans, who rely on them for sustenance, climate regulation, and recreation. “I am grateful to work on this project highlighting the beauty and fragility of both invaluable ecosystems.” Talisker has also partnered with travel specialist Abercrombie & Kent to provide bespoke Iceland trips and tastings of the brand’s whisky. Last month, Diageo announced a regenerative agriculture programme to enhance biodiversity, improve water stewardship and carbon reduction, and better soil health management in Scotland, with the first phase focusing on the barley and wheat regions for Talisker.