Talisker unveils 47YO volcanic rock-toasted Magma

Diageo-owned Talisker has released a 47-year-old single malt inspired by the historic volcanic formations of the Isle of Skye.

Limited to 622 bottles, Magma is said to be the Skye-based distillery's most exclusive whisky release to date. The single malt has been aged in new American oak casks, toasted with intensely heated volcanic rocks from the island. The method replaces the traditional open-flame technique, which usually sees the barrels exposed to flames, and instead, the rocks are heated beforehand, allowing the barrels to rotate around them and toast the interior without direct contact with the staves. Steaming during the process is said to keep the cask hydrated and ensure a steady, controlled temperature. The absence of combustion reportedly enhances the fruit flavours, resulting in 'notable depth and complexity'. Talisker debuted the unique technique last year with Molten Seas 14-year-old single malt as part of the Diageo Special Releases 2025: Horizons Unbound. Greg Bruce, master blender at Talisker, said: "Talisker Magma represents a new frontier in how we approach cask finishes at the distillery. Working with volcanic rock-toasted casks allowed us to unearth new depths, revealing greater layers of fruit, smoke and spice. "There's a deeply elemental connection in this whisky, linking the distillery to Skye's volcanic landscapes, while preserving Talisker's signature maritime character and chilli-pepper warmth." Bottled at 48.8% ABV, Magma showcases Talisker's 'rugged' coastal character, offering flavours of Sichuan chilli pepper alongside mineral notes of wet rocks, dried edible seaweed, salt crystals, Scottish toffee, sandalwood, and hessian. Talisker Magma is presented in a sculptural 700ml bottle that symbolises the union of sea and volcanic rock, representing the dramatic landscape of Skye. Made from 100% recycled glass, the bottle features a gradient fade from clear to black, reminiscent of ocean depths and molten stone. Additionally, it has a hand-sculpted glass stopper inspired by volcanic obsidian, making each bottle subtly unique. Talisker Magma 47-Year-Old will be available in limited quantities through private client teams and selected luxury retailers in the UK, specific European and Asia Pacific countries, the US and global travel retail. It has a suggested retail price of AU$8,988 (US$6,231/£4,700). Nishant Samuel, head of whisky and liqueurs at Diageo Australia, commented: "Talisker Magma is the ultimate expression of our whisky making artistry – rare, powerful and truly one of a kind. "As Australian drinkers increasingly seek exceptional, hard-to-find spirits, we're proud to offer this highly limited release via Malts.com and our private client managers, giving our most dedicated customers the opportunity to secure a remarkable piece of Talisker's legacy."