Sinclair Series Rioja Cask Finish
About
The Sinclair Series marks a new chapter for Ledaig, named after John Sinclair, the kelp merchant who established the distillery on the Isle of Mull in 1798 against the odds. This is the first release in the series — a story of perseverance reflected in the bottle. The whisky begins life in ex-bourbon casks before finishing in ex-Rioja wine casks. That pairing is crucial: heavily peated barley forms the backbone, but the Spanish wine casks add an unexpected layer — red grapes, rose petals, spiced-sweet character that doesn't mask the smoke but dances with it. Nose and palate work in tandem: coastal smoke and salt, layered with raspberry and stewed plum, hints of cinnamon and rose. On the palate, peaty grass emerges first, followed by bourbon-barrel vanilla and fruit, finishing with pepper and wood. The finish lingers long, smoky and spiced, with a touch of chocolate in the background. A whisky that doesn't try to be smooth — raw where it should be, yet with enough sweetness and fruit to hold interest.