Second release in history inspired Smugglers’ Series from distillery
The award-winning Isle of Arran Distillery continues to celebrate the whisky-making heritage of its island home with the highly-anticipated second release in its Smugglers’ Series.
The series honours the tradition of the illicit whisky trade that operated from Arran and up the Clyde to Glasgow. Each release is ‘smuggled’ in unique packaging reminiscent of the hiding places used in the 18th and 19th centuries. Smugglers’ Series Vol. 2 ‘The High Seas’ is presented in packaging that mimics a beautiful hardbound book, complete with a cutout compartment that conceals the bottle.
This dram is a powerful marriage of whisky ma- tured in the finest rum casks with time-honoured peated spirit and a rich layer of first-fill Bourbon barrel adding sweetness and fruit.
The use of rum casks in the maturation process serves as recognition of Arran’s importance, in years gone by, in the trade of diverse, black market liquor. The resulting liquid is complex, full of character and a perfect tribute to these independent characters of Arran.
Master distiller James MacTaggart said: ‘Smugglers’ Vol.1 ‘The Illicit Stills’ was a tremendous success, selling out within days. There is a real desire for whisky with a story, something the Smugglers’ Series has in abundance.’
Bottled at Natural Cask Strength 55.4 per cent abv, Smugglers’ Series Vol.2 ‘The High Seas’ is a limited edition release of 8,700 bottles worldwide. It is available online at arranwhisky.com and at specialist whisky retailers.