Diageo Special Releases 2023

The Diageo Special Releases have been a significant event in the whisky world since the early 2000s. They were officially launched in 2002, these releases have been an opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to discover unique, often older cask-strength bottlings from Diageo's extensive portfolio.

For 2023, Dr Stuart Morrison and his team celebrate the spirit of cultural collaboration - each bottle in the Special Releases collection is adorned with captivating artwork that draws from diverse cultural facets from around the world, endeavoring to narrate their rich stories. 

Talisker - 'The Wild Explorador'

This cask-strength rendition from Talisker embodies a harmonious blend of elegance and might, reminiscent of the grand voyages by Portuguese explorers of yore. A maritime essence, refined through maturation in a trilogy of Ruby, White, and Tawny Port casks, lends a softened yet unyielding character to this whisky, enriched with traces of lush dried fruit.

The Singleton 14 Year Old - 'The Silken Gown'

A radiant and effervescent spirit, The Singleton of Glendullan's expression takes a leaf from the sophisticated charm of French ateliers. With a finishing touch in Chardonnay de Bourgogne casks, it unfolds a silky, rich character intertwined with sun-kissed fruit notes.

Lagavulin 12 Year Old - 'The Ink of Legends'

A contemporary adaptation of Lagavulin's time-honored spirits, this version draws from the ancient Mesoamerican tradition of tattoo artistry, narrating historical tales on a living canvas. Matured in Don Julio Anejo Tequila casks, the whisky elegantly interweaves the signature coastal peat and succulent fruitiness of Lagavulin with lively citrus and herbal smokiness.

Mortlach - 'The Katana's Edge'

Infused with a touch of Japanese finesse reminiscent of the meticulous craftsmanship behind legendary katana blades, this Speyside malt finds its unique finish in ex-Kanosuke Japanese whisky and ex-Pinot Noir casks. The result is an enticing blend of fruity and spicy notes, with a dash of umami sharpness slicing through the savory sweetness.

Clynelish 10 Year Old - 'The Jazz Crescendo'

Smooth and captivating, this whisky resonates with the rich, soul-stirring tones of classic American jazz. Exclusively matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks, it melds Clynelish’s signature honeyed notes and waxy texture with a delightful hint of caramel warmth and vanilla spice.

Oban 11 Year Old - 'The Soul of Calypso'

A lively escapade into the Caribbean spirit, this iteration from Oban revels in the rhythmic heart of calypso. Its final maturation in Caribbean pot still rum casks infuses a bold tropical essence, mingling juicy mango, exotic spices, and sweet sugar cane with Oban’s distinctive blend of Highland and Island charm.

Glenkinchie 27 Year Old - 'The Floral Treasure'

Among the most vintage releases from Glenkinchie, this whisky, inspired by China’s illustrious porcelain heritage from the great dynasties, finds its finish in a blend of refill American and European oak vessels. It unfolds a bouquet of lavish floral scents, robust spices, and sweet fruity undertones.

Roseisle 12 Year Old - 'The Origami Kite'

This inaugural release of Roseisle single malt honors the age-old artistry of origami kite-making, blending awe, simplicity, and a touch of enchantment. Matured in a duet of first-fill bourbon and refill casks, this expression unveils a luxurious character, harmonizing sweet vanilla, ripe fruit, and white chocolate with a subtle spiciness and warmth.