Islay’s single malt distilleries, Lagavulin and Caol Ila, are launching two limited-edition releases, each featuring unexpected cask twists, at this years Fèis Ìle 2025.
Lagavulin is inviting fans to discover new depths of flavour with Lagavulin Fèis Ìle 2025 15 Year-Old. Finished in Moscatel de Málaga casks, this expression showcases a balance of sweet and spicy notes while retaining Lagavulin’s distinctive smokiness.
Jordan Paisley, Lagavulin Distillery Manager said, “Innovation is at the heart of what we do at Lagavulin and, this year, we wanted to offer something truly special. While researching our archives, we discovered a reference to Moscatel de Málaga hogshead casks, which inspired this release. The result is a beautifully complex whisky that adds layers to our signature smoke. We’re excited to share it with our fans at Fèis Ìle.”
Caol Ila, meanwhile, is introducing a new dimension of flavour with Caol Ila Fèis Ìle 2025 8 Year-Old. This whisky has been matured in a combination of refill casks and Pedro Ximénez /Oloroso-seasoned casks, before being finished in new Colombian Oak casks.
Martin Gaughan, Caol Ila Distillery Manager said, “This release is all about exploration, both for us who enjoy Caol Ila and all the new visitors to Islay during Fèis Ìle. The finish in Colombian Oak casks has brought a fascinating twist, enhancing Caol Ila’s natural richness with unexpected sweet and spicy layers. I can’t wait for all of our fans to experience it first-hand at my first Fèis Ìle as Caol Ila’s Distillery Manager.”
Visitors attending Fèis Ìle will also get to experience tasting sessions, events and music from various artists at both distilleries during the festival.
Lagavulin Day features highlights such as, “Beyond The Smoke”, an immersive sensory experience hosted by Lagavulin’s Distillery Manager, Jordan Paisley, and Private Client Host, Barry Nisbet.
Caol Ila Day follows with “Flavour & History”, an interactive whisky blending session where guests will have the opportunity to craft their own 200ml custom blend. Hosted by Rory Slater, who worked on this year’s Fèis Ìle bottling for Caol Ila, and Jo McKerchar, Senior Malts Archivist, this session will provide a rare glimpse into the art and science of whisky making at Caol Ila.