Deanston Virgin Oak Cask Strength Batch No. 2 (60th Anniversary Edition 2026)

Deanston Virgin Oak Cask Strength Batch No. 2 is a limited-edition Highland single malt released in 2026 to mark the distillery's 60th anniversary. Bottled at 60.7% ABV, this second cask strength edition builds on the established Deanston Virgin Oak expression, with a focus on American oak maturation and the distillery's characteristic waxy, honeyed spirit. The whisky is initially matured in ex-bourbon casks before undergoing a finishing period of up to 12 months in virgin American oak. This secondary maturation introduces additional oak influence, contributing vanilla sweetness, toasted coconut, baking spices and charred oak characteristics. Bottling at cask strength provides a more concentrated expression of the whisky's texture and oak-derived flavours. The release also reflects Deanston's history as a former 19th-century cotton mill on the banks of the River Teith. Converted into a working distillery in 1966, Deanston continues to use 100% Scottish barley, long fermentation and traditional production methods. Its former weaving sheds now serve as whisky maturation warehouses, while the distillery operates using hydroelectric power. As the second cask strength release in the Virgin Oak series, Batch No. 2 combines the established ex-bourbon and virgin oak maturation approach with a higher bottling strength. It is non-chill filtered and presented at natural colour. Tasting Note by Deanston: Nose: Sweet vanilla and honey lead, followed by toasted oak and coconut perfectly balanced by notes of crisp orchard fruits and a touch of lemon zest. Cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of clove follow, with chamomile and fresh heather. Palate: Rich notes of vanilla fudge and golden syrup are wrapped in charred oak, a touch of white pepper and bright orange peel. Cereal notes emerge with creamy toffee, roasted hazelnuts and a whiff of freshly baked apple pastries. Finish: Warming, spicy finish with notes of baking spice, vanilla pods and a twist of citrus.