Here’s a preview of some whiskies you might see released (or gaining traction) in 2026 – from new distillery debuts and limited editions tied to cultural moments, to rare bottles bourbon and Scotch fans will be watching out for. Some are confirmed releases, while others are high-interest bottles you can reasonably expect to emerge next year, and others are just pure speculation from us at The Whisky Vault!
Confirmed & Anticipated Whisky Releases in 2026
Aberargie Single Malt – First Ever Release (March 2026)
A major highlight for Scotch in 2026: Aberargie Distillery — a new independent distillery in Perthshire — is launching its first single malt in March 2026. This will be the brand’s inaugural release and is expected to showcase orchard fruit and barley-forward character reflecting its barley-to-bottle heritage.
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2026 is the Chinese Year of the Horse, there have already been confirmed special editions announced from the likes of Tomatin, Glenallachie, Tamdhu, and Johnnie Walker.
Four Roses 21-Year “Anthology Origin” Bourbon
A 21-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon from Four Roses appears to be in the pipeline, featuring a very old age statement that would be a major draw for collectors.
Highland Park Cask Strength Series
A new cask-strength expression whose rollout continues into 2026, with the latest release filled at a huge 63.6% ABV and named Heather.
The Macallan
The juggernaut that is The Macallan will no doubt have many plans for limited edition and rare releases this year; expect to see A Night on Earth, Harmony and a special James Bond 55th anniversary bottling for Diamonds are Forever (1971).
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A 90-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch?
Last year, we saw the introduction of the World’s oldest single malt, the Glenlivet 1940 85 Year Old by Gordon & MacPhail. We have already seen distilleries such as Glen Grant, Macallan, and Mortlach previously release bottles distilled in 1936, so could this be the year that one of those casks has been held back and we see a 90-year-old single malt? That really would be something else!
New & Future Whisky Projects to Watch
Stirling Distillery
Production has begun on whisky at Stirling Distillery, and the very first releases are expected late in 2026, including a limited set called VI Casks for King James. These collectible bottles will be released in very limited runs, often tied to a club or membership.
The Isle of Barra Distillery
Scotland’s most westerly distillery is aiming to start its first whisky distillations in late 2026.
Brora
Could this be the year we get to sample the new Brora malt? Production restarted at the legendary distillery in mid-2021, so now after over 3 years of maturing, could we see a young Brora released to the masses? With Port Ellen not restarting until 2024, meaning we’d have to wait until at least 2027 to sample their new spirit, wouldn’t it be great to see the long-awaited Brora return this year!
Distillery Anniversaries in 2026
Can we reasonably expect some special anniversary releases from these distilleries celebrating a milestone birthday in 2026?
Glendronach
Founded in 1826, Glendronach will be commemorating its 200th anniversary this year
Old Pulteney
Founded by James Henderson in 1826, could we see a bicentennial special edition from the Highlanders?
Glenlossie
Founded in 1876 by John Duff, 2026 is the 150th anniversary of the Speyside distillery.
Final Thoughts
2026 looks set to be an exceptionally rich year for whisky lovers – blending major new entries (like Aberargie’s first single malt), limited cultural editions (Year of the Horse, Lunar New Year), and anticipated rare American whiskies that could be game-changers for collectors.
Happy New Year!
