Lagg Launches Manzanilla Sherry Finish Scotch Whisky

What happens when heavily peated Scottish spirit meets rare sherry casks from Spain's Atlantic coast? Lagg's Manzanilla Finish delivers a surprising answer.
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Lagg Launches Manzanilla Sherry Finish Scotch Whisky
Credit: Isle of Arran Distillers

Isle of Arran Distillers’ Lagg Distillery has launched the Lagg Single Malt Manzanilla Sherry Finish, a limited-edition small batch Scotch whisky available worldwide. The cask-strength release is limited to approximately 2,000 bottles and bottled at 57.6% ABV without chill filtration or added color.

The expression marks the distillery’s second small batch release following the Lagg Palo Cortado Small Batch earlier in 2025. It continues Lagg’s exploration of rare and unusual sherry cask influences paired with its heavily peated spirit.

Manzanilla sherry is produced exclusively in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda in Spain’s Jerez region. The sherry develops under a layer of yeast known as flor, which preserves its pale color and delicate character. Manzanilla is typically lighter, drier, and fresher than other sherries, often showing subtle saline and almond notes.

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“Manzanilla casks are particularly intriguing for whisky maturation,” said Lagg Distillery Manager Graham Omand, who selected the casks personally. “The aim is to highlight the contrast between Lagg’s robust, heavily peated spirit and the subtle maritime freshness and complexity that these unique fresh casks can bring to the whisky.”

The whisky was initially matured in first- and second-fill bourbon barrels before being transferred into first-fill Manzanilla sherry casks, where it rested for over one year.

Located on the southern tip of the Isle of Arran, Lagg Distillery opened its visitor center seven years ago. The distillery has since grown into a globally distributed brand with an increasingly recognized whisky portfolio. Core expressions such as the Kilmory and Corriecravie Editions have earned industry acclaim.

Official tasting notes from the brand describe a nose of sweet syrup and maraschino cherries with gentle warmth. The palate opens with hot honey sweetness layered with spiced red fruits and cherry syrup, while a subtle salted minerality adds balance. The finish is long, drying, and warming, with lingering ashen bonfire smoke and a delicate briny note.

Isle of Arran Distillers operates two distilleries on the island. The original Lochranza Distillery in the north produces unpeated single malt, while Lagg focuses on heavily peated expressions. Together, they represent two contrasting styles of island whisky from a single independent producer.

The Lagg Single Malt Manzanilla Sherry Finish is available now from whisky retailers globally.

Beth Squires

Beth Squires is the Deputy Editor of The Whiskey Wash with over half a decade of industry experience. She possesses comprehensive knowledge of the global whisky landscape, spanning everything from heritage and production to complex market analysis. A graduate of the OurWhisky Foundation’s Atonia Programme, which champions women in whisky, Beth is a dedicated advocate for diversity and sustainability, focused on highlighting the innovation and storytelling that define the modern whisky industry.

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