Mac-Talla has unveiled its second Lighthouse Series single malt, marking the first time the Islay whisky brand has collaborated with its global retail partners to select the final liquid for a release.
The new expression, available from September 24, represents a departure from traditional whisky-making decisions by incorporating input from specialist retailers and bars across Europe. The 54.7% ABV whisky carries a retail price of $92 (£74) and will be sold exclusively through Mac-Talla’s Lighthouse partner network.
Global Whisky Community Shapes New Release
The 2025 Lighthouse edition shifts focus from the lighthouse as a guiding light to celebrating the human expertise behind whisky creation. Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers invited partners including Vin et Whisky in Paris, 3 Greek St in London, The Black Cat in Edinburgh, and Tara Spirits in Munich to participate in the selection process.
“Just as a ship’s skipper uses knowledge and experience to steer through treacherous waters, a whisky maker guides spirit on its journey from cask to bottle,” says Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers Head Distiller Graeme Mackeddie. “Lighthouse 2025 is about celebrating that human touch – the decisions, the craft, and the expertise that bring whisky safely to its destination.”
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The collaborative approach reflects growing industry trends toward community involvement in product development, particularly among independent bottlers seeking to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
Complex Cask Profile & Islay Whisky Character
The new release combines First Fill Bourbon, First Fill Oloroso, PX, and First Fill Bordeaux barrique casks, all finished in Virgin American Oak. According to official tasting notes, the nose presents treacle toffee, milk chocolate, dried fruits, and spice. The palate delivers chewy caramels dipped in chocolate, balanced with soft peat smoke and gentle wood spice, finishing with toasted coconut.
This complex maturation process aligns with Mac-Talla’s positioning as a premium Islay single malt brand under Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, the independent family company that once owned Bowmore distillery. The Morrison family’s five-generation whisky heritage includes roles as grocers, brokers, blenders, and distillers dating back to the early 20th century.
Selected Lighthouse partners will host special tastings in coming months, with details available on the Mac-Talla website. The release follows Mac-Talla’s inaugural Lighthouse bottling in 2024 and continues the brand’s maritime-themed narrative connecting Islay’s coastal heritage with whisky production.
