Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers has released a limited edition Cognac cask-finished expression under its Mac-Talla Islay single malt brand to mark the 40th anniversary of the Fèis Ìle whisky festival. The new bottling, Mac-Talla Cognac Fèis Ìle 2026, became exclusively available from May 14 across the UK and EU at an RRP of £78.
Perth-based Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers owns the Mac-Talla brand, which draws on four generations of Islay heritage. The company sources single malts matured exclusively at various distilleries on the island.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
The whisky began its maturation in first-fill Bourbon barrels before undergoing a further two years in Cognac casks. The resulting liquid combines coastal peat smoke with a fruit-forward influence from the Cognac cask finishing.
Graeme Mackeddie, production director at Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, said: “Fèis Ìle is a moment of real significance in the whisky calendar, and for its 40th anniversary, we wanted to create something that both honours Islay tradition and showcases a more progressive side of Mac-Talla.”
Mackeddie added: “The Cognac cask finish brings a vibrant, fruit-led character that works beautifully alongside the whisky’s natural peat smoke and sweetness, resulting in a dram that is both distinctive and celebratory.”
The expression is bottled at 52.4% ABV. It is non-chill filtered with no added color.
Must Read Stories
Official tasting notes from the brand describe sweet almond croissants and a hint of sweet orchard fruits on the nose. The palate offers freshly baked pastries with poached pears, warm pineapples, and toasted coconut. The finish carries a hint of peat smoke and winter spices.
Fèis Ìle is one of Scotland’s most prominent whisky festivals, attracting thousands of visitors to Islay each year. Now in its 40th year, the 2026 edition will run from May 22–31, featuring an extended 10-day program of distillery open days, tastings, music, and cultural events across the island.
The festival has grown significantly since its founding in 1986 as a celebration of Islay’s culture, music, and whisky-making traditions. It has become a major fixture on the global whisky calendar, with distilleries across the island releasing exclusive festival bottlings each year.
Mac-Talla Cognac Fèis Ìle 2026 is available through the brand’s stockist network.
