Isle of Raasay Distillery has released a new Oak Species Maturation Series Tasting Pack, encouraging scotch whisky lovers to explore how different oak varieties influence its lightly peated single malt. 

The distillery’s latest innovation showcases four distinct virgin oak species, each imparting unique characteristics to the same base spirit. Bottled at 50.7% ABV, this educational tasting experience demonstrates how oak species, rather than just previous cask contents, fundamentally shapes whisky’s final character.

The Difference That Oak Can Make

While whisky discussions often focus on whether casks previously held bourbon, sherry, or wine, the new Isle of Raasay series highlights the importance of the oak species itself in the maturation process.

The pack features four 5cl expressions in miniature versions of the distillery’s iconic bottle, which is moulded from fossils found on the remote Hebridean island. Each sample has been fully matured in virgin oak casks with no prior contents.

“I am fascinated by the influence of oak species on our whisky’s character and the diversity of flavour that this can bring to our Raasay spirit,” said Alasdair Day, Co-founder and Master Distiller. “We’ve always believed that whisky is a journey to be enjoyed, and our Oak Species Maturation Series is about diving deeper into the elements that shape its flavour.”

Isle of Raasay Oak Species Tasting Pack 

The tasting pack explores four different oak species:

Colombian Oak (Quercus Humboldtii) delivers an elegant balance of herbaceous wood smoke and caramel aromas, with rich crème brûlée notes on the palate and a minty, green tea finish.

Hungarian Oak (Quercus Petraea) brings a spiced complexity with peat smoke and clove aromas, followed by savoury spice flavours that soften into subtle sweetness.

In contrast, French Oak (Quercus Robur) offers warm, rich fruit aromas leading to ripe fruit, dried raspberries, and leather notes before a lingering spicy finish.

The North American Oak (Quercus Muehlenbergii) presents the most intense profile, featuring wood smoke and dark fruit aromas, smoky bacon and maple syrup flavours, finishing with ginger, cinnamon, and deep fruitiness.

The pack represents Raasay’s commitment to innovation while maintaining its distinctive island style. Every drop is distilled, matured, and bottled on Raasay, home to just 161 residents – a detail displayed on each label.

The Oak Species Tasting Pack is now available for £35.00 via the Isle of Raasay Distillery website and select retailers.

Read the full article at Isle of Raasay Explores Oak Species Influence With New Tasting Pack