Aberargie Distillery Launches New Expressions Series: Exploring Barley's Impact
Deep Dive into the Key Impact of Barley Varieties on Whisky Flavor
Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers (MSWD) has announced the launch of Aberargie Distillery's second bottling in September 2026, introducing a new limited-edition series called Expressions. The series will debut with two single-variety barley whiskies, Laureate Edition and Golden Promise Edition, designed to showcase how different barley varieties shape the unique flavor and character of single malt Scotch whisky.
Reflecting on the warm reception and rapid sell-out of Aberargie's inaugural bottling—which featured a blended malt recipe of 52% Golden Promise and 48% Laureate barley—the new series bottles these two barley varieties separately. Presented side by side, this allows whisky enthusiasts to directly taste and compare their distinct traits, continuing the distillery's "from barley to bottle" production philosophy.
Detailed Tasting Notes: Laureate Edition & Golden Promise Edition
The Laureate Edition is distilled from 100% Laureate barley, matured in 32% first-fill bourbon casks and 68% first-fill sherry casks, with an ABV of 48.2%. Official tasting notes feature candied orange peel, dried fruit, crisp orchard fruit aromas, accompanied by a honeyed finish. The Golden Promise Edition is distilled from 100% Golden Promise barley, matured in 68% first-fill bourbon casks and 32% first-fill sherry casks, also at 48.2% ABV. Official tasting notes present a rich profile of buttery pastry, stewed apples, brown sugar, and baking spices.
MSWD Master Distiller Graeme Mackeddie stated that the success of the debut release proved the market's high level of interest in Aberargie Distillery. The Expressions series will allow the team to deeply explore the key factors influencing whisky flavor and share the results directly with consumers. He noted that barley is fundamental to whisky production, yet its contribution to flavor is often overshadowed by oak maturation. By separating and presenting the two barleys side by side, they can perfectly highlight the unique characters of Laureate, widely used today, and Golden Promise, which holds an important place in Scotch whisky history.
📅 Publish Date: 2026-07-30
🔗 Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/aberargie-distillery-explores-barley-types-in-new-expressions-whisky-series/