The Orkney Distillery has announced the launch of its second blended malt, marking the latest stage in the Kirkwall based company’s journey into the whisky market.

Rysa (46% ABV) is a peated, blended malt Scotch whisky, comprised of whiskies from distilleries across Scotland, including Orkney.

This latest release is said to deliver notes of raisin and burnt leather on the nose, followed by notes of peat smoke, crème brulé and pepper on the palate.

Named after the uninhabited Orkney island of Rysa, this latest release is a contrast to The Orkney Distillery’s first blended malt, Fara— launched in 2024, which was led by notes of heather honey and vanilla.

The Orkney Distillery began whisky production last year, with both Fara and Rysa aimed at offering whisky enthusiasts the opportunity to experience expertly crafted blends while awaiting maturation of the company’s much anticipated single malt.

Commenting on the launch, Stephen Kemp, Managing Director of The Orkney Distillery, said: “We’re delighted to be releasing our latest blended malt, Rysa, to build on the success of last year’s Fara launch. Rysa has been carefully crafted for those who appreciate depth, character, and the artistry of fine blending, and it offers a real contrast to Fara in terms of its peated, smoky flavour. We’ve been meticulous with the blending of both Fara and Rysa to ensure whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs can enjoy a really high-quality experience, one which sets the bar high for the release of our single malt in a few years.”

The Orkney Distillery’s Rysa will be available from the distillery website from April 10th, for a RRP of £46.00.