Tomatin Distillery has announced the launch of a new single cask release to mark the 2026 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse – a symbol of strength, vitality and adventure in the Chinese Zodiac.
Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026 (56.5% ABV) is a single malt Scotch whisky distilled in 2011 and matured in a first-fill Pedro Ximénez Sherry butt.
The cask used, known as a ‘bota gorda’, is larger than a standard Sherry butt and was sourced directly from a bodega in Jerez, southern Spain. Its previous use in a Sherry solera is said to have added depth and intense PX flavours to the whisky, while its larger size has allowed the more subtle complexities of the Tomatin spirit to shine through.
This latest release from the Highland based distillery, is described as delivering aromas of orange zest, dried cranberries, honeycomb and candyfloss on the nose, followed by notes of candied almonds, toffee apples, sultanas and salted liquorice on the palate.
Commenting on the launch, Jamie Muir, Distillery Manager at Tomatin, said: “We don’t often release single cask whiskies to the global market; however, this sweet, fruity and well-structured Tomatin single malt seemed the perfect way to toast the Lunar New Year. As well as being renowned as the home of sherry, Jerez is also famed for its horses and is the birthplace of the legendary Carthusian breed, which dates back to the 15th century – the era in which Tomatin is rooted. This rich heritage makes this whisky a fitting tribute to the strength, elegance and spirit of the Year of the Horse.”
Limited to 817 individually numbered bottles, Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026 is available now from select specialist retailers, with an RRP of £95.00.





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