Gordon & MacPhail has announced the launch of a new limited-edition release as part of its Connoisseurs Choice Heritage Range.

Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice Heritage 1987 from Talisker Distillery (51.4% ABV) is a 39 Year Old cask strength single malt whisky, matured in a refill Sherry butt. It is also the final label from the independent bottler to feature the Talisker name.

This latest release honours the vision of George Urquhart, described by whisky writer Charles MacLean as “the father of single malt”, who launched the Connoisseurs Choice range in 1968 with the aim of giving whisky enthusiasts the opportunity to discover whiskies from distilleries that were seldom available as single malts.

The Connoisseurs Choice range has featured more than 2,000 bottlings from almost 100 Scottish distilleries. Gordon & MacPhail is also paying tribute to the original Connoisseurs Choice bottlings with the return of the iconic black label design.

Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice Heritage 1987 from Talisker Distillery opens with fragrant raisin and clove spice, complemented by a hint of leather, while tangerine zest gives way to walnut and prune on the nose. On the palate, jammy figs combine with vibrant strawberries and cracked black pepper, while subtle cocoa develops alongside pressed apple and dried tobacco. The finish is full and spicy, with lingering citrus and a delicate hint of ash.

Commenting on the launch, Stuart Urquhart, Operations Director at Gordon & MacPhail, said: “This release marks a poignant moment for us. After several decades during which bottlings from Talisker Distillery have been absent from our Connoisseurs Choice range, we are now releasing a final single-cask bottling from this outstanding distillery. Thirty-nine years in a refill sherry butt has given this whisky exceptional depth without ever losing Talisker’s signature character. For collectors and whisky enthusiasts alike, this is a rare opportunity to own the final chapter in our history with this distillery.”

Limited to 451 bottles, Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice Heritage 1987 from Talisker Distillery is now available from selected specialist retailers, for a RRP of £1,250.