Tasting the new Roseisle 14 years old 2025 release
The Diageo Special Releases always create a lot of chatter, but sadly it is hardly ever about the whisky anymore. Indeed, the pricing on some of these releases is the most talked about subject. In all this chatter, the releases of Roseisle single malt whisky might not have gotten the attention it truly deserves. For three years now, Diageo has slipped in a release of this mammoth distillery as a single malt. The first two years we saw almost identical 12 years old expressions, but in 2025 we are now treated on a 14 years old. We taste that, and the first ever release. Diageo is not really known for giving their releases a lot of Tender Loving Care (TLC). The fact that they introduced Roseisle as a single malt so unceremoniously, makes one wish people at marketing were replaced by whisky enthusiasts with a soul. But I guess the only thing that counts is selling Johnnie Walker; the rest is collateral. Enough with the ranting, over to the whisky in question.
Roseisle 14 years old, Special Releases 2025, bottled at 55,9 % abv
First things first: Harmonic Grace is the name for this bottle. Matured in refill and rejuvenated casks, the big difference of course being that this Roseisle was allowed two more years in wood, compared to the 2023 and 2024 editions.
Upon Sipping: Decidedly different from the 12 years old described below (we tasted them head to head). More influences from the rejuvenation of the cask, creating a caramelized note from wood spice and vanilla. Yes, where the first two Roseisle releases were rather well-behaved kids, this new version I can see climbing up a tree and tearing some clothes in the process. The taste continues down the same path. A bit darker with more chocolate notes and wood spice. One might think of smoky peaches towards the finish, and I am also reminded of delicate Kentucky bourbon. With water more breaded notes, like nice dark crust on an whole wheat. The palate gets a little bit more dry, but the whisky stays the same more or less. Compared to the 2023 edition below, the 2025 release of Roseisle is a darker and grittier beast. Gone is the frivolous character of vanilla and fruit, this Roseisle single malt takes no prisoners.
Word to the Wise: All three Roseisle bottlings showcase the beauty of bourbon wood maturation, and for the first time, this years’ release offers variation. Very spirit driven releases, which I will always applaud. If there is a Special Releases series planned for 2026, I would now actually love to see a sherry cask edition.
Score: 86 points.
Roseisle 12 years old, Special Releases 2023, bottled at 56,5 % abv
First things first: Launched under the name “The Origami Kite”, this was the inaugural release of Roseisle as a standalone single malt, without a mention of that on the label. The whisky matured in first-fill ex-bourbon and refill casks. We reviewed the 2024 release here.
Upon Sipping: I made tasting notes for this bottle as a guest writer on the now mothballed blog of Maltfascination, but failed to unearth my remaining cl’s, which were lurking somewhere in the back of my malt library. Anyway, now all three official Roseisle bottlings are to be found on LPA! Nosing it again after two years, I am still amazed by how delightfully fresh and vibrant this whisky is. A true Speysider in character and soul. Even mammoth distilleries can create great whisky. Warm bread, peaches, yellow apple skin, balanced vanilla (it is there, but not overpowering), all in all a very inviting nose. The vanilla creamy mouthfeel is a delight on the palate, with banana mousse, gentle wood spices and crushed black pepper. Yep, still love this bottling a lot. Reading my older notes, I seem to have caught some bitter hints of wood, but they do not bother me today.
Word to the Wise: The first Roseisle single malt release back in 2023 was a homerun, and performed as maximised as possible with the set parameters of rather plain wood. Beautiful malt whisky from a region known for its soft, fruity whisky. Maybe even a tad too clinical. Many shops still carry this bottle. Go get one.
Score: 87 points.