Deanston has launched an experimental expression finished in Tequila casks.

The Deanston 15 Years Old Tequila Cask Finish is said to combine the characters of two Highland regions: the Scottish Highlands, where the distillery is based; and the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, one of the regions where Tequila is produced.

The single malt was matured in oak hogsheads for 13 years before a two-year finishing in barrels that had previously held Tequila. The distillery says that the fruity and floral notes of the highland Tequila complement the waxy, honeyed profile of its whiskies.

Julieann Fernandez, master blender at Deanston Distillery, said: “Deanston is a highly versatile spirit that is complemented by a myriad of eclectic casks. I spend a lot of time exploring how our whisky works with different flavour profiles and discovered its citrusy, waxy character intricately pairs with the fruity, floral Tequilas which the Jaliscan Highlands region is famed for.

"The result is an incredibly complex, subtle and balanced dram that is distinctly Deanston. Our signature characteristics of zesty orange peel, honey, and spice all remain at the forefront, yet the classic Deanston waxy flavour, honeycomb-like texture, and creamy mouthfeel is ever present. I anticipated the Tequila flavour would be dominant, revealing itself in the primary notes and on the palate, however this isn’t the case. It’s much lighter and smoother than you would expect and epitomises our bold, brave, and experimental ethos.”

The limited-edition Deanston 15 Years Old Tequila Cask Finish has been bottled at 52.5% ABV. It is available to buy from deanstonmalt.com and specialist retailers, priced at £95.