Scapa Skiren Orkney Single Malt Whisky 40%

Description

Scapa Skiren Orkney Single Malt Whisky was first released in 2015 and is an Orkney Single Malt matured exclusively in first-fill American oak casks. AKA, “the honeyed, tropical one”.

Scapa Whisky, also known as The Orcadian”, is produced on the “Mainland” of the Orkney Islands on the shores overlooking Scapa Flow near the town of Kirkwall. Scapa is one of the most northerly distilleries in Scotland, second only to its near neighbour, Highland park, half a mile to the north. It is also one of Scotland’s smallest distillers, and its origins can be traced back to 1885 when a pair of distillers from Speyside, Macfarlane and Townsend, set up the distillery. Today, Scapa is owned by Pernod Ricard, who have modernised the distillery while preserving traditional methods. The whisky is known for its smooth and distinctive character and reflects the maritime influences and rich heritage of its unique island location.

Scapa Distillery was mothballed in 1994 and was eventually re-opened, with fresh and new spirit flowing, in 2004. Scapa is less peaty than other island whiskies because the water, although peaty at source, is transported from Lingro Burn via pipeline to avoid more contact with peat. Furthermore, they do not use the local peat to dry the barley. This allows the uniquely sweet and tropical flavours of Scapa to come through.

Scapa Skiren Orkney Single Malt Whisky is meticulously crafted by a small, dedicated team of artisans and a Master Distiller, using time-honoured methods refined over generations. As one of the last fully manual distilleries, Scapa operates around the clock, with staff working in shifts to ensure the spirit’s continuous flow.

The whisky is produced using just one pair of stills, including the unique Lomond wash still—a rare survivor of its kind, installed in 1959. Its wide, tall neck is perfect for distillation, creating a richer, fruitier spirit that defines Scapa’s distinctive character. The new make spirit is carefully transferred into hand-selected, first-fill American Oak casks, sourced from the finest cooperages in Tennessee and Kentucky. These prized barrels infuse the single malt with its signature soft vanilla notes, imparting a gentle sweetness. Once filled, the casks are laid to rest, allowing time and oak to work their magic, until the Master Distiller deems them ready for bottling.