The Lakes Distillery Launches ‘Signature’ – Its First Permanent Sherry-Led Expression
Marking a major milestone after a decade of experimental whisky making, The Lakes Distillery has unveiled ‘Signature’—its first core-range, sherry-led single malt. This release cements the distillery’s commitment to its wine-inspired maturation ethos, blending tradition with modern élevage techniques. Signature is available from late March 2025, positioned as the distillery’s flagship expression moving forward.
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Key Takeaways
The Lakes Distillery introduces ‘Signature’, a permanent sherry-led single malt.
Matures in Oloroso and PX casks; 46.6% ABV; non-chill filtered.
Priced at £75 / $90, with global availability.
Balances dark fruit, spice, and nutty richness in a non-age-statement profile.
Offers value and flavor complexity on par with high-end sherry-finished whiskies.
(Image Credit: Lakes Distillery Website)
A Decade of Development Culminates in a Signature Malt
‘Signature’ reflects The Lakes’ maturation philosophy, rooted in layering flavor through complex blending and extended interaction with select casks. Led by the influence of Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry-seasoned oak, this non-age-statement whisky balances richness with structure.
Mash Bill: 100% malted barley
Maturation: Blend of Oloroso and PX sherry casks
ABV: 46.6% (natural color, non-chill filtered)
Price: £75 / $90
Availability: Ongoing global release through select retailers
Nose: Dried fruits, spiced orange, treacle
Palate: Silky with dark chocolate, cherry compote, baking spices
Finish: Lingering warmth with notes of roasted nuts and oak
As a core-range bottling, Signature is not a limited edition, but its flavor depth places it among more exclusive offerings in its price tier.
Sherry Cask Influence at the Core
Signature’s character is driven by the Lakes’ mastery of sherry casks. Oloroso casks lend savory nuttiness and dry spice, while PX-seasoned oak contributes dark sweetness and fruit depth. The integration of these profiles is refined through the distillery’s élevage-style blending philosophy—allowing for continuous evolution in flavor before bottling.
Accessible Yet Complex: A Gateway to Collectibility
Priced at £75, Signature is designed to be both accessible to enthusiasts and a gateway into the distillery’s deeper, rarer expressions. Its sleek presentation—with embossed glass and copper foil detailing—echoes the packaging of past limited editions while signaling permanence in the portfolio.
Where Signature Sits in the Luxury Whisky Landscape
Though it enters as a permanent release, Signature’s profile competes with more exclusive sherry-led malts such as:
GlenDronach 15-Year Revival – Renowned for its sherry depth and cult status
Aberlour A'bunadh – A cask-strength staple with a loyal following
Redbreast Lustau Edition – Sherry-forward Irish whiskey with complex structure
The Lakes Signature holds its own, offering balanced complexity without the premium price tag or scarcity of these counterparts.
(Image Credit: Lakes Distillery Website)
The Lakes Distillery: What’s Next?
With Signature anchoring the core range, The Lakes Distillery is set to continue its experimentation through limited bottlings and cask-finish releases. Future projects are expected to expand on wine-cask influences, continuing the distillery’s pursuit of expressive flavor via patient maturation.
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