Samhain, pronounced “SOW-IN,” is rooted in ancient Celtic tradition, a time when the veil between worlds was believed to be at its thinnest. The Samhain Series from Lady of the Glen explores Scotland’s folklore through rare single cask whiskies, each accompanied by evocative artwork from Edinburgh-based artist Steven Shand. With over a decade of experience in the whisky industry, Shand’s intricate illustrations capture the haunting essence of myth and legend, complementing the character of these distinctive bottlings.

This release comes from Bruichladdich Distillery, matured for 15 years in a first fill bourbon barrel and limited to just 245 bottles. On the nose it offers bright citrus and floral notes with subtle hints of oak spice, vanilla and sea air. The palate unfolds with sweet almond pastry, a mineral edge and a touch of coastal salinity. The finish is long and layered, developing notes of toffee, honey and a citrus character that lingers with orange zest.

The story behind this bottling is drawn from Islay’s folklore. The Tarbh-Uisge, or Water Bull, is said to inhabit the island’s lochs, a powerful yet benevolent creature with a sleek, water-soaked hide. Unlike its darker cousin, the Each-Uisge or Kelpie, it was seen as a guardian spirit, sometimes emerging from the water to mate with cattle, producing offspring known for their strength and wildness. Tales describe the Tarbh-Uisge as a protector of the island’s people, shielding them from the spells of the Each-Uisge. Both beings represent the untamed and unpredictable nature of water, a fitting inspiration for a whisky shaped by Islay’s elemental spirit.