Explore the world of sherry casks

Scottish Heart, Spanish Soul

In this month’s Outturn, we venture into the world of sherry casks and how they’ve been quietly shaping Scotch whisky for generations.

The most unlikely influence

Who would have thought that a little-known style of fortified wine from Southern Spain could make such an impact on the world’s greatest whisky - Scotch. But if there’s one thing we malt whisky enthusiasts know, it’s that some of the richest, most complex and beloved Scotch whiskies were matured in a sherry cask. Let’s explore the unique relationship between Scotland and Spain and why this marriage is built to last.

Born in Spain. Perfected in Scotland.

• 30% of all Scotch whisky is matured in Sherry casks.

• The majority of Sherry casks are made from American oak, not European oak.

• 90% of all Sherry casks are seasoned specifically for whisky maturation, not reused from the wine trade.

• Sherry casks are typically seasoned for 18-36 months before before they’re ready for whisky maturation.

• Sherry casks can cost 5-10x more than ex-bourbon casks.

Not all casks are the same

While there are many different types of Sherry, the two most influential for whisky maturation are Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez (PX). Understanding the difference is key to understanding the whisky in your glass.

Oloroso

Oloroso is the most common sherry style used in Scotch whisky maturation. Fortified early and aged oxidatively, it’s a dark and concentrated wine rich in dried fruits, toasted nuts, and spice. In whisky maturation, Oloroso casks deliver structure, richness, and intensity.

Pedro Ximénez

Pedro Ximénez sherry begins with grapes that are sun-dried after harvest, concentrating sugars before fermentation. The resulting wine is intensely rich and viscous, with deep notes of raisin, fig, molasses, and dark chocolate. For whisky maturation, PX brings a powerful sweetness and luxurious texture, layering in a bold, dessert-like character.

Watch the film

From raw oak to finished spirit, witness the story of how Scotch & Sherry come together.

Explore seven brand new, single cask whiskies, each matured in sherry wood. From the structure of Oloroso to the richness of PX, it’s all on display in this month’s Outturn.

Shop the Outturn

Scottish Heart Spanish Soul