Murray McDavid Releases New Islay Exclusive Collection
The new Islay Exclusive Collection
Murray McDavid Returns to its Islay Roots with New Islay Exclusive Collection
Independent Scotch whisky specialist Murray McDavid is returning to where its story began with the launch of its brand-new Islay Exclusive Release — a collection of six exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies celebrating both the legendary whisky island and the company’s 32nd anniversary.
Founded in September 1994, Murray McDavid established itself on Islay before becoming one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers, renowned for pioneering cask maturation and innovative whisky creation – a true leader in the field. Thirty-two years later, the company is paying tribute to its heritage with a carefully curated collection that showcases the remarkable diversity of Islay single malt.
The Islay Exclusive Release comprises six bottlings across Murray McDavid’s acclaimed Mission Gold and Benchmark ranges, featuring rare expressions from some of the island’s most celebrated distilleries.
The collection includes:
Mission Gold
Leapfrog 1992 – 33 Years Old – American Oak Bourbon Barrel
Ardbeg 2008 – 17 Years Old – Oloroso Sherry Butt
Bunnahabhain Mòine 2007 – 18 Years Old – Bourbon Hogshead finished in an Amontillado Sherry Octave
Benchmark
Leapfrog 2011 – 14 Years Old – American Oak Bourbon Barrel
Caol Ila 2014 – 11 Years Old – Bourbon Hogshead finished in a Madeira Wine Barrique
Bunnahabhain Mòine 2020 – 5 Years Old – Sherry Butt with a final finish in a fresh Oloroso Sherry Hogshead
Each whisky has been individually selected by Murray McDavid’s Whisky Creations Team to showcase the island’s unmistakable maritime character, powerful yet elegant peat smoke and exceptional spirit – all a result of the importance the company places on the The Art of Maturation.
A particular highlight of the collection is the return of Leapfrog, one of Murray McDavid’s most recognisable and enduring bottlings. First introduced more than 25 years ago, the name was inspired by the legendary tale of McDavid versus McGoliath, symbolising the company’s independent spirit and willingness to challenge convention within the Scotch whisky industry.
Reflecting on the launch, Edward Odim, Managing Director, said: “Thirty-two years ago, Murray McDavid began its journey on Islay with a vision to explore the endless possibilities of cask maturation. While we’ve grown significantly since those early days, our philosophy remains unchanged. This collection is both a celebration of our heritage and a showcase of the incredible diversity that Islay offers. Every whisky has been carefully selected to demonstrate not only the character of the spirit but also the transformative influence of exceptional oak.”
Over the past three decades, Murray McDavid has built an international reputation for sourcing outstanding Scotch whisky and maturing it in carefully selected casks from around the world. Today, operating from its traditional warehouses in Speyside, the company continues to push the boundaries of Scotch whisky maturation while remaining true to the pioneering spirit of its founders.
Availability
The Murray McDavid Islay Exclusive Release will be available from 1 September 2026 in specialist drinks retailers. For more information, please email enquiries@murray-mcdavid.com.
