Ad Gefrin unveils limited-edition Tácnbora whisky

Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery, based in Wooler, Northumberland, has announced the release of a new limited-edition blended whisky, the Tácnbora Limited Edition: Cognac Cask Finish. The small-batch spirit will be available from 14^th June 2025, both at the distillery’s shop and online via the Ad Gefrin website. The release is part of Ad Gefrin’s ongoing efforts to showcase Northumbrian heritage through whisky, and comes as the distillery prepares for the launch of its first Single Malt, anticipated in 2026.

The Tácnbora Cognac Cask Finish is a cask strength blend, bottled at 58.6% ABV, and has undergone a six-month finishing period in ex-Cognac oak casks. This process is intended to enhance the whisky’s signature sweetness with additional notes of richness, structure, and subtle spice. The blend itself brings together selected Scottish and Irish whiskies, which are matured and finished on-site in Northumberland to reflect the distillery’s regional identity.

Production of the Cognac Cask Finish is limited, with only six casks being bottled, yielding between 1,800 and 2,000 bottles. The whisky is non-chill filtered and naturally coloured. Tasting notes provided by the distillery describe aromas of honey, raisins, sandalwood, and sweet tobacco, with additional hints of clover and custard. On the palate, the whisky is said to offer layers of fudge, apricots, resin, and warming spice, finishing with honey, gorse flower, and freshly cut wood. The 700ml bottle will be priced at £57.

Ben Murphy, Director of Distilling at Ad Gefrin, said: “Our work with casks continues to evolve and excite. The Cognac finish adds a dry fruit character and gentle spice that enhances the signature sweetness of Tácnbora. It’s a wonderful example of how different casks can elevate a whisky while still retaining its heart.”

Ad Gefrin operates both as a distillery and as an Anglo-Saxon museum, drawing inspiration from the region’s archaeological history, including the nearby site of a 7th-century royal palace. This latest release continues Ad Gefrin’s programme of exploring cask finishes, as well as its broader Corenkyn Blends series, which offers annual member-exclusive bottlings in various cask styles.

Food Desk
Photo Credit: Sue Todd

For further information, visit Ad Gefrin’s website here.