The Isle of Harris has announced the latest edition of its flagship single malt the Hearach. The new release, the Hearach Croft Strength, will be available exclusively in travel retail.
The Croft Strength bottling is a higher-strength version of Isle of Harris' core whisky, with an ABV of 52%. It is named for the small farm 'crofts' on Harris, paying homage to the crofters of the island.
Made with 100 per cent Scottish barley, the whiskey has been matured in ex-bourbon, oloroso, and fino sherry casks. The brand says the lightly peated spirit has a nose of soft smoke, caramel, fruits, and spices, with "characterful yet smooth" palate of spice, wood, and fruit.
Alongside the new whisky, Isle of Harris will launch a Tidal Strength edition of its gin to travel retail — the first update to the original gin since its first release in 2015. The new gin is also a higher-ABV take on the original, which the brand says elevates the "botanical complexity" of the spirit.
The new releases follow the distillery's agreement with SipWell Brands earlier this year, who became the Isle of Harris' global travel retail partner.
Simon Erlanger, managing director at Isle of Harris Distillery, said: “These two new spirits reflect the strength and character of our island home. Whether it’s the crofts enduring Atlantic winds or the tidal forces shaping our shores, there’s a rugged charm here that we wanted to capture. With Croft Strength and Tidal Strength, we’re offering travellers a chance to experience the wilder, more elemental side of Isle of Harris spirits - perfect for gifting or enjoying at home.”
Earlier this year, the distillery announced a small-batch release of its white wine cask finished Hearach of Château Biac.
Isle of Harris The Hearach Croft Strength (52% ABV, RRP £65) and Tidal Strength Gin (49.5% ABV, RRP £35) will be available to purchase exclusively at Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow airports from 2nd July 2025 with additional locations to be announced.