2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the Fèis Ìle whisky festival in Scotland, and esteemed Islay distilleries Lagavulin and Caol Ila have revealed a trio of limited-edition single malt expressions for the occasion.

This premium lineup features: a rare Lagavulin 31 Year Old, a 14 Year Old Lagavulin finished in Oloroso-seasoned casks, and a pioneering 11 Year Old Caol Ila - the distillery's first ever to be finished in former Don Julio tequila casks.

Fèis Ìle, which launched in 1986 and is also known as the Islay festival, was intended to celebrate Islay’s distilling heritage and community.

Feis Ile 2026 Lagavulin 31 Year Old

Titled “Skies of Fèis Ìle,” this expression is one of the oldest and rarest whiskies the distillery has released for the festival, and continues a series that began with a 29-year-old expression at Fèis Ìle 2024.

Aged for over ten years in heavily charred, Oloroso-seasoned American oak hogsheads, this spirit was drawn from a sibling finishing cask.

According to the distillery, this process yields a velvety-smooth dram where vibrant fruit notes and a subtle sweetness collide with a deep, smouldering warmth.

Feis Ile 2026 Lagavulin 14 Year Old 

This expression underwent an extensive five-year finish, also in Oloroso-seasoned American oak casks.

It is said to boast an added richness of red berries, dried fruits, caramel, and warm spice, all expertly layered over the distillery’s signature smoky profile.

Feis Ile 2026 Caol Ila 11 Year Old

Playfully known as the “Tequila Caol Ila,” this expression was matured in American oak, former Don Julio tequila casks.

The expression should present a lively citrus presence, sweetness, and spice alongside herbal notes, green fruit, a hint of agave, and the distillery’s signature coastal smoke.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team