Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery in Wooler has unveiled Tácnbora Limited Edition: Cognac Cask Finish – a special small-batch expression of its signature blended whisky.
Launching on June 14, the limited-edition release deepens the story of Tácnbora, continuing its role as the distillery’s standard bearer.
In Old English, Tácnbora means standard bearer, and Tácnbora leads the way for Ad Gefrin’s whisky journey, paving the path toward the distillery’s own Northumbrian Single Malt, which is maturing on-site and is anticipated for release in 2026.
Blended and finished in Northumberland, Tácnbora brings together selected Scottish and Irish whiskies, matured further in carefully chosen casks to reflect Ad Gefrin’s Northumbrian spirit. This latest edition has been finished for six months in ex-Cognac oak, layering richness, structure and subtle spice onto the original’s honeyed profile.
With only six casks bottled, the Cognac Cask Finish – priced at £57 per 700ml bottle – is a limited run bottled at cask strength (58.6% ABV). Non-chill filtered and naturally coloured, the Cognac Cask Finish offers notes of honey, raisins, sandalwood and sweet tobacco balanced with clover and custard. The palate reveals layers of fudge, apricots, resin and warming spice – resolving into a long, honeyed finish with hints of gorse flower and freshly cut wood.
Ben Murphy, director of distilling at Ad Gefrin, said: “Our journey 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.”
As a limited numbered run, the Cognac casks will yield 1,800-2,000 bottles for release. First access will be granted to members of Corenkyn and Corengyst, Ad Gefrin’s founding and annual membership communities. For those eager to acquire a low numbered bottle, it is possible to sign up for membership to access the early-bird pre-order benefits from June 7 and June 11 respectively.
