Overview: Monkey 47 has revealed oyster mushroom as the unusual 48th botanical in its latest limited-release Distiller’s Cut gin, bringing savoury umami notes to its traditional BlackForest spirit. Simultaneously, The Borders Distillery in Hawick has unveiled its first single malt, marking the return of whisky production to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837.
The Full Story
Monkey 47 search for a Species Rara led the team to the historic Wilhelmsburg fortress in Ulm, southern Germany, where oyster mushrooms (less commonly known as Pleurotus ostreatus) grow in vaulted cellar spaces. The mushrooms are sourced from Burgpilz, a German grower whose approach places an emphasis on sustainability and traditional craftsmanship. They’re incorporated into a specially developed maceration and distillation process, adding savoury complexity to the gin’s existing botanical profile.
In parallel developments, The Borders Distillery in Hawick has unveiled its first single malt, marking the return of whisky production to the Scottish Borders for the first time since 1837. Limited to 10,000 bottles, the eight-year-old inaugural release has been matured in first-fill bourbon casks and finished in Malmsey Madeira casks. Elsewhere, Johnnie Walker has unveiled the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Indian Festive Blend, a limited-edition expression developed by Johnnie Walker Master Blender Dr Emma Walker using some of the rare reserves. Additionally, Cotswolds Distillery introduced Round Hill Harvest, the fifth expression in its popular Harvest Series, comprising 1,200 bottles.
Production & Profile
The Monkey 47 Distiller’s Cut 2026 retains the character of the brand’s Schwarzwald Dry Gin, with familiar notes of juniper, grapefruit peel and lingonberry. The oyster mushroom brings spice and hint of anise and subtle nutty notes on the palate. It’s bottled at 47% ABV. For the Borders Distillery Eight Year Old, the dram is rich in maple sweetness and Oloroso sherry define new Cotswolds Round Hill Harvest English whisky release.
Brand & Industry History
Now in its 16th year, the annual Distiller’s Cut sees Monkey 47 search for a Species Rara: an exceptional ingredient that adds a new dimension to its established recipe. The Borders Distillery Eight Year Old inaugural whisky builds on cashmere and tweed heritage.
What This Means
The combination of tomato, beetroot, pickled mushroom and soy sauce gives the drink a savoury foundation, while the gin brings juniper, citrus and its distinctive mushroom-led character to the mix. The release highlights a focus on sustainability and traditional craftsmanship alongside heritage production methods.
Consumer Takeaway
Monkey 47 Distiller’s Cut 2026 sells for €79.95. Only a limited number have been produced, with bottles available through a raffle at the Monkey Kiosk webshop. Explore the wider Monkey 47 range at Master of Malt. The Borders Distillery release is limited to 10,000 bottles.
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