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Quick Dram : Mortlach 1991/2008 C&S Dram Collection

Posted by Gal Granov

Mortlach is a distillery found in the heart of ‘Speyside’ whisky region, and located in the city of Dufftown (where 6 other well known distilleries are located). Founded at 1823 it is owned by Diageo, and most of its 6 Million litres of spirit (produced yearly) go into Diageo blends (mainly JW). Due to this it’s not easy finding a single malt by Mortlach. Mortlach whiskies are known for their Rich and ‘Beefy’ body and flavours, and use of high quality sherry casks.

I got this wee sample in a sample trade some months back, and didn’t get to try it until two days ago. I just finished making myself a very nice beef Entrecote, posted the image with my Iphone (using Fiddme – if you don’t know it, and you have an iphone. Get it. wonderful application), and asked what dram i should be drinking after this hefty meal. My whisky friend OK, replied immediately, that a Mortlach is a good option. I remembered that i had this sample sitting there, so i reached for it to try it, and as it turns out , this specific dram is what OK suggested I'd try. What can i say? Great minds think alike (and also, this was the only Mortlach i had handy…)

So dramming, begins!

Mortlach 1991/2008 C&S Dram Collection , Sherry Butt  4232 , 58% ABV

Nose: Some toffee with balsamic and red fruit all mingled. quite alcoholic at CS... Green Grapes after being washed in water. Very nice and fragrant.

Palate : Big, Meaty stuff, chilly pepper and some black pepper too. One hell of a palate on this one.

Finish : Long , on the chilly peppers, some fruit, and wee wee smoke coming at you…. (when you don’t expect).

Bottom line:

All in all, a wonderful companion after a meaty dinner. This baby has a wonderful Big bodied profile, quite different than other Sherry casks I've tried from other distilleries. Worth a try, but not for everyone.

Slainte!