Mortlach 21 Year Old Diageo Special Release 2020 - 56.9% 70cl

The 2020 Special Releases are an annual collection of limited-edition natural cask strength Scotch whiskies that feature rare and unusual releases from some of Scotland’s most loved distilleries.

This Mortlach was matured for rich distillery character in small batches then carefully finished in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso-seasoned casks to build yet more levels of aroma and taste. At once smooth, sweet and savoury, the many-layered outcome mirrors the complexity of the mysterious Mortlach 2.81 distillation itself.

Called the “The Beast of Dufftown” for its robust, meaty nature, little known Mortlach may be the best kept secret in Scotch. Bold flavours are the mark of this special breed, distinguishing it as the monarch of its glen as surely as the bellow of a mature red deer stag.

A rare release with very limited availability of 7,692 bottles worldwide.

Nose: Mellow in feel, with light prickle. A hint of new wood pencil cases introduces freshly juicy, fruity top notes of green apple, green grape and pineapple, which gradually come together with a trace of lemon peel as a sweet fresh fruit salad, on a faintly mossy base. A drop of water adds a further juicy note of boiled fruit sweets.

Palate: At natural strength, a creamy-smooth texture and a sweet then juicy taste with traces of fondant mid-palate; deliciously buttery, hot and spicy, recalling toasted hot-cross buns. Slightly sweeter at reduced strength and buttery-soft, with enhanced pepper. Drying lightly overall.

Finish: Quite long, with some white pepper for a lingering warmth