The Mortlach 1971 Diageo Special Releases 2004 is a rare and highly sought-after whisky from the Mortlach Distillery, one of the most underrated Speyside distilleries. This limited edition bottling was released in 2004 as part of Diageo's "Superpremium" series, with only 2160 bottles produced. The whisky was matured for 32 years in ex-bourbon casks, resulting in a complex and robust flavor profile that showcases Mortlach's distinctive distillation process. Known for its gutsy, earthy, and beefy new make, Mortlach uses a unique distillation method involving three wash and three spirit stills, which minimizes copper contact and creates a powerfully flavored, deliberately sulphury spirit. The 1971 Mortlach is a natural cask strength expression, bottled at 50.1% ABV. Despite its age, it boasts a freshness that belies its 32 years. The distillery's use of worm tub condensers adds to its robust and complex character. As the original Dufftown malt, Mortlach offers a firm, elegant, and long-finishing whisky that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. This expression is the perfect after-dinner malt, making it an ideal addition to any whisky collection. In reviews, the Mortlach 1971 has been described as a showcase of the old Highland style, focusing on floral and waxy notes. The nose is rich with barley sugars, fruits, honeys, waxes, oils, and spices. The taste is complex, featuring spices like peppers, ginger, and nutmeg, alongside fruits such as banana, coconut, and papaya, all balanced with caramel and honey. The finish is long and warming, with peppery notes and a touch of tobacco. Overall, the Mortlach 1971 is a truly exceptional whisky, highly prized for its robust and complex flavor profile and its ability to maintain balance and elegance through the years.
This whisky is unique due to its 32-year maturation in ex-bourbon casks, its natural cask strength of 50.1% ABV, and its limited edition release with only 2160 bottles produced. Additionally, Mortlach's distinctive distillation process and use of worm tub condensers contribute to its robust and complex flavor profile.
The flavor profile includes a rich combination of barley sugars, fruits, honeys, waxes, oils, spices, and firm but never dominating wooden notes. The taste is complex with spices, fruits, caramel, and honey, while the finish is warming and peppery with a touch of tobacco.
While some reviewers suggest that a few drops of water can help open up the flavors, others find that water flattens both the nose and taste. It's recommended to experiment to find your preferred taste experience.
The Mortlach 1971 Diageo Special Releases 2004 is one of my favorite whiskies. Despite its age, it feels fresh and vibrant, showcasing the unique distillery character of Mortlach. The balanced complexity, from its floral nose to its spicy and fruity palate, and the long warming finish, make it a truly exceptional whisky. If it were more affordable, I'd always keep a bottle on my table.
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