Macduff 1980 (Malts of Scotland)

We go back to the early years of Malts of Scotland with this Macduff 1980.

Macduff 30 yo 1980 (54,1%, Malts of Scotland 2011, bourbon hogshead #6107, 175 btl.)

Nose: a rather classic ex-bourbon profile, with hints of stewed fruits, pears, bananas, apricots and maybe pineapple. Mint and soft herbs bring lots of freshness to the table. Honey. Hints of freshly sawn oak and earth.

Mouth: same profile, very creamy fruity notes, think apricots, pineapples, pink grapefruits, melons, a hint of tangerine and oranges. Rather tropical, with nice waxy notes and mint. Reminds me of Caperdonich 1972, though perhaps a little exuberant.

Finish: long, still really fruity, with fresh oak, cinnamon and mint.

This Macduff really shines on the palate, with luscious fruits and a balanced minty freshness. Easy to see why this bottler picked up so much attention back then.

Score: 90/100