Mortlach 1959/1960 (Gordon & MacPhail)

We have a little celebration coming up this Friday, and we’ll work our way up to this occasion with a series of excellent oldies.

We already had similar Glendronach 1959/1960 and Glen Grant 1959/1960, all bottled by Gordon & MacPhail for the wedding of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. This time we try the Mortlach 1959/1960. Each of these whiskies are a vatting of 1959 and 1960 casks, the birth years of both royals.

Mortlach 1959 & 1960 (40%, Gordon & MacPhail 1986, Royal marriage of Prince Andrew & Sarah)

Nose: full-on sherry, with lots of beeswax and furniture varnish, with a hint of turpentine. I’m glad that it’s rather fruity and the meaty notes are really subtle. Redcurrant jam, fraise des bois, pomegranate syrup. Baked banana and orange zest. A few flinty notes, roasted nuts and subtle smoke. Slightly fragrant cardamom.

Mouth: same style, again surprisingly fruity. Dried figs, raisins, pink grapefruit and a honey sweetness. Orange marmalade and a hint of bergamot. Perfect amounts of polished wood. Light mocha and reasonably meaty notes towards the end.

Finish: not too long, but nicely fruity and chocolaty.

I’m not the biggest fan of the meaty Mortlach style, but this one has very pleasant, bright and fruity top notes to make this very balanced. Perfect drinking strength as well. Above € 500.

Score: 92/100