A new batch of Asta Morris bottlings has just arrived in stores. One of the highlights is this Secret Speyside 1990, aged for 28 years in a bourbon cask.
Although the distillery should remain a secret, here are two tips: it is located in the town of Rothes and it is doesn’t have a tradition of releasing many bourbon casks.
Secret Speyside 28 yo 1990 (40,1%, Asta Morris 2019, ex-bourbon cask, 125 btl.)
Secret Speyside 28 yo 1990 (40,1%, Asta Morris 2019, ex-bourbon cask, 125 btl.)Nose: entirely on juicy orchard fruits (plums, peaches), orange blossom and old-style waxy notes and lemon balm that you expect from even older neighbours like Glen Grant or Caperdonich. Reminds of the 1970s actually. Whiffs of tangerine, leather and minty herbs. Delicate floral honey, even a mineral touch. Excellent
Mouth: a similar delicate style, a great combination of fresh fruits (peach, lime, oranges), natural vanilla and subtle resinous / mineral notes. The waxiness is there again. A hint of silver polish and ginger. Soft herbal tea.
Finish: long, lots of fresh citrus notes and traces of waxy oak.
Just lovely. The freshness, juicy fruits and subtle mineral notes are rarely seen these days. Also don’t be afraid of the low strength, it’s delicate but it’s not diluted: flavoursome and easily drinkable. Around € 190, arriving in stores as we speak.
Score: 91/100