Millburn 1972 - 1995 Connoisseurs Choice

Distilled in 1972, over 50 years ago now, this Millburn was bottled in 1995 by Gordon & MacPhail bottled in the Connoisseurs Choice series. This series has been around since the late 1970s and has changed labels regularly. Colloquially, this version is called 'old map label'.

Tasting note

Nose

Subtle aromas of ripe fruit and floral notes balanced with a touch of old oak, giving hints of vanilla, dried herbs and a soft, smoky background.

Taste

The first sip reveals a complex palette with layers of dried fruit, nut mix, perhaps a hint of dark chocolate here and there and soft smoke notes. A delicate sweetness, reminiscent of honey and caramel, is seamlessly integrated with spicy spices.

Finish

Medium to long, with lingering warmth from the wood aromas. The finish is pleasantly dry, with a slight bitterness boosting the richness of the flavour.

Millburn Distillery

Millburn Distillery was located in Inverness, in the Scottish Highlands, along the banks of the River Ness. Founded in 1807, Millburn was one of the oldest distilleries in the region and had an eventful history with several closures and ownership transfers before it closed permanently in 1985.

A specific feature of Millburn was the use of water from the nearby Loch Ness, which contributed to the whiskies' distinctive flavour profile. Millburn whiskies were known for their robust and complex flavour, with notes of malt, fruit, honey and a subtle spiciness. The distillery used traditional copper pot stills and the whisky matured mainly in ex-bourbon casks, which ensured a balanced and deep flavour.

Despite the closure, Millburn's remaining bottles remain highly sought after by aficionados, collectors and investors because of their rarity and historical value. Millburn remains a fascinating part of Scotch whisky history, remembered for the exceptional quality of its single malts.