George Cowie & Son Ltd.

Tasting notes by Serge Valentin (WhiskyFun.com)

This baby from the last time Mortlach was sold as a single malt by its owners (beyond the Flora and Fauna or Rare Malts ranges).

Colour: pale white wine (hurray!)

Nose: you have to like this style, but if you do, you’re in for a treat. Indeed, this is full of paraffin, ink, waxes, old newspapers, sulphur (real sulphur), and then cured ham. On top of all that, a few yellow flowers, such as dandelions. Great nose, very concise and clean.

Mouth: the low strength is a problem with this profile, because it makes it a little too cardboardy and dry. Not the first time I’m trying this whisky, I’ve always experienced this. But the core is pretty perfect, with waxy and inky lemons that would kind of hint at the old Inverness distilleries, rather than at classic Speyside.

Finish: medium, ultra-dry. Damp papers, flour, soot, more ink, citrons and grapefruits…

Comments: a totally un-modern style, really worth trying if you never did.

SGP:362 - 86 points.