Glen Mhor 1966 – 2011 #3690 – Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (for Van Wees)

A true rarity from the golden age of Scotch whisky: this Glen Mhor 1966 – 2011, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail for Van Wees as part of the prestigious G&M Reserve series. Drawn from refill sherry hogshead #3690 and bottled at cask strength (52.1%) after 45 years, only 133 bottles were ever released. Glen Mhor, a closed distillery, is known for its quirky character – but this expression is surprisingly refined and elegant. WhiskyFun.com’s Serge Valentin awarded it an impressive 92/100 points, praising its unique balance and minty freshness.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Beautifully medicinal with notes of camphor, vintage cough syrup and untipped cigarettes. Then comes quince jelly, menthol-scented raisins, polished copper and hints of hay and dried herbs.

Palate

Rounded and smooth with flavours of cinnamon, black pepper, apple pie, raisins, brioche and cane syrup. Touches of agave and old spice add depth. With water: reveals chamomile, lemongrass and a soft leathery note.

Finish

Long and beautifully balanced, never too dry or oaky. A refreshing mint note lingers gracefully in the aftertaste.

Glen Mhor Distillery

Glen Mhor Distillery was located on the banks of the Caledonian Canal in Inverness, in the Scottish Highlands. Founded in 1892 by John Birnie and John Mackinlay, Glen Mhor has a rich history that spans more than a century. The distillery was unique for its early adoption of innovations, such as the use of a then rare Saladin box for malting barley.

Glen Mhor whisky was known for its robust and complex flavour profile, often characterised by rich, malty notes and a subtle fruitiness. The distillery used water from nearby Loch Ness, which contributed to the whisky's distinctive flavour. Maturation took place mainly in ex-bourbon casks, which ensured a harmonious balance of flavours.

Despite its innovative approach and beloved whiskies, Glen Mhor was closed in 1983 and later demolished. Today, Glen Mhor's remaining bottles are highly sought after by enthusiasts, collectors and investors because of their rarity and the historical value they represent.

Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail is one of the most respected and influential independent bottlers in the whisky world. With a history dating back to 1895 and a commitment to quality, craftsmanship and innovation, the company has played a key role in the development and popularisation of single malt whisky. Their extensive portfolio, ranging from rare old whiskies to unique expressions from well-known distilleries, makes Gordon & MacPhail a favourite among whisky collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

History

Gordon & MacPhail was founded in 1895 by James Gordon and John Alexander MacPhail. It began as a grocery shop in Elgin, selling a wide range of products, including tea, coffee, wine, and spirits. Soon the company focused on whisky, starting by bottling single malts, and one of Gordon & MacPhail's most important contributions to the whisky industry was their vision of maturing whiskies over long periods of time. While many distilleries focused on producing whisky for blends, Gordon & MacPhail saw the potential of single malts and began storing whiskies in their own casks for long-term maturation.

Please note

This bottle was bottled a long time ago. Please be careful when opening. The closure may have deteriorated. The item is sold as photographed and described. We do not accept any liability for the condition of the closure.