Longmorn 1964 - 2015 First Fill Sherry Butt #1535

Michael Urquhart: On the instructions of my father, cask 1535 was filled with 'new-make' spirit distilled at Longmorn Distillery on 27th March 1964. It was left quietly mature at the distillery for many years before being transferred to Gordon & MacPhail's bonded warehouses in 1972.

There the cask lay until the decision was finally taken to bottle this Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky on 27th January 2015.

Tasting note

This espression of Longmorn has rum and raisin notes, with hints of old leather and beeswax polish. Stewed prune influences emerge and a delicate hint of nutmeg lingers.

Longmorn Distillery

Longmorn Distillery is located in the Speyside region, south of Elgin in Moray. Founded in 1894 by John Duff, Longmorn has a rich history and is known for its consistent production of high-quality whiskies. The distillery is located in a picturesque part of Speyside.

A unique feature of Longmorn is the use of traditional copper pot stills, which contribute to the rich and full flavour profiles of their whiskies. The distillery draws its water from the nearby Bardon Burn, which provides a pure and clear base for their whisky. Longmorn whiskies are known for their fruity and spicy flavour profiles, with notes of apple, pear, honey and a hint of spiciness.

The whiskies are mainly matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, which ensures a balanced and complex flavour. Longmorn produces single malts as well as whiskies used in blends, such as Chivas Regal. The combination of an idyllic location, traditional techniques and high-quality production makes Longmorn a respected name in the world of Scotch whisky.

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.