Mortlach 18yo 1990/2009 (46%, Coopers Choice, Sherry, C#4421, 726 Bts.)

An independent single cask bottling of the cult favourite Mortlach Distillery, from a sherry cask and bottled un-chillfiltered and natural colour while being reduced to 46%. While the dates of distillation may offer the suggestion of a greater age one should accept that the label has been verified; if the months of distillation and bottling were known, well then things would be known for sure. None the less; the nose is assertive and fruity (think oranges and tinned fruit cocktail), also some Marmite mixed in for good measure and there is also a cream soda fizziness hovering in the back ground. There is also some malt and perhaps the slightest hint of peat smoke? The taste is at first rich and fruity and then dries out some what to reveal some wood spice and some more of the sweet fruit. There is also some sherry and a distinct lack of the Marmite but the mild peat smoke is in evidence however it is very subtle. The taste is very pleasant. The finish is malty and fruity (as described above) with a return of the cream soda but not fizzy but now creamy and the finish is quite long and pleasant. There is also some dry wood spice and more fruit after a few minutes; it’s a big picture finish. After a number of minutes there is the slightest hint of the Marmite.

A meaty Mortlach from a sherry cask.

C$150

Score 74 points

Visit The Coopers Choice at http://www.vintagemaltwhisky.com/product-cooperchoice.html