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The myth, the legend, the beast of Dufftown. We can’t get enough of Mortlach, so they’ve released the ultra limited Mortlach Midnight Malt, best had at night. We discover why
The rhythm of life changes at night. At once quieter, but also more alert. Shadows form, senses are heightened. What better time to savour the flavours of a rich, deep and dark whisky to suit the mood?
Mortlach is one of Speyside’s most enigmatic and closely guarded secrets. Its name derives from Saint Moluag of the seventh century, where Mortlach the village first sprung up around the abbey of the same name. In 1823, the Mortlach distillery became Speyside's first legal distillery, and in 1853, attracted engineer George Cowie to become its co-owner. With much ingenuity, he created six unique stills of different shapes and sizes, inspiring his grandson Dr Alexander Cowie to devise a secret distilling method, one that weaved the liquid through those six stills and a tangle of copper pipes, such that it created a uniquely dark, earthy and racy whisky. One of the stills is even nicknamed the Wee Witchie in a nod to the magic behind the scenes.
Since 1896, its unique 2.81 distillation method has resulted in a full-bodied, exceptional single malt that has earned it the nickname ‘the beast of Dufftown’. However this is not simply powered without refinement or complexity; the drinking pleasure comes from discovering its many layers of flavours, aromas and development. Its 12, 16 and 20 Year Old editions have established themselves as one of the most collectible series in the market, and now, there is a continuation to the story.
Diageo Rare & Exceptional has released the Midnight Malt, a 30 Year Old expression from Mortlach which fully evokes all the intensity and boldest elements of the whisky.
Dr Craig Wilson, Diageo’s Master Blender, brought his experience to the fore when choosing the casks for this limited edition, of which just 350 bottles will be produced annually. The original liquid was aged in refill American oak and European oak casks, then finished three ways in Calvados brandy, Guatemalan rum and Bordeaux wine casks. These were then married together in custom quarter casks, before being bottled at a serious strength of 49.1 per cent.
Read more: How Mortlach Distillery Makes Its Unique and Expressive Whiskies
The age of this single malt, at 30 years old, means that all of its components date back to 1991 and even beyond that. It’s rare enough to taste an older whisky, but to taste an older Mortlach is truly special. As whisky expert and writer Felipe Schrieberg notes, Mortlach’s unique “leather, caramel and umami” notes are the reason why connoisseurs love them.
In this vintage, the Midnight Malt evokes some new sensations as well. The savoury and faintly herbal aromas on the nose suggest the meatiness of roast pork and dried sage, while the palate is richly winey and fruity, backed by a persistent black pepper note. Savoured at night, the finish lingers mysteriously, long and sweet with an aftertaste of mint chocolate and caramel. There’s no one to rush you or tell you what to do. It’s just you, and the Mortlach in your glass. Take your time, the night is yours.
Limited number of bottles of Mortlach Midnight Malt 30 Year Old are available through DiageoRareandExceptional.sg. Mortlach is available in selected bars and restaurants in Singapore. Come and discover the range of Mortlach single malt whiskies at Mandala Club, Malts, The Cooperage, Sentosa Golf Club, and The Nest @ Laguna Golf Club. Drink Responsibly. DrinkIQ.com.