Mortlach Rare Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The color is golden amber and the nose is bold, highly perfumed and packed with immediate toffee, fudge, wood spice and dark dried fruit aromas - think especially of cinnamon and raisins. Underneath is a lovely aroma of stewed apples and toasted almonds along with hints of apricot jam, cocoa powder and something savoury and slightly earthy.

On the palate this whisky has a wonderful velvety viscous feel and mixes sweet, fruity notes with more savoury and spicy ones. Initial flavours include cooked pears and apples, vanilla, toffee and milk chocolate. Then comes further fruitiness in the form of raisins and dried apricots, along with an increasing woody spiciness which begins to dry the palate out. This is most reminiscent of cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg. There is also a biscuit-like note. Underneath is distinctly savoury note that adds complexity - this is difficult to define, but was reminiscent of earthy mushrooms or damp autumn leaves. Final hints of burnt orange and ginger add even more depth. The finish is long, rich and warming as the sweetness fades to leave a pleasant drying and slightly peppery spiciness.