Mortlach NAD special release (Estuche)

Mortlach, located in the heart of Speyside and owned by Diageo, is a distillery renowned for its unique distillation method and robust profile.

This special edition, released as part of the 2024 Special Releases collection, is crafted exclusively from malted barley and employs six pot stills of varying shapes and sizes, including the iconic 'Wee Witchie.' Fermentation is carried out with a clear wort over extended periods of around 60 hours, although some sources cite durations ranging from 55 up to 110 hours, contributing to the spirit’s aromatic complexity.

Mortlach’s distillation process is unique in Scotland: a complex sequence of 2.81 distillations involving three wash stills and three spirit stills, with precise cuts and the use of worm tubs (coil condensers), which enhance the whisky’s texture and character.

For this edition, the whisky has been finished in Italian Ramandolo white wine and Sangiovese red wine casks, adding additional nuances to the expression. It is non-chill filtered and bottled at 57.5% ABV.

On the nose, prominent notes of ripe fruit, honey, and subtle winey hints stand out, accompanied by the distillery’s characteristic spicy background.

On the palate, the entry is powerful and structured, with layers of red berries, orange peel, and a touch of toasted oak.

The texture is dense, and the alcohol is well integrated, allowing for a complex development toward a long finish with sweet spice notes and a certain minerality.

It is recommended to enjoy neat or with a few drops of water in a Glencairn glass, although its intensity and structure also make it suitable for a classic Old Fashioned.