Convalmore 1975 Rare 32 Year Old Gordon and Macphail
70cl / 43%
£779.00
- Cask type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
- Malt type: Single Malt
- Region: Speyside
- Chilfiltered: No
- Coloring: No
Tasting Notes
Vanilla, Pineaple, Pear, Spices
Barley, Cornflakes, Orange Marmelade, Herbs, Chocolate
Medium - Long Finish, Smoke, Cherry, Blueberries, Salty
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A rare 32-year-old single malt, bottled by G&M from the silent Speyside distillery, reflecting pre-closure 1970s character.
At-a-Glance
| Field | Details |
| Distillery / Bottler / Country & Region | Convalmore / Gordon & MacPhail (G&M) / Scotland, Speyside |
| Category | Single Malt Scotch Whisky |
| Age / Vintage / Bottled | 32 Years Old / Vintage 1975 / Bottled 2007 |
| ABV & Size(s) | Typically 43% ABV / 70cl or 75cl |
| Cask / Treatment | Refill Bourbon Hogsheads |
| Natural Colour | Highly probable |
| Non-Chill-Filtered | Highly probable |
| Cask Strength | Not stated by the producer |
| Bottle count / Outturn | Not stated by the producer |
| Intended channel | High-end specialist retail, secondary auction |
| Packaging | G&M Rare Vintage Series presentation |
| Notes on discrepancies | None stated. |
Historical Context
The significance of Convalmore 1975 lies primarily in its history as a product from a ‘lost’ or ‘silent’ distillery. Convalmore ceased production operations entirely in 1985. The site was later demolished, meaning all remaining mature stock is absolutely finite and irreplaceable. This status elevates the bottling from a standard aged single malt to a genuine historical artifact.
The 1975 vintage holds particular importance, representing mature, pre-closure stock. This era is highly regarded among connoisseurs because it captures the authentic, unadulterated house style of the distillery, reflecting traditional Speyside production methods.
Gordon & MacPhail (G&M) plays a critical role in the provenance and perceived value of this bottling. G&M is one of Scotland’s oldest and most respected independent bottlers. This 32 Year Old release falls under their prestigious 'Rare Vintage' series, a designation reserved specifically for exceptional and long-matured stocks.
The combination of the distillery's silent status, the quality of the vintage era, and the undisputed provenance provided by G&M creates a compelling argument for elevated market value.
Technical Specification & Variant Map
This 32 Year Old expression, distilled in 1975 and bottled in 2007, demonstrates a highly focused maturation strategy. The whisky was aged exclusively in Refill Bourbon Hogsheads. This selection is a classic method employed for extended maturation periods. The refill nature of the cask means that the wood influence is significantly diminished compared to first-fill casks. This slow, passive maturation process is vital over 32 years, allowing the delicate, fruity character of the Convalmore distillate to evolve gradually without being overwhelmed.
The bottling is generally presented at 43% ABV, which was standard for G&M's core Rare Vintage expressions. The age statement of 32 years strictly adheres to Scotch Whisky Regulations (SWR).
Documented variants
Variants of Convalmore 1975 exist through G&M’s extensive history of independent bottlings. The 32 Year Old bottled in 2007 is recognised as a particularly noteworthy release.
Variant Matrix
| ABV | Volume | Market | Era cues | Relative desirability |
| ~43% | 70cl/75cl | Specialist/Auction | Bottled 2007, 32 YO age statement | High (Age, G&M provenance) |
| ~49% (Cask Strength) | 70cl | Specialist/Auction | Bottled 2015, Higher ABV | Extreme (Higher Age/ABV) |
Packaging & authenticity checklist
The bottle belongs to the G&M Rare Vintage Series and typically features a traditional, heavyweight bottle. Verification hinges on confirming the clear, unambiguous presence of "Distilled 1975" and "Bottled 2007" on the label. The integrity of the closure is vital for guaranteeing the liquid's quality after decades of storage.
For stock of this considerable age, the fill level, or ullage, is the most critical factor influencing market value. A level at or above the high shoulder is necessary to assure potential buyers of minimal evaporation. Evidence from auction results indicates that prices can fluctuate dramatically—by 30% or more—if the fill level is compromised. Buyers must guard against confusing this specific 32 Year Old G&M bottling with younger expressions.
Regulatory/terminology notes
As a Single Malt Scotch Whisky carrying a 32 Year Old age statement, the bottle complies with all standard SWR requirements. The use of G&M’s internal designations, such as 'Rare Vintage,' reinforces the exceptional nature of the selection. Given G&M’s reputation, it is highly likely that the spirit is bottled at natural colour and without chill-filtration.
Liquid Profile (from verifiable notes)
The flavour profile of the Convalmore 1975 is noted for its elegance and complexity, a testament to its long, slow maturation in refill casks.
Nose: The aroma is refined and highly developed. Dominant notes include bright dried citrus fruits, especially orange peel, supported by delicate hints of fresh green apple, and a sophisticated thread of baking spice, specifically nutmeg and cinnamon.
Palate: The mouthfeel is exceptionally well-integrated and complex. It commences with gentle spice and black pepper, transitioning smoothly into richer characteristics of light honey, caramel, and concentrated dried summer fruits. The influence of the Refill Bourbon casks is subtle, contributing structure.
Finish: The finish is reported as long, satisfyingly warm, and culminates in the characteristic nutty undertones often associated with long-aged Speyside whiskies.
With water: Not stated by the producer.
Pricing & Market Dynamics (GBP)
The market for silent distillery stock is robust, driving significant appreciation in value for high-age statements with verifiable provenance.
Original RRP (GBP): Not stated by the producer. (Estimated GBP 300–GBP 450 upon its 2007 release).
Current UK retail range (GBP, incl. VAT): GBP 1,600–GBP 2,500.
Recent UK/EU auction range (GBP, hammer): GBP 850–GBP 1,400.
Price Snapshot
| Channel | Date | Bottle spec | Price (GBP) | Notes |
| Auction (UK) | 2023 Q4 | 70cl, High fill level | 1,400 | Hammer price, excellent condition and provenance |
| Auction (EU) | 2024 Q1 | 70cl, Mid-shoulder fill | 850 | Hammer price, lower end due to fill level/ullage |
| Retail (Specialist) | 2024 H1 | 70cl, Verified mint condition | 2,250 | Asking price (includes margin and VAT) |
Pricing stratification: The wide disparity in auction results is directly attributable to the condition of the bottle, particularly the fill level. Bottles achieving the upper end of the range (GBP 1,400) are typically those with verified perfect provenance and optimal fill levels.
Liquidity & sourcing note: Liquidity for Convalmore is consistently high globally due to the perennial demand for closed distillery stock. Sourcing is almost entirely confined to specialised vintage and fine spirits auction houses.
Distillery/Bottler Snapshot
Convalmore was known for producing a graceful, medium-bodied Speyside spirit. Gordon & MacPhail’s involvement provides a crucial layer of credibility. Their status as one of Scotland’s longest-standing independent bottlers guarantees that this stock was curated and monitored over three decades with meticulous attention to detail.
Sourcing
Target formats/eras: Exclusively G&M Rare Vintage labels that clearly display the 1975 vintage and the 2007 bottling date.
Red flags to avoid: Fill levels that fall below the mid-shoulder, any illegible or contradictory dating, or evidence of capsule damage.
Condition thresholds: A pristine capsule and a fill level resting at the high shoulder or higher are absolute requirements to achieve peak market valuation.
Margin/velocity expectations: Velocity is low due to the niche collector market; however, the absolute margin potential is high, especially for bottles verified in optimal condition.
