Mortlach – Special Release 2022 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (70cl, 57.8%)

This is a single malt from Mortlach, the distillery known as the 'Beast of Dufftown', released in 2022 at 57.8% in a 70cl bottle. It was matured in a highly unusual combination of casks, and the virgin oak is noticeable on the palate. The appearance is gleaming gold with ruby lights. The nose is savoury and rich, recalling a cassoulet with spicy sausage and crisp pork belly, with grape and red wine notes that turn more mineral as it develops. The palate is smooth and mouth-filling, sweetly fruity and spicy-dry, with ginger. The finish is long, with fruit, black pepper and a warming glow, ending dry.