Single Malt Scotch Whisky Mortlach launched a new expression in Australia earlier this year, offering an entry level to add a bit of elasticity to their reputation as “The Beast of Dufftown”. Mortlach has always had that rich, powerful body that has made the Whisky ideal for use in blends, but this new expression, the Mortlach Rare Old, seeks to reshape and re-imagine the brand’s position in the world of Whisky, with the first in what will be a new range from the valued Dufftown distillery.
The elegant rebranding Diageo has approached Mortlach with is seen in the bottle, stylish and simple with – funnily enough – the Sydney Harbour Bridge painted across the front to stamp the bottle of it’s specific market. The liquid is a light amber in colour, consistent with the soft nose of dry sherry, orange skins, baked apple, and some herbs.
The Rare Old is certainly not as punchy as previous Mortlach expressions, sticking true to it’s entry-level purpose with a highly flavourful, smooth, oaky palate that is at first mild with vanilla and sweet fruit, and then hints at star anise, brown sugar, cinnamon, and candied fruits. This won’t hit you in the chest as hard, with a soft and supple finish that is consistent with those notes of candied fruit, cinnamon, and vanilla with a slight bitterness.
At the recent launch of the expression in Sydney, Global Brand Ambassador for Mortlach, Georgie Bell said: “The richness and authenticity of Mortlach’s heritage is what, along with its extraordinarily distinct flavour, really sets it apart. This distillation process, described as ‘2.81 Distilled’, made a significant impact on the whisky’s production and is still reflected in the way it is manufactured today, at the very same Mortlach Distillery. Mortlach can finally take up its rightful position as one of the finest premium Single Malts in the world and be enjoyed by more than just a handful of privileged connoisseurs.”
Mortlach Rare Old is available from Dan Murphy’s (www.danmurphys.com.au) nationwide for an RRP of $110.00. ABV: 43.4%
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