The Whisky Exchange, one of the most important whisky resellers in the world, is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. They’ve selected a couple of rare and interesting whiskies for this occasion. One of them is this cask strength 39 years old Longmorn 1969. One thing is certain: the refill sherry butt gave it a stunning colour.

Longmorn 39yo 1969 (57,7%, Gordon & MacPhail for TWE 2009, cask #5305)

Nose: very rich and intense. Excellent old sherry (chocolate, figs, rancio). Surprisingly fresh notes as well. Violets. Bramble. Black cherry. Furniture wax. Hints of blood oranges. Spicy christmas cake with notes of cinnamon and cardamom. Mint. Mouth: starting mostly on coffee. A bit sour at first and overall rather dry. Figs again with dark chocolate. Developing on spices and strawberry jam. Very intense. A drop of water helps to loose the alcohol and brings out hints of passion fruit. Finish: long with predominant cocoa / coffee. Strong fig notes.

A great Longmorn for intense sherry lovers. The sherry character is spot on and the power is impressive at such an age. It’s even better with a small drop of water. Around € 240, available from TWE of course but other shops as well.

Score: 91/100