It becomes nearly impossible to find / buy 1950’s-1960’s whisky these days – usually bottled a long time ago already. Especially the more established distilleries are out of reach.
Glen Moray isn’t one of them, so it’s usually not outrageously priced. This 30 years old expression was distilled 26 March 1959 and bottled October 1989, so it spent almost the same amount of time in the bottle already.
Glen Moray 30 yo 1959 (40%, Dun Eideann 1989, ref. 84/611-1, 75 cl.)
Nose: perfectly expressive, given the 40%. Guavas, passion fruits and tangerines up front, sort of an old Lochside fruitiness. Then some waxed old floors and lovely hints of Neroli (orange blossom oil). Bergamot. Sweet almonds with honey and a little vanilla (pastry-like indeed). There’s also an old-style dusty note in the background, as well as some eucalyptus. A delight.
Mouth: less oomph now, but just as fruity. Citrus (lots of oranges), green mango, a little melon and quinces. Vanilla again. Surprisingly candied actually. The waxy beehive notes are still prominent. Fades on soft pepper, a hint of cinnamon and subtle oak.
Finish: struggles to keep its voice, which is normal, but very graceful. Fruit tea and soft nutty notes.
It may be slightly soft-voiced but it still swings like hell with its typical 1950-1960’s fruitiness. Old Glen Moray is underrated I tell you! Around € 375 in auctions. Thanks Luc.
Score: 93/100