We already reviewed the Mortlach 12 Years (good) and Mortlach 16 Years (excellent). The only one missing from the 2018 core range relaunch is the Mortlach 20 Years, matured exclusively in American oak ex-Sherry casks, with a percentage of refill wood.
It is nicknamed Cowie’s Blue Seal which refers to one of the original bottlings of Mortlach, launched in 1909 and available until the 1970s.
Mortlach 20 yo
(43,4%, OB 2018, 4484 btl.)
Mortlach 20 yoNose: a nicely bright / sour fruitiness up front, think juicy apricots, pineapple and hints of lychee. Hints of a carpenter’s workshop, oiliness and waxed papers. Orange flower honey and very faint potpourri too. Underneath is a darker side, with just a little earthiness and milk chocolate.
Mouth: quite mild, not to say a little weak. It shows orange juice and bitter orange peels, vanilla, mint oil, candied ginger and some plums. A good dose of oaky notes (spices, resin and herbal tea). Heather and clove.
Finish: medium length, earthier, oakier, with orange oil and cocoa.
Very good again, showing the more delicate and fragrant side of the distillery. The 16 offers better value for money though. Available from The Whisky Exchange or Master of Malt.
Score: 88/100