Rich copper-amber colour with reddish undertones.

Full viscosity visible with slow legs in the glass, hinting at a weighty, oily spirit.

Nose (Aroma)

Opens with dark, stewed fruits: raisins, plums, figs—classic Oloroso sherry influence.

Beneath the fruit: roasted nuts (walnuts/almonds), toffee/treacle sweetness, subtle leather and tobacco.

A savoury edge: meaty character (typical of Mortlach’s “beefy” style), touch of coffee & dark chocolate.

Oak spice emerges with time: clove, black pepper, faint char from the second-fill oak.

Palate (Taste)

Full-bodied and chewy in texture — dense rather than light.

Rich dried fruits continue: stewed figs, raisins, perhaps dates; then dark chocolate, burnt orange zest, toffee, molasses.

Strong sherry-butt character blended with the distillery’s inherent “meaty” and malty profile: savoury malt, roasted meat stock, leather, subtle oak spice.

A peppery kick and dry oak tannins give structure — this isn’t purely sweet, there’s a firm backbone.

Long and warming: the richness lingers, with dark chocolate and spice echoing.

Dried fruit sweetness fades into gentle oak dryness; underlying savoury/ meaty and tannic notes persist.

Slight bitterness blends with faded sherry fruit — a mature finish that invites reflection.

Overall Impression

This is a distinctly bold and robust Mortlach bottling: the combination of 12 years in second-fill Oloroso sherry butts + 57.1% ABV means it delivers both power and depth. The sherry influence is evident but doesn’t overwhelm the distillery’s own character — the “meaty”, savoury, warmly spiced core shines through. Ideal for those who enjoy big-flavoured whiskies with both richness and complexity, rather than light or delicate styles.

Serving Suggestion

Serve in a Glencairn or tulip glass to concentrate the aromas.

Try neat initially, then add a few drops of water to open up the layers (especially if the proof feels intense).

Best enjoyed after food or with a light savoury snack (aged cheddar, cured meats) or even dark chocolate to draw out the sherry-sweet / meaty contrast.

Given the strength, slower sipping is recommended to allow the flavours to evolve.