Longmorn 1961 57 Year Old Private Collection Cask #508 Gordon & MacPhail

One of the oldest Longmorn single malts ever released, this 1961 vintage whisky was matured in a first-fill European oak sherry hogshead. For 57 years this cask sat in the warehouse, side-by-side with its American oak twin, until both were discovered by twins Stuart and Richard Urqhuart of Gordon & MacPhail, who were instantly captivated by the two whiskies, created from the same spirit but matured in different casks. A study in the effect of wood on whisky, these twin casks were bottled in 2018.

This single malt initially has aromas of raisins, marzipan, orange and dark chocolate, before a fresh note of mint builds and softens into vanilla, maple syrup and cherries. The palate offers notes of roasted coffee, dark chocolate and hazelnuts balanced by sweet marzipan. Zesty citrus notes develop alongside dried fruits, buttery caramel, black pepper and toasted oak notes. The finish is smooth and creamy, plenty of fruit notes mingling with mature oak.