This Mortlach was matured for rich distillery character in small batches then carefully finished in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso-seasoned casks to build yet more levels of aroma and taste. At once smooth, sweet and savoury, the many-layered outcome mirrors the complexity of the mysterious Mortlach 2.81 distillation itself. Called the “The Beast of Dufftown” for its robust, meaty nature, little known Mortlach may be the best-kept secret in Scotch. Bold flavours are the mark of this special breed, distinguishing it as the monarch of its glen as surely as the bellow of a mature red deer stag. The aromas run deep, swirling with dark dried fruits and savoury, meaty notes. The texture is super-smooth, the intense taste is sweet with rich fruit and cured ham, building to a lingering spicy-dryness. Long and impressive, the finish truly emphasizes this harmony of sweetness and spice, leaving the palate dry in a glorious afterglow. A rare release with very limited availability of 7,644 bottles. Bottle 1124/7644