Mortlach 21 years old Special Release 2020 - 70cl

This is a limited-edition Speyside single malt Scotch whisky released in 2020 as part of the annual Diageo Special Releases collection. It showcases the rich, powerful house style of Mortlach, often nicknamed “The Beast of Dufftown” for its intense and savory character.

General profile

Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Region: Speyside, Scotland

Age: 21 years

Bottling year: 2020

ABV: 56.9% (cask strength)

Cask type: Finished in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez seasoned casks

Edition size: ~7,692 bottles worldwide

Style: Rich, sherried, spicy Speyside malt with savory depth

The PX and Oloroso casks add dark fruit sweetness and spice, complementing Mortlach’s naturally dense and meaty spirit.

Tasting notes
Nose

Dried fruits: raisins, figs, and prunes

Orange and lime zest

Buttery pastry and toasted nuts

Subtle savory / meaty notes characteristic of Mortlach

Oak spice and hints of dark chocolate

Palate

Full-bodied and powerful texture

Dark fruit compote and raisin sweetness

Ginger, clove, and black pepper spice

Roasted nuts and cocoa

Slightly savory, umami character balancing the sweetness

Finish

Long, warming finish

Spicy oak and dark chocolate

Lingering dried fruits and sherried sweetness

A faint savory, almost broth-like depth typical of Mortlach

Style characteristics

This release highlights several traits typical of Mortlach:

Dense, robust spirit due to its unusual 2.81 distillation process

Strong sherry cask influence

Distinct savory / umami undertones

Complex layering of fruit, spice, and oak

Compared with many Speyside whiskies, it is heavier, darker, and more structured.