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Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 8.6/10

Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.6/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Cinnamon, Clove. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

This Gordon & MacPhail bottling from the Mortlach distillery is a powerful and complex whisky, bottled at a cask strength of 58.5% ABV. Mortlach, known for its rich, meaty style and deep, full-bodied flavors, delivers in this expression with a whisky that offers both intensity and refinement. With its youthful age of 13 years, this whisky is bold and expressive, showcasing the distillery’s signature profile of rich sherry notes balanced by the depth of its distillation process. The high ABV ensures a full-flavored experience, yet the whisky remains well-balanced and approachable for those who appreciate a whisky with punch.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: On the nose, this Mortlach expression is initially intense, with rich sherry-driven sweetness and deep oak influence. Dark fruits such as prunes, figs, and raisins are prominent, providing a jammy, rich character. The alcohol from the higher ABV adds a warm sensation, which brings out more of the spiced fruit elements—cloves, cinnamon, and a touch of black pepper. There's a subtle, yet noticeable, undertone of chocolate and toffee, creating a deep, layered sweetness. As it opens up in the glass, the whisky reveals hints of leather and tobacco, giving it a slightly earthy complexity that balances the rich fruit and oak.

TASTE: On the palate, the whisky is full-bodied and bold, with a lovely mouth-coating texture. The dark fruit notes from the nose—dried plums, figs, and raisins—carry through and are joined by a prominent maltiness and a hint of baked goods, like fruitcake. The oak influence is rich and provides a beautiful balance of vanilla, toffee, and a touch of toasted wood. The high ABV brings a pleasant warmth, while the spices from the nose—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of black pepper—carry onto the palate, adding depth and a bit of heat. There’s a slight nuttiness, with roasted almonds and hazelnuts, contributing a layer of complexity to the whisky. The rich, full flavors are well-balanced by the sharpness of the spirit, ensuring that the whisky is powerful without being overwhelming.

FINISH: The finish is long and warming, with the rich sherry sweetness continuing to linger. The oak influence remains, with vanilla and subtle toffee flavors sticking around. The spice from the palate carries through, with a slight drying effect from the oak and a faint hint of smoke. As the whisky fades, the dried fruit notes—especially prunes and raisins—continue to linger, alongside a delicate trace of dark chocolate. The finish is full and satisfying, leaving a warm, comforting aftertaste that invites another sip.

Flavor Profile

Almond Cinnamon Clove Dark Chocolate Dried Hazelnut Leather Nutmeg Oak Pepper Prune Smoke Toast Tobacco Toffee Vanilla

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5%

What type of whiskey is Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5%?

Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5%?

Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5%?

The flavor profile of Gordon & MacPhail (distilled at Mortlach), cask #8173, 1994 vintage, 13 year old, 58.5% features Almond, Cinnamon, Clove, Dark Chocolate, Dried. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.

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