16 years

Mortlach was established in 1823 by James Findlater, Donald Mackintosh and Alex Gordon on the site of a former illicit distillery—the first licensed distillery in the young town of Dufftown. The name derives from Gaelic, meaning 'scale-shaped valley'. This 16-year-old expression was matured entirely in sherry casks, layering rich, dark fruit onto Mortlach's signature smoky backbone.

The nose reveals singed raisins and dark fruitcake, with apple pie and hints of ginger and citrus zest. On the palate, a full, meaty sherry character emerges—caramel, toffee, milk chocolate and walnut—anchored by malty depth and an earthy, umami undertone. Mild spice and black tea notes add further complexity.

The finish lingers long and sweet, with oily walnut and chewy raisin persisting. This is a multi-layered dram—not always refined, but rarely boring. The sherry influence can be overpowering for some, yet for those who embrace full-bodied Speyside character, Mortlach delivers exactly what it promises: bold, beasty complexity without apology.