Miltonduff 10 Year Old 2009 The Whisky Mercenary

The Whisky Mercenary, Belgian bottler Jürgen Vromans, always has these fun labels, doesn’t he? And this is his very first Miltonduff. The lion’s share of this Speyside distillery’s production disappears in the famous blend Ballantine’s, but I’ve had to the good fortune of tasting some lovely single casks. I hope this one fits the bill.

Suspiciously soft nose on apples and pears with soft vanilla and something that reminds me of baking butter. Almond paste and crème brûlée. It does not rock my boat yet, even though it is completely flawless.

Oh, that’s a good body. Nicely oily, almost creamy, with immediately some feisty white pepper and ginger. Then the white fruit shows itself in all its regalia – apples and pears with vanilla. Sound somewhat middle of the road, but is actually quite good. Great strength as well. Surprisingly clean and approachable. A hint of something fresh. Could that be spearmint? Hint of Fanta Lemon suddenly kicks in.

The finish is the clincher. Citrus, vanilla, white orchard fruit, the works. Nicely long and peppery.

Dangerously quaffable Miltonduff. A relief that this wasn’t blended away. Thanks to Jeroen DV for the sample.

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