Mortlach 22 Year Old 1992 Douglas Laing XOP

The absolutely top notch malts from Douglas Laing are bottled in their XOP – Extra Old Particular – range. This Mortlach 1992 slept 22 long years on a sherry butt that still yielded 225 bottles at a cask strength of no less than 57,1% ABV. Where is my water?

Deep sherry on the nose! Those who know me know what I mean. All kinds of dark (and not so dark) fruits like plums, strawberry, krieks, berries of all kinds, but also wood and rancio. Tobacco leafs. For a moment I am thinking of aged port. Vanilla, cinnamon and a hint of chocolate. Wonderful with capital W. A touch drying, but that is easily forgiven.

Pretty oily and mouth coating. Again all kinds of dark fruit (raisins and cherries in the lead), upholstered with blood oranges and nuts. Quite spicy with nutmeg, candied ginger, cinnamon and a pinch of chili peppers. Complex indeed, but just a tad too dry to my taste.

The finish is very long on cherries, oak and tobacco and leaves the mouth parched. Spicy finale.

A monster from Mortlach. This is the true Beast of Dufftown. Around 250 and 300 EUR. Eat your heart out, official 25 Year Old… Thanks, Chris.

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