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Glen Mhor 15 Years Old: A Rare Highland Gem Bottled by Gordon & MacPhail
Glen Mhor, a lesser-known distillery from the past, holds a special place in the history of single malt Scotch whisky. Bottled in the 1980s by the renowned independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, the Glen Mhor 15 Years Old is a part of their esteemed Rare Old Highland Malt series. This limited release provides a rare opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to explore the distinct character of this Highland gem, showcasing its muscular and smoky profile. While the distillery is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through these cherished bottlings.
A Forgotten Distillery:
Glen Mhor was a small-scale distillery with just two stills, and its production dates back to the late 19th century, challenging the common belief that single malt bottlings were a concept of the 1960s. Although rarely seen today, Glen Mhor has been sporadically bottled by esteemed independent bottlers such as Gordon & MacPhail and the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS). These releases have revealed the distillery's reputation for producing big, robust malts with a meaty and lightly smoky undertone.
A Historical Connection:
Glen Mhor regained some attention in recent years when it was identified as one of the malts used in the Mackinlay's blend found preserved in ice beneath Ernest Shackleton's hut. This association with a legendary polar explorer added to the mystique surrounding Glen Mhor. Additionally, the distillery holds literary significance as it served as the inspiration for Scottish novelist Neil M. Gunn, author of the influential book "Scotland and Whisky."
Glen Mhor's History:
Established in 1892 through a partnership between John Birnie, the manager of Glen Albyn distillery, and Leith blender Charles Mackinlay, Glen Mhor aimed for commercial success. Designed by the renowned architect Charles Doig, the distillery was strategically located near the Caledonian Canal and the railway, providing excellent transportation links. In 1920, Mackinlay & Birnie acquired Glen Albyn.
Notably, Glen Mhor remained water-powered until the 1950s and was equipped with Saladin maltings in 1954, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern whisky production methods.
However, Glen Mhor's journey took a different turn in 1972 when it became part of the DCL (Distillers Company Limited) portfolio. Unfortunately, this association was short-lived, and the distillery closed its doors in 1983, joining the ranks of Scotland's smaller stills that fell silent. Just three years later, the distillery was demolished, marking the end of an era.
Reflections on the Whisky Landscape:
From a modern perspective, it may seem peculiar that the capital of the Highlands lacks a distillery, especially considering the significance of whisky tourism. However, it is essential to recognize the significant changes that have occurred in the whisky industry over the past few decades. The absence of a distillery in Inverness serves as a reminder of how the business landscape has evolved and the unique charm of these historic distilleries that have ceased production.
Conclusion:
The Glen Mhor 15 Years Old, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail as part of their Rare Old Highland Malt series, offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the legacy of this forgotten distillery. With its muscular and smoky character, this expression provides a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and flavors that once emanated from Glen Mhor. As whisky enthusiasts savor each sip of this rare Highland gem, they embark on a journey through time, paying homage to a distillery that has left an indelible mark on the history of Scotch whisky.
