Longmorn 11 Years Old M.Wigman Inspiring Friends Hans Dillesse 52.4% 2011

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (89)

Malt Fascination (87)

I guess by now not much of an introduction is needed for the ‘They Inspired’ series by Michiel Wigman. Single cask whisky, selected by the master himself, with a portrait of someone on the label that Michiel finds inspiring.

We’ve had musicians, political figures, and now we’re doing a round through the whisky industry. This Longmorn shows Hans Dillesse as portrayed by Hans Dillesse.

The whisky is from the Longmorn Distillery in Speyside and, by the look and taste of it, matured in a bourbon cask. Michiel recommended to add a drop of water to it, but I forgot. There was only 2cl in the sample, and while trying it on our weekend on Terschelling I didn’t go through documentation when tasting a dram!

Then, not entirely surprising in this case, there’s the issue of price. I know I moan a lot about at least that part of the current situation in the world of whisky. But let’s say there’s gradations in expensiveness.

While I love what Michiel is doing, and especially that he very much holds his own standards quite high, I’m struggling to justify a tag like this. Let’s see if the whisky makes up for it!

Sniff:
A sweet, bourbon cask Speysider for sure! Lots of pastry cream and vanilla notes from the bourbon cask. Baked apple and ripe pears, canned peaches too.

Sip:
The palate quickly builds up with lots of white pepper and oak shavings. A bit sharp but still with quite some pastry sweetness with tinned fruit salad.

Swallow:
The finish shows more notes of oakand barley than before, when there was mostly fruit and pastry.

A bit sweet and straight forward. Nice enough, but I would’ve loved for the spirit to get a bit more room. I think the cask was rather active and imparted quite a few notes of vanilla and other aromas and flavors typically found in a bakery. While that’s all very agreeable, it doesn’t often make for a complex and deep whisky.

Of course, I forgot about adding water and that might indeed make a lot of difference. I guess I’ll have to find out from someone who has a bottle!

BOW (88)

A Fruity Delight Bottled by Dutch Independent Bottler Michiel Wigman

The world of whisky is a treasure trove of remarkable flavors and unique expressions, each offering a distinctive journey for the senses. Among these exquisite offerings is the Longmorn 10 Years Old M. Wigman Inspiring Friends Hans Dillesse 52.4% ABV, distilled in September 2011 and bottled in December 2022 by the talented Dutch independent bottler Michiel Wigman. In this article, we will delve into the captivating tasting notes provided by Michiel Wigman, who masterfully captures the essence of this remarkable expression.

Tasting Notes courtesy of words of whisky:
Michiel Wigman's discerning palate uncovers a symphony of flavors that make the Longmorn 10 Years Old truly special.

Nose: Big initial hit of vanilla and sweet pastries combined with boiled lemon sweets. Hints of stewed apples too, as well as just a touch of chalk, a whiff of cloves, and plenty of mush bananas. Water draws out the citrus-y elements even further.
Taste: A pleasant, creamy mouthfeel. Touches of cookie dough, peaches, and baked bananas, but it’s the citrus (grapefruit, lemons) that really stands out. There’s also a good pinch of white pepper. There are some gentle greener notes lingering in the background, accompanied by cloves and other oak spices.
Finish: Medium length. Somewhat grassy, lingering lemons, and oak.
CONCLUSION
A Longmorn with some impressive fruity notes. I saved a small sip and drank it after I finished the Secret Islay, which highlighted the citrus-forward elements. If you have both whiskies at home, I’d highly recommend trying it

For those fortunate enough to have both the Longmorn 10 Years Old M. Wigman Inspiring Friends Hans Dillesse and the Secret Islay in their collection, this suggestion is an invitation to explore the intricate flavors and nuances that can be discovered by combining these two exceptional whiskies. So, if the opportunity arises, do not hesitate to embark on this sensory adventure.

Whether enjoyed alone or in the company of friends, the Longmorn 10 Years Old M. Wigman Inspiring Friends Hans Dillesse 52.4% ABV promises an experience that will leave an indelible mark on any whisky lover's palate. With its captivating flavors and meticulous craftsmanship, it represents the very essence of what makes whisky tasting such a remarkable and inspiring pursuit.