Professional reviews
Words of Whisky (87)
BOW (87)
Ah, Mortlach—the Beast of Dufftown. Its name alone is enough to stir the heart of any true whisky aficionado, and here we have a 12-year-old gem that dares to push the boundaries of what this Speyside titan is capable of. Enter the Mortlach 12 Years Old Càrn Mòr Strictly Limited, a rare creation by the ever-adventurous Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers. Distilled in 2009 and bottled in 2022, this whisky is not just another entry in the Càrn Mòr Strictly Limited series; it’s a statement. It’s a whisky that tips its hat to the past while striding boldly into uncharted territory—thanks to a finish that whispers of the Caribbean.
The stage is set with the Barbados Rum Finish, a masterstroke that introduces an entirely new dimension to Mortlach’s famously muscular profile. Casks steeped in tropical mystery meet the bone-deep intensity of Dufftown’s finest, and the result? A symphony that’s rich, indulgent, and undeniably compelling. Bottled at a robust 47.5%, this Mortlach doesn’t just stand on its own; it roars.
Only 942 bottles emerged from this endeavor—each one a tangible testament to Morrison’s knack for transformative cask wizardry. For those lucky enough to capture one, what awaits is nothing short of a liquid treasure.
Tasting Note:
Nose: An explosive entry that plants you right in the heart of a tropical market—pineapple, papaya, and overripe bananas swirl together, with hints of brown sugar and a subtle nod to Mortlach’s meatier undertones. The rum cask influence shines brightly, an exotic partner that both contrasts and complements.
Taste: Classic Mortlach, and yet, not. The weighty mouthfeel wraps the tongue in a velvet glove, delivering those deep, chewy flavors we love. But then—a twist. The sweet, almost treacly nature of the Barbados rum sings its part, adding a dimension that’s part seduction, part swagger.
Finish: A return to Mortlach’s roots—oak-laden, whispering of damp warehouses, ancient barrels, and a floor perfumed with a century of history. You can almost hear the slow drip of angel’s share evaporating. The finish lingers long, as if reluctant to say goodbye.
Final Thoughts:
Mortlach 12 Years Old Càrn Mòr Strictly Limited is no ordinary dram. It’s a celebration of bold decisions and the beauty of duality—Speyside’s stoic power tempered by a Caribbean sunbeam. For those fortunate enough to encounter this rare bottling, prepare for an adventure that fuses tradition with innovation, proving once again that whisky, at its best, is an art form that thrives on the unexpected.
