Part of the 2018 relaunch of Diageo’s Mortlach single malt brand, this Speyside whisky gets its name from one of the Cowie family’s original Scotch whiskies from a century ago. It is matured in American Oak ex-Sherry casks, and the nose is fruity with notes of peaches, pears, hints of baking spices, and a nice oakiness. The taste starts off gently with a nice balance of tree fruits followed by a buildup of peppercorns with honey and toffee. The traditional Mortlach meatiness is there, but it’s kept in check and allows the lighter notes to shine. The finish is long, gentle, and sweet with a subtle hint of oak. (October, 2018)