Mortlach Rare By Nature 21 Year OldSingle Malt Scotch Whisky 56.9% Abv, Speyside Called The Beast of Dufftown for its robust, muscular and rich character, little known Mortlach may be the best kept secret in Scotch. Bold flavours are the mark of this special breed, distinguishing it as the monarch of its glen. 'Rich in smooth intensity, from a small batch finished in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso-seasoned casks.' Tasting Notes APPEARANCE Deep gold with amber lights. Good beading. NOSE A mellow, rounded, nose with some prickle. The first impression is of rich, dried fruits, and beneath this fresh-baked buttered scones, perhaps spread with lime marmalade. Soon this becomes lightly savoury and meaty but retains a slight citric note. A drop of water modifies the latter and reduces the aroma. BODY Medium to full. PALATE At natural strength, mild for its strength and super-smooth in texture, while the wonderfully rich mouth-filling taste is immediately sweet overall with dried fruits, then intense and savoury with a surprising kick of chilli pepper as it goes down. Magnificently feral and delicious. Drying overall, with rich tannins. Similar with a dash of water, which raises a little more sweet, spiced fruit. FINISH Seemingly endless and deeply impressive, with the fruit and savoury notes in perfect agreement and a warming glow spreading across the palate. Finally leaving the palate dry, yet still wreathed in a glorious rich afterglow.

SUNTORY Hakushu 18 Year Old 43% ABV Single Malt Whisky, Japan

Established in 1548, Yoshinogawa is located in the Niigata Prefecture in the small city of Nagaoka City and is today run by 19th generation owner Kawakami san. Gokujo meaning 'excellent' is crisp, clean, fragrant and silky smooth with a tight palate and soft acidity.