Mortlach Wee Witchie
This whisky may not be available in some areas yet, despite coming from a distillery owned by the beverage behemoth Diageo, but it may remind you of another dram that is far more common. That's because Mortlach has long been an ingredient in the popular Johnny Walker blends. Although it is an old distillery, it was only in 2018 that Mortlach again began producing single malts after a long Johnny Walker hiatus. And I'm so glad they did. Wee Witchie is a fine drink with surprising undertones that will have me returning for more once this bottle is finished.
Nose: Coffee, vanilla, chocolate, raisins. Water brings out a delicious damp spongy earthiness.
Taste: Coffee, vanilla, chocolate, raisins, oily texture. Water brings out cinnamon and spices.
Color: Wet straw
Glen Grant 12
Glen Grant 12 is probably closer to what most people think of when it comes to Speyside whisky. It helps that Glen Grant 12 widely available, but a tour of their distillery also reminds one of the importance of place in a good whisky.
Taste: Honey and floral with oatmeal finish, a hint of soft red apples, but not tart like Aberlour 12. Quite sweet and soft.
Color: Sunlight