Mortlach
Image Credit: Whisky.com
Speyside
1823
Andrew Millsopp
*Speyside South Senior Manager
Diageo
3,800,000
capacity/lpa
head whisky maker(s)
region
Year Founded
owner
Mortlach distillery, situated in the Dufftown region of Scotland, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1823 by James Findlater, Donald Mackintosh, and Alex Gordon. It was the first licensed distillery in Dufftown and played a pivotal role in the development of Scotch whisky. Over the years, Mortlach changed hands and underwent various transformations, becoming known for its unique distillation process that emphasizes richness and weight in its whisky. Notably, it was purchased by George Cowie in the 1850s, who contributed to its prominence as a blending malt. In 1923, Mortlach joined John Walker & Sons and later became part of Diageo through Distillery Company Limited (DCL).
Mortlach's distinct production process includes triple distillation, creating a robust and flavorful spirit. The use of cold worm tubs and a copper-starved environment results in a character characterized by meatiness and a hint of sulfur, making it ideal for aging in ex-Sherry casks.
While Mortlach was primarily used in blends, it gained recognition as a single malt through independent bottlings and the Diageo Flora & Fauna range. In 2014, Diageo introduced an official Mortlach range, including Rare Old, Special Strength, 18-year-old, and 25-year-old expressions, bringing this cult-favorite malt to a wider audience.
-Written (Mostly) by Robots-