The Mortlach 50-Year-Old isn’t just a whisky–it’s a tapestry of time, craft, and an audibly humming history
Mortlach distillery, affectionately known as “The Beast of Dufftown”, has released its rarest creation yet—a 50-year-old single malt. But what truly sets this liquid gem apart? Here are five things you ought to know about this legendary whisky and the storied distillery behind it.
Its is the result of a secret distillation process
Mortlach whiskies are derived from an enigmatic 2.81 distillation process dubbed ‘The Way’. Pioneered by Mortlach’s founder, Dr. Alexander Cowie, this unconventional method involves six bespoke stills working together in a choreography of complexity. The result? A rich, umami-laden flavour that defies the traditional sweet and light profile of Speyside whiskies.
The Mortlach 50-year-old’s age is more than a number
Imagine a whisky quietly resting in the shadows of Mortlach’s original warehouse for five whole decades. This precious elixir was distilled on 19 April 1971 and filled into a single American oak hogshead. Over decades, it has evolved into a whisky of extraordinary depth, weaving together notes of dark berries, spices, and a gentle nuttiness. Unlike many whiskies of its age, it manages to maintain a delicate balance, never allowing the wood to overpower the spirit.
It is the Singing Stills’ grand finale
The Mortlach 50-Year-Old is the swan song of the Singing Stills series. What gives these stills their musical moniker? During distillation, the copper resonates with a soft hum—quite literally an aural representation of Mortlach’s bold spirit. This release marks the final whisky distilled using the original direct-fire stills, capturing the last echoes of this rare craft before modernisation.
It is a tribute to mastery and time
What does it take to create a 50-year-old whisky? Patience, of course, but also a touch of daring. “Mortlach 50-Year-Old exceeded all expectations,” says master blender Dr. Craig Wilson. “This is the best example of the distillery’s wild character, tamed by nature over time”. Each sip offers a rare glimpse into a bygone era of whisky-making, a poignant reminder of the distillery’s pioneering spirit and mastery of craft.
It is exclusivity at its finest
With only 67 bottles available globally, the Mortlach 50-Year-Old epitomises rarity and luxury, and is encased in a vessel that is as precious as the liquid it holds. The bottle is designed in collaboration with legendary designer Philippe Starck, with each priced at US$30,000. It’s a collector’s dream, but more so, an invitation to own a piece of history.
More than just a drink, the Mortlach 50-Year-Old is a time capsule. From the resonance of its Singing Stills to its rich tapestry of flavours, this whisky translates the legacy of one of Scotland’s most storied distilleries. A dram of this is an adventure as much as it is an indulgence. Drink responsibly.
