Tormore 5 Years Old LJD (Long John Distilleries)

Single malt Tormore, an independent Long John Distilleries bottling, a 5 year old Speyside malt and bottled at 40%. Tormore, built in 1958 by Long John Distillers a mile south of the River Spey, is one of Scotland's most striking distilleries. It was designed by Sir Albert Richardson, a President of the Royal Academy, in a grand ornamental style.

It was drawn off the distillery's swan neck stills with their purifiers, for a delicate, ester rich spirit. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. At a youthful age the fruit is lively and the almond clear. The cool Speyside climate gives a slow, even maturation over the years. The soft water runs through heather and peat and granite before reaching the distillery. The distillery doubled from four stills to eight in 1972, then settled back to four pairs. It has used wood chips from local forestry to fire its stills since 1984.

At 40% it is soft, nutty and clean. A gentle vanilla from the wood runs under green apple, nut and a soft spice. It is fine and nutty, the fruit and oak well matched. The finish is dry, nutty and structured. This is a light, almond edged Speyside single malt.