Glen Moray Master Distiller’s Private Collection 14 Years Old 2004

This official Glen Moray, a 14 year old, from 2004, cask 340, at 46%. Glen Moray is a light, sweet Speyside malt, founded in 1897 on the banks of the River Lossie. It runs a large still house at Elgin, expanded over the years to meet demand.

The spirit was run through the stills on River Lossie water for a light make, building the fresh Glen Moray style. A bourbon barrel held it, the wood adding a light vanilla and a soft honey. Through integration spirit and wood marry, vanillin settling into a rounded vanilla as ethyl esters lend a riper apple and pear. River Lossie water and the tall stills give the light Glen Moray make. Its make is a key malt in the Cutty Sark and Label 5 blends. Its water is drawn from the River Lossie, which runs past the distillery at Elgin. Vanillin and oak lactones from the wood lend vanilla and coconut over the fruit. It has been owned since 2008 by the French house La Martiniquaise.

Reduced to 46%, it is mellow. Apple, pear and a soft vanilla, with a soft vanilla from the oak. A soft fruit and a gentle oak give it depth. The finish runs light, fruity and clean. This is an approachable Speyside single malt from Elgin.