Glen Moray 15 Years Old 2007 (Hepburn’s Choice)

A Glen Moray of a 15 year old chosen by the Glasgow bottler Hunter Laing, distilled in 2007, bottled at 46%, one of 253 bottles. Glen Moray is a Speyside single malt from La Martiniquaise, light and approachable in style. Its water is drawn from the River Lossie, which runs past the distillery at Elgin.

The spirit was distilled light and fruity in the Glen Moray style, building a light, accessible character of orchard fruit and vanilla. A bourbon barrel held it, the wood adding a light vanilla and a soft honey. Into oxidative maturity, slow air ingress builds fruity ethyl esters (apple and pear) and a honeyed depth. Refill oak lets the light, fruity Glen Moray character lead the way. It is known for excellent value, with age statements priced more keenly than most. Active wood frames the fruit without overwhelming the light Speyside spirit. It was founded in 1897 in the converted Elgin West Brewery, on the banks of the River Lossie.

At 46% it is smooth and fruity. Apple, pear and a soft vanilla, with a soft vanilla from the oak. The texture is light and clean, the fruit lifted by vanilla. The close is light and clean, fruit over a gentle oak. This is Glen Moray's clean, accessible Speyside style.