Glen Moray 2004 Burgundy Cask Cask #213

An official release of Glen Moray, a 16 year old, from 2004, cask 213, at 60.1%. Glen Moray is a light, sweet Speyside malt, founded in 1897 on the banks of the River Lossie. Most of its malt matures first in American oak ex-Bourbon before any cask finish.

It was distilled from unpeated malt in copper pot stills, for a light, easy spirit with a soft malt. Finished in a Burgundy cask, the wood building over the fruity, light spirit. At oxidative maturity aldehydes lend a nutty edge while ellagitannins add a gentle, drying grip over the fruit. Vanillin and oak lactones from the wood lend vanilla and coconut over the fruit. It closed in 1910 and reopened in 1923 under Macdonald and Muir of Glenmorangie. Its make is a key malt in the Cutty Sark and Label 5 blends. Refill oak lets the light, fruity Glen Moray character lead the way. It was a pioneer of wine cask finishing, working with Chardonnay casks back in the 1990s.

At a hearty 60.1% it carries real weight. Apple, pear and a soft vanilla, with a soft red berry and an earthy edge from the cask. A baked apple and a gentle spice lift it. The finish is rounded, fruity and clean. This is Glen Moray's clean, accessible Speyside style.