Glen Moray 26 Years Old 1983 Cask #3202 (Duncan Taylor)

A Glen Moray of a 26 year old chosen by the Huntly bottler Duncan Taylor, distilled in 1983, from cask 3202, bottled at 54.6%, one of 106 bottles. Glen Moray is a Speyside malt from Elgin, the heart of the Cutty Sark and Label 5 blends. It was built on Gallow Hill at Elgin, the old site of the town's hangings.

The spirit was worked through the stills for a light, sweet make, building a light, accessible character of orchard fruit and vanilla. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the fresh, fruity character to the fore. In the oxidative, evaporative years concentration brings dried fruit, honey and a waxy depth over the apple. The light spirit suits a wide range of cask finishes, from sherry to rum. Its make is a key malt in the Cutty Sark and Label 5 blends. River Lossie water and the tall stills give the light Glen Moray make. It was a pioneer of wine cask finishing, working with Chardonnay casks back in the 1990s.

At a hearty 54.6% it carries real weight. Green apple, vanilla and a soft honey, 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 Glen Moray, a pioneer of cask finishing.