Glen Moray 33 Years Old 1987 (SMWS 35.304)

From the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, a 33 year old Glen Moray, distilled in 1987, from cask 35.304, bottled at 53.1%, one of 205 bottles. Glen Moray is a Speyside malt from Elgin, the heart of the Cutty Sark and Label 5 blends. It was a pioneer of wine cask finishing, working with Chardonnay casks back in the 1990s.

It was made on River Lossie water and condensed in shell and tube condensers, for a clean make of orchard fruit and a soft honey. A bourbon barrel held it, the wood adding a light vanilla and a soft honey. In its ethereal years the malt is waxy and oxidative, faded esters and a touch of sotolon (maple, dried fig). Maturation in the bonded warehouses at Elgin is slow and steady. Years in oak round the spirit, the green apple deepening to honey and dried fruit. Vanillin and oak lactones from the wood lend vanilla and coconut over the fruit. River Lossie water and the tall stills give the light Glen Moray make.

At its natural 53.1% it is concentrated. Apple, pear and a soft vanilla, with a soft vanilla from the oak. Pear, honey and a creamy toffee fill the middle. The finish is long, fruity and clean. This is a fresh, fruity Speyside single malt.