Littlemill Testament 44 Years Old 1976

The Testament is among the most prestigious Littlemill releases, a 44 Year Old 1976 vintage of 250 bottles, matured in American oak and finished in Oloroso. A statement of what a light Lowland spirit could become given almost half a century, from a distillery that can never make another drop.

Forty-four years is perilous for a delicate make; only careful, low-tannin oak let Littlemill survive without drying out, while slow oxidation turned aldehydes to acids and then to deep, fruity esters. The Oloroso finish added dried fruit and a polished, tannic structure, and decades of angel's share concentrated the whole.

At 42.5% it is layered and gently rich, fig, raisin and oak spice over the Lowland softness worn to silk. A great age from a finite source, and a collector's piece by any measure. A Testament 44.