Rosebank 15 Years Old 1991 Cask #2045 (Ian Macleod)

Ian Macleod bottled this Rosebank single malt, a 15 year old release, from 1991, drawn from cask 2045 and bottled at 46%. A release of 300 bottles. Rosebank stood on the Forth and Clyde Canal at Falkirk from 1840 until it was mothballed in 1993. The distillery was reborn in 2023, but these casks date from its legendary years.

It was put through three stills and worm tubs for body and finesse, to build the floral, grassy malt blenders prized. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding only a light honeyed sweetness. Around two decades the malt gains a waxy weight over its floral core. The slow loss of the angel's share concentrates the honeyed, fruity core over decades. The pairing of triple distillation and worm tubs was unique to Rosebank among Scotch distilleries. Blenders prized the malt for its elegant, floral character and unusual weight. Closed in 1993, the site fell derelict and its copper stills were stolen in 2008.

At an approachable 46% it is delicate and balanced. Marzipan and soft tropical fruit meet a quiet vanilla from the refill oak. Beneath it run lemon, grass and a waxy weight. The close is gentle, florals over soft oak. This is a collectable relic of a cult Lowland name.