Tormore 9 Years Old 2014 (SMWS 105.42)

This Tormore was from the independent bottler Scotch Malt Whisky Society, a 9 year old release from 2014, drawn from cask 105.42 and bottled at 64.1%. Only 270 bottles were released. Tormore was built in 1958 by Long John Distillers in the Spey valley near Grantown, and it was the first new malt distillery of the 20th century. It was granted listed building status in 1986, rare for a distillery so young.

The spirit was made in copper stills whose purifiers keep the spirit light, for a light, nutty make of real clarity. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, soft oak that lets the nut and fruit lead. Still young, the malt is light and nutty with a citrus lift. A patient maturation suits the light, nutty Tormore character. The architect Sir Albert Richardson gave it a grand, ornamental design unlike any other distillery. Its granite buildings, copper roofs and musical clock earned it listed status in 1986.

At a natural 64.1% it is full and nutty. Vanilla and a light cream from the barrel, with almond, apple and a clean citrus. A green apple and a citrus note lift it. It finishes clean, fresh and nutty. This is a Speysider from the white cathedral of the Spey.