2009 Lady of the Glen MacDuff Single Cask #4093 13 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

As one of Dewar's five malt distilleries, Macduff remains an obscure seaside producer located in a fishing port of the same name. The operation was closed for part of 2022 for upgrades to the equipment. While it's too early to tell if there will be a change of style, keep an eye out for pre-renovation bottlings like this.  A fresh medium-bodied whisky, the nose has a dried grass edge developing crystallised lemons and white pepper, but needs coaxing. A rich rounded entry follows in a chewy malt with cereal, tea biscuit, honey and cocoa flavours and a vibrant finish. It's perfect everyday drinking that softens and harmonises nicely with a splash of water. 57.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Fully matured in a refill hogshead.

Notes from the bottlers... Founded in 1960 in Banff on the mouth of the river Deveron. Recognised for medium bodied and sweet distillate with nutty and spice notes. Another rarely seen make in the independent bottler scene in recent years, this typically dry and nutty distillate has been matured and bottled at just the right time to capture the essence of the style. Light approachable but complex at the same time. The tasting revealed, honeyed apricot, spiced apple and nutmeg.