Mortlach 15 year old
Distillery Label
Cellars: £82.50
Tasting Notes
NOSE: Distinctly malty initially with fresh aromas of a woodland hedgerow. Delicate Sherry notes linger and weave with rich indulgent toffee, sweet liquorice, and orange marmalade
PALATE: Taste Reminiscent of a Black Forest cake; the initial sweetness develops into fruity blackcurrant jam, maraschino cherry, and creamy vanilla. Freshly peeled orange notes add a fresh lift
BODY: Medium.
FINISH: Finish Well rounded; hints of candied citrus fruits and oak complement the lingering malty edge.
STYLE: Delicate fruit flavour.
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water: Springs in the Conval Hills
Age: Aged 15 years
Cask Type: First fill and refill Sherry Casks
Colour: Dark Gold
Flavour Profile: Malty, complex ideal as an aperitif or with deserts
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
The Distillery Label Range
The history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Mortlach Distillery
An undisputed star of Speyside, this is a distillery which has previously shunned the limelight, being a highly coveted ‘cult status’ dram, thanks to its bold flavour profile and maturation within predominantly European oak sherry casks.
Founded in 1823, this Speysider was the playground for George Cowie -
Mortlach continues to be one of the region’s most mysterious distilleries and will no doubt retain its cult status for many years to come. Known as the ‘Beast of Dufftown’, the whisky is legendary robust. So much so that the Generations 75 year old came from this distillery, a feat only achievable when great casks and great spirit are truly well matched.
Mortlach 25 year old
Distillery Label
Cellars: £250.00
Tasting Notes
NOSE: Rich and full; Sherry and orange marmalade notes combine with stewed dates and prunes. Underlying herbal aromas surface and transform into brown sugar with gentle toffee highlights.
PALATE: Pronounced Sherry influences join crème brûlée, orange marmalade, sultana, and raisin flavours. Hints of mature oak appear whilst an aniseed edge underscores dark chocolate notes.
BODY: Medium.
FINISH: Medium with lingering charred oak and cocoa powder.
STYLE: Chocolate and fruit flavour.
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water: Springs in the Conval Hills
Age: Aged 25 years
Cask Type: First fill and refill Sherry Casks
Colour: Dark Gold
Flavour Profile: Chocolate with underlying fruit flavours
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
The Distillery Label Range
The history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Mortlach Distillery
An undisputed star of Speyside, this is a distillery which has previously shunned the limelight, being a highly coveted ‘cult status’ dram, thanks to its bold flavour profile and maturation within predominantly European oak sherry casks.
Founded in 1823, this Speysider was the playground for George Cowie -
Mortlach continues to be one of the region’s most mysterious distilleries and will no doubt retain its cult status for many years to come. Known as the ‘Beast of Dufftown’, the whisky is legendary robust. So much so that the Generations 75 year old came from this distillery, a feat only achievable when great casks and great spirit are truly well matched.
Royal Brackla 1998
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £63.50
NOSE: Hints of blueberry, cranberry, and vanilla pod initially. A delicate toasted malt and menthol edge develops.
PALATE: Vanilla with strawberry and kiwi flavours are complemented by a sweet cocoa butter edge.
BODY: Light to medium
FINISH: Medium
STYLE: An aperitif
Country: Scotland
Region: Highland
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1998 -
Cask Type: Refill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Rare Old St Magdaleine
19 years old
Cellars: £575.00
Sherry influences with apples and pears aromas, subtle hints of herbs.
Taste with water
NOSE: Tropical fruits -
PALATE: Dry, slightly dusty -
BODY: Light and delicate
FINISH: Dry and clean
STYLE: Classic Lowlander Style -
Country: Scotland
Region: Lowlands -
Producer: Allied Distillers Ltd
Range: Gordon and MacPhail Rare Old Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water: Loch Lomond
Owner: Allied Distillers
Status: Lost
Age: Distilled 1982 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Malty -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 40.0% abv
Distillery Information
The St Magdalene Distillery stood on a historic site, in the 12th century a hospital was established by the Knights Templar to treat lepers. This was replaced at some point by the St Magdalene convent.
The first distillery in Linlithgow was Bulzon in 1750 this was followed shortly after by Bonnytourn founded by Andrew Dawson, one of the first recorded licensed distillers
Sebastian Henderson obtained land adjacent to the Bonnytourn distillery and built the St Magdalene distillery. Possibly 1765. At one point the village of Linlithgow had five licensed distilleries.
In 1798 Andrew Dawson purchased the St Magdalene distillery from Sebastian Henderson. Because St Magdalene was the better distillery he switched output from Bonnytourn to St Magdalene. Eventually absorbing Bonnytourn in to St Magdalene as one large site
The Dawson family was involved with production at Saint Magdalene between 1798 until 1912 when it went into liquidation, when it was acquired by the DCL
Three years later in 1915 became one of the founding five distilleries of Scottish Malt Distillers (SMD). Along with Clydesdale, Glenkinchie Grange and Rosebank)
The distillery like many others was closed in 1983 due to over production. The site was sold for residential development, some of the buildings converted into apartments
Sometimes known as ‘Linlithgow’ distillery.
After St. Magdalene closed in 1983, some of the buildings were converted into apartments. They retained their distinctive pagoda roofs, and are protected as category C listed buildings.
This hard to find Lowland single malt was produced at the St. Magdalene distillery in 1982 and was specially selected and bottled for Gordon & MacPhail's Rare Old series in 2001.
Strathmill 2004
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £52.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Delicate vanilla with hints of coconut. Candied pineapple and subtle elderflower aromas are followed by cocoa powder.
PALATE: Peppery with plenty of fresh lime flavours; ripe exotic fruits develop and mingle with a subtle herbal edge. Toasted oak lingers on the finish.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Medium slightly drying with lingering citrus flavours.
STYLE: A delicate fruity Speyside
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2004 -
Cask Type: Refill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Pale Straw
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Teaninich 2009
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £42.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Delicate Sherry aromas mingle with walnut, cinnamon, and fresh lemon. An almost floral undertone develops.
PALATE: Sweet and creamy with some hints of spice. Stewed apple, raspberry, and orange flavours combine with a touch of oak.
BODY: Medium in length with a bitter edge.
FINISH: Medium slightly drying with lingering citrus flavours.
STYLE: An interesting Highland malt
Country: Scotland
Region: Highlands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2009 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Golden
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Floral
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Tomatin 1997
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £140.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Initially floral with violets, followed by hints of green pear and ripe banana. Soft tobacco notes are detected.
PALATE: Sweet with ripe banana and mango flavours. A delicate tobacco edge develops complementing a lingering milk chocolate finish.
BODY: Medium.
FINISH: Medium balanced and creamy.
STYLE: An autumn dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Highlands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1997 -
Cask Type: Refill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Floral
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Tormore 1998
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £68.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Juicy pear, ripe banana, and green apple aromas combined with sweet vanilla.
PALATE: Creamy with vanilla, ripe banana, and demerara sugar flavours complemented by cocoa powder. An underlying charred oak edge is present on the finish.
BODY: Light to medium.
FINISH: Medium.
STYLE: A light Speyside dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Highlands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1997 -
Cask Type: 1st Fill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Tasting Notes
Distillery Information
Aberfeldy 2003
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £52.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Fragrant pear, vanilla, and blueberry aromas initially. Subtle floral notes are present and mingle with almond oil.
PALATE: Sweet initially followed by plenty of zesty citrus notes. Subtle spices and undertones of butterscotch lead to a roasted walnut finish.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Smooth and medium in length.
STYLE: A fruity Highland dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Highlands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2003 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
Colour: Golden
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Arran 2009
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £39.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Fragrant pear, vanilla, and blueberry aromas initially. Subtle floral notes are present and mingle with almond oil.
PALATE: Sweet and creamy with hints of elderflower, lime, and kiwi are complemented by vanilla and a touch of cocoa powder.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Medium with a citrus edge
STYLE: A light dram to enjoy on a sunny day
Country: Scotland
Region: Island
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2009 -
Cask Type: Refill Bourbon Barrels
Flavour Light -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Auchroisk 2005
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £43.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Milk chocolate notes rise to the forefront followed by rich vanilla and tropical fruit aromas. A hint of fresh lime develops.
PALATE: Sweet and mouth tingling. Apricot, mango, and ripe banana flavours are complemented by a chocolate edge.
BODY: Light to medium
FINISH: Finish Long and slightly drying with lasting chocolate notes
STYLE: An aromatic Speysider
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: Refill American Hogshead
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Auchroisk 1996
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £63.75
Taste with water
NOSE: Milk chocolate notes rise to the forefront followed by rich vanilla and tropical fruit aromas. A hint of fresh lime develops.
PALATE: Sweet and mouth tingling. Apricot, mango, and ripe banana flavours are complemented by a chocolate edge.
BODY: Light to medium
FINISH: Finish Long and slightly drying with lasting chocolate notes
STYLE: An aromatic Speysider
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: Refill American Hogshead
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Tasting Notes
Distillery Information
Aultmore 2005
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £63.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet with delicate rose water aromas initially. Vanilla aromas mingle with dried mango, apple, and kiwi.
PALATE: Smooth and sweet with toasted malt, lime, and a hint of eucalyptus. A charred oak edge is present on the finish.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Medium with lingering herbal elements
STYLE: A delicate Speysider
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: Refill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Pale Straw
Flavour Profile: Light -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Tasting Notes
Distillery Information
Balblair 12 year old
Discovery Range
Cellars: £52.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Aroma Ripe pear and stewed rhubarb steeped in honey and decadent raspberry jam mature into sweet meadow grasses complemented by underlying fresh lemon and lime edge.
PALATE: Taste Balanced, crisp green apple wrapped in salted dark chocolate accompanied by hints of peaches and cream and gentle menthol nuances.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Light aniseed and warming white pepper develop on the finish whilst highlights of fresh lemon zest adds depth.
STYLE: Light and delicate
Country: Scotland
Region: Edderton -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Discovery Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2006 -
Cask Type: Bourbon
Colour: Lightest Yellow
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Tasting Notes
Distillery Information
The Discovery Range
An introduction to Gordon & MacPhail’s impressive portfolio, this range is curated to offer an utterly dependable and consistent choice of their finest single malt whiskies.
Each expression sits within the bold flavour profiles of either ‘Sherry’, ‘Smoky’ or ‘Bourbon’, making these single malts the perfect match for the whisky-
Highlands
The Highlands: two words which have undoubtedly come to represent, for other cultures, the passion and uniqueness of Scotland’s rich heritage. The Highlands, the largest Scotch whisky production region, successfully demonstrates a fine and diverse flavour balancing act.
Geographically, this region an enormous part of Scotland’s awe-
As diverse as the landscape, so is the body of breathtaking single malts, each with undisputed character, flavour, and personality. In the North, within two hours of one another are the distilleries of Pulteney, Clynelish, Balblair, and Dalmore.
Each is unique and together, they exemplify the diverse character of the Highland spirit: from the meaty robustness of Pulteney to the complex treasure of Dalmore; from Clynelish’s waxy and fragrant spirit to the gentle delicacy of Balblair.
A journey from east to west or north to south will discover a number of other styles and flavours that complement the varied Highland portfolio exemplified by Ardmore’s rich, dry smokiness counterpointed by the bold, dried fruitiness of Glenglassaugh.
The region is not without its long, lost Highlanders, many of which are now beginning to receive the attention they truly deserve. One of the lost gems is the increasingly scarce and highly sought after Brora spirit. Equally deserving of mention are the spicy and mysterious bottlings from Glen Mhor and Glenesk, the aromatic beauty of Banff, and the luscious, intensely tropical fruitiness of Lochside.
All Highland whiskies make a true feast for the senses, represented across all of our ranges.
Balblair
Established in 1790, Balblair is one of a few distilleries in Scotland that can trace their roots back to the eighteenth century. Set in a beautiful location in Edderton, Ross-
As a single malt, Balblair heads into a sweet, buttery territory, working extremely well in a variety of casks -
Balblair 12 Years Old 43%
Balmenach 2008
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £42.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Vanilla custard, toasted malt, and banana aromas are lifted by a zest lime edge.
PALATE: Smooth and creamy with bursts of pepper. Raspberry, orange, and chocolate flavours combine with a sweet hint of toffee.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Medium in length, sweet and spicy
STYLE: A light Speyside dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2008 -
Cask Type: First fill Sherry and Refill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Pale Straw
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Spicy
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Benriach 1997
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £77.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Almond aromas with sweet marzipan notes; delicate hints of sweet sherry and a delicate hint of oak.
PALATE: Creamy with red apple, ripe banana, and custard powder flavours are enhanced by a drying black pepper edge.
BODY: Light to Medium
FINISH: Fruity with hints of chocolate
STYLE: A light and subtle aperitif
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1998 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Nutty, Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Benrinnes 1998
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £53.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Honey with peach, banana, and grapefruit aromas complemented by lingering charred oak notes.
PALATE: Creamy with red apple, ripe banana, and custard powder flavours are enhanced by a drying black pepper edge.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium in length, with a lingering charred oak edge.
STYLE: An after dinner dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1998 -
Cask Type: First fill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Bladnoch 1993
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £115.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Floral with hints of rose petals and Parma Violets. A slight malty edge with a hint of spearmint.
PALATE: Dark chocolate with blueberries and rose water. A subtle hazelnut edge develops.
BODY: Medium to long
FINISH: Fruity with hints of chocolate
STYLE: A delicate Lowland Malt
Country: Scotland
Region: Lowlands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1993 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Floral, Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Tasting Notes
Distillery Information
Braevel 1998
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £72.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet, initial candied ginger aromas mingle with orange marmalade. Ripe banana and hints of sweet hay develop.
PALATE: Sweet and spicy with banana, lime, and hints of melon. A lingering toasted oak edge develops.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium in length, slightly drying with a fresh lime edge.
STYLE: A delicate Speyside Malt
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1998 -
Cask Type: Refill American Hogsheads
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Sweet, Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Tasting Notes
Distillery Information
Bunnahabhain aged 11 years Discovery Range
Cellars: £52.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sherry aromas mingle with orange marmalade. Dried fruit notes develop; subtle spices weave through creamy vanilla toffee.
PALATE: Taste Deliciously smooth and creamy; a gentle warming cinnamon spice matures into flavours of chewy dates and stewed plums with walnut undertones. Finish Smooth milk chocolate with lingering dried fruit and hints of nuts
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Finish Smooth milk chocolate with lingering dried fruit and hints of nuts
STYLE: Fruity
Country: Scotland
Region: Port Askaig -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Discovery Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: River Margadale
Age: Distilled 2006 -
Cask Type: Sherry
Colour: Golden
Flavour Profile: Fruit, Toffee and spices
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
The Discovery Range
An introduction to Gordon & MacPhail’s impressive portfolio, this range is curated to offer an utterly dependable and consistent choice of their finest single malt whiskies.
Each expression sits within the bold flavour profiles of either ‘Sherry’, ‘Smoky’ or ‘Bourbon’, making these single malts the perfect match for the whisky-
Islay
Islay is unique; this island, the fifth largest in Scotland, has been designated in its own right a Scotch whisky producing region. A ferry ride west of the Campbeltown region, this Inner Hebridean island boasts an impressive eight operational distilleries. Each distillery has its own character; all have the wonderful and distinctive Islay style: aromatic, peated, and smoky.
Islay is abundant with peat. Peat, partly decomposed vegetable matter, is distinctly different in each part of Scotland as it is made up of the local flora. Pre 1960s, in the days of floor maltings, local peat was used to dry the germinating barley and thus imparted a regional quality to the final whisky flavour. In Islay, this peat and its briny ocean surroundings lends a flavour that is renownedly Islay. Port Ellen Maltings, once a distillery of the same name, is a key fixture to Islay’s whisky industry, malting barley for most of the island's distilleries with the local peat.
The island’s distilleries cluster in three different areas: east, west, and south: three producers make up the Kildalton distilleries on the south shore; Bruichladdich and two others reside on the west; and, overlooking the Paps of Jura lies Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain (distinctly unusual for producing mainly a non-
Bunnahabhain Distillery
Based on the north-
Bunnahabhain’s whisky production is large scale with a capacity of 2.7 million litres per year and, despite being a ‘smoke free zone’ it remains hugely popular Islay malt. Visitors to Islay, especially during the Feis Ile festival each May, flock to the distillery where the gorgeous coastal views are the perfect place to sit, sip single malt, and eat freshly caught oysters.
It is worth noting that the Bunnahabhain Distillery distils a small batch of peated spirit yearly. Luckily, both types of spirit are available.
Caol Ila 13 years old
Discovery Range
Cellars: £51.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet and Savoury. Dry. Cured meats glazed with luscious apricot jam combines with rich vanilla and flashes of softly swirling peat smoke compliments the sweetness.
PALATE: Bursting with juicy tropical fruit, pineapple, kiwi and banana, brushed with icing sugar.Light touches of malt and vibrant lemon peel balance the sweetness
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Long and luxurious with hints of marshmallow toasting over gently smouldering bonfire embers.
STYLE: Smoky
Country: Scotland
Region: Port Askaig -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Discovery Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Loch Nam Ban – Torrabolls Loch
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: Bourbon
Colour: Golden
Flavour Profile: Smoky with Peat
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
The Discovery Range
An introduction to Gordon & MacPhail’s impressive portfolio, this range is curated to offer an utterly dependable and consistent choice of their finest single malt whiskies.
Each expression sits within the bold flavour profiles of either ‘Sherry’, ‘Smoky’ or ‘Bourbon’, making these single malts the perfect match for the whisky-
Islay
Islay is unique; this island, the fifth largest in Scotland, has been designated in its own right a Scotch whisky producing region. A ferry ride west of the Campbeltown region, this Inner Hebridean island boasts an impressive eight operational distilleries. Each distillery has its own character; all have the wonderful and distinctive Islay style: aromatic, peated, and smoky.
Islay is abundant with peat. Peat, partly decomposed vegetable matter, is distinctly different in each part of Scotland as it is made up of the local flora. Pre 1960s, in the days of floor maltings, local peat was used to dry the germinating barley and thus imparted a regional quality to the final whisky flavour. In Islay, this peat and its briny ocean surroundings lends a flavour that is renownedly Islay. Port Ellen Maltings, once a distillery of the same name, is a key fixture to Islay’s whisky industry, malting barley for most of the island's distilleries with the local peat.
The island’s distilleries cluster in three different areas: east, west, and south: three producers make up the Kildalton distilleries on the south shore; Bruichladdich and two others reside on the west; and, overlooking the Paps of Jura lies Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain (distinctly unusual for producing mainly a non-
Caol Ila
Pronounced 'cull-
Finely balanced, a Caol Ila whiskies have an almost coal-
Clynelish 2000
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £68.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Nose with Water Delicate Sherry aromas mingle with plum skin, prune, and subtle liquorice notes. An undertone with rose petals combines with hints of charred oak.
PALATE: Peppery with red apple, banana, and cinnamon flavours complemented by milk chocolate and orange zest.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium with lingering fruit flavours.
STYLE: A spicy Highland Malt
Country: Scotland
Region: Highlands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2000 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Casks
Colour: Dark Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Craigellachie 1997
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £77.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet and fruity with pineapple, lemon, and apricot jam aromas. A subtle hint of smoke and a vanilla edge develops.
PALATE: Chilli spice with fresh fruit flavours of grapefruit and peach.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium with lingering fruit flavours.
STYLE: A summer dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1997 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Casks
Colour: Dark Straw
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Dailuaine 2006
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £49.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet aromas come to the fore with zesty orange, demerara sugar, and festive spices are complemented by a charred oak edge.
PALATE: Sweet with stewed fruits, orange, lime, and milk chocolate flavours. Charred oak and brazil nut combine on the finish.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Long, smooth and fruity
STYLE: A balanced Speyside dram.
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2006 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Butt
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Milk Chocolate,
Charred Oak
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Dailuaine 16 years old
Cellars: £74.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Cereals, barley sugars, sherry. fruitcake, oily, nutty.
PALATE: Clean. malt, estery fruit. Sherry. Nutty.
BODY: Medium to full
FINISH: Nutty, almonds, oily, smoke, oak
STYLE: Malty, Fruity and Fragrant, ideal to enjoy before dinner
Country: Scotland
Region: Carron, by Aberlour, Banffshire, Speyside
Producer: Diageo
Range: Flora and Fauna
Bottling: Distillery Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: The Bailliemullich Burn
Owner : Diageo
Status: Operational
Age: 16 years old
Cask Type: First Fill Sherry Casks
Colour: Amber with reddish highlights
Flavour Profile: Malty, Fruity & Fragrant
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
A Flora and Fauna official release from the Dailuaine distillery, a 16 year old single malt which has been sherry matured for thick fruitcake notes with winter spice, a great digestive.
The Story of Dailuaine
In 1852, William Mackenzie founded Dailuaine Distillery. Dailuaine derives from the Scottish Gaelic ‘An dail uaine’ meaning ‘green valley’, named most probably for those elegant undulations of the Spey valley in which the Dailuaine whisky distillery lies.William had also been a farmer who worked in the Carron area.
Following his death in 1865, William Mackenzie’s wife leased the distillery to a banker from Aberlour called James Fleming, who, with William’s son, formed Mackenzie and Company in 1879. Five years later an extensive rebuild commenced, leaving the distillery as one of Scotland’s largest. Another five years on and Charles Doig built Scotland’s first pagoda roof, which graced the distillery until it collapsed in 1917 after a menacing conflagration desecrated the buildings.
In 1898, Dailuaine-
Dufftown 2008
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £49.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet with butterscotch, stewed fruits, and white chocolate aromas. Lemon grass and delicate cardamom notes combine and a fresh menthol edge develops.
PALATE: Sweet initially followed by pepper. Tart apple, grapefruit, and subtle spices are accompanied by a touch of oak.
BODY: Medium.
FINISH: Long and slightly drying with a lingering menthol edge.
STYLE: A very delicate Speyside dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2008 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glenallachie 1999
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £74.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Toasted malt and hints of charred oak develop initially. Hints of sweet vanilla and fruity notes become apparent
PALATE: Defined toffee fudge influence, mouth watering with a burst of orange zest developing. Some hints of milk chocolate evolve.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium
STYLE: A light and delicate Speyside dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1999 -
Cask Type: Refill Bourbon Barrel
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Malty, Milk Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glendullan 2001
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £49.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Vanilla pods with hints of cucumber, green banana, and lime zest. A subtle freshly cut grass and cedar wood note lingers
PALATE: Ripe banana, pressed apple, and melon flavours initially. A delicate trace of vanilla and digestive biscuit develops. Body Light. Finish Medium; smooth and sweet.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Medium; smooth and sweet.
STYLE: An aperitif
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2001 -
Cask Type: First Fill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Dark straw
Flavour Profile: Fruity -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glendullan 2004
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £49.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet and floral with jasmine and rose water aromas. Sweet honey undertones combine with a hint of lemon zest.
PALATE: Water Intense sweetness followed by pressed apple, ripe banana, and crystallised ginger. A chocolate edge is present on the finish.
BODY: Short yet spicy with a drying edge
FINISH: Medium; smooth and sweet.
STYLE: A spicy Speyside dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2004 -
Cask Type: First Fill Bourbon Barrels
Colour: Straw
Flavour Profile: Floral -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glen Keith 1997
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £85.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Sherry influences with flambéed banana, hints of pineapple, and delicate hay aromas
PALATE: Palate with Water Sweet and creamy with green apple, raspberry, and vanilla flavours combining with milk chocolate.
BODY: Light to medium
FINISH: Medium to long with lingering fruit flavours.
STYLE: A well rounded Speysider
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 1997
Cask Type: First Fill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glenlossie 2004
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £46.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Delicate Sherry influences followed by banana, butterscotch, and hints of lemon.
PALATE: Sweet and spicy with raspberry, apple, and candied ginger flavours are complemented by charred oak on the finish.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium smooth with lingering hints of charred oak.
STYLE: An aromatic Speyside dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2004 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
Colour: Dark Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glen Spey 2007
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £45.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Fresh citrus aromas mingle with floral notes and sweet vanilla.
PALATE: Peppery initially followed by fresh lime and grapefruits flavours. Toasted oak and a herbal edge combine on the finish.
BODY: Light
FINISH: Long with lingering citrus flavours.
STYLE: A light zesty dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2007 -
Cask Type: First fill Bourbon Casks
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Chocolate, Herbal
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Glentauchers 2004
Distillery Label
Cellars: £56.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Aroma Dry meadow grasses mix with beeswax polish aromas. Sweetness evolves with time: white chocolate and vanilla pod mingles with fresh pear and green apple.
PALATE: A tropical fruit celebration; melon, kiwi, ripe nectarine, and grapefruit flavours each take a turn in the limelight. Warming pepper develops, opening into a drying cacao powder edge
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Finish Medium in length; toasted oak comes to the fore.
STYLE: Dry with a malty sweetness
Country: Scotland
Region: Mulben, Keith, Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Rosarie Burn
Age: Distilled 2004 -
Cask Type: Refill American Hogsheads
Colour: Lightest Gold
Flavour Profile: Dry with a malty sweetness
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
The Dititllery Label Range
he history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Glentauchers
Established in 1897, Glentauchers was one of the distilleries owned by the hugely successful blender James Buchanan and the design was overseen by the legendary Charles Doig, who contributed so much to the innovation and future success of Scotch whisky.
Glentauchers was also amongst those distilleries who utilised the emerging rail network around Scotland, building its own specific railway sidings into the distillery.
Glentauchers 2007
Distillery Label
Cellars: £67.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Sherry notes complement rich mill chocolate and a subtle hint of vanilla pod. Fresh orange peel and fragrant cinnamon combine with sweet medjool dates.
PALATE: Smooth on the palate with stewed apples accompanying nougat and roasted almonds. Treacle toffee notes come to the fore alongside a light touch of white pepper.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: The finish is sweet with lingering spice, dried banana and toasted oak.
STYLE: Sweet with a fruit sweetness
Country: Scotland
Region: Mulben, Keith, Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Rosarie Burn
Age: Distilled 2007 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogsheads
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Sweet with a soft fruit sweetness
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
The Dititllery Label Range
The history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Glentauchers
Established in 1897, Glentauchers was one of the distilleries owned by the hugely successful blender James Buchanan and the design was overseen by the legendary Charles Doig, who contributed so much to the innovation and future success of Scotch whisky.
Glentauchers was also amongst those distilleries who utilised the emerging rail network around Scotland, building its own specific railway sidings into the distillery.
Rare Old Highland Park
34 years old
Cellars: £725.00
Beautifully balanced intensed fruity aromas, with a touch of oak.
Taste with water
NOSE: Sweet with floral/fruity aromas soft fruit sweets. Some smoky/peaty/earthy elements.
PALATE: Smoke with sweet, perfumed hints. The sherry fruitiness slowly arrives.
BODY: Mellow
FINISH: Slightly fruity
STYLE: Full of Highland Park character -
Country: Scotland
Region: Islands -
Producer: Highland Park Distillery
Range: Gordon and MacPhail Rare Old Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Cattie Maggie’s Pool
Owner: Highland Distillers
Status: Operational
Age: Distilled 1970 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Floral -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 40.0% abv
Distillery Information
Built in 1798, Scotland’s most Northern distillery and continues to malt its own barley using the traditional floor malting method and to kiln dry the ‘green’ malt using peat cut from its own moorlands. One of the few distilleries where you can still see and smell smoke wafting from its pagoda style chimneys.
Cattie Maggie is the underground spring that feeds a former quarry close to Highland Park. The spring and quarry are named after a tinker who lived in the vicinity. The water is pure and very hard, rising through a sedimentary rock of hard sandstone known as Walliwall.
Inchgower 2005
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £51.50
Beautifully balanced intensed fruity aromas, with a touch of oak.
Taste with water
NOSE: Boiled sweets aromas followed by freshly cut grass, toasted malt, and peach notes.
PALATE: Initially sweet with raspberry, apple, and clove spice complemented by milk chocolate flavours. A subtle peppermint note develops and lingers on the tongue.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium in length with lingering praline flavours.
STYLE: An after dinner dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
Colour: Gold
Flavour Profile: Fruity, Milk, Chocolate
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Lagavulin 16 Year Old
Cellars: £82.00
Country: Scotland
Region: Islay
Producer:
Range:
Bottling:
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: 16 years
Cask Type:
Colour:
Flavour Profile:
Allergens: Not Known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0%
Ledaig 2000
Connoisseurs Choice
Cellars: £63.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Smoked bacon aromas with hints of vanilla and waxy lemons.
PALATE: Creamy and sweet with smoky undertones. Green apple and hints of charred oak are complimented with subtle brazil nut overtones
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Long with a cigar ash finish.
STYLE: A peated island dram
Country: Scotland
Region: Islands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Connoisseurs Choice
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Age: Distilled 2000 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry, refill bourbon and refill American casks
Colour: Dark Straw
Flavour Profile: Sweet, Fruity, Smoke
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 46.0% abv
Distillery Information
Ledaig 12 years old
Discovery Range
Cellars: £52.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Peat smoke opens to reveal notes of maple cured meat, toffee, and baked apples. Seaside grasses aromas linger and finish in a gentle briny edge.
PALATE: Stewed fruits, sultanas, and currants with milk chocolate flavours combine with crème brûlée. Sweet toffee is complemented by bursts of citrus and a smouldering bonfire ember edge.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Finish Long with nuances of peat smoke and charred oak
STYLE: Fruity
Country: Scotland
Region: Islands
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Discovery Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Mishnish Loch -
Age: Distilled 2006
Cask Type: Bourbon and Sherry
Colour: Golden
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
The Discovery Range
An introduction to Gordon & MacPhail’s impressive portfolio, this range is curated to offer an utterly dependable and consistent choice of their finest single malt whiskies.
Each expression sits within the bold flavour profiles of either ‘Sherry’, ‘Smoky’ or ‘Bourbon’, making these single malts the perfect match for the whisky-
The Islands
Similarly to Speyside, the Scottish Islands are also considered part of the Highlands. Over 790 offshore islands are grouped into four distinct classifications – Shetland, Orkney, Inner Hebrides, and Outer Hebrides. Only seven distilleries are currently operational on six of the islands – not including the island Islay, a designated Scotch region on its own. For some, these island whiskies are more accessible than the distilleries themselves.
Jura, for example, has one shop, one hotel, one road, one pub, and one distillery; the only way on or off the island is across the Paps of Jura via a small car ferry from Islay.
On the nearby island of Mull lies the Tobermory Distillery, whose peated whisky bears the name of the ancient and original distillery: Ledaig.
Travelling south (east of the Campbeltown region) is the island of Arran home to the newest and eponymously named Arran Distillery, established in 1995.
Diverse not only in flavour but also in geography, the Island distilleries stretch out to the north. Highland Park, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, is located in Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands archipelago. In fact, the distillery pips the Scapa Distillery for the title of the most northerly distillery by less than a mile. The islands represent some of our longer standing relationships as well as one of our newest. From Highland Park to Arran, explore the diverse flavours Island distilleries showcase in our whisky portfolio.
Ledaig Distillery
Rather confusingly, Ledaig (pronounced ‘Laycheck’) also goes under the name Tobermory and is to be found -
Established in 1823, the distillery draws it water from the Ledaig Burn and this highly distinctive whisky has a true character all of its own: think smoked, barbecued meat, spicy black pepper and a vanilla sweetness.
On paper, three very disparate flavours, but Ledaig, despite its extremes is a surprisingly balanced whisky and has developed a genuine cult following amongst whisky drinkers worldwide, working exceptionally well as both a young whisky, as well as one with great age and wisdom.
Lindores Abbey
Cellars: £50.00
Taste with water
NOSE: Elegant, soft, mellow vanilla, caramel notes playing with orchard fruits and sweet pear drops. Reminiscent of toffee apples!
PALATE: Smooth with a creamy texture and a perfect balance of mellow vanilla, dried fruits, citrus touches with a hint of spice.
BODY: Sweet, overall. Viscous, but fresh and clean: a pleasant acidity helps to maintain this.
FINISH: Medium length, delicate but lingering finish
STYLE: A fruity spicy Single Malt Whisky
Country: Scotland
Region: Fife, Lowlands
Producer: The Lindores Abbey Distilling Co
Bottling: Distillery Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Borehole
Owner: Andrew McKenzie Smith
Status: Operational
Age: + 3 years
Cask Type: Bourbon, Sherry and Wine Barriques
Colour: Pale Gold
Flavour Profile: Orchard Fruits
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl abv: 46.0%
Distillery Information
Lindores Abbey’s widely recognised links to the earliest written reference to Scotch Whisky, mean that people have been travelling to this quiet corner of Fife for centuries. After a 500-
The Story of Lindores Abbey Distillery
Lindores Abbey, or “Church by the Water”, is situated on the outskirts of Newburgh. The abbey was founded in 1191 by David Earl of Huntingdon on land overlooking the Estuary of the River Tay. It was once an important and wealthy place, welcoming kings and queens. William Wallace, a national hero and leader of the Scottish resistance forces during the First War of Scottish Independence, once took refuge at Lindores Abbey with 300 of his men
At first glance, Newburgh is an unassuming town in the county of Fife, Scotland. The downtown doesn’t have many distinguishing features; there are a few pubs, a pharmacy, a café, and you can get Chinese takeout. Its population of just over 2,000 has been mostly steady for over a century.
And yet, Newburgh should be of particular interest to any Scotch whisky drinker. It is the birthplace of Scotch whisky, after all.
Linkwood 15 years old
Distillery Label
Cellars: £66.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Fruity and fresh, Dry sherry, ripe strawberry and raspberry aromas highlighted by a lemon-
PALATE: Initially intensely sweet, mellows with time and the gentle and warming spice flavours of cinnamon and clove. Creamy white chocolate develops and entwines with a juicy tangerine edge.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Medium and rounded with fresh herbal tones and a slightly drying cocoa powder edge.
STYLE: Sweet with delicate fruit flavour.
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside, Lossie, Elgin, Morayshire
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Springs near Millbuies Loch
Age: 15 years -
Cask Type: First Fill and Refill Sherry Casks
Colour: Dark Gold
Flavour Profile: Sweet with a citrus edge
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
The Distillery Label Range
The history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside.
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Linkwood Distillery
An unsung hero in the world of single malts, Linkwood Distillery was established by Peter Brown in 1821, but wouldn’t see production for another four years. Located on the outskirts of Elgin in the Speyside region, the distillery remained in the Brown family until the end of the nineteenth century. The distillery changed hands on only one other occasion, in 1933, when it was sold to Scottish Malt Distillers Ltd. (SMD), now a subsidiary of Diageo.
During the years Roderick MacKenzie worked as Distillery Manager (1945-
Gordon & MacPhail and the Linkwood Distillery have been close for more than a century, and not only in proximity (two miles as the crow flies). Linkwood has been a a part of the Gordon & MacPhail stable for generations
Linkwood 25 years old
Distillery Label
Cellars: £204.50
Taste with water
NOSE: Hints of baked apple, stewed raisin, and cinnamon enhance rich sherry influences. Sweet liquorice aromas develop enhanced by light floral nuances. A polished oak edge remains.
PALATE: Sweet and spicy; date, prune, and raisin flavours complement warming pepper. Hints of cinnamon and clove add spice. Tangy blackcurrant notes mix with sweet cherry jam and candied citrus fruit.
BODY: Medium
FINISH: A nutty edge balances the lingering oak notes.
STYLE: Sweet and spicy
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside, Lossie, Elgin, Morayshire
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water Source: Springs near Millbuies Loch
Age: 25 years -
Cask Type: First Fill and Refill Sherry Casks
Colour: Dark Gold
Flavour Profile: Sweet and Spicy
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
The Distillery Label Range
The history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside.
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Linkwood Distillery
An unsung hero in the world of single malts, Linkwood Distillery was established by Peter Brown in 1821, but wouldn’t see production for another four years. Located on the outskirts of Elgin in the Speyside region, the distillery remained in the Brown family until the end of the nineteenth century. The distillery changed hands on only one other occasion, in 1933, when it was sold to Scottish Malt Distillers Ltd. (SMD), now a subsidiary of Diageo.
During the years Roderick MacKenzie worked as Distillery Manager (1945-
Gordon & MacPhail and the Linkwood Distillery have been close for more than a century, and not only in proximity (two miles as the crow flies). Linkwood has been a a part of the Gordon & MacPhail stable for generations
Rare Old Lochside 19 years old
Cellars: £525.00
Sweet herbal flavours, cereal and dry grass are balanced with spices and chocolate to create this complex whisky
Taste with water
NOSE: Some fruit, oiled wood, earthy and sweet toffee aromas. Hints of smoke on the edge
PALATE: Sherry wood with sweet, nutty flavours. A touch of smoke
BODY: Complex
FINISH: Sweet, oak flavours.
STYLE: Rich and aromatic, balanced with sweet sherry notes.
Country: Scotland
Region: Eastern Highlands -
Producer: Allied Distillers Ltd
Range: Gordon and MacPhail Rare Old Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water: Source A bore well underneath the distillery
Owner: Allied Distillers
Status: Closed
Age: Distilled 1981 -
Cask Type: Refill Sherry Hogshead
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Herbal -
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 40.0% abv
Distillery Information
Lochside Distillery began life as a brewery in the 1890s. It was rebuilt on the site of an earlier brewery which is thought to have dated back to the 1700s. The new brewery was located beside the Montrose Basin and in its day, was one of the most visible landmarks for miles around with bright creamwashed walls and striking tower. It was the only location outside Newcastle to produce Newcastle Brown Ale. After closing in the 1950s the brewery was bought by Joseph Hobbs, who also ran the Ben Nevis distillery. Joseph Hobbs combined the site with trademarks from the Glenmavis distillery to convert the brewery into Lochside distillery.
The new distillery contained four pot stills and a 21 metre high Coffey still. Lochside distillery was one of a few distilleries which produced both malt and grain whisky. Following the death of Joseph Hobbs, his son, also Joe, ran the distillery until it was acquired by Destilerias y Crianza, of Madrid, in 1973. The main purpose for the distillery was to produce Scotch Malt to blend with their own Spanish spirit. After years of industrious production , Lochside distillery fell victim to drinks industry over-
Sadly burnt down in 2005.
Longmorn 2005
Cellars: £72.50
Tasting Notes
NOSE: Delicate sherry aromas mingle with milk chocolate; vibrant seville orange and dried fruit notes come to the fore with time. Hints of cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm spicy undertone
PALATE: Peppery yet sweet; dashes of warming white pepper develop into rich fruitcake flavours by toasted almonds, candied cherries, and twists of orange peel.
BODY: Medium.
FINISH: Finish Complex; charred oak combines with liquorice and milk chocolate
STYLE: Sweet with delicate fruit flavour.
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Distillery Label Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water:Local Springs
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: First fill Sherry hogsheads and refill bourbon barrel
Colour: Golden
Flavour Profile: Malty, complex ideal as an aperitif or with deserts
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
The Distillery Label Range
The history of this range heralds back to the very beginning of Gordon and MacPhails -
These relationships have culminated in today's 'Distillery Labels' -
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated areGordon and MacPhail’s shop, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
With a variety and depth of flavours to experience, explore the diversity of Speyside throughout our ranges. Journey from the lesser known distilleries in the ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range to the exceptionally well-
Longmorn Distillery
This Speyside distillery has been talked about by master distillers and blenders in hushed tones for decades, making it arguably one of the best kept secrets in the whisky business. In fact, should one decide to poll some of the most successful names in the whisky industry about their favourite malts, Longmorn is likely to feature highly.
Prized for its versatility, richness and intense fruity characteristics, Longmorn has been highly sought after as a single malt in its own right, as well as being the backbone for some of the world’s finest blended whiskies. A true Speyside great. An unsung hero in the world of single malts.
Speymalt by Macallan
aged 14 years
Cellars: £85.00
Tasting Notes
NOSE: Waxy peels, with caramel digestives and ripe banana.
PALATE: Oily orange peel, with smooth praline, pears and chocolate sauce.
BODY: Medium.
FINISH: Black pepper is tempered by creamy milk chocolate.
STYLE: Fruity
Country: Scotland
Region: Craigellachie-
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Speymalt Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water: from Bore Holes
Age: Distilled 2005 -
Cask Type: Sherry
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Distillery Information
Speymalt Range
Here we have Gordon & MacPhail's 2019 bottling of its wonderful Speymalt range! The Macallan single malt was distilled in 2005, and matured in sherry casks until 2019. Then, Gordon & MacPhail bottled it up at 43% ABV. Sherried Macallan is always a winner in my book.
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated is Gordon and MacPhails, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
Macallan Distillery
As of the spring 2018, Gordon and MacPhail 'Speymalt from Macallan Distillery' will continue to be bottled occasionally; however, it will only be released in selected worldwide markets.
They have been the purveyor of fine goods across three centuries and over many years have built up and nurtured special relationships with local producers. Amongst these are a number of local whisky producers in the Speyside region from whom we purchase new-
However, there is only one distillery for whom we reserve the title 'Speymalt from Macallan Distillery'.
Established in 1824 and situated overlooking the fishing beats on the River Spey, the Macallan Distillery produces a wonderfully complex spirit which we then carefully mature in quality oak casks ordered specifically for the 'Speymalt from Macallan Distillery' range.
Each bottling carries the vintage of distillation and the year of bottling, capturing an exceptionally mature single malt whisky.
Miltonduff 10 years old
Discovery Range
Cellars: £52.50
NOSE: Aroma Chocolate and sticky orange marmalade transforms into juicy plump stewed raisins and sweet baked apple, freshly cut grass notes delicately balance the rich sherry influences.
PALATE: Sweet and spicy: comforting butter candies weave with roasted hazelnut followed closely by orange zest, cinnamon, and mouth-
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Long with highlights of chocolate and stewed fruit finishing with lingering winter spices.
STYLE: Fruity
Country: Scotland
Region: Moray -
Producer: Gordon and MacPhail
Range: Discovery Range
Bottling: Gordon and Macphail Bottling
Style: Single Malt Whisky
Water: The Black Burn
Age: Distilled 2008 -
Cask Type: Sherry
Colour: Amber
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Allergens: Not known
Bottle size: 70cl
abv: 43.0% abv
Tasting Notes
NOSE: Aroma Chocolate and sticky orange marmalade transforms into juicy plump stewed raisins and sweet baked apple, freshly cut grass notes delicately balance the rich sherry influences.
PALATE: Sweet and spicy: comforting butter candies weave with roasted hazelnut followed closely by orange zest, cinnamon, and mouth-
BODY: Medium
FINISH: Long with highlights of chocolate and stewed fruit finishing with lingering winter spices.
STYLE: Fruity
Distillery Information
The Discovery Range
An introduction to Gordon & MacPhail’s impressive portfolio, this range is curated to offer an utterly dependable and consistent choice of their finest single malt whiskies.
Each expression sits within the bold flavour profiles of either ‘Sherry’, ‘Smoky’ or ‘Bourbon’, making these single malts the perfect match for the whisky-
Speyside
All Speyside whiskies are Highland whiskies; but, not all Highland malts are Speysiders. What is the difference, why the distinction of the Speyside region? The answer is quite simply the River Spey. From its source in the Cairngorms National Park, the river meanders 107 miles, disgorging into the Moray Firth at Spey Bay. Speyside, located in the middle of the Highland region, is also considered by many the heartland of Scotch production. Today, more than half of Scotland’s working distilleries are located in this region.
Geographically, Speyside encompasses the area east and west of the River Spey, partly in tandem with the Morayshire county lines. There are several key towns in region. Forres, to the east, is home to Benromach Distillery and a short drive from Dallas Dhu, a mothballed distillery now transformed into a visitor destination. Westerly are the distilleries of Strathisla, Strathmill, Glen Keith, and Aultmore, all located in Keith. Centrally situated is Gordon and MacPhails, offices, and warehouses in the Royal Burgh of Elgin, also known for its mediaeval cathedral ruins.
Along the River Spey, as world-
Miltonduff Distillery
Situated six miles southwest of Elgin is Pluscarden Abbey. Initially a Priory, it was founded by King Alexander II in 1230. The Miltonduff distillery is said to be situated on the site of the Abbey's meal mill and one of the original stones from the Abbey is still proudly on display.
The Miltonduff expressions bottled by Gordon & Macphail demonstrate the extreme versatility of this excellent Speysider: rich spicy, dark honey notes can be found in the Cask Strength Collection of bottlings, whilst The Distillery Labels collection showcases a lighter, more floral side to the distillery.
One other fascinating fact is that from 1967 until 1981, Miltonduff also produced another single malt called Mosstowie, using a Lomond still.
