A Time Capsule in a Bottle
2023 has been a year of delightful surprises for whisky aficionados, and Gordon & MacPhail has been at the forefront of these exciting developments. Imagine uncorking a bottle and being transported back to the early 80's, that's exactly the kind of nostalgia trip Gordon & MacPhail have crafted with their vintage releases.
The Star of the Show: 1981 Port Ellen
Let's start with the headliner. The 1981 Port Ellen, a whisky so old it probably has stories to tell about the 80's that your parents won't! Priced at a cool £10,000 this bottle isn't just a drink, it's a collector's dream. It's the oldest whisky ever sold by the company and we can only guess the number of raised eyebrows and impressed nods it must have earned.
This exquisite whisky aged gracefully for 42 years in a refill sherry butt unveils a symphony of scents with each swirl. The aroma is a delightful medley featuring the sweet richness of medjool dates, the spicy warmth of ginger snap biscuits, and the indulgent depth of dark chocolate. On the palate it unfurls a rich and intricate tapestry of flavours. You'll savour the crunchy sweetness of peanut brittle, the lush fruitiness of marasca cherries, all intertwined with a whisper of subtle bonfire smoke that adds a mysterious smoky undertone. This whisky is a testament to the art of ageing, offering a complex yet harmoniously balanced sensory experience.
The Time-Travelling Trio
Gordon & MacPhail didn't just stop at one release though, they brought out a trio of time-travelling treats. Next up is the 1973 Glen Mhor, a bottle that takes you back to a time when bell-bottoms were in and disco was king. Priced at £6,000, this whisky truly is a piece of history and possibly a great conversation starter at parties.
This single cask whisky having been masterfully matured in an ex-sherry hogshead truly embodies the essence of its lengthy ageing process. On the nose it greets you with an enchanting blend of aromas: the deep rich sweetness of stewed raisins, the tartness of morello cherries, and a comforting hint of toffee. As it graces your palate it unfolds layers of flavours, starting with a luscious berry compote, followed by the caramelised depth of demerara sugar and finishing with a subtle yet distinctive nutty hint of walnut.
Last but not least, the 1976 Banff Distillery release, priced at £4,300. This whisky might just have the most interesting tales to tell considering it hails from a distillery that's now a part of whisky folklore having closed its doors in the 1980s. This single cask whisky nurtured to perfection in an ex-sherry butt presents a rich tapestry of aromas and flavours. The nose is greeted with the delightful fusion of toffee-apple, the deep sweetness of prunes and a hint of spicy clove. On the palate this dram unfolds into a delectable array of tastes, the smooth almond-like essence of marzipan, the warm complexity of mulling spices and the distinct nutty finish of hazelnuts.
More Than Just a Tipple
What makes these whiskys truly exceptional isn't just their age or their price tag, it's the commitment to preserving history one sip at a time. Each bottle from Gordon & MacPhail is like a time capsule capturing the essence of its era.
It's also a testament to the wizards at Gordon & MacPhail who have the magical ability to turn aged casks into liquid gold. Their skill in selecting and nurturing these whiskys over decades is nothing short of impressive.
Final Thoughts: Whisky, The Luxury Time Machine
So, if you've ever fancied a taste of the past or wanted to impress your friends with something more than just a fancy label, these releases from Gordon & MacPhail might just be what you're looking for. They're not just drinks, they're experiences, stories, and journeys to a bygone era all neatly bottled up for your enjoyment. Here's to the fine art of ageing gracefully, one exceptional whisky at a time! 🥃✨
