Linkwood 15 G&M Whisky Review
Today we shall be having a look at a 15 year old Linkwood, whisky released by Gordon and Macphail as part of their Distillery Labels series.
Gordon and Macphail are one of Scotlands oldest, and most respected independent bottlers. Founded in 1895 in Elgin as a grocery and wine merchant, they started bottling whisky around 1915.
It was the ambition of the company to own its own distillery for many generations. This came to fruition in 1993 when the company purchased Benromach in Forres from United Distillers.
The distillery was entirely re-equipped before being officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998 and a range of Benromach single malt expressions was subsequently introduced, now making up an important element of the Gordon & MacPhail business.
Here we have a 15 year old Linkwood, released as part of their Distillery Labels series. It is matured in sherry casks before being bottled at 46% ABV without any added colour or chill filtration.
The nose opens with classic dry sherry notes, soaked raisins, gentle milk chocolate, dry oak. Little time in the glass brings out fresh summer berries and just a touch of spice.
The palate starts much the same as the nose but with the spice more prominent. Cloves, cinnamon very much present. Lighter hints of honeyed nougat. Little time in the glass brings out a hint of mandarin, baked apple, plums and toffee.
The finish is medium long, dominated by spice with the slightest hint of oak barrel char.
A beautiful example of what Linkwood single malt whisky can be when Diageo dont get their mittens on it!
You can grab yours here: https://tinyurl.com/ejs9hc