Description

Mortlach 2013 Aged 12 Years Single Malt Scotch Whisky – 100 Proof Edition #60 By Signatory Vintage (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 57.1%           Age: 12 Years Old           Country: Scotland

Cask Number(s): Edition #60
Date of Distilling: 2013
Date of Bottling: 2025
Matured In: 2nd Fill Oloroso Sherry Butts

The Whisky

Unleash the “Beast of Dufftown” in a more refined and distillate-forward form with the Mortlach 12 Year Old (Signatory 100-Proof Edition #60). While many independent Mortlachs are drenched in heavy first-fill sherry, this specific 700ml expression—distilled in 2013 and bottled in 2025—matured exclusively in 2nd-fill Oloroso Sherry Butts. This choice of wood is a connoisseur’s delight, as the refill casks have already surrendered their most aggressive tannins, allowing the legendary, muscular character of the Mortlach spirit to shine through with greater clarity.

Presented at the historic British 100 Proof standard of 57.1% ABV, this edition is part of Signatory’s highly successful series that offers cask-strength intensity at an accessible price point. By using 2nd-fill butts, Signatory has achieved a masterful balance: you receive the nutty, oxidative depth of Oloroso without losing the “meaty” and “oily” hallmarks of the distillery. As always, it is non-chill filtered and natural in colour.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and “old-school” profile. You are greeted by aromas of roasted pineapples and maple syrup, which are quickly balanced by Mortlach’s savory side—think Jamon (cured ham) and smoked almonds. As it breathes, more delicate notes of custard and matchbox flint emerge, creating a complex, brooding bouquet.

Palate: The mouthfeel is full bodied, oily, and satisfyingly heavy. It opens with chocolate-covered cherries and sticky toffee pudding, but the refill wood allows a savoury backbone of meat stock and oak spice to provide the structure. Mid-palate, you’ll find burnt orange peel, cinnamon bark, and stewed figs, all delivered with the intense heat of 57.1% ABV.

Finish: Long, warming, and persistent. The finish lingers with dark chocolate and toasted spices, finally tapering off with a pleasant walnut bitterness and earthy tannins that leave the palate clean.

The Distillery

Mortlach, founded in 1823, is the architectural marvel of Dufftown. It is famous for its “2.81 times distilled” process—a bewilderingly complex system involving six stills of varying shapes (including the famous “Wee Witchie”) that creates a spirit far heavier and more “beasty” than typical Speyside malts. A unique factual detail: Mortlach still uses traditional worm tub condensers, which significantly reduces copper contact. This results in the high sulphur and “meaty” compounds that give this 12 year old its distinctive savoury weight, a character that thrives in the more subtle environment of 2nd-fill Oloroso wood.

Overall Review

The Mortlach 12 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #60 is globally reviewed as a “purist’s Mortlach,” praised for its incredible value and distillate forward profile. Critics have lauded the move to 2nd-fill butts, noting that it provides a “refined richness” that allows the distillery’s character to breathe, making it a mandatory purchase for those who want to experience the true “Beast” behind the sherry.