Diageo Rare & Exceptional launches Midnight Malt, a 30-year-old single malt from Mortlach. Capturing the intensity of the moment, the Midnight Malt is a rare and magnetic invitation into the boldest, deepest, and most intriguing expression from Mortlach. The 30YO expression presents unexpected layers of richness and intensity – a result of a three-cask finish – a bold prevenance that is an invitation to Speyside’s darker side.
The Midnight Malt is matured in a combination of refill American oak and European oak casks, before being split to finish in Bordeaux wine, Calvados and Guatemalan rum casks, and finally married in custom quarter casks. Bottled at 49.1% ABV, this expression is said to taste best in the later hours of the night as feelings of mystery and romance enhances.
“A splendid example of Mortlach, this has tell-tale savoury-meaty notes yet retains a freshness that is unusual for a whisky of this age.”
– Charles MacLean, whisky expert and writer
“There is an art and science to the creation of whiskey, born of an unabating quest to wield flavour – a journey that is complex, evolving into unknown directions, only to finally reveal itself as the patient labour of a visionary work”
– Dr. Craig Wilson, Master of Malt at Diageo
Tasting notes
Appearance: Muted amber. Excellent beading.
Nose: mellow nose with some initial prickle. This settles in time to reveal a savoury and faintly herbal top note, suggesting pork crackling sprinkled with dry sage.
Palate: A richly winey, apple fruity and mouth-watering start delights the palate, backed by a long spicy intensity with a delicious black pepper note that really persists.
Finish: Long, sweet, and deep-flavoured, with a light peppery spiciness. With water, still sweet and softer, with the spicy heat joined by a suggestion of mint chocolate in the lingering aftertaste.
