Lindores Abbey Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky MCDXCIV

The Lindores Abbey Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky MCDXCIVis an elegant bottle honoring the first documented distillation of Scotch whisky.Lindores Abbey MCDXCIV is a refreshingly nuanced Lowland single malt. Light yet richly flavored, it delivers orchard-fruit brightness, gentle spice, and creamy texture—all with a historical soul rooted in Scotland's oldest known whisky distillation.

98/100 and Platinum Award at the 2025 Las Vegas Spirits Awards

Historical & Production Context

• Heritage Site: Lindores Abbey is traditionally recognized as the location of the first recorded Scotch whisky distillation in 1494.

• Modern Revival: The distillery launched in 2017, using 100% locally grown Fife barley and a unique trio of stills ("sister spirit stills") for refined copper contact. Wash times are extended to about 117 hours for expressive character.

• Maturation: Aged in a blend of ex-bourbon barrels, sherry butts, and STR (red wine) barriques. No chill-filtration or added coloring—it’s bottled naturally at 46% ABV.

Tasting Profile

Nose
Soft and inviting—think toffee pennies, creamy vanilla, orchard fruits like pear drops and apples, bakery warmth with puff pastry and buttercream, layered with rich figs, plums, and subtle dark chocolate and tobacco.

Palate
Slightly creamy and viscous, the whisky delivers caramel and vanilla in harmony with spice (nutmeg, clove, black pepper), stewed fruits (marzipan, poached pears), burnt orange rind, chocolate digestives, and a touch of marzipan sweetness.

Finish
Medium in length, with drying oak, a flash of white peppery warmth, and lingering orchard fruit sweetness combined with anise and peppermint tones.

Summary Table

Notable Highlights

• The name MCDXCIV commemorates Lindores Abbey’s historic contribution to Scotch whisky, making it a bottle steeped in heritage 

• The distillery’s use of long fermentations and sister stills delivers distinctive flavor even in a youthful release (around 3–4 years old) 

• Master of Malt awarded it a Double Gold at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition—a testament to its charm and quality 

In essence, Lindores Abbey MCDXCIV is an enthralling debut malt that artfully bridges centuries of tradition with vibrant modern craft. It’s a light, flavorful, and historically resonant dram—ideal for fans of nuanced, fruit-forward Lowland whiskies.