Mortlach “Midnight Dusk” – The Beast of Dufftown Single Malt Scotch Whisky 2024 Special Release

Mortlach Midnight Dusk is a daring and umami-rich twist on Speyside whisky. Expertly finished in Ramandolo white wine and Sangiovese red wine casks, it unfolds with fruit-forward elegance, restrained sweetness, and savory complexity—delivering a contemplative dram that feels both unexpected and delightfully balanced.

Origins & Cask Finish

• This special release refines Mortlach’s signature "Beast of Dufftown" profile by finishing the spirit in casks previously holding sweet Ramandolo white wine and earthy Sangiovese red wine.
  

• Bottled at 57.5% ABV, it comes without chill-filtration—capturing full texture and character.
  

Aromatic Profile (Nose)

The nose strikes a vibrant balance—initially crisp and fresh with orchard and stone fruit: apple, apricot, peach, pineapple, green melon, and cherry, accompanied by floral notes of hawthorn and orange peel, followed by marzipan, caramel, marshmallow, coconut oil, and acacia honey. Mortlach’s earthy, sulphurous backbone lingers subtly through it all

Palate & Texture

The palate unfolds with a vinous sweetness rich in red fruits (gooseberry, blueberry) and floral hues (notably sugared violets), supported by marzipan and gentle astringency. A spirited note of black pepper and ginger adds spice, while coffee, cocoa, pecans, macadamia, and sulfur emerge in the background

Finish

Finishing medium to long, the whisky closes with dry, warming notes of red fruit, licorice, nuts, and a hint of bitterness, wrapped in a delicate, refreshing liveliness

Highlights at a Glance

Expert & Community Impressions

• The WhiskyEdition notes a dense, chocolaty texture with spicy pepper and a sharp finish, yet finds the price-performance less compelling.
  

• Malts.com highlights its uniquely decadent aperitivo vibe—"layered crisp fruit, caramelised miso and a hint of cured prosciutto" add to its umami flair.
  

Serving & Pairings

• Best enjoyed neat in a tulip glass to fully explore its layered aromas and mouthfeel.

• Brilliant as an aperitivo, or paired with savory tapas, aged cheeses, or nutty desserts that echo its fruity and umami undertones.

In sum, Mortlach Midnight Dusk is a captivating, richly nuanced whisky—bold, refined, and defiantly distinctive. A must-try for anyone drawn to whisky depth, complexity, and imaginative finishes.