Whisky Review/Tasting: Longmorn 1964 Gordon & MacPhail

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The Longmorn 1964 is a Scotch whisky, specifically from the Longmorn Distillery, which was founded in 1894.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: This whisky was matured in first-fill sherry casks, which significantly influences its flavor profile. It was bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, an independent bottler based in Elgin, Scotland.
Age Statement: The whisky is 48 years old, having been bottled in 2012.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is noted for its dark fruitiness, indicative of a rich color, though the specific hue is not described. The bottle features a vintage label, reflecting its heritage and the era of its distillation.

Balance of Flavors: The Longmorn 1964 offers a complex and deep flavor profile, with a balance between dark fruitiness from the sherry cask and strong oakiness from the long maturation.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its full and aromatic nature, the whisky presents flavors of rum, resin, old leather, beeswax polish, stewed prune, and a hint of nutmeg. The maturation in European oak lends a significant bitterness and tannins, with notes of vanilla and caramel emerging.
Comparison: The overwhelming oakiness and the diminished distillery character make it challenging to compare directly with other whiskies, as the wood influence dominates.

Anecdotes: Horst Luening, the host, shares a personal story of finding this rare bottle in the back of the warehouse with a broken seal, making it unsellable and thus a fortunate addition to his collection.
Trivia: The name "Longmorn" is derived from the Gaelic "Llan Morgunt," meaning "place of the holy man," referencing a church that once stood at the site.

Historical Context: The Longmorn Distillery's establishment in 1894 and its Gaelic name's meaning tie the whisky to Scotland's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Geographical Significance: The independent bottler, Gordon & MacPhail, is emphasized as a significant figure in the Scotch whisky industry, based in Elgin, Scotland, and founded in 1895.

Longmorn 1964 is a rare, 48-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail.
Matured in first-fill sherry casks, it presents a complex flavor profile dominated by dark fruitiness and strong oakiness.
The whisky's name and the distillery's location are tied to Scotland's cultural heritage.
Horst Luening shares a personal anecdote about acquiring the bottle due to its broken seal.
The whisky's rarity and the significant influence of the oak are highlighted as key characteristics.

Whisky Collectors: Given its rarity and age, this whisky is a must-have for collectors, especially those interested in historical bottles.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: The complex and deep flavor profile, dominated by oak, would appeal to seasoned whisky drinkers looking for a unique tasting experience.
Fans of Sherry Cask Whisky: Individuals who appreciate the influence of sherry cask maturation might find this whisky intriguing, despite the dominant oakiness.