Longmorn Distillery, a historic name in the Speyside whisky scene, has introduced its oldest single malt to date, a meticulously crafted 30-year-old whisky. Owned by Chivas Brothers, Longmorn’s latest release is described as the "ultimate expression" of the brand, showcasing 130 years of whisky-making expertise. This new addition follows the release of their 18- and 22-year-old single malts earlier this year, rounding out a refined portfolio that celebrates the distillery's heritage and dedication to quality.
Image credit: Longmorn Distillery
A Testament to 130 Years of Whisky Craftsmanship
Founded in 1894 during the rise of Scotland’s whisky industry, Longmorn has maintained a reputation for quality and consistency, particularly in Speyside’s distinctive single malts. Known initially for contributing to blended whiskies, Longmorn has more recently gained acclaim for its unique single malt offerings. The release of the 30-year-old single malt is a nod to this evolution, reflecting the distillery's commitment to innovation and tradition.
The 30-year-old whisky has aged for three decades in a combination of hogsheads and American oak barrels, a process that enriches it with a distinctive flavor profile. Each bottle is filled at cask strength, maintaining the integrity of the whisky’s rich flavors, which only years of patient aging and expert oversight can produce. Longmorn will release this expression annually in a limited, single batch, creating an exclusive opportunity for collectors and whisky enthusiasts to savor a piece of the distillery’s legacy.
Complex Flavor Profile Honoring the Speyside Tradition
Tasting notes for Longmorn 30-Year-Old reveal a sophisticated blend of aromas and flavors characteristic of Speyside’s renowned single malts. The nose opens with rich caramel, set honey, and homemade raspberry jam, balanced by dark cherries and ripe plums. This aromatic introduction is followed by hints of toasted oak and freshly ground nutmeg, adding depth and warmth.
On the palate, the whisky offers a luxurious, full-bodied experience with prominent toffee notes. Layers of treacle cake, roasted walnuts, and dark fudge provide a satisfying richness. Subtle hints of spiced red apples, dried apricots, and cinnamon add complexity, culminating in a long, smooth finish that lingers, showcasing the patience and artistry poured into each bottle. This flavor profile epitomizes the “quintessential” Longmorn style, recognized for its balance, depth, and nuanced character.
Crafted by Experts, Celebrated by Connoisseurs
Kevin Balmforth, Longmorn’s cask master, led the development of this release, drawing on the expertise of generations of distillers and cask masters at Longmorn. Reflecting on the project, Balmforth emphasized the dedication and skill behind every step, from cask selection to maturation. “With an ambition to craft the ‘ultimate’ expression of Longmorn in this new 30-Year-Old single malt, we knew we must draw on the vast knowledge, dedication, and craftsmanship of Longmorn cask experts, past and present,” Balmforth noted. His team carefully managed the whisky’s long maturation, allowing the spirit’s full potential to develop while preserving Longmorn’s unique style.
The 30-year-old’s packaging was inspired by Longmorn’s history and the golden age of travel, evoking the distillery’s legacy of transporting whisky across the globe by rail. This attention to detail speaks to the brand’s respect for its roots and commitment to presenting the whisky in a way that honors its journey from the cask to the consumer.
An Investment in Quality: Global Availability and Pricing
Priced at €1,750 (approximately US$1,883 or £1,225), Longmorn 30-Year-Old will be available globally through The Whisky Exchange starting in mid-November 2024. Its exclusive annual release allows whisky connoisseurs to build a collection, with each year’s batch promising unique subtleties shaped by the aging process. This strategic, limited release not only heightens the whisky’s allure among collectors but also positions it as a significant milestone in Longmorn’s portfolio, celebrating over a century of whisky-making excellence.
In summary, Longmorn 30-Year-Old stands as a tribute to the rich history, dedication, and craftsmanship that define the Longmorn distillery. By combining traditional Speyside flavors with a layered complexity, this new release aims to captivate both seasoned whisky collectors and enthusiasts eager to experience one of Scotland’s most iconic single malts in its prime.
