Whisky Focus - Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Linkwood Distillery 1956

Seasoned Elgin based independent whisky bottler Gordon & MacPhail who has been laying Scotch malt whisky down to mature since 1895 has once again demonstrated that they are unrivalled in the industry for their selection of old & rare whisky.

The family owned and run independent bottler has unveiled yet another exceptionally rare single cask, this time a Linkwood single malt which was distilled 1956. This Private Collection from Linkwood Distillery 1956 by Gordon & MacPhail is the second release of four single casks which will join the very rare ‘Private Collection’ range. G&M tell me that this is the last 1950s cask from Linkwood Distillery in Gordon & MacPhail’s unrivalled inventory; it is believed to be the final remaining 1950s cask globally.

The deliciously dark and rich looking 60 year old whisky was matured in a first fill Sherry hogshead cask which was filled at the Linkwood Distillery on the 3rd January 1956, Cask 20 is from a defining period in the company’s history. It was one of the last casks laid down by John Urquhart, first generation member of the family that owns Gordon & MacPhail, before he retired the following month. Cask 20 matured for six decades under the watchful eyes of John’s son, George, and subsequent generations until the decision to bottle was made by the fourth generation of the Urquhart family.

Even after 60 years in the cask the whisky was bottled at a very impressive 49.4% ABV and as you can imagine this is a very limited release with just 53 decanters of the Private Collection Linkwood 60 Year Old single malt whisky being released for sale worldwide with a UK RRP of £22,000.

G&M described the rare liquid as: "Mahogany and chestnut brown in colour. Rich, warm aromas lend to a sweet full-bodied experience with highlights of blueberry, fruitcake, and dark chocolate. This ultra-aged single malt, a testament to the knowledge and expertise curated over four generations, culminates in a resoundingly rich finish".

As you would expect for such a release, it is presented in premium packaging. The rare whisky has been packaged using an award-winning design, the landscape surrounding the Linkwood Distillery inspires the unique contours etched into the gold base and stopper of each bespoke decanter. All 53 decanters are hand-blown and individually numbered with a certificate of authenticity signed by Stephen Rankin.

You will find the Private Collection from Linkwood Distillery 1956 by Gordon & MacPhail available from specialist online whisky retailers such as The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt
 

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