Whisky Review/Tasting: Longmorn 21 years 1992 Signatory Vintage

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Speyside, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation Date: April 10, 1992.
Bottling Date: August 23, 2013.
Age Statement: 21 years.
Maturation: Matured in a hogshead cask, possibly a Limousin French wine cask, given the flavor profile and color.
Color: Described as having a wonderful cherry color, natural color.
Clarity: Clear, though the cork was disintegrating, which is noted as not affecting the quality.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it is a Signatory Vintage bottling, which typically features detailed labeling including cask and bottle numbers.
ABV: 55.9%.

Nose: Full, heavy, strong oak with a backdrop of overripe papaya and a hint of fermenting fruit.
Palate: Deep and old with strong fruit notes, caramel, and vanilla. No fresh fruit notes like apple or citrus, but rather hefty, dark fruits. With water, vanilla and caramel become more pronounced, and the whisky becomes slightly lighter but retains its complexity.
Finish: Oakiness is distinct but not too bitter, reminiscent of espresso or a sweeter cappuccino. The addition of water brings out more fruitiness and complexity.

Horst Luening describes this Longmorn 21 years as a "cellar find," highlighting its rarity and special nature as an aged statement whisky from a distillery that primarily serves the blended whisky industry.
The detailed account of the whisky's characteristics, including the potential use of a Limousin French wine cask for maturation, adds a layer of intrigue and specificity to this particular bottle.

Longmorn is characterized as a "tier two distillery" in Speyside, not as prominent as others but significant for its contribution to blended whiskies.
The distillery's history of age-stated releases and their scarcity is discussed, emphasizing the value and uniqueness of this 21-year-old expression.

"Longmorn is one of the really really good distilleries producing behind the scenes bringing really good whiskey for the blending industry."
"If you have such a single cask, you can't expect to get the same result as from the mixtures where two, three, four casks are added together."

A rare and aged single malt from Longmorn, distilled in 1992 and bottled by Signatory Vintage in 2013.
Matured in a hogshead cask, likely a Limousin French wine cask, contributing to its unique flavor profile.
Features a complex flavor profile with heavy oak, overripe papaya, caramel, and vanilla, with no fresh fruit notes.
Valued for its rarity and the craftsmanship of both the distillery and the independent bottler.
Appreciated by Horst Luening for its depth, complexity, and contribution to the quality of blended whiskies.

For the Whisky Collector: The rarity and unique characteristics of this bottle make it a must-have for collectors, especially those interested in Speyside single malts or independent bottlings.
For the Experienced Whisky Enthusiast: The complexity and depth of flavors, along with the high ABV, will appeal to seasoned whisky drinkers looking for a robust and engaging tasting experience.
For the Whisky Investor: Given its scarcity, age statement, and the reputation of both the distillery and Signatory Vintage, this bottle could be a valuable addition to an investment portfolio.