Orphan Barrel “initially began in 2014 as a passion project — a search for rare whiskies hidden away and nearly forgotten in the dark corners of distilleries and warehouses across the world.” Today I’m reviewing the final of three whiskies released under the Muckety-Muck umbrella: a 26-year-old Single Grain Scotch whisky matured in bourbon casks.
Produced by the legendary Port Dundas distillery, demolished in 2011 by Diageo, it was named for Port Dundas’ most famed prize-winning pig. The series was Orphan Barrel’s first foray into Scotch. Legend says the distillery’s pigs fed on spent malts and that Muckety was the winningest of the passel — evidenced by his wall of medals. The distillery actually housed a working piggery on premises.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Very light honey
Nose: Freshly sliced apples, honey, orange, fermented sugar (rum-like), caramel, shortbread cookies, heavy vanilla
Palate: Super floral — rosewater, orange peel, vanilla, pear. Then notes of mole sauce, oak, honey.
Final Thoughts
An absolutely delicious Single Grain Scotch. I can say with certainty that it’s not easy to find 26-year Port Dundas.
Originally published on Wine & Whiskey Globe. Sample received from Orphan Barrel.