A Secret Islay Distillery (Master of Malt) Single Malt 31 Year Old 1990

A Secret Islay Distillery 31 Year Old 1990 is a rare, single cask single malt Scotch whisky from the Islay region of Scotland. Distilled in November 1990 at an undisclosed distillery—often speculated by enthusiasts to be one of the island's 'peated beasts' like Laphroaig—it was matured for over three decades before being bottled in 2022. This expression is part of the Master of Malt exclusive Single Cask collection, highlighting the independent bottler's philosophy of sourcing exceptional, well-aged spirits that showcase the unique coastal and smoky identity of Islay.

Whisky Description

This deeply aged whisky presents a rich, polished mahogany or dark amber hue, resulting from its significant time in wood. The nose is complex and layered, opening with sooty smoke, burnt biscuits, and earthy roasted coffee, which give way to sweeter notes of sticky toffee, dates, and candied bacon. On the palate, the body is dense and unctuous, featuring an intense 'Isla' welcome of pungent peat smoke, oily tar, and salted caramel. These robust elements are balanced by sophisticated flavors of balsamic poached fruits, dark chocolate raisins, and leathery old oak. The finish is remarkably long and drying, characterized by lingering notes of ashen charcoal, cigar box spice, and a final wave of coastal salinity.