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Whisky Review: Longmorn 25 Year Old Secret Speyside Collection

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Whisky Review: Longmorn 25 Year Old Secret Speyside Collection

Name: Longmorn 25 Year Old Secret Speyside Collection: Expert Whisky Review
Item: Whisky Review: Longmorn 25 Year Old Secret Speyside Collection
Rating: 9
Author: Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery

by Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery
November 26, 2024

Jeff, a UK-based whisky reviewer with a lighthearted approach.

Tasting Notes:

About:

Following a previous release of a 18 any 23 year old statement this is part of the “Secret Collection” where they are showcasing the single malts which are normally part of Chivas blends. This 25 year old cask strength expression has been matured in American oak barrels, hogsheads, and butts while being bottled without chill filtration.

Appearance:

A rich deep gold colour with a syrup like thickness in the glass.

Nose:

At first it is very savoury forward with meaty notes similar to roast lamb cooked with lots of rosemary which swiftly turns much sweeter. From ripe plums to blackcurrant squash there is a prominent citrus edge like an open crate of tangerines. The sweetness in the aroma builds to an almost synthetic sugar note similar to opening a tin of strawberries in syrup.

Palate:

The palate is reversed with the sweeter notes arriving first with orange chocolate which is then upended with lots of rich savoury tastes. Marmalade on malty brown toast with a huge thick texture that is remarkably chewy and oily. The citrus really takes hold at the back of the palate with a hint of lime and kiwi pairing with a very soft chilli spice.

Finish:

A long slightly dry finish where the sweetness really builds to the point it almost becomes tart with plenty of rich milk chocolate notes.

Comments:

A whisky where the high quality maturation at a higher age really is reflected in the liquid providing almost a main and desert from the combination of sweet and savoury notes.

I am sure if they released a integrity focused, well priced core range of Longmorn it would swiftly become a staple for many whisky enthusiasts.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Are There Any Whiskies Similar To Longmorn 25 Year Old Secret Speyside Collection?

Based on the tasting notes, it’s unlikely you’ll find many single malts—or whiskies of any kind—that offer such a comprehensive “main course and dessert” experience. However, Longmorn is firmly in the category of “must-have” malts for blending, which offers some intriguing alternatives to explore.

Among the standouts, Mortlach and Craigellachie are prominent Speyside whiskies that balance sweet and savory profiles. Craigellachie is particularly known for its distinctive saltiness, while Mortlach leans towards heavier, meatier flavors. Another contender is Strathisla, part of Pernod Ricard’s blending stable, which often showcases spicier, ginger-like notes that straddle the line between sweet and savory. While none may replicate Longmorn exactly, these options bring their own unique complexities worth exploring.

What Makes This A Must-Have For Collectors?

Old Longmorn tends to fall into two distinct categories in today’s whisky world. On one hand, there are the official bottlings—well-crafted, higher ABV releases with solid pricing compared to similar options on the market. On the other, you’ll find exceptionally aged expressions from independent bottlers like Gordon & MacPhail or, occasionally, Signatory. While these independent releases can offer excellent value, they often come with a four-figure price tag.

Official bottlings generally dominate the market, thanks to their superior packaging, classic designs, and consistent recognition through reviews and awards. Independent bottlings, while often delivering superior taste, rarely attract the same level of demand as their official counterparts.

Final Thoughts On Longmorn 25 Year Old Secret Speyside Collection

This is a remarkable bottle of aged Speyside whisky that deserves a place in any collection. However, with older Longmorn becoming increasingly rare, it’s worth seeking one out and enjoying it slowly over time to truly appreciate its value.

Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery

Based in the South West of the UK, Jeff brings an irreverent and laid-back approach to whisky reviewing, dispelling any notions of snobbery surrounding the spirit. With a genuine enthusiasm for exceptional drams, he often embraces the whimsical side of whisky. Jeff's tongue-in-cheek whisky content has earned him recognition in the Malt Whisky Yearbook, and he has contributed articles and reviews to numerous whisky platforms.

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