It’s important to establish early on that age is not always an indicator of quality when it comes to whisky. Some of the greatest single malt Scotches are matured for ten to twelve years, whereas the best American whiskeys are only approximately six years old. There is, of course, a vast market for extremely rare and expensive whiskies that have matured for anywhere from 20 to over 100 years. For instance, The Macallan is known for releasing single malts that are up to 81 years old (and often cost over $100,000). Not all of these whiskeys wasted their time in the barrel for an extra 30 years, but some of them are well worth your time. Consequently, we compiled a list of the finest ultra-aged single malts (Scottish and Irish) currently on the market. Although pricey, these whiskeys are well worth the cost.
1. Bushmills Third Rare Cask Rare Cask (30 YO Madeira Cask)
Although the distillery boasts that it is the oldest licensed distillery in the world, Bushmills produces only single malt and is best recognized in this country for its smooth blended Irish whisky. Also, the whisky is top-notch, with a solid selection spanning from 10 to 21 years of age. The Rare Cask collection of ultra-aged single malts is worth a try if you’re willing to splurge. The newest addition is a 30-year-old whisky that was aged for 13 years in bourbon and sherry casks and then for another 17 years in first-fill Madeira wine barrels. There are delicious flavors of vanilla, baked apple, stone fruit, and raisins in this whisky. You should go for the 29YO if the 30YO is unavailable.
2. The Glenrothes 36
In the same vein as the more well-known Macallan Scotch distillery, The Glenrothes is adept in producing single malt whisky that has been aged in sherry casks. Although the distillery also produces a 50-year-old release, the taste profile of this 36-year-old is right on. It was distilled in 1978 and aged in sherry-seasoned wood for a unique expression. Large hints of orange, cherry, vanilla, and spice join the already refined whisky’s oak on the palate without overwhelming it. New Yorker cartoonist Maddie Dai has created an NFT for those who are still interested in them. There are less than 200 bottles left.
3. Third Mortlach 30
Drinks conglomerate Diageo has several distilleries, including the fascinating Mortlach. Aged in American and European oak, completed in Bordeaux wine, Calvados brandy, and rum barrels, and finally married in tiny quarter casks, the new “Midnight Malt” has a fascinating maturation narrative of its own. A single malt with a rich flavor profile that includes notes of dried fruit, tropical fruit, tannin, spice, and caramel thanks to the wood aging process. This is well-balanced, with the extended cask finishing not overwhelming the spirit.