
Murray McDavid - Benchmark, Ledaig 15y, 2009-2024, single malt, murca tawny port cask finish, 53.2%, 1547b, scotch whisky
Murray McDavid - Ledaig 15-Year-Old is an exceptional single malt Scotch whisky from the Tobermory Distillery, located on the Isle of Mull. Distilled in 2009 and bottled in 2024, this whisky spent its final maturation period in Murça Tawny Port casks, sourced from the Douro Valley in Portugal. This finish enhances the bold, peated character of Ledaig with layers of fruity sweetness, nuttiness, and depth. Bottled at 53.2% ABV, this cask-strength release is a showcase of balanced intensity and complexity. With a limited production of 1547 bottles, this whisky is a rare and innovative addition to Murray McDavid’s Benchmark Series.
Key Features
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Peated Single Malt:
- Produced at the Tobermory Distillery under the Ledaig label, this whisky features the robust and smoky character that Ledaig is renowned for.
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Murça Tawny Port Cask Finish:
- Finished in Murça Tawny Port casks, this unique maturation imparts flavors of red fruits, nuts, and wine sweetness, complementing the whisky’s bold peat and maritime notes.
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Cask Strength:
- Bottled at 53.2% ABV, this whisky delivers powerful, unfiltered flavors, perfect for those who appreciate the intensity of cask-strength expressions.
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Limited Edition:
- With only 1547 bottles produced, this is a collectible and exclusive release, appealing to whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Flavour Profile
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Nose:
- A captivating aroma of smoked plums, toasted almonds, and dark cherries, with hints of heather honey, seaweed, and a touch of peppery spice.
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Palate:
- Bold and complex, with flavors of blackberries, cranberry jam, and toffee, layered with charcoal smoke and earthy peat. The Tawny Port finish introduces a sweet nuttiness and red wine tannins, perfectly balanced by the whisky’s briny and smoky backbone.
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Finish:
- A long and warming finish, with lingering notes of smoked red fruits, dark chocolate, and a subtle oak spice, leaving a harmonious blend of sweetness and smoke.
Food Pairing Suggestions
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Grilled Meats:
- Pair with barbecued lamb chops or smoked brisket to complement the whisky’s smoky and fruity flavors, creating a rich and savory experience.
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Dark Chocolate Desserts:
- Enjoy with dark chocolate tart or chocolate-dipped figs, as the whisky’s port sweetness and peaty richness beautifully enhance the dessert’s flavors.
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Cheese:
- Pair with smoked Gouda or aged Manchego, where the whisky’s nuttiness and smoky notes contrast and complement the cheese’s creamy and sharp profile.
Who Is It For?
Murray McDavid - Ledaig 15-Year-Old is ideal for:
- Peated Whisky Fans: Ledaig’s robust smoky and maritime character makes this whisky a must-try for lovers of peated Scotch.
- Cask-Finish Enthusiasts: The Murça Tawny Port cask finish adds a unique layer of complexity, appealing to those who enjoy exploring innovative and unconventional whisky maturations.
- Collectors: With only 1547 bottles available, this limited-edition release is a valuable addition to any whisky collection.
- Cask-Strength Lovers: Bottled at 53.2% ABV, this whisky delivers bold and intense flavors, perfect for those who enjoy powerful and unadulterated expressions.
About the Brand
Murray McDavid is a celebrated independent Scotch whisky bottler, established in 1994 and based at the historic Coleburn Distillery in Speyside. Known for their innovative approach to whisky-making, Murray McDavid specializes in unique cask finishes and small-batch bottlings. By combining traditional Scotch whisky craftsmanship with experimental cask finishes like wine, rum, and port, Murray McDavid consistently pushes the boundaries of flavor and complexity.