SMWS Whisky Sample Breaeval 13 Year Old 113.72 Morris Dancers On the Tongue 2023 Release (30ml, 59%)

SMWS Whisky Sample Breaeval 13 Year Old 113.72 Morris Dancers On the Tongue 2023 Release (30ml, 59%)

The SMWS 113.72 "Morris Dancers on the Tongue" is a quintessential "Green & Floral" Speyside dram. Braeval (formerly Braes of Glenlivet) is the highest distillery in Scotland and is known for a light, ester-driven spirit that is typically hidden away in Chivas Regal blends.

When bottled by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society after 13 years in a First-Fill Bourbon Barrel, that hidden spirit is allowed to perform a "dance" of bright citrus and meadow-like freshness.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh and aromatically "green." It opens with crushed mint, lime zest, and green apple skins. There is a distinct floral sweetness, reminiscent of elderflower cordial and cut grass. As it sits, the first-fill barrel reveals its influence with notes of vanilla fudge, coconut ice, and a dusting of icing sugar.

Palate: The arrival is tingly and energetic—true to the "Morris Dancers" moniker. It leads with popping candy, lemon drops, and fizzy ginger beer. Mid-palate, the texture becomes creamier, offering white chocolate, custard creams, and apricot jam. The spirit is clean and high-toned, with a lovely herbal backbone of lemon balm and chamomile.

Finish: Short to medium, but incredibly refreshing. It leaves a crisp, drying sensation of pine needles, white pepper, and a final burst of sweet grapefruit.\

Why it's special

The "Hidden" Distillery: Braeval is rarely seen as a single malt. For an SMWS member or collector, "113" represents a chance to taste a distillery that is vital to the blending industry but elusive to the public.