Review by: Raygun

Another Binny’s pick this time. Mannochmore is not something I’ve seen a ton of; in fact, this appears to be the first one I’ve tried, or at least reviewed. Built in 1971 and it seems most production goes to Diageo blends. There’s the occasional OB release and a few IBs floating around. Binny’s selections rarely steer me wrong. Often punch above their weight, I’d say. Hard to go wrong taking a chance on one. Reviewed from a sample. Rested about 10 minutes.

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Nose: Malt, kiwi, honeydew, even some green grapes. Toasted, almost burnt, bread. Not having had any Mannochmore, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The fruitiness is very nice.  

Palate: That’s tasty. There are hints of youth and it’s a bit hot for sure, but clean and again very fruity. Kiwi, melon, tangerine, and apricot. Very summery. Nice layer of dark caramel, too. Good texture. Gets a little heavier on the kiwi and citrus with time.  

Finish: Gets almost chocolatey. There’s a pastry richness here. Pretty astringent. More caramel, and the fruit is now taking a backseat, but not gone. Candied orange peel. Pasilla chile. 

Bonus wife note: “This one is good. I don’t know why.”

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Conclusion: Heard this one talked up some, but still came as a surprise. A young release from a rather no-name distillery, never know what you’ll get. This is very pleasant. A touch hot, yes, and maybe a bit tightly wound at first, but does well with some time. Nice fruit, and that turn to cake and chocolate on the finish was a pleasant surprise. Great summer pour. Suits the current swampy weather.  

Buy a bottle? Probably wouldn’t go to the lengths of getting it shipped, but if I were in Chicago I’d grab one.  

Final Score: 81

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Scoring Legend:

• 95-100: As good as it gets. Jaw-dropping, eye-widening, unforgettable whisky. (Convalmore 36)
• 90-94: Sublime, a personal favorite in its category. (Bruichladdich Black Art 4.1)
• 85-89: Excellent, a standout dram. (Ledaig 13 Amontillado)
• 80-84: Quite good. Quality stuff. (Tomatin 18)
• 75-79: Decent whisky worth tasting. (Glen Scotia 15)
• 70-74: Meh. It’s definitely drinkable, but it can do better. (Aultmore 12)
• 60-69: Not so good. I might not turn down a glass if I needed a drink. (Glenmorangie 10)
• 50-59: Save it for mixing. (Old Pulteney 12)
• 0-49: Blech. (Muirhead’s Silver Seal 16)