Linkwood 2011 (bottled 2023), Wilson & Morgan – Barrel Selection (Patricius Cask), 46%

Introduction

Linkwood 2011 represents the marriage of traditional Speyside whisky craftsmanship with innovative cask selection by independent bottler Wilson & Morgan, creating a Single Malt that bridges Scottish distilling heritage with Hungarian wine tradition.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley from the Speyside region, processed at the historic Linkwood distillery founded in 1821
• Distillation process: Double distillation in Linkwood’s traditional copper pot stills, known for creating a light, floral spirit character
• Maturation: Initial maturation in traditional oak casks, followed by a finishing period in Patricius Tokaji wine casks from Hungary’s renowned sweet wine region
• Special techniques: Natural bottling at 46% without chill-filtration to preserve the whisky’s complex esters and flavor compounds

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Honey-drizzled orchard fruits, apricot marmalade, vanilla custard and subtle floral notes with hints of nutmeg and sweet oak
• Palate: Rich honeyed sweetness complemented by baked apple, poached pears, and candied citrus peel, with layers of sweet spice, vanilla, and delicate wine-influenced fruitiness
• Finish: Medium to long with lingering notes of honey, dried fruits, subtle oak tannins, and a distinctive Tokaji-influenced sweet spice complexity

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped nosing glass or Glencairn whisky glass
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat to appreciate the complexity imparted by the Tokaji cask finish; a few drops of water can open up additional aromatics
• Food pairings: Pairs excellently with honey-based desserts, crème brûlée, blue cheese, or dried fruits and nuts

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Speyside
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Wilson & Morgan’s prestigious Barrel Selection series, recognized for exceptional cask selection and quality

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Linkwood 2011 represents a rare intersection of Scottish whisky-making tradition and Hungarian wine culture, creating a profile unavailable in standard distillery releases.

With limited bottles produced from this special Patricius Tokaji cask finish, availability is highly restricted and each release from this vintage becomes increasingly difficult to obtain.

Wilson & Morgan, recognized as authorities in cask selection since 1992, have applied their expertise to identify this exceptional Linkwood expression that showcases both the distillery character and the unique influence of Hungarian sweet wine casks.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts and collectors globally seek out these specialized Wilson & Morgan releases for their innovative approach to cask finishing and consistent quality.

Once added to a collection, many connoisseurs commit to exploring the full range of Wilson & Morgan’s offerings, recognizing the thoughtful curation behind each bottling.

Independent bottlings with specialized wine cask finishes have gained increasing acclaim in recent years, with Tokaji-finished whiskies particularly celebrated for their complex honeyed character that complements the underlying spirit.

From Speyside to You

Wilson & Morgan has carefully nurtured this whisky through its journey from Linkwood Distillery to the exceptional Patricius Tokaji casks, offering you an experience that transcends ordinary single malt expressions.

The approachable yet complex character of this bottling makes it especially appealing to both newcomers and experienced whisky enthusiasts who appreciate nuanced cask influence.

By enjoying this bottle, you join a community of discerning drinkers who value both tradition and innovation in whisky – discover what makes this Linkwood 2011 Patricius Cask finish a true representation of the best in contemporary Scotch whisky craftsmanship.