ARTIST #15 The Dark Side of the Moon is a 35-year-old Speyside single malt Scotch whisky from Mortlach Distillery, bottled at 44.2% ABV from a single 2nd fill sherry butt. This extraordinary release celebrates LA Maison du Whisky's ARTIST series 15th anniversary with only 350 bottles worldwide, featuring original artwork by Shenjiva Luthuli and representing over three decades of patient maturation.
Mortlach Distillery, known as "The Beast of Dufftown," produces some of Speyside's most complex and sought-after single malts through their distinctive 2.81 times distillation process. This particular expression was distilled in 1989 and carefully aged for 35 years in cask #5-28607, a 2nd fill sherry butt that has imparted deep complexity while allowing the distillery's meaty, robust character to shine through decades of slow maturation.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Rich dark chocolate, dried figs, leather-bound books, toasted almonds, candied orange peel
- Palate: Luxurious sherry influence with stewed plums, Christmas spices, dark honey, walnut oil, subtle smoke
- Finish: Long and warming with lingering dark fruit, gentle oak tannins, pepper spice
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky |
|---|---|
| ABV | 44.2% |
| Volume | 700ml |
| Age Statement | 35 Years |
| Distillery | Mortlach Distillery |
| Region | Speyside, Scotland |
| Cask Type | 2nd Fill Sherry Butt |
| Cask Number | #5-28607 |
| Distillation Year | 1989 |
| Bottling Year | 2025 |
| Limited Edition | 350 Bottles Worldwide |
Perfect For
- Serious Collectors: Ultra-rare 35-year-old Mortlach with provenance and artistic collaboration
- Special Celebrations: Milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or once-in-a-lifetime toasts
- Whisky Connoisseurs: Those seeking the pinnacle of aged Speyside complexity and sherry cask influence
- Investment Portfolio: Limited edition collectible with strong appreciation potential
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ARTIST #15 The Dark Side of the Moon taste like?
This 35-year-old Mortlach delivers an incredibly rich and complex profile dominated by deep sherry influence. Expect luxurious dark fruits like figs and plums, complemented by chocolate, leather, and warming spices, all balanced by Mortlach's signature meaty robustness that develops beautifully over decades of maturation.
Is this whisky good for cocktails?
At this age, rarity, and price point, ARTIST #15 is exclusively meant for neat sipping or with a few drops of water. Using a 35-year-old limited edition single malt in cocktails would mask its extraordinary complexity and represent poor value given its collectible status.
How should I drink this whisky?
Serve neat in a tulip glass at room temperature, allowing 10-15 minutes for the whisky to open up. A few drops of room temperature water can help unlock additional aromatics, but avoid ice which would dull the complex flavors developed over 35 years of aging.
Is ARTIST #15 worth the investment?
With only 350 bottles worldwide of a 35-year-old Mortlach, this represents exceptional rarity in the whisky market. The combination of advanced age, respected distillery, unique cask selection, and artistic collaboration makes this a strong candidate for appreciation, especially given Mortlach's growing collector demand.
What makes this different from other aged Speyside whiskies?
This release stands out through Mortlach's distinctive production process, the 35-year maturation period, and the careful selection of a 2nd fill sherry butt that provides deep complexity without overwhelming the distillery character. The artistic collaboration and extremely limited production add collectible appeal beyond the liquid itself.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.