Croftengea - Marsala Finish - Murray McDavid - 44.5%
This exceptional Croftengea Marsala Finish, bottled by Murray McDavid at 44.5%, unveils the distinctive and highly expressive character of this heavily peated single malt from the Loch Lomond distillery. Its deep golden hue with coppery highlights instantly signals the rich indulgence imparted by its Marsala cask finish. The initial nose reveals a sophisticated, dense smoke balanced by notes of dried fruits, fig, sultanas, and candied orange peel. In the background, you’ll find nuances of malty cereal, dark honey, a saline touch, and a gentle hint of soft leather, all echoing Croftengea’s robust DNA. The peat profile is at once earthy and subtly medicinal, never overpowering the vibrant fruit character. Together, these elements create an impressively powerful, indulgent, and truly harmonious whisky experience.
On the palate, the attack is generous and slightly oily, with the assertive smoke immediately making its presence known before melting into a rich tapestry of dried fruit and gentle spices. The Marsala cask finish brings additional complexity, with flavors of date, plum, rich caramel, and toasted hazelnut rolling over the tongue. The whisky remains lively and fresh, carried by a subtle acidity from bitter orange and lemon zest that keeps the experience utterly drinkable. Initially bold, the peat integrates slowly into chocolatey, slightly ashy notes, joined by hints of coffee and black pepper. The 44.5% ABV is seamlessly incorporated, offering a controlled warmth that enhances rather than overwhelms. The finish is long and persistent, marrying smoke, dried fruit, soft spices, and a most appealing vinous sweetness.
This Croftengea Marsala Finish from Murray McDavid offers immense appeal to both lovers of assertive peat and those seeking original cask finishes with character. Best enjoyed neat or with a drop of water to open up its layers of dried fruit, spice, and smoke, it pairs beautifully with intense dark chocolates, desserts featuring nuts and dried fruits, a not-too-sweet tiramisu, or well-aged hard cheese. It’s also an excellent partner for a fine cigar or simply for savoring during a moment of meditative tasting—the balance between indulgence and peaty complexity invites true appreciation. This is a single malt of remarkable personality—generous, structured, and very approachable—demonstrating how a finely executed cask finish can truly enhance a powerhouse distillate without compromise.
Discover this rare and remarkable Croftengea Marsala Finish at Clos des Spiritueux, your destination for exceptional whiskies and spirits. For enthusiasts of unique single malts and sophisticated cask finishes, this is a must-have addition to your whisky collection. Explore our selection for more rare finds and limited editions from top distilleries and independent bottlers.
