Review of Glen Moray Twisted Vine Single Malt Scotch Whisky

This is a truly spectacular find and one that deserves to be in Christmas stockings this year and also in your Christmas drinks cabinet.

When it comes to Scotch whisky, Glen Moray has long been a trusted name, known for crafting accessible yet complex drams. 

Their latest release, Glen Moray Twisted Vine, is a single malt that promises an enticing fusion of traditional Speyside character with a modern twist. As an avid whisky enthusiast, I was eager to explore this unique offering. Here's my take on this intriguing expression.

Overview: A Wine-Inspired Whisky

Glen Moray’s Twisted Vine single malt is part of their ‘Curiosity’ range, where experimentation with maturation and finishing techniques takes centre stage. This particular bottling has been finished in ex-wine casks, a growing trend in whisky production. The use of wine casks is intended to impart additional layers of flavour complexity, often resulting in a vibrant and fruit-forward whisky. Given Speyside’s reputation for producing lighter, fruitier Scotch, this finishing method seemed like a natural fit.

Appearance: Golden Amber Delight

Pouring the whisky into the glass, the first thing you notice is its warm, golden amber hue, an inviting colour that hints at its maturation in wine barrels. The legs are medium, suggesting a balanced mouthfeel and perhaps a moderate alcohol content.

Nose: Rich, Fruity, and Enticing

On the nose, Twisted Vine does not disappoint. There’s an immediate burst of fruitiness – think ripe red berries and dark cherries, followed by a subtle note of vanilla and oak from the cask ageing. As it opens up, a slightly spicy note of cinnamon and a trace of dried apricot emerge, adding to its complexity. The influence of the wine cask is clear, but it integrates smoothly with Glen Moray’s signature fresh and malty backbone.

Palate: Balanced and Lively

Taking the first sip, Twisted Vine reveals its true charm. The palate is rich and smooth, with layers of fruit—plums, blackcurrants, and raisins—all enveloped in a velvety mouthfeel. The influence of the wine cask brings out a slight tannic dryness, balancing the sweetness of the fruit. Mid-palate, you get a touch of dark chocolate, cinnamon spice, and a hint of oak. There’s a lovely balance between the sweetness of the malt and the slightly tart, vinous notes from the wine barrels. It’s not overly complex, but it’s engaging and easy to sip.

Finish: Lingering and Satisfying

The finish is medium in length, with a pleasant warmth that lingers. You’re left with a mix of dried fruits, gentle spice, and a whisper of oak. There’s a subtle dryness from the wine cask that leaves your palate clean, ready for the next sip.

Final Thoughts: A Modern Take on Tradition

Glen Moray Twisted Vine is an enjoyable and approachable single malt that offers a nice balance between tradition and innovation. It’s not the most complex whisky you’ll ever try, but that’s part of its charm. The wine cask finish adds a layer of fruity depth and a touch of modern flair without overpowering the classic Speyside character.

This whisky would appeal to those who enjoy a fruit-forward dram with a smooth, slightly dry finish. It’s also a great choice for whisky enthusiasts looking to explore how wine cask maturation can enhance the profile of a single malt. Priced reasonably, Twisted Vine is a solid offering from Glen Moray’s experimental range and worth a try for anyone looking to expand their whisky palate.

In conclusion, Glen Moray Twisted Vine is a testament to how a little experimentation can breathe new life into a familiar favourite. While it might not blow seasoned whisky drinkers away with complexity, its vibrant fruitiness and well-balanced character make it an ideal bottle for easy sipping or sharing with friends.

Rating: 8/10

Best for: Fruit-forward whisky lovers, those curious about wine cask finishes.

Avoid if: You prefer heavily peated or sherry-heavy whiskies.

It's widely available from supermarkets and specialist Scotch retailers.

Traditional Scottish Christmas Foods and Drinks

Scotland, with its rich history and deep-rooted traditions, has a culinary landscape as diverse as its landscapes. During the festive season, Christmas brings forth a glorious array of traditional dishes and drinks that have been enjoyed for centuries. 

The cold winter nights in Scotland are warmed by hearty meals and rich beverages, each with its own unique Scottish twist. 

In this post, we’ll explore some of the most iconic traditional Scottish Christmas foods and drinks that continue to be a part of festive celebrations across the country.

1. Roast Goose or Turkey

While Christmas turkey is a familiar sight across the UK, in Scotland, roast goose has historically been the bird of choice for Christmas dinner. The rich, flavoursome meat of the goose, often accompanied by traditional stuffings made from oatmeal, sage, and onions, offers a festive alternative to the more commonly found turkey. Today, many households will opt for turkey, but goose still has its place as a delicious nod to times past.

2. Clapshot

This warming Scottish side dish, traditionally served alongside Christmas dinner, is a blend of mashed neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), often flavoured with butter and chives. Originating from the northern regions, particularly Orkney, clapshot is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats and gravies, adding a comforting touch of Scotland to the Christmas table.

3. Cranachan

A classic Scottish dessert that often makes an appearance during festive celebrations, cranachan is made with layers of whipped cream, toasted oats, fresh raspberries, and a generous splash of whisky. This indulgent treat is both light and rich, offering a fruity and boozy finish to a Christmas feast. Some modern recipes replace raspberries with other seasonal fruits, but the whisky and oats remain key to this Scottish favourite.

4. Black Bun

Black bun, a dense fruitcake cunningly wrapped in pastry, is a festive delight that’s traditionally associated with Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). However, it often makes its way onto Christmas tables as well. Packed with currants, raisins, spices, and whisky, black bun is incredibly rich and flavourful, perfect for those who enjoy a hearty slice of fruitcake during the festive season. Its origins date back to the time of Mary, Queen of Scots, and it’s a lasting symbol of Scotland’s culinary heritage.

5. Cullen Skink

A traditional Scottish soup, Cullen skink is made from smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. It’s a comforting dish often served as a starter on Christmas Day. This soup hails from the town of Cullen in Moray and is known for its rich, creamy texture and distinct smoky flavour. It’s a perfect way to warm up during a cold Scottish Christmas.

6. Shortbread

No Scottish Christmas would be complete without the presence of shortbread. This buttery biscuit is a beloved part of the festive season and is often shaped into rounds, fingers, or festive designs for Christmas. While shortbread can be enjoyed year-round, its crumbly texture and rich taste make it a must-have during the holidays. It’s commonly gifted in beautiful tins or enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

Traditional Scottish Christmas Drinks

There has to be some classic drinks to accompany the delicious Christmas foods. Here are a few of the most beloved Scottish beverages that make the rounds during the festive period.

1. Whisky

It’s impossible to talk about Scottish Christmas drinks without mentioning whisky. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a warming cocktail, whisky is a staple of Christmas in Scotland. Many households will offer a dram (or two) of whisky to guests as part of the festivities. Some use whisky in cooking, adding a splash to gravies or desserts like cranachan. Single malts and blended whiskies are both enjoyed, and it’s not uncommon to see whisky glasses raised for a Christmas toast.

2. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine, or Gløgg as it's known in some parts of Europe, has found a home in Scottish Christmas celebrations. Infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, mulled wine is a warming drink perfect for warding off the winter chill. Many Scottish families will brew their own mulled wine, often adding a touch of whisky or brandy to give it a local twist.

3. Hot Toddy

A classic Scottish winter warmer, the hot toddy is the perfect antidote to the cold December nights. Made with whisky, honey, lemon, and hot water (sometimes with the addition of spices such as cloves or cinnamon), the hot toddy is both a festive drink and a remedy for the common cold. It’s a cosy and comforting beverage, often enjoyed around the fire with family and friends.

4. Atholl Brose

Atholl brose is a traditional Scottish drink that combines whisky, oats, honey, and cream. It’s named after the Duke of Atholl, who, according to legend, used this drink to capture his enemies by spiking their water with it. Today, it’s a sweet and indulgent drink that is perfect for Christmas celebrations. Its creamy, slightly thick texture and the sweetness of the honey make it a delightful festive treat.

Final Thoughts

Scottish Christmas foods and drinks are steeped in tradition and history, offering a unique and delicious way to celebrate the festive season. From rich roasts to indulgent desserts, and from hearty soups to warming whiskies, Scotland's festive fare is as diverse and robust as the country itself. Whether you're Scottish by heritage or simply looking to add a Scottish touch to your Christmas, these traditional foods and drinks are sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.

So, this Christmas, why not raise a glass of whisky or tuck into a slice of black bun as you embrace the festive spirit, Scottish style?

Celebrate Christmas with Highland Nectar

What is Highland Nectar? It’s an absolutely delicious and utterly sumptuous Scotch whisky liqueur that celebrates the flavours of drams from the heart of the Scottish Highlands. 

Crafted by the expert at Elixir Distillers, it marries five-year-old Scotch whisky with interesting botanicals including ginger, cinnamon, star anise, nutmeg, vanilla, and bitter orange, for a golden liquid that’s rich, aromatic and fruity. Delicious neat as an after-dinner sipper, or in a Hot Highlander:

What, you may ask, is a Hot Highlander? We have the very special recipe here for you to try:-

Ingredients:

50ml Highland Nectar Liqueur

150ml peach tea

A slice of fresh ginger

5ml Scottish honey

Cinnamon stick and dried orange wheel to garnish

Mixing instructions:

Steep a peach tea bag in 150ml of water for 3-5 minutes with the slice of ginger. Remove the teabag and the ginger slice before adding Highland Nectar and a spoonful of Scottish honey. Stir, garnish, and enjoy!

Learn more here:- https://elixirdistillers.com