Mortlach, the iconic single malt scotch whisky distillery rooted in two centuries of tradition, made a name for itself with its unprecedented 2.81 distillation process. With innovation as part of its DNA, Mortlach is intent on looking to the future. In 2023, it entered a new era by welcoming Philippe Starck as the brand’s first-ever creative director. The French native is one of the most famous designers and interior architects of our time, and his sensational pieces can be admired in museums and exhibitions across the globe.
The visionary outlooks of Starck with Mortlach’s distillery’s master blender, Dr Craig Wilson, have culminated in a triptych of spirits that form the Mortlach x Starck L’Evolution Collection, which tells the story of a whisky’s journey from its origin and maturity through to its prime. This includes Begin, Become, and Beyond—each bold and complex whiskies, with the second being the latest release.
Become, electric in form, was aged in virgin oak, red wine and refill casks, and offers a taste of Mortlach’s true character and daring spirit. This vibrant whisky shines with a deep-yellow gold hue, reminiscent of freshly harvested corn, inviting you into its rich complexity. On the nose, it offers the comforting aroma of a sticky fruit loaf, brimming with sultanas and dates, and is underpinned by a dry, robust note that hints at its maturity. The palate is smooth and full-bodied, delivering a delightful blend of spicy warmth and sweet richness, while adding a drop of water will reveal a softer, milder side. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a peppery and punchy impression that lingers.
Capturing the Spirit
Mortlach is proud of the fact that their innovations don’t only occur through the spirit, but is also reflected on the whisky’s exterior and aesthetics. The precious liquid of Become is protected by a Starck creation—imaginative and durable 3D-printed cages resembling the brain’s “gyri”, or ridges. Featuring an organic design with a soft-to-touch finish, it is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and reflects the distinct character of Mortlach. The entire setup is enclosed in a sleek, white rectangular frame, which adds to the elegant and structured display.
View more
“I always work to the centre, at the bone. With Mortlach, everything started from the liquid. The spirits we created turned out to be so innovative that I didn’t want to hide them, to cover them. The bottle itself was not my obsession—the blends were. That is why the original bottle remains, and I just placed it in a cage,” Starck explained. “The form of the cage comes from the gyrus, the circumvolution of the brain. It is human intelligence creating human intelligence to reveal the subconscious of the whisky.”
Become is presented in a 700ml format at 55.4 per cent ABV. The limited edition release is available exclusively at selected outlets.
