Morris of Rutherglen has released its first-ever Family Durif Single Barrel Whisky – a rich and malted expression bottled in extremely limited quantities. Just 258 bottles (700mL) exist, each drawn from a single cask filled on 14 June 2018 and aged for more than six years in the heart of Victoria’s North-East.
The barrel, hand-selected by head distiller, Darren Peck, and sixth-generation family chief winemaker, Madden Morris, was chosen from the Morris family cellar for its high quality and unique flavour expression. The result is a whisky that captures the structure and complexity of the Durif varietal – a grape deeply intertwined with the Morris legacy.
Durif was first planted in Rutherglen in 1920, with the Morris family pioneering its production as a dry red table wine from 1954. Known for its deep colour, rich tannins, dark fruit flavours and remarkable aging potential, Durif has become a signature varietal for the region. In the Single Barrel release, the boldness of Durif enhances rather than overpowers the whisky, creating a harmonious balance between spirit and wood that showcases the craftsmanship of the distilling team.
Bottled at 58.5% ABV, the whisky delivers intense dried fruit characters and the richness of dark chocolate crème, underpinned by the distinctive terroir of Rutherglen’s fertile floodplains – the same landscape where George Morris established the winery in 1859.
“This Single Barrel release has been crafted as a tribute to Rutherglen’s terroir and celebrates the natural resources we’re so fortunate to have on our doorstep,” Morris said.
“Every bottle we craft reflects a true sense of place, coupled with the dedication and passion of our team, and we’re proud to share this exceptional new whisky that captures the very essence of Rutherglen.”
