1970s Cromarty 5 Year Old Vatted Malt

Here’s a speculative tasting profile for Cromarty 5 Year Old Vatted Malt, based on its limited documentation and typical characteristics of young blended malts from the era:

Cromarty 5 Year Old Vatted Malt – Tasting Notes

Nose :- Fresh and youthful, with notes of green apple, barley sugar, and light vanilla. Hints of hay, lemon peel, and faint oak. A touch of floral malt and soft grain sweetness

Palate :- Light-bodied and slightly spirity, as expected from a 5-year-old malt. Flavors of shortbread, cereal, and gentle spice.Subtle fruitiness—think pear drops and white peach.A trace of smoke or earthiness, possibly from Highland or Islay components

Finish :- Short to medium, with lingering malt, vanilla, and a faint dry oak note. Clean and slightly drying, with a youthful edge

Style & Provenance

Bottled by Pirrie & Craig, under the “All Malt Whiskies” series

Labeled as Fine Old Scotch Whisky, bottled for Cromarty Italiana S.a.S. in Genoa

Marketed in Italy, likely in the late 20th century

A vatted malt (now termed “blended malt”), composed entirely of single malts

Cromarty 5 Year Old is a simple, honest dram—a snapshot of young malt blending before the rise of age-statement prestige. It’s best appreciated for its freshness, clarity, and historical charm, rather than depth or complexity.