Scotland’s Speyburn Distillery opened their doors in mid December 1897 and from then on was a fairly quiet distillery, just going about their business. But over the last two decades they have expanded production, most notably to the U.S. Their water source is called the Granty Burn, actually a tributary of the River Spey, for which the region, Speyside, is known. This 18 Year Old is aged in both American and Spanish casks. This single malt is not shy from the start and is actually rather defiant. The alcohol makes itself known immediately, and for an 18 year old it feels a little untamed. Cutting this allows the energy to calm down so there is a more enjoyable palate experience. You will find candied orange, browned butter, caramel, toffee apricot jam, amber, with lighter honey, pepper spice and notes of lemon verbena, cocoa and judicious smokiness. The finish is appropriately long and this has a way of growing on you as the night wears on. This is not a sit by the fire and sip whisky, it needs food, and when it is accompanied properly it fills the palate and accentuates the experience.
Reviewed by Michael Cervin.
Brand – Speyburn
Spirit Type – Scotch, Single Malt
Other Designation – 18 Year
County of Origin – Scotland
ABV% – 45
Price – $125 (750ml)
Score – 90 Points
Date Published – 6/30/21