Speyburn may not be a well-known name, part of which probably comes down to the fact that there are so little independent bottlings. We’re trying a Speyburn 1991 (the year the distillery was acquired by Inver House) bottled by Gordon & MacPhail. It was matured in a a remade bourbon hogshead from American oak.
Speyburn 1991 (46%, Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice 2015)
Speyburn 1991 (46%, Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice 2015)Nose: classic nose full of muesli, vanilla and bread dough. Lemony sourness and peaches. Pineapple candy. Grated coconut flakes. Light porridge. After a while the more fragrant side comes out: some floral hints and menthol.
Mouth: again clearly bourbon matured, with a fresh, almost youngish profile. Pear drops, sweet banana, lime, in a slightly syrupy, summery way. Honey and malty notes. Noticeable oak spices, like white pepper, ginger and mint.
Finish: medium long, still plenty of vanilla and fruity echoes, with a little more oaky dryness and pepper.
A nice ex-bourbon whisky. Fresh, light and summery, although it has a few quirky sides that keep it interesting. Around € 110.
Score: 83/100