In the 1960s, 70s and 80s, Italy used to be fond of young single malts. The cornerstone was the Glen Grant 5 Year Old introduced by Giovinetti in the 1960s. Other importers followed his idea, like Soffiantino with Glenburgie.
Mostly known for being a key component of Ballantine’s, Glenburgie has few official bottlings. Like the young Glenlivets and Glen Grants of that era, some of the early Glenburgies mention a vintage on the label, but by the 1980s this seems to have been omitted.
Glenburgie-Glenlivet 5 yo ‘100% malt whisky’ (40%, OB for Soffiantino 1980s)
Nose: a slightly thin nose with nice hints of linseed oil, old metals and hints of ginger. Apple peelings and plenty of grassy notes. A slightly dusty, papery note as well. Then mild pepper, aniseed and hints of cardamom come out. Vague hints of coal and pastry cream in the background.
Mouth: clean, neutral spirit with vague apples, liquorice and mild herbal notes. A hint of apple pith. Then a very light caramelly touch and some marzipan sweetness. More metal polish appears, which could be part of the old bottle effect. White pepper and hints of roasted nuts in the end.
Finish: medium, with grainy notes, grassy touches and a lightly bitter herbal note.
Regardless of the distillery, these 5 year olds for Italy were ubiquitous malts, fairly unpretentious but really not bad either. To modern standards they feel a little light and spirity, but with some OBE they are often really enjoyable. Auction material.