Speyburn 10 Years Old 2008 (Small Batch)

From Cadenhead's comes this Speyburn, a 10 year old from 2008 and bottled at 55.8%. Just 282 bottles were filled. Established in 1897 opposite Glen Grant near Rothes, Speyburn is a classic Speyside single malt. The name joins the river Spey with the Scots word burn, for a Speyside stream.

It was drawn off the stills into worm tubs, the old way of condensing, for a light, floral spirit with a worm tub weight. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. Still young, the malt is bright and fruity with a soft honey. The light, fragrant make takes cask character readily across maturation. Worm tub condensers are still used, lending the make a rounded, fragrant weight. The first spirit ran in a December snowstorm in 1897, to date the fillings to the Diamond Jubilee. Water is drawn from the Granty Burn, a clear tributary of the Spey. Inver House runs Speyburn alongside Old Pulteney, Balblair and anCnoc.

At its natural 55.8% it is concentrated. A gentle vanilla and coconut from the wood runs under honey, apple and a soft spice. It is fragrant and deep, the fruit and oak well matched. The finish runs fresh, soft and fragrant. This is a honeyed Speyside single malt of real charm.