Speyburn 11 Years Old 2005 Cask #106/2005 (The Whisky Chamber)

The Whisky Chamber selected this Speyburn matured to 11 year old from 2005, drawn from cask 106/2005 and bottled at 60.4%. Speyburn was first built in 1897 in the Glen of Rothes on Speyside, and it has made its fruity Speyside malt for over a century. It was the first Scottish distillery fitted with drum maltings, which still stand on site.

Distilled in classic Speyside onion stills and condensed in traditional worm tubs, giving the fragrant, rounded spirit at its heart. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the fresh character to the fore. Younger here, it keeps a clean, floral freshness over light honey. Years in oak round the spirit, the honey and orchard fruit deepening with age. Charles Doig, who designed it, invented the pagoda roof now seen across Scotch distilleries. It was the first Scottish distillery fitted with drum maltings, still preserved on site.

At a hearty 60.4% it carries real weight. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with pear, honey and a fragrant lift. A dried fruit and a gentle oak spice give it depth. The finish is rounded, honeyed and soft. This is the fresh Speyside malt of the Glen of Rothes.