Glenburgie 17 Years Old 2009 (Phil & Simon Thompson)

A Glenburgie of a 17 year old chosen by Phil and Simon Thompson, distilled in 2009, at 53.7%. Glenburgie is a light, fruity Speyside malt of orchard fruit, grass and a soft waxy thread. Its make has long fed big blends like Old Smuggler down the decades. It has belonged to Chivas Brothers, part of Pernod Ricard, since 2005. It has been a core malt of the Ballantine's blend since Hiram Walker bought it in 1936.

Taken gently through wash and spirit stills, giving a fragrant, orchard led Speyside spirit. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the fresh, fruity character to the fore. Through oxidative maturity the esters concentrate, the apple and pear turning to a waxy honey and soft tropical fruit. Built for the blender's art, the make ages with quiet grace as a single malt. First fill wood drives the maturation, the cask clear in the spirit.

At a hearty 53.7% it carries real weight. Apple, pear and a soft honey, with a soft vanilla from the oak. The body is light and clean, the fruit lifted by a soft oak. The close is light and clean, fruit over a gentle oak. This is a fruity Speyside malt rarely seen on its own.