Glenburgie 27 Years Old 1983 Cask #9817 + 18 (Signatory)

A Glenburgie of a 27 year old chosen by Signatory Vintage, distilled in 1983, from cask 9817 + 18, at 55.1%, one of 405 bottles. Glenburgie is a Speyside single malt from near Alves, founded in 1810 as Kilnflat. It sits near Alves in Moray, east of Forres, in the heart of Speyside. It has belonged to Chivas Brothers, part of Pernod Ricard, since 2005. Most of its make goes quietly to blends; single malt Glenburgie is rare, and largely from independents.

It was run slowly off the spirit still, giving a fragrant, orchard led Speyside spirit. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the fresh, fruity character to the fore. At this evaporative stage ellagitannins lend structure while oxidation builds a richer tropical fruit over a candle wax depth. Built for the blender's art, the make ages with quiet grace as a single malt. Years in oak deepen the spirit to old gold, the body growing rounder and waxier with time.

At a natural 55.1% it is full and waxy. Green apple, citrus and a waxy note, with a gentle oak sweetness. A green apple and a gentle citrus lift the middle. A fresh finish closes on apple and a soft oak. This is a light, waxy Speyside single malt.