Glenburgie 45 Years Old 1975 (Claxton’s)

Claxton's bottled this Glenburgie, a 45 year old, distilled in 1975, at 44.6%. Glenburgie is a light, fruity Speyside malt of orchard fruit, grass and a soft waxy thread. It was founded in 1810 as Kilnflat by William Paul, taking the Glenburgie name in 1878. Most of its make goes quietly to blends; single malt Glenburgie is rare, and largely from independents.

It was drawn from a long fermentation, shaping a fine, clean malt with a floral lift. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, the American oak lending vanilla and a light honey. In its ethereal years the malt turns waxy and oxidative, faded esters and a whisper of sotolon. Vanillin and oak lactones from the wood lend vanilla and a soft coconut over the fruit. Active wood frames the fruit without ever crowding the Speyside spirit. Built for the blender's art, the make ages with quiet grace as a single malt.

Bottled at a cask strength 44.6%, it is concentrated. Green apple, citrus and a waxy note, over a gentle, creamy oak. A light orchard fruit and a soft spice give it shape. The finish runs delicate, fruity and waxy. This is a fragrant Speyside single malt of real lightness.