Hazelburn 21 Year Old 2023 Release

Hazelburn is the unpeated, triple distilled style produced at Springbank, created to present a lighter, more refined interpretation of Campbeltown whisky. Unlike Springbank’s main range, Hazelburn expressions appear far less frequently, particularly at older ages.

The 21 Year Old is one of the rarest age statements in the Hazelburn lineup. To date, there have been only two core releases, first in 2022 and again in 2023, alongside a small number of special bottlings such as distillery open day releases. This makes the 21 year old a genuinely limited expression rather than an established annual fixture.

Bottled on 2 March 2023, this release is matured using a cask composition of 80% ex bourbon casks, 10% sherry casks and 10% port casks. The bourbon casks provide structure, clarity and gentle sweetness, while the smaller sherry and port components add depth and restrained fruit character. Bottled at 43.2% ABV, it is presented with natural colour and without chill filtration.

Hazelburn’s triple distillation produces a softer, more polished spirit, well suited to long ageing. Over 21 years, the spirit develops complexity through integration rather than weight, with oak influence supporting the distillate rather than dominating it.

On the nose, soft orchard fruit, vanilla and honeyed sweetness lead, followed by polished oak and gentle dried fruit notes. The palate is rounded and composed, showing ripe fruit, creamy malt, light spice and subtle fortified wine influence. The finish is clean and measured, with lingering fruit, soft oak and a calm dryness.