Speyburn 14 Years Old 2008 Cask #562 (Connoisseurs Choice)

This Speyburn was from the independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, a 14 year old from 2008, drawn from cask 562 and bottled at 59.1%. Just 194 bottles were filled. Established in 1897 in a wooded glen on the edge of Rothes, Speyburn is a classic Speyside single malt. One of the best selling malts abroad, it remains quietly under appreciated at home.

It was worked through worm tubs that lend a fuller, rounder body, for the fresh, fruity Speyside make Speyburn is known for. It was matured in refill ex-Bourbon oak, lending honey and vanilla. Past a decade the fruit deepens into honey, dried fruit and a soft spice. The unpeated spirit lets the wood and the fruit speak without smoke. Inver House runs Speyburn alongside Old Pulteney, Balblair and anCnoc. The name joins the Spey with the Scots word burn, for a Speyside stream. A long fermentation builds the fruity esters that mark the house style.

At cask strength 59.1% it is full bodied. Orchard fruit and a floral lift sit alongside a quiet vanilla from the refill oak. Beneath it run apple, honey and a soft spice. Apple, honey and oak draw out the close. This is the fresh face of Speyside whisky.