Speyburn 8 Years Old 2011 Finest (Hart Brothers)

Hart Brothers selected this Speyburn matured to 8 year old from 2011 and bottled at 46%. Set opposite Glen Grant near Rothes, Speyburn has distilled since 1897. It was the first Scottish distillery fitted with drum maltings, which still stand on site.

It was drawn off the stills into worm tubs, the old way of condensing, for a light, floral spirit with a worm tub weight. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. Younger here, it keeps a clean, floral freshness over light honey. The cool Speyside climate gives a slow, even maturation over many years. The cool Speyside glen gives a slow, even maturation in dunnage warehouses. Bradan Orach, the distillery's youngest core malt, is Gaelic for golden salmon. Speyburn sits in a wooded glen on the edge of Rothes, one of Speyside's prettiest distilleries. Charles Doig, who designed it, invented the pagoda roof now seen across Scotch distilleries.

At an approachable 46% it is fresh and balanced. A gentle vanilla and coconut from the wood, with pear, honey and a fragrant lift. A dried fruit and a gentle oak spice give it depth. The finish runs fresh, soft and fragrant. This is the fresh Speyside malt of the Glen of Rothes.