Yep, you read that correctly, a Claret cask. A Claret hogshead, in fact. This Glenburgie spent its first 15 years in an ex-bourbon hoggie, but then a nine-year second maturation in the wine cask. Because the Claret vessel was a refill, and because the whisky isn't pink, I decided to give it a try. Who knows what fruits lie within...
Region: Speyside (Moray)
Owners: Pernod Ricard
Independent Bottler: Cadenhead
Range: Authentic Collection
Age: 24 years (Sept 1993 - Autumn 2017)
Maturation: in a bourbon hogshead until 2008, then a refill Claret hogshead until 2017
Outturn: 216 bottles
Alcohol by Volume: 53.0%
(from a bottle split)
NEAT
Indeed, the fruits thrive in this nose. Guavas, limes, Rainier cherries, and kiwis, with a hint of sawdust mixed in. There's a whiff of chalky Chablis somewhere in there as well. Mmmmmmango, honey, and guavas arrive first in the palate. It gets tarter and more acidic with time, taking on limes and grapefruits. The finish follows a similar path, but happily holds onto the sweet mango.
DILUTED to ~46%abv, or ~1 tsp of water per 30mL whisky
The nose shifts to floral honey, limoncello, and white chocolate up front; malt and brine in the back. The palate remains ultra tart, while gaining sea salt and flowers. Oranges join the limes. It finishes with oranges, limes, and salt.
WORDS WORDS WORDS
Of course, the Claret cask offers the most straightforward Glenburgie this week. It was a true refill, and probably a wise move by Cadenhead's cask management. The result reminds me of a super-citric Littlemill. Though it's not the deepest of single malts, this Glenburgie would be a bright, crisp, springtime pour for those of you bottle owners who drink your whiskies seasonally like I do.
Availability - Sold out
Pricing - I think it was a mere €125 back in 2017
Rating - 87 (neat)
