Glenburgie 1998 17 Years Old (Single Malts of Scotland)

Glenburgie is not a very high-profile distillery. Not even close. This is only the second ever Glenburgie to be reviewed on Words of Whisky. This particular on is a Glenburgie 1998 17 Years Old bottled by Single Malts of Scotland. It’s from a hogshead, presumably formerly filled with bourbon.

While Glenburgie is certainly an under-the-radar distillery, it has its fans because single cask Glenburgie is often a rich and fruity whisky. Unlike some blend fillers (because that is what Glenburgie is), this distillery actually does make characterful whisky. Luckily, independent bottlers manage to find good Glenburgies. Honestly, I’ve yet to try a bad one. And before you ask: yes, I’ve tasted quite a few more than I’ve reviewed on this blog 🙂

Glenburgie 1998 17 Years Old (54,1%, Single Malts of Scotland, C#9914)

Nose: Feint citrus notes with a hint of beeswax and some stone fruits as well (nectarine, peach). Finally some barley sugar, toffee and banana. Well-integrated.
Taste: Nice creamy mouthfeel, followed by a big hit of fresh pink grapefruit. A very nice arrival, followed by more of an oaky bitterness and mellow grassy notes, as well as nectarines and lemon zest. Finally a pinch of salt.
Finish: The salt lingers surprisingly long, backed up by lemons and grass.

Rating: 88

Complex, creamy and fruity, those are the ingredients for what is ultimately a very successful Glenburgie.

Sample provided by Speciality Drinks