It’s little known as a single malt, but Glenburgie certainly makes spirit good enough to be bottled as such. However, because of Ballantine’s popularity, Glenburgie only rarely makes an appearance. You’d have to turn to the independent bottlers, and even they don’t release that many.
Up until recently, Chivas only released a handful of them in their Cask Strength series (which is only sold in visitor centers at distilleries). Two years ago though, a surprising new Glenburgie was introduced to the world, which is the one I’ll be reviewing today.
As part of a Ballantine’s single malt series, Chivas released a trio of 15-year-old single malts, each of which are a key component of the firms best-selling blended Scotch – a Glentauchers, a Miltonduff and a Glenburgie. The age statement is promising, the alcohol percentage isn’t.
Glenburgie 15 Years Old (40%, OB, Ballantine’s Series No. 001)
Nose: Very light and somewhat tame, but fresh and fruity with a certain maturity. Hints of green apples, also milk chocolate, a touch of honey and vanilla custard. Getting sweeter over time.
Taste: Sweet to start, but also somewhat bitter and fairly spicy. The mouthfeel is pretty thin also. Sandalwood, tobacco. Not much left of the fruitiness.
Finish: Notes of saw dust, pepper and bitterness. Medium in length.
Score: 79
While the nose is pretty pleasant, this struggles to reach 80 points in my book. Bit disappointing after a promising start.
