Glenburgie 17 Year Old 2003 Art Malts

Do you remember the Longmorn 2012 from Art Malts? That was very limited with only 25 bottles. But the same can be said of this Glenburgie 2003. Also limited to 25 bottles and bottled at cask strength – a whopping 62% - after 17 years of maturation on a bourbon cask. Boy, oh boy… The cask owner Steven sent me a sample of this bronze powerhouse. Let me get some water first, before we dive in.

Very powerful and beautiful nose on forest fruit tea, English licorice, mint, pinecones, a burst tree trunk, lemon candy, aniseed and cloves. Turkish Delight! Reminds me quite a bit of autumn. A walk in the forest. I added quite a bit of water which makes it less sweet but brings to the fore the earthy notes and the aniseed.

Sturdy body, almost fatty. Immediately piquant on chili Peppers and cloves, hint of cinnamon. Then the dark and sweet notes appear: blackberries, stewed strawberries, crème brûlée, hard candy, candied orange peel, orangettes and raisins. There is a lot going on here. A very active task, if you ask me. Diluted it becomes, contrary to the nose, even more sweet and candy-like and is a lovely dessert.

The long, spicy finish gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling inside. Candy-like sweet with a peppery edge. The pine cones and mint return. Even diluted the finish is very long and spicy, albeit a bit less piquant.

Delicious Glenburgie that really tastes good after a walk in the forest. It warms your bones. With or without water? Both work well. I confess: I like it with water. Top malt!

Find where to buy Glenburgie whisky