HAZELBURN 2010 12 YEARS OLD 49,9% OLOROSO CASK

The Hazelburn 2010 12 Years Old stands as a remarkable expression of single malt Scotch whisky, not only for its refined flavor profile but also due to its meticulous aging process and the esteemed heritage of its producer, the Springbank Distillery. Distilled in 2010 and matured for 12 years, this exquisite whisky is bottled at a potent 49.9% ABV, delivering a rich and intense experience.

Springbank Distillery, the brand behind this exceptional release, is located in the town of Campbeltown, which lies on the Kintyre Peninsula in Scotland. This region, once known as the 'whisky capital of the world', plays a pivotal role in defining the unique character of this spirit. The distillery itself is revered for its traditional distillation methods and is one of the few remaining family-owned whisky producers in Scotland. It's particularly notable for controlling every step of the production process in-house, from malting the barley to bottling the spirit.

This Hazelburn release is bottled by the distillery itself, making it an official bottling. It is matured exclusively in Oloroso sherry casks, which are renowned for imparting deep, complex fruit notes and rich, sherry-infused sweetness to the whisky. The influence of the Oloroso cask brings forward lush flavors of dried fruits, nutty elements, and a subtle spiciness that complements the natural characteristics of the Hazelburn spirit.

The Hazelburn line is unique due to its triple distillation process, a method more commonly associated with Irish whiskey. This extra distillation step gives the whisky a smoother and lighter profile compared to the more robust spirit produced by Springbank’s other ranges, such as the Springbank and Longrow lines, which are respectively two-times and two-and-a-half-times distilled. The triple distillation removes heavier compounds and results in a finer and more delicate spirit.

This 2010 vintage has been limited to 9,000 bottles, making it a collectible item among connoisseurs and enthusiasts of fine Scotch whisky. The bottle size of 70cl is standard, allowing the enthusiast to appreciate its subtleties over many tastings.

In tasting, the Hazelburn 2010 reveals layers of flavor - from the outset, there is a noticeable rich sweetness of dark chocolate, followed by layers of dark cherry, figs, and raisins, and a lingering finish that brings a pleasing dryness and spiciness from the wood influence. Its palate is quite dynamic, evolving from sweet fruity notes to a more profound, spicy, and oaky profile as it breathes and opens up in the glass.

The packaging of the Hazelburn 2010 reflects the traditional and hands-on approach of Springbank. It is simple yet elegant, prioritizing substance over flashy design, which is quite appealing to those who are more interested in the whisky’s quality and craftsmanship.

Overall, the Hazelburn 2010 12 Years Old Oloroso Cask is a testament to the skill and heritage of the Springbank distillery. It represents a perfect blend of traditional Scotch whisky-making techniques with the distinctive influences imparted by high-quality Oloroso sherry casks. For lovers of rich, well-aged Scotch with a smooth yet complex character, this limited edition release is a must-try that encapsulates the best of both the spirit and the wood in which it was matured.