Hazelburn 21 YO 2023 Release Hazelburn 21 YO 43.2%

The 2023 release of Hazelburn 21 Year Old is a limited edition, triple-distilled, unpeated whisky from Springbank Distillery, aged for 21 years in 80% bourbon, 10% sherry, and 10% port casks. Its low ABV, achieved through Angel's Share, highlights the minerality and earthiness of Campbeltown, and is said to offer a drier, lighter profile than the 2022 sherry-heavy version.

The nose opens with moist notes of leather-bound books, bang cloth, and Dunnudge Warehouse, followed by treacle, caramel, bramble, tropical fruits (honeydew melon, cantaloupe, pineapple), roasted nuts, apple skin, and orange peel. Funky barnyard, damp grass, a white wine-like sharpness, fig, dates, raisins, stewed apple, and rhubarb lurk in the depths, creating a creamy, intriguing layer that's sure to please.

Palate: Sweet notes of marshmallow, candy floss, toffee, caramel, and ripe pear unfold on a syrupy palate, complemented by nutty notes (walnuts, praline), milk chocolate, dark berries, minerals, earthy notes, fleshy umami, mushrooms, and bouillon-like depth. The oak is perfectly integrated, resulting in a complex blend of green apple, ginger, black pepper, hessian, and wine influences. While some reviewers have noted a gap in the nose, the balance of smoothness and body is captivating.

The finish is long and confident, with a gentle mix of oak, black pepper, metallic, ginger, salted caramel, cocoa powder, cappuccino, mint, almond, herbs and cloves. The dry and oily finish continues, allowing you to enjoy the depth of aging by drinking it straight or with a little water.