Hazelburn 13 Years Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Matured 50.3% 2007

Professional reviews

BOW (89)

When it comes to fine Scotch whisky, few distilleries can rival the excellence and craftsmanship of Hazelburn. One of their crowning glories, the Hazelburn 13 Years Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Matured, is a testament to the distillery's dedication to producing exceptional single malts. Distilled in June 2007 and bottled in September 2020, this whisky offers a delightful journey of flavors and aromas that can only be achieved through expert cask maturation.

Before delving into the whisky itself, it is essential to understand the legacy of the Hazelburn Distillery. Situated in the picturesque Campbeltown region of Scotland, the distillery has a storied history dating back to 1825. Its name, Hazelburn, is derived from the old farm distillery that once stood nearby. Over the years, the distillery has gone through numerous ups and downs, but today, it stands as a beacon of quality and craftsmanship.

The distillery is known for producing three distinct styles of whisky: Springbank, Longrow, and Hazelburn. Each style is unique and caters to different palates, with Hazelburn being the unpeated and lightest of the three.

The art of cask maturation is one of the most critical aspects of whisky production. It is during this time that the spirit interacts with the wood, drawing out a myriad of flavors and colors that transform the raw distillate into a complex and captivating elixir. Hazelburn has chosen to mature this particular expression in Oloroso sherry casks, a decision that imparts distinct characteristics to the whisky.

Oloroso sherry casks are made from European oak and were previously used to mature the rich and fortified Oloroso sherry from Spain. The casks' prior contents influence the whisky, infusing it with notes of dried fruits, nuts, spices, and a luscious sweetness that blends harmoniously with Hazelburn's inherent lightness.

The Hazelburn 13 Years Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Matured offers an exquisite tasting experience that captivates the senses from the first sip to the last. At 50.3% alcohol by volume, this single malt delivers a robust and satisfying mouthfeel that showcases the whisky's depth and complexity.

On the nose, one is greeted with a delightful bouquet of dried fruits, such as raisins, dates, and figs, intermingled with hints of toasted almonds and oak. The sherry influence is evident, adding layers of richness and depth to the aroma.

As the whisky touches the palate, a symphony of flavors unfolds. Waves of sweet toffee, dark chocolate, and caramel dance alongside the fruity notes, creating a well-balanced and indulgent profile. Subtle hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove add a gentle spiciness, enriching the overall experience.

The finish is long-lasting, leaving a warm and satisfying sensation that lingers on the taste buds. The interplay of sherry-soaked fruits and delicate maltiness makes this expression an unforgettable journey for any whisky enthusiast.

In conclusion, the Hazelburn 13 Years Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Matured is a whisky masterpiece that showcases the artistry and expertise of the Hazelburn Distillery. Its journey from distillation to cask maturation has resulted in a symphony of flavors that harmonize impeccably, making it a delightful choice for whisky connoisseurs and novices alike.

This expression exemplifies the significance of cask selection and highlights the beauty of Oloroso sherry cask maturation. As the whisky market continues to evolve, treasures like the Hazelburn 13 Years Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Matured serve as a reminder of the timeless allure of traditional whisky-making methods.

For those fortunate enough to secure a bottle of this limited release, savor each sip, for it is a glimpse into the rich heritage and dedication to excellence that the Hazelburn Distillery represents. Sláinte!

Whisky Notes (87)

Nose: a fairly subtle Oloroso influence, which leaves enough room for the character of the spirit. Really earthy, evoking the dunnage warehouses. Walnut oil and leather. Tobacco leaves. Orange peel. Hints of camphor and some chocolate / roast coffee beans in the distance. Very light whiffs of gunpowder. Heaps of character.

Mouth: a surprisingly sweet onset, with demerara sugar, dried fig and sweet plums. Mocha and caramel coated nuts. Still some garage elements and old guns, mixed with leather and dark chocolate. Burnt vanilla pastry. Tobacco leaves and a lingering peppery note. Blood orange in the end.

Finish: quite long, with herbal and spicy notes, coffee beans, brown sugar and old, dusty wood.

With Springbank you never really know what you’ll get from a sherry cask, in my opinion. Sometimes fruity, sometimes really dry, sometimes overtly sulphury… In the case of this Hazelburn it’s leafy and slightly dirty, missing the fruits of the 2018 edition. On the other hand it’s complex and has a nice old-school character.