Slainte-Mhath
Hazelburn 15 Year Oloroso Cask Matured
Single Malt — Campbelltown, Scotland
Reviewed
October 27, 2024 (edited January 19, 2025)
Probably the least sought-after of the three Springbank brands, Hazelburn still outshines most Scottish single malts. Rich notes of blackberry jam, chocolate cookies and pipe tobacco ascent from the glass, rounded off by plums, mild pepper and cloves. Intense and spicy in the arrival, the palate mellows with stewed fruits, spearmint and a touch of salt. Mineral, earthy and citric notes creep in. Measured oak, roasted coffee and blood oranges migrate into the lasting and slightly dry aftertaste. A beautiful sherry bomb from Scotland's most iconic distillery.
RATING: 4.2/5.0 stars ≙ 89 pts → FIRST-CLASS [+]
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@Whiskali I wouldn't buy any Springbank/Longrow at secondary market prices, but thankfully I have a large stash of bottles bought at RRP. Benromach is pretty decent but not quite on par with Springbank in my opinion, and Ledaig is certainly a great alternative to Longrow (I tend to prefer the 10 over the 18). Hazelburn competitors? Independent bottlings of Linkwood have a similar fruity profile, but they are lacking the mineral notes and the funk. Many whisky drinkers believe that Ardnamurchan is showing promise as the new Springbank, but I have yet to be convinced, there is a bit too much hype around this distillery.
@Slainte-Mhath great review! I’m finding that, of the three brands, I’ve been gravitating towards Hazelburn over the years. Number of factors involved - palate/preference changes, market prices and access to alternatives. Some of the old SB12s and SB21s were phenomenal but prices are ridiculous now and I feel like I’ve found good alternatives in some of the Benromach single barrels and Dailuaine IBs. Similar story with Longrow - I’ve shifted to Ledaig 18 over Longrow 18 and wine-finished Ledaig or Bruichladdich over Longrow Red. The price-to-enjoyment ratio is just better. But, with Hazelburn, prices aren’t as crazy and I find its profile harder to beat. When I want something malt-centric with character and rich mouthfeel, Hazelburn is my go to. What are your thoughts? Have you found good Hazelburn competitors?
@PBMichiganWolverine I thought you might want a sample of this bottle as well!
Additional information: Matured in fresh Oloroso sherry casks and bottled in 2022 at 54.2% ABV (9,000 bottles).