Hazelburn Rundlets & Kilderkins 10 years 2003 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Produced by Springbank Distillery, located in Campbeltown on the Kintyre Peninsula.
Type: Campbeltown Single Malt.
Distillation: Triple distilled, making it very light and clean.
Maturation: Aged in Rundlets and Kilderkins, small casks of 68 liters, for 10 years. These casks are fresh, having contained no bourbon prior, thus imparting intense flavors and aromas.
Age Statement: 10 years, distilled in November 2003 and bottled in January 2014.
ABV: 50.1%.
Color and Bottle Design: The label features a metallic look with three stills depicted, emphasizing the triple distillation process. The bottle design highlights its Campbeltown origin and the unique maturation process.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of sweet honey notes, dry fruits like black plum, a bit of maltiness, creamy, oily textures, and a hint of milk chocolate. The whisky is not bitter but becomes drier and exhibits a unique earthiness and aromatic green cut grass note.
Unique Characteristics: The use of fresh Rundlets and Kilderkins casks contributes to a very intense flavor profile, with a notable absence of bitterness and the presence of a slight saltiness on the lips.
Comparison: This whisky stands out due to its unique maturation process and the fresh casks used, making it distinct from other single malts.

Anecdotes: The Rundlets and Kilderkins were historically used by smugglers to transport whisky over mountains, and the whisky was sold directly to local gentry from the distilleries in Campbeltown.
Production Process: Springbank Distillery, founded in 1828, prides itself on its traditional methods, including malting all its barley on-site and bottling its whisky in-house.

Campbeltown Region: Once a thriving whisky-producing region, Campbeltown is now home to only a few distilleries, with Springbank Distillery being a significant contributor to maintaining the region's whisky heritage.
Historical Context: The use of Rundlets and Kilderkins harks back to the 17th and 18th centuries, adding a historical dimension to the whisky's identity.

Horst Luening's Opinion: "This is no normal single malt whisky but if you taste it already a very lot of different single malt whiskies this is a must."
Memorable Quote: "The smaller cask is the faster the whisky in it matures."

Triple distilled, 10-year-old Campbeltown single malt from Springbank Distillery.
Matured in fresh Rundlets and Kilderkins casks, imparting intense flavors.
Flavor profile includes sweet honey, dry fruits, creamy textures, and a unique earthiness.
Historical and cultural significance tied to the Campbeltown region and traditional whisky smuggling.
Recommended for experienced whisky enthusiasts looking for unique and complex flavors.

For the Whisky Connoisseur: Given its unique maturation process and complex flavor profile, this whisky is a must-try for those who appreciate the nuances of single malts.
For the History Buff: The rich historical context of the Rundlets and Kilderkins, along with the traditional practices of Springbank Distillery, will appeal to those interested in whisky heritage.
For the Adventurous Palate: Individuals looking to explore beyond standard whisky flavors will find the Hazelburn Rundlets & Kilderkins intriguing due to its distinctive taste and maturation process.