Whisky Review/Tasting: Wolfburn

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Wolfburn Distillery is located in Thurso, Caithness, at the very top of the mainland of Scotland. It is the most northern distillery on the Scottish mainland.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is matured in specially selected ex-bourbon quarter casks, which are smaller than typical ex-bourbon barrels. This smaller size allows for faster maturation due to a higher ratio of wood surface area to whisky volume.
Age Statement: The whisky is young, suggested to be around three years and a day, but the use of quarter casks accelerates its maturation, potentially giving it characteristics of a five to six-year-old whisky.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is uncolored and non-chill filtered, with a natural haze visible when examined closely.
Bottle Design: The inaugural release bottle is noted for its unique design, including a laser engraving and high-quality cork. The bottle and cork design contribute to an impressive seal, evidenced by a vapor release upon opening under certain atmospheric conditions.

Nose: Sweet and fruity with malty aromas and a hint of peat.
Palate: Sweet and nutty flavors dominate, with a very slight pleasant flavor of smoke. Notes of walnuts, spiciness, and possibly honey and grapes are present.
Finish: The whisky transitions from light fruity aromas to a more intense taste, culminating in a well-rounded, long-lasting aftertaste.

Historical Background: Wolfburn Distillery was first established in 1821 and was once the largest distillery in Caithness. The current distillery revives the Wolfburn name after over 150 years, although not at the exact original location.
Bottle and Label Design: The inaugural release is particularly special, with bottle number 272 out of 875 featuring a laser engraving. The design elements, including the cork quality and the vapor release upon opening, add to the whisky's unique story.

Geographical Significance: The distillery's location in Thurso, a town known for its fishing industry and ferry services to the Orkney Islands, underscores its remote and historical significance. The name "Thurso" itself has Nordic origins, adding to the cultural depth of the distillery's location.
Wolfburn Motif: The Wolfburn motif, derived from a drawing by 16th-century linguist and zoologist Conrad Gessner, represents a supernatural creature known as the Seawolf, believed to bring good luck. This motif connects the whisky to local lore and the natural history of northern Scotland.

"This is a wonderful piece of work that it's that young... and it's moving from a wonderful light fruity aroma over a more or less intense taste to a well-round, long-lasting aftertaste." - Luening Horst Luening, Mastertaster
"Those people know what they're doing. Really." - On the distillery's innovative use of quarter casks for maturation.

Wolfburn is a young single malt Scotch whisky from the northernmost distillery on the Scottish mainland, matured in ex-bourbon quarter casks for accelerated aging.
The flavor profile is sweet and nutty with a slight smokiness, transitioning from light fruity aromas to a more intense taste and a long-lasting aftertaste.
The distillery has historical roots dating back to 1821, with the current operation reviving the Wolfburn name after more than 150 years.
The whisky's packaging and design, including a high-quality cork and laser engraving, contribute to its unique identity.
The Wolfburn motif connects the whisky to local Scottish lore and the supernatural Seawolf creature, adding cultural depth.

Whisky Collectors: The limited inaugural release and unique bottle design make this a must-have for collectors.
New Whisky Enthusiasts: Its approachable flavor profile, with sweet and nutty notes, makes it an excellent choice for those new to whisky.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The innovative use of quarter casks and the historical revival of the distillery offer a unique tasting experience for seasoned enthusiasts.