Scotland, Campbeltown – Mull of Kintyre. Original distillery closed. Owner: J&A Mitchell & Co LtdIn 1997, at the Springbank distillery, the Mitchell family distilled a single malt once produced not far away, Hazelburn. Originally located just a few metres from the Longrow/Springbank distillery, Hazelburn was owned in 1920 by Mackie & Co Distillers Ltd (owners of Lagavulin and Craigellachie). The site was permanently closed in 1925. Hazelburn is an unpeated, triple-distilled malt which, since the mid-2000s, has been the subject of a large number of limited editions.

Distilled in 1996 from lightly peated barley at Miyagikyo, a distillery founded in 1969 in the north-east of the Japanese island of Honshu, this single cask was matured for 18 years in American oak casks. It was then bottled in 2014 at the cask strength of 62% ABV. This means the brew was bottled at its natural strength and without chill-filtration to preserve its colour, aromas and flavours.
Behind the amber colour lies an intense whisky with aromas of orange blossom, chocolate and sweet pastries. These are highlighted by a hint of smoke and wood that adds welcome complexity. On the palate, candied lemon and orange mix with ginger and lemongrass to create a delicious nectar that culminates in a long, lemony finish. A complex and elegant Miyagikyo that enthusiasts will be able to enjoy alone in a contemplative tasting.