Wolfburn Oloroso Sherry Casks 10 Years 2013/2023 | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Wolfburn Distillery, located in the northern part of the Scottish mainland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured solely in second-fill Oloroso sherry casks for 10 years.
Age Statement: 10 years (2013-2023).
ABV: 46%.
Filtration and Color: Unchill-filtered, uncolored.
Bottle Design: Described as heavy, full, and massive with a classic label, emphasizing its natural color.

Nose: Sherry smell with fruitiness, dark fruits on top, accompanied by vanilla, oak, figs, resins, and sultanas. A distillery character with a hint of fruitiness shines through, indicating a well-balanced interaction between the cask and the whisky.
Palate: Slightly oily, juicy, with some chocolate influence and a bit of spice. Notes of light sweetness and a little bit of caramel are present, suggesting a balance between the sherry cask's influence and the whisky's inherent flavors.
Finish: Long, silky, not sharp, with a subdued spiciness from the oak.

Distillery Name Origin: Wolfburn got its name from a mythological animal called the sea wolf, which is capable of walking on water and land. It is not a mean animal; those who see it will be protected by it.
Bottling Significance: The release marks the 10th anniversary of the distillery, highlighting its relatively young age and achievements.

The distillery's location in the far north of the Scottish mainland and its choice to mature whisky in Oloroso sherry casks reflect a blend of Scottish whisky-making traditions and the influence of Spanish sherry on Scotch whisky maturation.

"The maturation in first-fill sherry cask is overestimated; a very well done refill sherry cask...you receive this wonderful balanced whisky which is not too much torn on the side of the sherry."
"This is wonderfully made."

Wolfburn's 10-year-old whisky matured in second-fill Oloroso sherry casks is a testament to the distillery's craftsmanship and the balanced interaction between the whisky and the cask. With a rich flavor profile that includes dark fruits, vanilla, oak, and a hint of chocolate and spice, it offers a complex yet harmonious tasting experience. The distillery's relatively young age and the story behind its name add a layer of intrigue to the whisky. The expert opinion underscores the quality and balance achieved through the use of refill sherry casks, making it a noteworthy addition to the world of Scotch whisky.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a keen interest in exploring the nuanced effects of cask maturation on whisky will find this expression particularly engaging.
For Sherry Cask Fans: Individuals who appreciate the rich, fruity, and spicy profile typically imparted by sherry cask maturation will enjoy this well-balanced example.
For Collectors: Given its significance as a 10th-anniversary release from a relatively new distillery, collectors might be interested in acquiring a bottle for its historical and sentimental value.