LEMON-FLAVORED WEETABIX – Score: 5/10
Is there a bottler more privileged than Cadenhead? First of all, it’s the oldest independent bottling house in existence, founded back in 1842. But beyond the weight of history, it has enjoyed a particularly enviable status since 1972, when it became part of the family-owned J & A Mitchell & Co. For those who may not immediately recognize that name, it’s the same group that owns the iconic Springbank distillery in Campbeltown.
This close relationship puts Cadenhead in a truly unique position. It’s one of the very few independent bottlers with direct access to Springbank stock—something many others can only dream of. In a whisky world where access to high-quality casks is becoming more limited, that kind of privilege matters a lot.
Tonight, we’re tasting one of those privileged expressions: a bottling of Hazelburn, the triple-distilled single malt produced by Springbank. Unlike Springbank’s other styles, Hazelburn is completely unpeated and distilled three times, resulting in a lighter and cleaner spirit.
This particular expression was matured for thirteen years in bourbon casks. On the nose and palate, it offers clear notes of cereal grain and citrus—imagine lemon zest stirred into a bowl of porridge. Interestingly, there’s also a faint lactic quality that evokes the impression of warm milk or a splash of dairy—not in texture, and certainly not creamy or round, but simply in its aromatic tone.
All in all, it’s a very light and approachable whisky. Easy to enjoy, with a soft and delicate flavor profile that won’t overwhelm the senses. While it doesn’t exactly dazzle in terms of depth or complexity, it delivers a clean, subtle experience—pleasant, if somewhat restrained.
