Linkwood 1997 "Citrus Burst" (Wemyss Malts)

Linkwood 1997 "Citrus Burst", 16 YO, 46 %

A light dram from the Speyside distillery Linkwood is on the test bench today. Independent bottler Wemyss Malts released the Linkwood 1997 "Citrus Burst" in October 2013. It has been matured in a bourbon hogshead and the total outturn was 363 bottles.

This whisky available to buy in Norway at NOK 1087 (item number 1594101). You can also pick up the Linkwood 1997 "Citrus Burst" in Sweden at SEK 1002 (item number 85412).

Nose (22/25): This whisky certainly lives up to its name. There's a flurry of citrus notes punching on my nose at first sniff. Lots of lemons and limes. It takes a while to penetrate the citrus mist, in fact, but prevail and you shall be rewarded with other, lighter, fruit notes - slightly acidic apples and pears in particular. There's a whiff of oak, eucalyptus and fresh herbs as well - thyme and lemon balm. All in all a very fresh and fruity nose.

Taste (22/25): Again a lot of citrus and mild oakiness. It was not very sweet on the nose, and the same goes for the taste. Fresh and fruity, with a minty twist. Oily mouthfeel, herbal honey!

Finish (21/25): The finish adds a short burst of spices, mainly pepper. A faint touch of eucalyptus and aniseed on the finish line. Medium long.

Balance (21/25): A perfect aperitif whisky, a fresh starter. Feeling all peppy now!

Score (86/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas