Wolfburn distillery in Thurso is the most northerly distillery on the Scottish mainland. Opened in 2013, it revives the name of a nineteenth-century distillery that operated on the same site until the 1850s. The Aurora Sherry Oak expression is matured in a combination of bourbon barrels and oloroso sherry hogsheads, creating a whisky that combines the distillery's naturally clean, coastal character with the richness of sherry wood.
The sherry influence adds a welcome dimension to Wolfburn's still-developing spirit. The dried fruit and nuttiness from the oloroso casks complement the malt's natural sweetness and the subtle maritime character that the Thurso location provides. At 46% and non-chill-filtered, the whisky is presented with integrity.
Wolfburn Aurora Sherry Oak is a well-made, fairly priced Highland malt from a distillery that is steadily building a reputation for quality. The sherry cask influence adds interest and richness, while the coastal location gives the whisky a subtle sense of place. As Wolfburn's stocks mature and its range develops, the potential for excellent Highland whisky from Scotland's far north grows ever more convincing.
