Wolfburn Vibrant Stills Bourbon Barrel 2015/2023 8 Years
The Vibrant Stills Bourbon Barrel 2015/2023 edition by Wolfburn is a small batch release made exclusively for the German market. Aged for 8 years in fresh bourbon barrels and bottled at a robust 50% ABV, this Single Malt Scotch Whisky presents both the gentleness of the Highlands and a surprisingly pronounced smoky tone. Non-chill filtered and bottled in its natural colour, it feels pure – and delightfully complex.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Right from the start, the aroma is bold: warm BBQ smoke, hints of smoked ham, and scorched wood dominate the nose. Beneath, a creamy vanilla softness adds depth. A subtle maritime breeze occasionally surfaces – a whisper of seaweed in coastal air. This whisky doesn’t fully reveal itself at once; it rewards a patient nose.
Palate
On the palate, Wolfburn Vibrant Stills is rich and full-bodied. Notes of dark plum compote meet clove spice in a creamy, well-rounded mouthfeel. The bourbon cask influence returns with warming vanilla. Hints of citrus and a light salinity give it structure and clarity. The smoke is present yet never overwhelming – well-integrated and character-defining. Everything here feels genuine.
Finish
In the finish, the smoky notes intensify: charred wood and burnt toast mingle with light honey. A slightly gritty texture appears, reminiscent of oak tannins. Bright fruit is almost absent; instead, a rustic, subtly bitter warmth lingers – satisfyingly long.
Thoughts
Marcel 81/100
A Highland whisky that really delights with its smoky depth and creamy vanilla notes – here, character meets drinkability without being loud. Anyone who enjoys a robust, maritime dram will love this Wolfburn. A genuine everyday companion with edges and quirks that charmingly surprise.
Sascha 81/100
Technically precise and structurally balanced, this Wolfburn shows a successful integration of smoke and bourbon cask notes. The balance between spicy complexity and fresh saline hints makes it a convincing example of modern Highland whisky. Although the finish carries a certain rustic roughness, the overall impression remains coherent and thoughtfully crafted.
Value for Money: Fair
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How does the bourbon cask maturation influence the taste of the Wolfburn Vibrant Stills 2015/2023?
The 8-year maturation in fresh bourbon barrels imparts a warm vanilla note that is present both on the nose and the palate. It provides a creamy sweetness and brings out spicy as well as fresh citrus accents, which harmoniously complement the smoky character.
Why is the Wolfburn Vibrant Stills 2015/2023 non-chill filtered and what does that mean for the drinking experience?
Forgoing chill filtration preserves the whisky’s natural aromas and full texture. This means oils and delicate flavor compounds remain intact, resulting in a more layered and authentic tasting experience, especially at a drinking strength of 50% ABV.
What role does the smoky character play in this Highland whisky?
The smoky note is present but never overpowering. It evokes BBQ wood fires and smoked ham, adding a distinctive depth typical of this edition. The smoke is well integrated, giving the whisky a rustic, characterful finish without feeling artificial.