Wolfburn Northland Review: 'Soft Peat Smoke on the Palate'

The Wolfburn distillery was established in 2013 and holds the title of the northernmost distillery on the Scottish mainland. Positioned near the small town of Thurso, it inhabits the grounds of a former distillery carrying the same name. The water source, or 'burn' – the Scottish term for a small river or stream – is used in the whisky-making process.

Thurso's team sets themselves apart from other 'whisky makers' by approaching things a tad differently. They accomplish this through extended fermentation, and a notably prolonged distillation in pot stills which are on the smaller side. This results in increased contact with the copper and ultimately generates a remarkably pure and smooth distillate.

Northland is the inaugural bottling from the Wolfburn distillery, and its name represents its heritage and status as the most northern whisky distillery in mainland Scotland. This whisky was launched in 2016 and since then, it's become a stalwart in Wolfburn's core range. The packaging exudes a premium feel and showcases a cool-looking sea wolf, a creature from Scottish and Norse mythology.

The whisky has been matured, or partially matured, in American quarter casks previously housing Islay whisky (think Laphroaig). Wolfburn Northland has a natural color and is non-chill filtered before bottling.

When you first smell Wolfburn Northland, it might require a touch of exploration. You need to give this whisky some time to reveal its true essence. Shortly after, notes of fresh apples emerge, followed by herbal aromas and soft peat smoke. That this whisky matured on the rugged coast of Caithness is also discernible in a subtle hint of salty sea air.

With an alcohol content of 46%, the whisky encourages a pleasantly warm and highly drinkable experience. On the palate, the spirit is honey sweet and fruity, followed by a subtle earthy peatiness. This is all topped off with a medium finish dominated by notes of honey and sweet spices.

For a young whisky, Northland is remarkably smooth. It may lack some complexity, yet it's quite a solid drink. Though matured on the coast of northern Scotland and in former Islay casks, there's little trace of the expected peatiness. This is more than compensated by its charm, wonderfully soft texture, and abundant sweet flavors.

+ Young and fresh

+ Acceptable price tag

+ Beautiful packaging

- Don't be disappointed by lack of peat