Blended Malt Whiskey BURNSIDE 28 Years 1994-2022 Selection XXXI by GUS'T 50.5° 70 cl

Description

BURNSIDE 28 Year Old 1994–2022 Selection XXXI is a mature Scottish Speyside blended malt selected by independent bottler Le Gus’t. Distilled on 19 October 1994 and bottled on 17 December 2022, it spent 28 years maturing in hogshead cask No. 5143. The whisky is presented in a 70 cl bottle at 50.5% ABV, with a limited outturn of just 219 bottles. Its precise distillation and bottling dates, stated age and identified cask make it an appealing release for enthusiasts interested in mature Scotch whisky and independent selections.

The term “blended malt” describes a whisky made from a combination of malt whiskies, without grain whisky. Burnside is a name used for certain independently bottled Speyside whiskies. In this release, Le Gus’t highlights the character of a particular cask after an extended maturation period. Over 28 years, the spirit has had time to develop a layered profile in which fruit, malt, honey, nuts, wood and spice contribute to the overall experience.

The available tasting notes suggest a rounded, fruit-forward nose. Citrus aromas are joined by plum, apple and ripe fruit, with softer hints of sweet melon and banana. Malt and honey add a warm, rounded dimension, while nuts, wood and spices provide further complexity. On the palate, fresh citrus and plum continue the fruity theme, supported by honeyed sweetness, vanilla and malt. A creamy texture contributes to the whisky’s generous character, while woody and spicy notes add structure. The finish is medium to long, with lingering impressions of citrus, plum, malt, nuts and spice. As with any whisky, the exact aromas and their intensity may vary according to the glass, serving temperature and individual perception.

At 50.5% ABV, this whisky benefits from a measured approach. Pour a small amount into a tulip-shaped whisky glass and allow it to rest briefly before exploring the nose. Tasting it neat first provides a useful impression of its original structure and aromatic concentration. If desired, add a few drops of water and taste again to see how the aromas change. Add water gradually, as small adjustments can reveal different details without diluting the whisky too quickly. Serving it at room temperature rather than chilled also helps preserve its aromatic expression.

BURNSIDE Selection XXXI is well suited to a quiet after-dinner tasting or a comparison with other mature Speyside whiskies. It can be enjoyed on its own, allowing the fruit and malt notes to develop gradually in the glass. If you prefer an accompaniment, walnuts, dried fruit or dark chocolate with moderate bitterness can complement its honeyed and nutty character. These are suggestions rather than fixed pairing rules; the aim is to support the whisky’s flavours rather than overwhelm them.

The release’s stated age of 28 years, 1994 distillation date, 2022 bottling date and cask number give it a clear identity. With only 219 bottles drawn from cask No. 5143, it is a limited independent bottling rather than a large-scale release. It will appeal to collectors and whisky enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the differences between individual casks and the effects of long maturation.

BURNSIDE 28 Year Old Selection XXXI offers a layered Speyside profile built around citrus, plum, apple, honey, malt, nuts, vanilla and spice. Whether enjoyed neat, opened with a little water or tasted alongside a carefully chosen accompaniment, it rewards patience and attention. Its limited production and extended maturation make it a distinctive addition to a collection or a special bottle for a focused whisky tasting.