IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Why don't we hear more about Deanston, the Southern Highlands distillery that makes up the smallest portion of the Bunnahabhain and Tobermorey trifecta? Because Deanston's main purpose is to create whisky for the company's largest brand: Scottish Leader, an inexpensive blend that makes up the core of the Burn Stewart portfolio's sales. But with new ownership comes a new revival. In 2013, the Distill Group, a South African wine and spirit producer, acquired Burn Stewart and began revamping the trio of single malt brands. Part of that enchancement has included the release of 18 year old Deanston, formerly with a Cognac finish, and this time with a straight Bourbon barrel release. The result is classic, pure, and outstanding. Rich vanilla and malted barley make up the core constituents of flavor, a creamy and supple mouthfeel adds to that delight, and the finish is loaded with oiliness and a lip-smacking note of honey and citrus. This is outstanding whisky from a very unlikely place. It's a big step in the right direction for Deanston.