The 2013 vintage Islay barley from Bruichladdich distillery, an unpeated single malt Scotch whisky distilled from barley grown on seven local farms on Islay. Matured in a combination of first fill American whisky casks (75%) and ex-wine casks from France (25%) that previously held Ribera Del Duero, Syrah and Pauillac wine. Always a fabulous release, this latest Islay barley has been bottled at 50% vol.
Tasting Notes
Awards
Nose
The freshness and purity of the spirit is striking. A kaleidoscope of vibrant aromas pour from the glass. First, citrus and honey notes emerge before stoned fruit, dried apricot, and the perfume of ripe peaches. Sweet notes of marzipan, yellow flowers and vanilla pods are followed by zephyrs of spice, cereal, and marine breeze. Over time the oak notes elevate as the vanilla, Crème-Brulee, caramel and wood spices come to the fore. Then gentle hints of cinnamon and ginger cake and syrup add to the anticipation of tasting.
Palate
Oak cradles the soft fruit distillation beautifully. The delicate sweetness and luscious texture are like velvet on the palate. The balance of those sweet ripe stoned fruit flavours with the vanilla, caramel and brown sugar notes of the oak is perfect. This vintage of Islay barley is bottled at just the right moment to capture the essence of our island. Add a touch of water and watch as the natural oils react in the glass releasing wonderful floral notes of hawthorn and heather to add to the complexity and depth of this remarkable single malt.
Finish
The finish is a testament to the quality of distillation. The subtle marine tang paired with the sweet citrus and honeyed oaked notes tells the story of our whisky and where it comes from. Natural whisky with no chill filtration means you will experience a long and gentle a finish, and in this case - unforgettable.