Monday 19 Aug 2024. 

Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2014 Tasting Notes

Misty, damp day in Islay. Not cold. House door open to the weather. 

 Unpeated. 50 % abv – which is standard Bruichladdich. This higher alcohol content balances the creamy sweetness of this dram. 

8 years old. Barley is grown in Islay at  Crusach, Craigens, Island, Dunlossit Estate, Coull, Rockside, Mulindry and Sunderland farms. 

This whisky is also unchill filtred and colouring free.

First Nose: Damp green vegetal barley, like in the malt barns when the floors are first laid down with grain. 

White nougat. Lovely tingle into the nose.   The essence of warm sand dunes. And the sweet fleeting aroma of white candy floss.   Honey and ripe bananas.

Then in the heart the distinct aroma of freshly made Scotch broth – made with lots of  barley, of course!   Undulating warm waves of pink honeysuckle.  Runny honey slathered on hot buttery toast. 

Milk chocolate and a flash of freshly harvested celery.  The slightest hint of crispy bacon! and a fresh vegetal sharpness. 

On the palate: 

So creamy. A satin mouthfeel. Lovely buzzing on the front gums, and a  tickling dry tightness on the insides of the cheeks.

A feeling of structure and fresh young vigorous strength, and a sort of warm comforting security as the dram slides over the back of the throat. This feeling from the barley and the wood balances the sweetness and freshness of the clean, wholesome dram.  Ending with a warm sunshiney glow into the chest. 

A perfect  dram for a day like this!