Bruichladdich 2014 Islay Barley

Distilled using barley grown solely on Islay, the single malt truly celebrates place and provenance. The latest Islay Barley vintage is distilled from barley grown on eight local farms, all within an 11-mile radius of Bruichladdich Distillery.

Fully traceable from farm to glass, Islay Barley 2014 has been matured in a combination of first-fill bourbon casks, sherry butts and second-fill wine casks, balancing the influence of the oak with the locally grown barley.

The result is a cereal-forward single malt with notes of apricot and peach, malty digestive biscuit, and a hint of fresh grass. A subtle maritime note also lingers, nodding to the whisky’s all Islay harvest, distillation and maturation.

Tasting notes:
Colour: Pale gold.

Nose: Delicate floral notes along with sweet malt and ripe grain open on the nose. Hints of pepper and soft spices follow before the dram reveals soft stoned fruits and creamy vanilla. Creamy vanilla, a hint of coconut, butterscotch, and brown sugar come from the oak, alongside delicate notes of nutmeg and hazelnut. Fruit notes continue to open, with fragrant peach, honeyed melon, pear drops and warm banana bread.

Palate: Creamy vanilla and lemon are immediate on the palate, with a peppery nutmeg spice giving way to sweet malt, warm porridge and popcorn. The depth of flavour and creamy, viscous texture is typical of our Islay barley style, with the natural oils from the barley enhanced with layers of sweet citrus, tropical fruit and fragrant peach. The combination of American and French oak makes for a beautifully balanced expression, with a drop of water bringing out subtle marine notes.

Finish: Sweet, stoned fruits settle on the palate with creamy vanilla custard and a touch of coconut, while a delicate floral note lingers.

Character: The epitome of their island home, the spirit of Islay runs through this single malt. The unique locale, temperate climate and soils of the island have shaped the barley grown and harvested for this expression. The depth, complexity and balance of flavours combine to create a unique drinking experience – evoking a true sense of place.