Brora Triptych 38 Year Old 1982 Timeless Original

To celebrate the reopening of the legendary Brora distillery, Diageo launches a very exclusive set with three historical malts. On the 19th of May 2021 the first cask with new spirit was laid down – a year later than plannen, but we all know the culprit. The reopening was celebrated in style with this Brora Triptich, a very exclusive set – limited to 300 worldwide – with three bottles of 50cl with the golden liquid, i.e. a 48 years old Elusive Legacy from 1972, a 43 years old Age of Peat from 1977 and a 38 years old Timeless Original from 1982. They each represent a milestone in the distillery’s history. Unfortunately I would need to take out another mortgage on my house to be able to afford a set, for it retails at around £30.000 (35.000 EUR), Brexit shenanigans not included. But next to the historical liquid you also get a personal invitation to the distillery for an exclusive tour in the restored distillery. I was fortunate to be able to try these three exceptional malts. We’ll try them from young (for lack of a better word) to old.

Brora 38 Year Old 1982 Timeless Original

The youngest (ha!) in the set is a vatting of malts from the final production year, when Brora started producing a traditional light peated malt again.

The nose is wonderfully fruity, almost tropical and at first reminds me of Clynelish on steroids. Peach apricots, lemongrass, orange zest, ripe gooseberries, mint, cinnamon, hint of leather and honey, soft garden herbs and tea. Nicely waxy. Complex? The word was invented for this nose.

Surprisingly sturdy arrival, I must say. Again very waxy and fruity. It turns quite tropical now on peach and apricots that slowly go down the dried road. But also beautiful – almost typical – citrus notes like yuzu. Excellent. And yes, there is some peat to be discovered, albeit very subtle.

Long, sweet and very creamy finish.

Grand Clyneli… sorry – Brora!

My god! What an absolute privilege to have been able to try these malts. Unaffordable (to me) and legendary, tasted in good company on a sunny terrace. All these elements combined created an unparalelled experience. And yes, this whisky is grand. Words simply are not enough. Just like the balance on my savings account.

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