Bruichladdich Peat

As the countdown continues before I can no longer post to Connosr, I have been getting to a number of reviews I’ve meant to do for a very long time. On April 14 I prepared tasting notes for 5 Bruichladdich expressions, and this one is number 5.

This was the second bottling I tasted from the distillery. After reading a review in the Globe and Mail (theglobeandmail.com/life/food-and-wine/…), I decided to buy this for $74.95 and the Laddie Classic (which I opened first on the same day in March 2011) for $79.95. This bottle predates my use of gas, and the last 60 cc were decanted long before I kept track of such things. I last tasted this just before the COVID-19 shutdown over 4 years ago.

This expression is reviewed in my usual manner in a standard Glencairn, allowing it to settle after which I take my nosing and tasting notes, followed by the addition of a few drops of water, waiting, then nosing and tasting.

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Nose: 23/25

Fresh, dry peat in the forefront. Chocolate, dusty. Hint of citrus. Very appealing nose.

Taste: 22/25

Sweet, chocolate and peat on the arrival. Peppery in the development. Water thins the palate slightly, remains rich, with a hint of citrus. (21.5/29)

Finish: 22/25

Astringent, peppery finish.

Balance: 22/25

The nose and palate complement each other.

Score: Neat - 89/100 With Water: 88.5/100

Score based on Nostalgia and enjoyment: 90/100

I have to admit that I probably like this more now than I did in 2011 when my palate was still quite undeveloped. The Bruichladdich signature is best appreciated by an experienced palate. I’m glad that I had the sense at the time to pick up a second bottle, because it’s years since I’ve seen one of these on a shelf. But it will live on as long as Connosr reviews remain online.

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