We are thrilled to announce the unveiling of The Bruichladdich Eighteen and The Bruichladdich Thirty – the inaugural permanent releases of 18 and 30-year-old Bruichladdich bottlings.
Representing significant milestones in Bruichladdich’s journey, these expressions epitomize our pioneering heritage and unwavering dedication to excellence, both past and future.
The Bruichladdich Eighteen
A testament to Bruichladdich’s unwavering dedication to quality and innovation, The Bruichladdich Eighteen stands as a pinnacle of craftsmanship. Meticulously matured for eighteen years exclusively on Islay, this single malt Scotch whisky exudes the essence of Bruichladdich's unpeated house style.
With its origins traceable from farm to glass, The Bruichladdich Eighteen represents more than just a whisky; it embodies a philosophy. Every facet of its creation, from the selection of barley varietals to the casks in which it matures, is meticulously curated to ensure an unparalleled sensory experience.
Upon first encounter, the aroma tantalizes the senses with notes of ripe peach, honeysuckle, and delicate hints of violet and lavender. A symphony of tropical fruits dances on the palate, intertwined with nuances of honey, butterscotch, and toasted oak. The finish, true to Bruichladdich's signature style, is characterized by a harmonious balance of minerality, oak, and a delicate floral bouquet.
Specification From the Brand
Barley Varietal: The Bruichladdich Eighteen is made using a combination of Scottish Mainland, Islay and Organic barley, with each varietal and harvest fully traceable from farm to bottle
Malting: Unpeated
Distillation Years: Distilled in 2004, single vintage expression
Age: 18 Years
Maturation Profile: The single malt has matured exclusively on Islay primarily in ex-bourbon casks. These bourbon casks, together with a smaller number of Sauternes and Port casks, are vatted and married for nine months before bottling to balance Bruichladdich’s signature floral and fruity character.
Strength: 50% ABV
The Bruichladdich Thirty
Steeped in history and tradition, The Bruichladdich Thirty pays homage to the resilience and perseverance that define the Bruichladdich legacy. Crafted from exceptionally rare ex-Bourbon casks, each sip of this refined expression tells the tale of Bruichladdich's resurrection.
Distilled during a period of uncertainty for the distillery, The Bruichladdich Thirty is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who safeguarded its future. Over three decades of maturation, this whisky has evolved, gaining complexity and depth, mirroring the journey of the distillery itself.
The nose reveals a delicate interplay of oak, coconut, and wild gorse flowers, accompanied by subtle hints of pear drops and candied lemons. On the palate, the sweetness of toasted oak mingles with notes of honey, fudge, and a whisper of leather, culminating in a finish enriched by the unmistakable tang of Islay sea air.
Specification From the Brand
Barley Varietal: Pre-renaissance casks before 2001
Malting: Unpeated
Distillation Years: 1989, 1991 & 1992
Age: 30 Aged Years
Maturation Profile: 100% bourbon cask matured in a combination of: 50% full-term maturation in refill hogsheads and 50% refill hogsheads recasked into fresh bourbon casks after 20 years. All casks are vatted together and further matured before married in refill bourbon barrels for three months before bottling.
Strength: 43.2% ABV
A Legacy of Innovation and Tradition
The release of The Bruichladdich Eighteen and The Bruichladdich Thirty is not merely a celebration of exceptional whisky; it is a testament to the values and vision that define Bruichladdich. From pioneering sustainable agriculture on Islay to navigating the tumultuous waters of the whisky industry, Bruichladdich remains steadfast in its commitment to quality, provenance, and community.
As aficionados and connoisseurs alike raise a glass to these remarkable expressions, they are not just savoring whisky; they are experiencing a piece of history, a legacy redefined by passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. In every sip lies the essence of Bruichladdich – a distillery reborn, a tradition upheld, and a future illuminated by the brilliance of its past.
About Bruichladdich Distillery
Bruichladdich Distillery is a renowned Scotch whisky distillery situated on the Isle of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland. Founded in 1881 by the Harvey brothers, Bruichladdich has a rich history rooted in traditional whisky-making techniques and a commitment to innovation. The distillery is known for producing a diverse range of whiskies, each with its own distinct character and flavor profile.
Bruichladdich is celebrated for its focus on terroir and provenance, sourcing barley from local farms on Islay whenever possible. The distillery is one of the few in Scotland to still use traditional floor malting methods, which allows for greater control over the barley's quality and flavor. Bruichladdich also experiments with different barley varieties, fermentation times, and distillation techniques to create whiskies that capture the essence of Islay's rugged landscape.
One of Bruichladdich's most notable ranges is its "Progressive Hebridean Distillers" series, which includes expressions such as the unpeated Bruichladdich, the heavily peated Port Charlotte, and the super heavily peated Octomore. Each expression in the range offers a unique interpretation of Islay whisky, showcasing the diversity of flavors that can be achieved through different peating levels and production methods.
In addition to its core range, Bruichladdich releases limited-edition and special cask-finished whiskies, often in collaboration with other producers or organizations. These expressions allow the distillery to experiment with unique cask types, finishes, and aging techniques, pushing the boundaries of traditional whisky-making while honoring its heritage.
Bruichladdich's commitment to transparency, sustainability, and innovation has earned it a loyal following among whisky enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. The distillery's distinctive bottle designs and labels often feature bold, modern artwork, reflecting its modern approach to whisky-making while paying homage to Islay's rich cultural heritage.
Visitors to Bruichladdich Distillery can enjoy guided tours and tastings, gaining insight into the distillation process and the unique factors that influence Islay whisky production. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in cocktails, Bruichladdich whiskies offer a memorable and rewarding drinking experience for whisky enthusiasts seeking something truly special.
