Bruichladdich "Organic" 2003 17 years 57.1% (second fill bourbon, Feis Ile 2021 masterclass sample 1)
First of the 2021 Feis Ile masterclass drams from Bruichladdich. Cask 1660, organic Chalice barley from Mid Coul farm in Inverness. The theme of the masterclass is origins – all the samples are (single casks of) Bruichladdich firsts, centring around terroir and different forms of barley.
Colour Gold.
Nose Sweet and floral. Honey. Orange sherbet. Tangy yoghurt with blueberries and raspberries. Unripe fruits. Muesli, a splash of milk. Toffee. Perhaps a little phenolic? With water, peanuts.
Palate Grain forward sweetness, and then into bright orchard fruits. Tart berries, pineapples, drizzled with honey. Very malty, eucalyptus, a bit of menthol. Floral, Aperitif-like bitterness. Boiled lollies. Thick and oily texture. With water, the texture goes, sweeter though.
Finish Chocolate, grain and malt. Very floral, grassy. Banana sundae. Some peanuts. Vanilla. Very long, hot. Creamy, spicy. With water, oak.
Comments Interesting stuff. Highly drinkable, but perhaps go easy on the water. 85/100.
