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Since reopening in 2011, Bruichladdich has championed locally grown Islay barley and brought terroir onto Scotch whisky drinkers' radars. What began as a trial with a single farmer grew into an island-wide community, and it's celebrated here with Bruichladdich Old Skool, a tribute to Bruichladdich's Islay farming partners, released to mark the distillery's 25th anniversary. This 10-year-old single malt is made from 100% Islay barley and bottled at a generous 50% ABV. Its label depicts a map of the island, and the names of all Bruichladdich's farming partners.
A vibrant medley of ripe stone fruits opens on the nose with apricot, nectarine, and red plum. Creamy vanilla custard and barley sugar are complemented with delicate notes of orange blossom and fresh geranium leaves, while a soft, briny sea breeze brings a coastal freshness. Hints of soft coconut and crème caramel emerge, balancing beautifully with the malted barley.
The palate is balanced and viscous, with juicy stone fruits adding a bright citrus lift. Layers of soft barley sugar, stewed pear and ripe apple come to the fore, with the quality oak bringing notes of creamy coconut and caramelised vanilla custard. Warming clove and ginger offer gentle spice, with toasted almond, golden brown sugar, and a hint of minerality giving the whisky depth, complexity and structure.
Apricot jam and toasted coconut settle on the finish, with a vibrant hint of grapefruit and lemon zest. Sweet barley sugar lingers with smouldering embers of gently toasted oak.
