2013 Bruichladdich Islay Barley Unpeated Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

"...a truly memorable dram." - whiskyadvocate.com

The eighth release in the Islay Barley series was produced using barley grown on Islay in 2012 by farmers from seven island farms, dried, malted and distilled in 2013. Left unpeated and matured in a mix of first-fill American whiskey casks and x-European casks for a minimum of eight years, it's described as having aromas and flavours of honeyed porridge and lemon meringue pie. Like the earlier releases, each expression from the individual growing season is subtly nuanced; each a variation on the signature maritime-citrus, barley forward style that makes these bottlings popular year in year out. Non chill filtered. 50% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... This expression, now in its eighth edition, showcases Bruichladdich’s commitment to Islay terroir. It’s an 8 year old in a world of double-digit age stated scotch, but you’ll never accuse this delightful whisky of being too young. Sweet biscuity aromas along with ripe peaches and pears lead to a creamy palate of lemon cake, candied orange, nougat and vanilla, all balanced by the wood influence and hints of salinity. Water brings out sweet nectar and honey. The finish is graceful, long, and lively, making this a truly memorable dram. 94 points —David Savona, whiskyadvocate.com

...Same set-up. Colour: a notch darker. Nose: fruitier, rootier, more expressive. Celeriac and fennel, sweet beets, gentian (hurray!) and whiffs of wee white pineapples. Hold on, viognier? With water: back to breads, grist and oats, plus white pepper. An unexpected turn of events. Mouth (neat): once again, a fruitier version after the 2012, with more jelly babies after the ginger mints and cinnamon. With water: same as the 2012. Finish: same, with some hot spices coming to the front. Comments: not much to add. This one's very marginally fruitier, but it'll all depend on the amount and type of water you'll be using. Let's make this clear though, I think they are great drops! 84 points - whiskyfun.com