Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2013

For nearly two decades, they have consistently demonstrated their unwavering commitment to sourcing barley locally. This release, the Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2013, marks the eighth edition of their unpeated single malt whisky crafted from barley grown in the vicinity.

Although each expression from individual growing seasons possesses subtle distinctions, a distinctive profile has emerged over time, characterized by a blend of maritime and citrus notes, with barley at the forefront, within these intricate single malts.

The latest vintage of unpeated Bruichladdich Islay Barley showcases barley harvested during the 2012 growing season, which was subsequently distilled in 2013. This barley crop was cultivated across seven different farms on the island, managed by dedicated farmers: Hunter Jackson at Cruach, Andrew and Donald Jones at Coull, Mark French at Rockside, Ian McKerrell at Island, Alistair Torrance at Mulindry, Raymond Fletcher at Dunlossit, and Raymond Stewart at Sunderland.

The resulting spirit underwent maturation in a combination of ex-American and ex-European oak casks, aging gracefully over a span of eight years.

Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:
Nose: This is stunning on the nose. The freshness and purity of the spirit is striking. A kaleidoscope of vibrant aromas pour from the glass, first, citrus and honey notes emerge before stoned fruit, dried apricot, and the perfume of ripe peaches. Sweet notes of marzipan, yellow flowers, vanilla pods, and then zephyrs of spice, cereal, and marine breeze. With time oak notes elevates as the vanilla. Crème-Brulee, caramel and wood spices come to the fore. Then gentle hints of cinnamon and ginger cake and syrup add the anticipation of tasting.
Palate: The oak cradles the soft fruit of distillation with a perfect balance and harmony. The delicate sweetness and luscious texture are like velvet on the palate. The balance of those sweet ripe stoned fruit flavours with the vanilla, caramel and brown sugar notes of the oak is perfect, this vintage of Islay barley is bottled at just the right moment to capture the DNA of our island and the whisky we distil on its shores. Add a touch of water and watch as the natural oils react in the glass releasing wonderful floral notes of hawthorn and heather to add to the complexity and depth of this remarkable Ileach.
Finish: The finish is a testament to the quality of distillation. As the expression of that marine tang with the sweet citrus and honeyed oaked notes tells the story of our whisky and where it comes from. Natural whisky with no chill filtration means you will experience as long and gentle a finish as you ever thought possible.