The foundation for the Classic Laddie is not a fixed recipe, but rather a distilling philosophy. They don't pursue exact uniformity; instead, each year, the type and origin of their barley influence their spirit. Moreover, they continuously acquire a diverse range of casks to enrich the assortment of flavors in their warehouse. Instead of aiming for strict consistency, every batch of the Classic Laddie is naturally distinct and varies subtly.
Producing the Classic Laddie is among the most intricate and demanding tasks entrusted to their Head Distiller, Adam Hannett. He personally selects an assembly of the finest spirits to achieve the signature fruity and floral Bruichladdich house style.
Crafting each distinct recipe is an intensive procedure. Adam has to meticulously assess every spirit based on its aroma, taste, and texture. This process is time-consuming and challenging, necessitating a sharp focus and multiple checks, pauses, and reassessments over several weeks. The ultimate composition is determined in the solitude of his tasting room.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:
Nose: The bouquet is brilliant. Opening with barley sugar and a hint of mint before leading into the most wonderful notes of freshly cut wild flowers; buttercup, daisy, meadowsweet, myrtle, primrose and cherry blossom. The cleanliness of the spirit is remarkable. As the seconds tick by, more aromas rise from the glass, little zephyrs of spindrift and sea pinks reminding you that this spirit is matured exclusively by the sea. After some four or five minutes and with the addition of a little water, caramelised fruits drift onto the scene; lemon drops and honey, tangerine and tablet.
Palate: The palate entry is so refined and refreshing, the sweet oak and the barley arriving together sending the taste buds into raptures. The fruits from distillation drift in on an Atlantic breeze and pop on the tongue like champagne bubbles. A combination of ripe green fruit, brown sugar and sweet malt bring closure. A taste back in time, a realisation that not all single malts are equal and to achieve the absolute optimum, you must use barley that is made in Scotland. Make this one the benchmark for all others you meet on your journey through the stills of Scotland.
Finish: Unforgettable! Its best enjoyed in good company, you just don’t want the evening to end. It brings warmth to the heart and soul. The clock slows down and the cares of tomorrow disappear into the dawn.