Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2013 - 2021, 8 years, 50% alc. Original bottling. Aging: American oak barrels and French wine barrels in a ratio of 75 to 25.

Nose: Fruity and salty, I find some apples and apricots, green grapes and a hint of unripe banana. Next come vanilla pudding, sugar beet syrup, milk chocolate with sea salt and fudge. With a little time, the smell transports me directly to the Isle of Islay, it smells of malt and sea air, wet gravel and damp meadow.

Palate: Lots of malt and sweet citrus, an almost syrupy mouthfeel. Ripe apricots, sweetened orange juice, thick honey. Behind that are some spices, I find pepper, ginger and fresh oak. Also some salmiak and fennel.

Finish: Long and pleasantly dry. I find apricot jam, orange zest, sea salt and green pepper.

Conclusion: Young Bruichladdich can already offer a lot, this one shines with a mixture of strong sweetness and maritime spice. Nice laddie. 85/100 points (2022)

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