08/02/2021 Bruichladdich

Bruichladdich 10yo (61.7%, OB Private Single Cask for The Whisky Shop Bowmore, Syrah Cask, C#117): nose: it smells vaguely leathery, though it is faded loafers, rather than new coats. Behind that is a whiff of solvents, acetone and lighter fluid. It appears quite fierce too -- and of course, the ABV validates that impression. A pinch of earth, nut liqueur, even a drop of brandy, if not a very fruity one, prunes, beef stock and, maybe, a pinch of grated chalk. On the late tip, warm rubber appears, just poured into the mould. Water makes the nose fruitier and more mellow, now divulging apricot jelly, plum jam and prickle-pear honey. Mouth: surprisingly dry and earthy, full of beef-stock-cube dust, un-fruity brandy and rehydrated prunes. Dark furniture wax, liquid leather polish, drinks cabinets, tequila or margarita. The texture seems pleasant at first, until the ABV catches on and turns stripping; it is not unlike drinking fire, or white spirit. It also becomes even dryer, with old newspapers and dried tarragon leaves. Repeated sipping brings a lichen-y, cast-iron touch, which I enjoy a lot. Water makes it jammier, almost honey-like in texture, with acacia honey and smoked-quince jam. Finish: numbing, warming (with a delay) and seemingly short, though I suspect that is because the mouth is numb. In the long run, the prunes come back, as does the cubed beef stock. The finish is quite drying as well, despite that prune note: chalk lines, old-newspaper ink, ground caraway and sumac. Here too, water seems to underline a certain smoky side, with a cast-iron cauldron, heated red, and jam, bubbling away in it (mirabelle plum or prickle pear). Great swimmer, in any case. This is perfect for a snowy day like today. 7/10 (Thanks for the sample, JB)