On the island of Islay lies a Scottish treasure that has been around since 1881, the Bruichladdich Distillery. Embracing their roots to produce high quality whiskies, Bruichladdich offers a distinct taste that we typical do not recognize. After being closed for numerous years, the distillery was reopened in 2000 to make their signature whisky and the unique Octomore series.
One of the key beliefs at Bruichladdich is that terroir matters. For non-whisky and spirits drinkers, terroir is the understanding of the natural environment that goes into creating the liquor, including the soil, climate and topography. Since whisky is made from barley, which is throughout the island of Islay, it is vital for Bruichladdich to know what affects the barley crop.
From the barley fields and farmers to the distillery, everything comes together to create Bruichladdich’s powerful malts. Unlike numerous whiskey brands, Bruichladdich does not have a long aging process. They believe that if the casks are the properly made, their whisky can age for seven years and have the high quality of an older spirit.
Within one sip of the Classic Laddie, people will notice the refreshing notes of sweet oak, a combination of green fruits, brown sugar and sweet malt.
While the Classic Laddie is the quintessential Scottish spirit, Bruichladdich brings their brand to the next level with their Octomore series. Loaded with large amounts of peat, the whisky exudes a distinct scent and flavor that is completely different than the original blend. Whisky amateurs might be interested to know that peat is actually a type of soil that is then heated and the smoky aroma blends with the barley to make the whisky. The finished product is the smokier flavor.
There are various degrees of how much a whisky can be peated or smoked, and that changes the end product. Bruichladdich started the series with the Octomore 6.1, but has recently release the Octomore 7.4. Each addition to the series is limited and unique since quality of the barely crop changes with different environmental factors.
The latest addition to the series is known as the world most heavily peated whisky, and within one sip the powerful smoky flavors fuse together with the barley to create a top notch spirit.
Twisted Talk: Have you ever had peated whisky? What did you think of it? Discuss below!
