Bruichladdich 10 Year Old 2003 Malts of Scotland

The newest Laddie from Malts of Scotland is a dark little dram, undoubtedly from a sherry cask.

The nose confirms immediately with leather and red fruit, chocolate and some smoked meat and tobacco. Potpourri and succulent honey. Cold coffee. All of this with a wonderful trace of smoke, that becomes bigger with the addition of a teaspoon of water. That also gives it a dirty edge that I am not too fond of, though.

On the palate, it is clear straight away that this is a young animal. Sharp and battle-ready with a grand smokiness, sweet oak and loads of fruit. Litchi, lime and apricots. There is an edge that balances precariously between rubber and sulphur. Well done. But adding water tends to push him over that limit, so be careful.

The finish is long and spicy with the emphasis on oranges and cloves.

It is actually a bit too sharp and hot to taste undiluted, but with water it becomes a little too rubbery. Difficult whisky for me. Knowing that the price tag is 80 EUR, I am going to let this one pass me by.

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