Bruichladdich Peat

Nose: youthfulness leads to a bit of an isopropyl alcohol, a bit astringent, soft vanilla, fresh fruit come across, followed by a ripe manure scent, peat is apparent but soft, non-medicinal (nothing like a Laphroaig or Ardbeg)

Body: much like the Penderyn I just reviewed, the Peat is clearly a younger whisky, although it would be hard to tell by the dark copper color. Great feel on the tongue, unlike anything from the Islay that I have tried. Much different than other "peaty" whiskeys such as the Supernova, or Corryvrecken. The Peat in this one is similar to a 9 year peated cask strength Bunnahabhain I had bottled by Signatory. The peat is a dirty flavor, kind of muddled and spit out, giving way to a cleaner smoke on the back.

Palate: the feel in the mouth is fine, relatively hot for 46%, but once again I believe it to be the youth. Nice to try a whisky from Islay without the medicinal character, and I think that Jim McEwan's vision was a success has this whisky is exactly what it advertises. Peat without iodine. Nice finish, with sea salt and brine holding strong. Nice young whisky.

It has taken me a while to get used to anything from Bruichladdich. I am so used to the flavor of a Laphroaig, (which is my favorite), the flavor profile of any Bruichladdich is much different. 8.5 stars is too many, and I feel like it's more around the 80 to 83 range. Good whisky, definitely would not purchase it over a Laphroaig 10 or Ardbeg TEN.

Find where to buy Bruichladdich whisky