87 / 100
The 15-year-old, 1994 Bruichladdich is a Scottish Islay single malt bottled at 40% ABV. Its character has an appealing contrast: a gentle, floral and apple-led nose gives way to darker wood, spice and charcoal on the palate, with syrup sweetness softening that turn. The finish brings back fruit and flowers alongside the woody spice. I find that shift more interesting than a uniformly sweet or floral style, though the wood bitterness may not suit every preference. A composed, distinctive profile, with enough tension between softness and darker notes to merit a strong score.
Reviewed by silverrambler
- Nose
- Candle wax, honeysuckle and fragrant petals, Sweet apple, vanilla cream and a little tropical fruit
- Palate
- Very soft initially, then clove and cinnamon spice, dark wood bitterness, wood resin and charcoal, Gentle syrup sweetness
- Finish
- Fruity dark chocolate and apple skins, Lingering woody spice with hints of flowers