Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample 1984 40 Year Old Blended Scotch 2024 Release (30ml, 40.4%)

Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample 1984 40 Year Old Blended Scotch 2024 Release (30ml, 40.4%)

The Thompson Brothers 1984 40 Year Old Blended Scotch (2024 Release) is a masterclass in the "unusual" side of ultra-aged whisky. Often labeled as TB/BSW, this release has become a major talking point among enthusiasts because of its distinctive "old-school" profile that many believe hints strongly at a certain legendary Islay distillery from the 1980s.

Matured in a single refill butt for four decades, this blend was bottled at its natural cask strength of 40.4%, preserving a delicate, ethereal character that would have been lost if diluted.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Vibrant and remarkably expressive for its age. It leads with a polarizing but fascinating floral bouquet—lavender, parma violets, and French perfume. Beneath the floral layer lies waxed lemons, cream soda, and a gentle, medicinal coastal smoke. There are hints of exotic fruits like kiwi and nectarine, wrapped in an "old warehouse" mustiness.

Palate: The texture is light and silky rather than syrupy. It opens with orange sherbet and pink grapefruit, quickly moving into a cooler, herbal territory of menthol, eucalyptus, and green tea. The smoke is wispier here, tasting like beachside botanical gardens and charred citrus rinds. There is a curious savory edge of olive brine and salted caramel.

Finish: Long, soft, and sophisticated. It leaves a drying sensation of ashy pepper, herbal tisanes, and a lingering floral sweetness that remains clean and bright without the heavy oak tannins often found in 40-year-old whiskies.