Thompson Brothers Bruichladdich Whisky Sample Vintage 2004 21 Year Old (30ml, 54.9%)

Thompson Brothers Bruichladdich Whisky Sample Vintage 2004 21 Year Old (30ml, 54.9%)

Distilled in 2004, this unpeated Islay malt reached its 21st year in a Refill Hogshead. For Bruichladdich, the early 2000s marked a legendary era of experimentation and rebirth. This single cask bottling at 54.9% is a testament to the "Laddie" DNA: coastal, floral, and intellectually stimulating.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Incredibly fresh for its age. Lemon balm, chamomile tea, and green apples are layered over a base of salted butter and oyster shells. There is a sophisticated "chalky" minerality that is pure Bruichladdich.

• Palate: A wax-coated explosion of flavor. Honeyed malt and vanilla sponge cake are brightened by grapefruit zest and a touch of white pepper. As it sits, notes of maritime salt and dried apricots emerge.

• Finish: Long, clean, and bracingly coastal. It leaves a lingering tingle of lemon oil and sea spray.

Why this bottle is special: It is increasingly rare to find independent bottlings of Bruichladdich with this kind of age. This bottle is special because it avoids the wine-cask finishing that the distillery is often known for, instead utilizing a Refill Hogshead to showcase the raw, salty, and floral beauty of the 2004 distillate. It is a "Naked Laddie" at the peak of its maturity.