This is another whisky that was presented at the Islay Dinner by Malts of Scotland. Contrary to the Bunnahabhain 1980, this one has a specific mention of the Dinner on the label (a new silver label by the way).
Bruichladdich 24 yo 1988 (54,3%, Malts of Scotland for Islay Whisky Dinner 2012, sherry hogshead, ref. MoS 12040, 188 btl.)
Bruichladdich 24 yo 1988 (54,3%, Malts of Scotland for Islay Whisky Dinner 2012, sherry hogshead, ref. MoS 12040, 188 btl.)Nose: initially slightly over-sherried, with only caramel coming out, but it quickly folds open. Fruity notes of strawberries and baked apple. Praline and almonds. Chocolate. Sweet and rounded, and balanced by soft touches of smoke and mint. A light veil of ferns too. Quite complex.
Mouth: sweet and sour, balancing between citrus and other fruits (red berries, plums, apple). A little on the winey side maybe, but it’s nicely candied and fresh. Then growing drier, with nutty notes and a faint herbal edge.
Finish: medium long, with some lingering sweetness alongside leafy notes and bags of apple skin.
A curious Bruichladdich – lots of sherry in there but in an enjoyable way. I like it. Around € 125.
Score: 87/100