Last week marked the 30th anniversary of the closure of Brora. Not exactly a happy date, but a good reason to dig up a bottle of this legendary distillery. This Brora 25 year old was the only time Diageo had a special release younger than the usual 30 years (and then 32yo and 35yo).
Brora 25 yo
(56,3%, OB 2008, 7th Edition, 3000 btl.)
Brora 25 yoNose: being a 1980’s Brora, it’s luckily not too mineral. Elegantly smoked, nice fruits (nectarine, lemon) and a subtle grassiness / leafiness. Greasy notes. Almonds. Soft sea air. After a while also a distinct nuttiness. Really good but different from most 30 year-olds.
Mouth: fairly dry start, very spicy (pepper, mustard, ginger). Slightly rough around the edges. Then a wave of sweeter notes (pear drops, apples, lemon) and smoke. Hay. Liquorice. Walnuts.
Finish: long, spicy with light tarry notes and horseradish.
Even though it’s not on the same height as some of the 30yo’s, this is still great whisky. It finds a good balance between the mineral sharpness and the fruity softness. Originally around € 230, now easily over € 300 in auctions.
Score: 90/100