Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by Bruichladdich. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
Bruichladdich’s continuous exploration and experimentation with terroir shines with its Barley Series. They call it an “obsession,” but this attention to detail since the revival of the distillery in 2001 is why Bruichladdich is my favorite distillery. Transparency is a key component at Bruichladdich. Instead of farm-to-table, they give us farm-to-bottle.
The Bruichladdich Organic 2010 is, you guessed it, made from organic barley. William Rose runs Mid Coul Farms, a century farm in Inverness, Scotland. It has gone from traditional to high-tech in order to meet sustainability both environmentally and economically. The organic barley is grown in a “seven-year rotation among organic cattle, sheep, oats, beans, grass, carrots and market gardening.”
At Mid Coul Farms, Rose rejects the use of artificial fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides; especially those that are petrochemical based. Ensuring high crop yields without any of these is tough work. It requires the use of special machinery and novel approaches to cultivation.
The Organic 2010 from Bruichladdich is the second expression in the Barley Series. Compared to the Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2011, it is a stand-alone in the Barley Series. Conversely, it isn’t the only stand-alone from 2010. The third in the Barley Series is the Bruichladdich Bere Barley 2010. The crops grown and harvested in 2009 are from two different regions and two different farms. Let’s see how the barley from Mid Coul Farms impacted Bruichladdich…
Tasting Notes: Bruichladdich The Organic 2010
Vital Stats: 50% ABV. Made from organic malted barley raised and harvested in 2009 at Mid Coul Farms in Inverness. Distilled in 2010, and aged for at least 8 years in ex-bourbon casks. 750ml ~$90.
Appearance: Platinum blonde
Nose: The whisky is high octane right from the bottle; I let it sit for about 5 minutes to open up and breathe. Green apple and bright pear start off the dram. Wet oak and fresh barley mingle to add a nice layer of depth and earthiness. Pastry dough with apricot or peach filling and baking spices come out near the end.
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Palate: At first taste, the whisky is hot and has a big cresol or rubber flavor. A touch of soot and fruity sweetness are hidden by the bold malted grain and grass. Overall, the whisky is earthy with just a taste of pear galette.
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