Bruichladdich The Laddie 8 Year

I bought this whisky on a duty free bacause I really like the regular Classic Laddie and was almost sure I would like this one as well. It wasn't cheap at USD 75,00 and the expectations were high. For this review, as always, I poured myself a dram (arrrghhh...), and into the tasting notes: On the nose it first is quite closed, after sitting for some minutes on the glass or adding some water I can pick some acid sweetness that reminds me of fresh green grapes juice and lots of salt. Not the more inviting nose but you don't have the slightest idea of what awaits you... On the palate, DAMMIT!, the palate... Do I really have to go on with this??? Well, you'll barely feel anything because your taste buds will be anesthetized from the alcohol burn and the GIANT peppery note... But I'm brave and tried again, of course this time adding water until I almost drown the whisky. Still the peppery note is there upfront, but a little tamed and the alcohol has gone, I can feel something else, the green grape note I felt on the nose is there, is like in a white wine, but one you dropped some Tabasco and rubbing alcohol inside... As much as the finish concerns... Who knows? I have already spitted it a long time ago! \o/ To resume the whole review in two words: STAY AWAY! A two star review because believe it or not I have drunk worse.

I feel like this whisky offers a complex and evolving experience, rewarding those who take the time to explore its layers. It took a while for me to like this whisky. I really had to put in some effort to appreciate it. However, it has started to grow on me, and now I enjoy the dram every time. Nose: The initial aroma is dominated by butter and buttered popcorn, followed by a medley of peaches, apples, or pears, and perhaps some tropical fruits. It's like a fruit basket at the first whiff. Adding a few drops of water brings out floral notes, and there's a distinct sea spray that fills your nostrils, followed by a hint of spice. Palate: The mouthfeel is good, with a spicy kick balanced by honey sweetness. There's a berries marmalade taste reminiscent of some grain whiskies, along with apples, citrusy lemon, and maybe a touch of orange peel. The texture is oily, and other flavors include raisins, cinnamon, and cloves. Finish: The finish is medium-long, with a tingling sensation in the mouth. There's a papaya bitterness, dark chocolate buttons, chocolate raisins, coffee and a hint of butter. Some licorice bitterness lingers and stays for a while until you rinse with some water. Suggestions: Gradually add water about 2-5ml.

I've found this to be an interesting alternative to classic version. Nose offers gentle citrus blossoms and a bit more intensive scent of vanilla with something like buttery croissant hidden in the background. Palete adds up on grapefruit juice, grasiness and definitely involves phase of alcohol anesthesia fading to something reminding Tobasco spiciness. Warm finish continues on the grapefruit and kinda grassy note. There is presence of sweetness all the time. Despite being unpeated it's definitely islay style and that's what I adore Laddie for. Fun fact: my not-a-fan-of-scotch fiancee and neighbour they both fancy it too.

Hard drink for me. Haven’t really found a style that would make it better. I think it is just too strong for my taste. Alcohol covers most of the other flavors. Only tasted a few times so maybe I’ll get used to it or find a way to make it better. EDIT: I’ve been adding more and more water and finally it starts to open up. About a teaspoon of water is where I’m currently at. I’m finally enjoying this whisky. Nice fruity flavors are starting to come up. I’m sure I’ll get there before the bottle is empty.

Color is pale yellow. On the nose barley, fruit, some citrus notes. Pallet is rather shallow, with oaky tones mingled with light fruit. Finish is short with some bitter notes, nuts, and oak. A few drops of water makes it somewhat smoother, but cannot fix the immaturity of this whisky. Seems like it has an excellent potential, but 8 years is not enough to reveal it. Overall not a bad drink, but definitely lacks complexity of more mature drams.

Nose: Strong honey and fruit notes. A very clean and light floral waft with grassy undertones. Palate: Light touch of sweetness with flowery undertones. Wooden/charred touch with peppery and other darker depth flavors. A touch of saltiness and spice. Finish: Pleasant sweet wooden flavors with a slightly grassy/oily linger. Overall a pleasant dram with good depth of flavors. Fairly smooth for a high alcohol content.