Whisky Review/Tasting: Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2006

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Islay, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation Year: 2007
Age Statement: 6 years old
ABV: 50%
Maturation: Matured in American oak casks, non-chill filtered and coloring free
Barley Source: Sourced from Rockside Farm on Islay, with barley provided by 16 local farmers
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but it's implied that the bottle carries information about the farm and the barley used

Initial Impressions: Strong alcohol presence, light character
Nose: Initially strong alcohol, with subsequent notes of fruit, vanilla, and a more pronounced fruitiness with water added
Palate: Light oakiness, sweetness, long aftertaste driven by alcohol, with flavors of honey melons, pineapple, and a hint of cinnamon. Adding water enhances fruity aromas like grapes and melon, but diminishes the distillery's light character
Finish: Long, with the alcohol driving the aromas into the palate for a prolonged experience

Distillery Ownership: Bruichladdich was sold in 2012 to Rémy Cointreau
Local Collaboration: The distillery has contracts with local farmers for sourcing barley, emphasizing the importance of local produce and terroir
Rockside Farm: The specific source of barley for this vintage, highlighting the farm's practices and contributions to the local ecosystem

Islay's Agricultural History: The whisky embodies Islay's rich history of barley cultivation and distilling, with a nod to the island's past when it was home to 20 distilleries and extensive barley fields
Terroir and Provenance: Bruichladdich's commitment to showcasing the influence of Islay's terroir on their whisky, challenging the industry's conventional wisdom on the importance of barley

"It's our mission to pursue the ultimate pedigree, provenance, and traceability of our raw materials, chief of which is our barley."
"There are people in the trade who say barley doesn't matter... I personally believe there is an influence from the barley, but it is not a very big one."

Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2006 is a single malt Scotch whisky distilled in 2007 and matured for 6 years.
It features a strong alcohol presence with a light character, showcasing flavors of honey melons, pineapple, and a hint of cinnamon.
The whisky emphasizes the importance of local barley and terroir, sourced from Rockside Farm on Islay.
It challenges conventional wisdom regarding the influence of barley on whisky flavor, asserting a belief in the significance of terroir.
The distillery's commitment to local sourcing and environmental stewardship is highlighted, along with its history and cultural significance on Islay.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in the impact of terroir and local sourcing on whisky flavor will find this expression intriguing.
For Collectors: The unique story and limited availability make it a worthy addition to a collector's shelf.
For Beginners: The strong alcohol content may be challenging, but it offers a good introduction to the complexities of Islay single malts for those ready to explore.
For Environmental Advocates: Individuals who value sustainability and local sourcing practices in their spirits will appreciate the distillery's commitment to these principles.