Bruichladdich Bere Barley 2008 Islay Grown: Dunlossit Estate

Bruichladdich Bere Barley 2008 Islay Grown: Dunlossit Estate, 9 YO, 50 %

Vintage 2008, matured in American oak; ex-bourbon and ex-Tennessee casks. Bottled 2017-11-27 and limited to 18000 bottles.

From Wikipedia:

“Bere is a very old grain that may have been grown in Britain since neolithic times. In its early days it was also called "bygge" or "big," probably originating from bygg, the Old Norse term for barley.”

“The Agronomy Institute at Orkney College UHI in Scotland has had a research programme on Bere since 2002. The programme is aimed at developing new markets for the crop and developing best practices for growing it more easily and with increased yield. As a result of this research, several new markets (whisky, beer and biscuits) have been developed for Orkney Bere. The crop is also being grown on the island of Islay, for whisky production by Bruichladdich Distillery.”

You can still buy the Bruichladdich Bere Barley 2008 Islay Grown: Dunlossit Estate in Norway at NOK 1219 (10092001).

Nose: Fresh and fragrant notes of ripe green and red apples. Red berries and a hint of warm oakiness. With time I find it softly floral. Notes of malt, hay, vanilla, citrus and pepper also appear.

Taste: Rather full of body and other goodness. Perhaps not as fruity as the nose suggested. Malty and rich. Dry notes of white pepper and oak at first, then lighter notes of sweet fruit. Ginger and even a hint of aniseed.

Finish: Medium long finish. Chocolate as well now, and unsalted peanuts. Vanilla. Again slightly herbal in style.

Comment: One to be enjoyed.

Score 86/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas