Bruichladdich 1991 31 Years - Ralph Steadman X Cask 88
The Ralph Steadman Collection is dedicated to the craft of whisky. The artist creates a small artwork for each bottle. Bruichladdich is all about the malting process: "A practice almost entirely lost to the annals of time, the by-hand floor malting process captured by Ralph Steadman’s illustration is being recommissioned at Bruichladdich distillery. This cask was selected for its incredible complexity and remarkable balance."
Tasting Notes
Nose
Even the first impression is like a gust of salty wind over a freshly harvested field. Maritime notes mingle with oak, vanilla and honey, while gentle flavours of grain, lemon and exotic papaya unfold underneath. Here an old cask speaks with a dignified voice - soft but complex, never loud but full of depth.
Palate
The attack is creamy, almost oily, with a surprising lightness for its 50.6% vol. The flavour is reminiscent of lemon sweets and sugar syrup, followed by old oak and a hint of sweet malt, which elegantly picks up on the connection to the malt theme. Unripe mango provides a fruity counterpoint - an exciting interplay between youth and maturity, between structure and playfulness.
Finish
Long, spicy and steeped in oak. The finish is dry, with black pepper, a hint of burnt toast and a bittersweet flicker of honey and candy floss. Here the bourbon barrel resounds one last time - powerful, venerable, almost majestic.
Thoughts
Marcel 86/100
Here, pure drinking pleasure meets fascinating depth of character – a whisky that doesn’t rely on flashy effects but simply captivates with soul and craftsmanship. Those who enjoy relaxing in quiet moments while discovering exciting aromatic worlds will find themselves perfectly served.
Sascha 86/100
A remarkably well-balanced Bruichladdich that impresses with its precise harmony between creamy texture, fruity notes, and spicy oak. The complex structure of this 31-years bourbon barrel whisky demonstrates how time and wood can work together in perfect harmony without overpowering each other.
Value for Money: No rating
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Cask 88. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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What makes the Bruichladdich 1991 31 Years Ralph Steadman X Cask 88 special compared to other Islay whiskies?
This whisky stands out due to its exceptional balance between maritime notes and sweet, fruity aromas. The collaboration with Ralph Steadman also highlights the artisanal malting process, which is reflected in the complexity and depth of the flavor.
How does the bourbon barrel influence the flavor of this 31-years Bruichladdich?
The bourbon barrel imparts a spicy oak structure with hints of black pepper, toast, and a bittersweet note of honey and cotton candy, which shape the long, dry finish and elegantly underscore the whisky’s maturity.
Why is the alcohol content of 50.6% ABV relevant to the tasting experience of this whisky?
At 50.6% ABV, the Bruichladdich 1991 31 Years has enough strength to deliver complex aromas intensely, yet remains surprisingly light and creamy on the palate, making it enjoyable both for seasoned whisky drinkers and curious explorers.