Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie
Islay? Obviously peated Single Malt. At least that was the expectation when we first heard about Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie. It turned out to be just the opposite. After we had entered the batch code of the bottle on the Bruichladdich homepage - thanks to transparency - we received a list of detailed information about the casks used, the barley processed and the year of bottling. Even though the whisky comes without an age statement, this can be roughly calculated.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The number of different casks involved is immediately noticeable. The Scotch releases aromas of sugar syrup and caramel paired with vanilla, honey and white chocolate. Freshly mown grass, further floral notes and spicy oak notes resonate. Here and there, dark berries can be sensed.
Palate
Spicy, vanilla, sweet with a bit of nuttiness. The three-stage development of the Classic Laddie is interesting to observe. In the first stage, vanilla, brown sugar and honey spread out. The second stage moves into Brazil nuts and walnuts, lightly salted with a little crispbread and crunchy cereals. Finally, in the third stage, there is a bit of bitterness that we can't quite put our finger on - perhaps red wine.
Finish
The medium-long finish also develops in the throat. Beginning in the sweetish area, it turns into a spicy-soft combination to finally flash lightly fruity nuances.
Thoughts
Marcel 83/100
The Classic Laddie surprises with its elegant sweetness and multifaceted character – not your typical Islay punch, but a genuine pleasure for those who appreciate harmony and honesty. Its transparency and fair price make it the perfect everyday companion that leaves you wanting more.
Sascha 81/100
A well-balanced, versatile whisky that shines through its transparent cask selection and clear structure. Despite lacking an age statement, it impresses with a successful balance of sweetness, spice, and subtle bitterness – technically flawless, though without any major surprises.
Value for Money: Excellent
💸 This whisky offers an outstanding value for money and is our value pick.
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83/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie not smoky despite its Islay origin?
Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie uses unpeated barley, which is why it shows hardly any smoke or peat notes. Unlike many other Islay whiskies, the focus here is on fruity, floral, and sweet aromas.
How can the age of Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie be estimated without an age statement?
Although there is no age statement, by entering the batch code on Bruichladdich’s website, you can find details about the casks used and the bottling year, which allows for an approximate age determination.
What flavor development characterizes Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie?
The whisky exhibits a three-stage flavor development: first sweet notes of vanilla and honey, then nutty and slightly salty aromas reminiscent of crunchy muesli, followed by a subtle bitterness that can evoke red wine.