Bruichladdich 2001 20yo Warehouse 1 Claxton's with presentation box

Distillery: Bruichladdich Distillation: Pot Still Bottler: Claxton's Series: Warehouse 1 Barrel: Fresh Sherry Hogshead Distilled: 2001 Bottled: 2022 Aging: 20 years-old Bottles: 193 Cask: C22034 ABV: 59.9% Volume: 700 ml Bottling info: Matured for two decades in a fresh sherry hogshead, Cask No. C22034 yielded only 193 bottles. Bottled in 2022 at a natural cask strength of 59.9% ABV, this whisky offers remarkable depth and complexity while retaining an impressive balance between spirit character, peat influence and sherry maturation. Far removed from heavily medicinal Islay styles, the peat profile here is gentle and refined, closer in style to Bruichladdich's Rhinns expressions than the more assertive peat often associated with the island. The result is a beautifully integrated whisky where delicate smoke intertwines effortlessly with dried fruits, citrus nuances and mature sherry notes. Presented at natural colour and without chill filtration, this limited Claxton's Warehouse No. 1 bottling is a captivating example of how time, careful cask selection and subtle peat can create an unforgettable Islay dram. Tasting note: Nose: A wonderfully gentle peat introduces the whisky, displaying the distinctive elegance often associated with Bruichladdich's lightly peated style. Subtle lactic notes provide a creamy backdrop, while layers of dried fruits and softly smoked plums emerge from the influence of the fresh sherry hogshead. The smoke remains refined and integrated throughout, enhancing rather than dominating the aromatic profile. Palate: Rich and beautifully textured, the palate reveals earthy peat alongside notes of stewed dried fruits and sherry-soaked fruit compote. Smoked apple preserve adds an intriguing sweet-and-savoury dimension, while the cask strength delivers impressive intensity without sacrificing balance. The interplay between peat, fruit and oak is exceptionally harmonious. Finish: Long and contemplative, the finish gradually unfolds with lingering dried fruits, vibrant orange zest and delicate hints of damp tobacco leaves. Subtle red wine characteristics emerge towards the end, adding further complexity and sophistication to a finish that seems to last indefinitely.