Brora 1977 38 YO (Special Release 2016)
Brora 1977 38 YO (Special Release 2016), 48,6 %
Brora 1977 38 YO (Special Release 2016)
This is the 15th release of Brora in the annual Special Release series from Diageo. Every year the Brora and the Port Ellen releases are the most expensive in this series. Brora distillery closed in 1983, which means we won't be seeing releases of Brora whisky for that many more years I guess. At least not whisky anyone can reasonably afford to drink.
This particular release was distilled all the way back in 1977. The same year that saw the release of the very first Star Wars movie, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Anyways, the Brora 1977 38 YO (Special Release 2016) was matured in American oak hogsheads and refill European oak butts. The release was limited to 2 984 bottles.
You can still pick up a bottle of the Brora 1977 38 YO (Special Release 2016) in Norway at NOK 12 000 (6392001), and in Sweden at SEK 17 402 (4042601). Yep, the price difference is that big. In the UK you can get it at around GBP 1 450.
Nose: A bit closed and shy at first. I pick up some ashes, light wood smoke, fudge and toasted oak. With time it takes on a slightly funky note as well, somewhat like a farmyard Springbank but then again not quite. There are new waves of aromas appearing over time. It just continues to develop and show new aspects of itself. It is quite a joy really.
Taste: Massive and rich mouthfeel. Tons of dried fruits mixed with a deep sweetness, ashes, ginger and wood smoke. It is definitely big and bold. Honey and honey baked apples as well.
Finish: Very long finish. It is still so, so massive, it is bordering on overwhelming. Now there's a very distinct taste of dried coconut! Fruity ashes, whiffs of wood smoke and hints of mint take us home.
Comments: This is a huge dram. It literally takes time to digest this one, in more ways than one - if you catch my drift. But boy is it rewarding! If only I could afford a bottle...
Score (93/100)
Image from Master of Malt.
Sláinte! - Thomas
