Black Art 09.1 is the latest and 9th release of Bruichladdich’s mysterious series and with its 29 years, it’s the oldest edition to date.
All the single malts used to create this Black Art were distilled in or before 1992, which means it dates back to before the distillery closed in 1994. And that is quite special because Bruichladdich has even less than 1% left of this older stock.
As always, this Black Art 09.1 is one big mystery. Only the head distiller, Adam Hannett, knows what the exact recipe is and therefore which casks were used…
This Bruichladdich Black Art is bottled at a strength of 44.1% ABV.
Bruichladdich Black Art 09.1 tasting notes:
Nose: a sweet start with plenty of berries: red berries, blueberries and also blackberries. But there’s also peach and pineapple. A good drop of honey. Baked red apples sprinkled with cinnamon. Followed by a whiff of tobacco and a hint of leather. But then suddenly sweet oranges as well. There is very much going on in this here and I like it.
Taste: a little less fruity than the nose suggests, although there is quite some fruit on the arrival. Sweet strawberries and blueberries. Quickly followed by peaches again and also mango. Then caramel, toffee and a lovely rich honey. A touch of mint. Followed by oak and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
Finish: mid-long to long with a touch of oak, dark chocolate and a hint of tropical fruit.
Not a shy whisky by any means. But an explosion of flavours, which work really well together. It’s a very good and complex single malt that is nicely layered and balanced. Really well done.
Sample provided by Bruichladdich.
