Bruichladdich Rock'ndaal 01.2 (Fèis Ìle 2022)

Review #018 Type: single malt scotch Alcohol content: 50% Notes: No Age Statement, aged in ex-sherry and ex-wine casks Compared to: Bruichladdich Rock’ndaal 01.1 (Fèis Ìle 2022) Appearance (no score): A mahogany hue. Swirling leaves a thin film on the glass; slow-forming legs. Nose: 16/20 Mixed berries, raisins, orange zest, brown sugar, with the barest trace of leather. Palate: 35/40 Dominant fruity character, featuring plums and raisins. Notes of dark chocolate and caramel are present, along with some unidentified grilled or charred fruit. Finish: 33/40 A medium-short finish. Sweet fruit quickly yields to salt, then dark tannins and black pepper, concluding with a taste similar to Syrah. With Water: A drop of water introduces a mild smoke on the palate and intensifies the saltiness of the finish. Total: 84/100 Final thoughts: Expecting Port Charlotte and Octomore components, I was surprised by the complete absence of peat smoke. The Fèis Ìle releases are always interesting, and while this is a fine dram, the price makes me hesitant to repurchase a full bottle. Cost: £105 Recommendation: perhaps Purchase intention: no Scoring Guide: 96-100: Exceptional, divine, a treasure to be savored, 5 stars. 90-95: Nearly perfect, truly special, 4.75 stars. 85-89: Very good to outstanding, nearly flawless, 4.5 stars. 80-84: Good, enjoyable but not outstanding, 4.25 stars. 75-79: Enjoyable but flawed, unlikely to buy again, 4 stars. 70-74: Solid, worth drinking but not sought after, 3.75 stars. 55-69: Drinkable, 3.5-2.75 stars. Below 55: Unsuitable for drinking, 2.5 stars or less.

Nose - Sweet milky funk, light ocean mist, dark red fruit, tart citrus Taste - Mild smoke, ocean mist, dark red fruit, citrus peel, mild milky funk, sweet smoked dairy, faint metallic note Finish - Slight white pepper warmth/buzz, smoked dark red fruit, faint metallic, citrus peel Score - 81/100 Overall - This expression was somewhat peculiar; initially, I perceived no smokiness until it sat for a period, at which point it began to reveal itself. I suspect the wine or sherry cask maturation concealed the mild peat, as it seems lighter than Port Charlotte expressions like the 01.1. The inclusion of dark red fruit makes this feel slightly less complex than the 01.1, though not significantly. It gives the impression of a low-effort special release. It's acceptable, but not particularly engaging. Would I consume it if offered? - Perhaps Would I specifically request it? - No Would I purchase a bottle? - No NOTE - All evaluations are conducted independently of cost.

A good drink. Could benefit from a stronger sherry presence.

Notes of grape, spice, and a bit of funk