Bruichladdich Yellow Submarine WMDII 14 Year

Get ready, I have a review for a renowned whisky I've tried; one with a wonderful story that even became a permanent fixture at the distillery. This is the tale of Bruichladdich Yellow Submarine 1991, WMD II (Whisky of Mass Distinction). In 2005, a local farmer observed a metallic object in the ocean directly in front of the Bruichladdich distillery, striking the rocks. It turned out to be a Royal Navy yellow submarine, marked "MOD" (Ministry of Defense). Bruichladdich staff contacted the government, but they denied missing a mine detector submarine. The distillery workers removed it from the water and kept it on their property. After a few days, large helicopters arrived on Islay to retrieve the submarine; it belonged to the British Ministry of Defense. The submarine was taken back. Naturally, Bruichladdich created a full-size replica as an ornament for the distillery and released this 14-year-old whisky, which has achieved legendary status. Bottled at 46% ABV, it sells for around 2k in some online shops. On the nose, it's perfect. Cotton candy, peaches, hazelnut, nutmeg, and white Ritter chocolate. After a first taste, it revealed an almond note, which is marvelous. Pistachios, Nutella, and churros. Wafer with Nutella. Incredible. On the palate, it's pleasant but a bit plain. A peach overload, apple strudel, and the characteristic shampoo note from Bruichladdich. The finish is elegant and delicious, but I wish it were a little more complex. Sulfur and spicy notes. Cotton. Overall, after the fantastic aroma, the palate and finish didn't meet the expectations set by the nose. A very good whisky with an incredible story. I believe the price has become excessively high, making this very good whisky a poor choice for drinking. As an investment, this bottle is certainly coveted by many. My score is 90 out of 100.

Not at the level of a 25 year old, of course, but still quite good. Smell: Honey, Cantaloupes, Strawberries, Peaches, Vanilla, Almonds, Oranges, Marzipan, Bananas, Coconuts Taste: Raisins, Vanilla, Blackberries, Prunes, Dark Chocolate, Luxardo Cherries, Peaches, Honey, Banana Walnut Bread Aftertaste: Vanilla, Raisins, Brown Sugar, Coconuts, Banana Bread

Nose: Sharp, citrus. Palate: Bitter, dry, sharp. Finish: Dry, somewhat brief. Sadly, not nearly as good as the later iteration.