The Bruichladdich Black Art 2.x 1989 is a highly regarded and enigmatic release from Bruichladdich, a distillery known for its innovative and experimental approach to whisky making. Part of the Black Art series, this particular bottling was created by Jim McEwan, the master distiller at the time, and is characterized by its mysterious and unpublicized blend of cask types, proportions, and ages. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, adding to the allure and mystique of the Black Art series. The whisky was distilled in 1989 and has been aged in a combination of carefully selected casks, resulting in a complex and multi-layered profile. It is an exploration of rich flavors, depth, and artistry, and is ideal for those who appreciate whisky with a sense of mystery and uniqueness.
NOSE: The nose of the Bruichladdich Black Art 2.x 1989 is immediately intriguing and complex. It opens with a wave of ripe fruits, particularly dried apricots, figs, and blackberries, providing a rich sweetness that is balanced by a subtle maritime influence. A soft oak presence is felt, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a faint trace of spice. The whisky's age has imparted a deep, refined character, with hints of chocolate, toffee, and a delicate nuttiness. As the whisky breathes, the complexity deepens, with traces of leather, tobacco, and a whisper of earthy peat smoke, although the peat is very subtle and not dominant. There’s a slight herbal quality as well, with rosemary and thyme adding an aromatic freshness to the nose. Overall, the nose is elegant, layered, and rich, with a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and complexity.
TASTE: On the palate, the Bruichladdich Black Art 2.x 1989 is smooth and velvety, with a rich mouthfeel that coats the palate. The initial sweetness of dark fruits—dried plums, raisins, and figs—dominates, blending seamlessly with a delicate layer of honey and toffee. The oak influence is present but subtle, contributing a gentle spice, along with flavors of vanilla, toasted almonds, and a light, creamy texture. As the whisky develops on the palate, darker notes emerge—dark chocolate, espresso, and a faint trace of tobacco. There’s also a gentle herbal quality that provides a refreshing contrast to the richness, with hints of thyme, rosemary, and even a touch of eucalyptus. The balance between the fruity sweetness, oak, and spice is masterful, with the whisky evolving gracefully with every sip. While the peat influence is minimal, there’s a faint undercurrent of smokiness that adds a touch of mystery and depth.
FINISH: The finish of the Bruichladdich Black Art 2.x 1989 is long, warming, and deeply satisfying. The rich, dried fruit flavors continue to linger, with raisins, prunes, and figs giving way to a smooth, honeyed sweetness. The oak influence remains, adding a touch of dryness and spice, while the faint trace of chocolate, espresso, and tobacco lingers on the palate. A delicate herbal note adds a layer of complexity, while the subtle peat smoke becomes more apparent in the aftertaste, leaving behind a smoky whisper that lingers long after the last sip. The finish is perfectly balanced, with a satisfying depth and a long, graceful conclusion that invites you to take another sip. The Bruichladdich Black Art 2.x 1989 is a remarkable whisky that showcases the distillery's creativity and expertise. With its rich, layered flavors, intriguing complexity, and the sense of mystery that surrounds it, this release is a true gem for whisky aficionados. The whisky offers a unique experience, with each sip revealing new facets of its character, making it a memorable and special dram.
Almond
Caramel
Dark Chocolate
Dried
Espresso
Eucalyptus
Honey
Leather
Oak
Oats
Peat
Prune
Rose
Smoke
Thyme
Toast
Tobacco
Toffee
Vanilla