Bruichladdich Black Art 02.2 49.7% 1989

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BOW (89)

Bruichladdich Black Art 02.2:

In the remote reaches of Islay, where the sea meets the rugged landscape, Bruichladdich Distillery has long been a source of intrigue and innovation. The Bruichladdich Black Art 02.2, a manifestation of the enigmatic Black Art series, is a testament to the distillery's commitment to pushing the boundaries of whisky creation. Distilled in 1989 and bottled in 2010, this expression is a mysterious alchemy of time and cask influence. With a compelling ABV of 49.7%, this 21-year-old release unfolds a tapestry of flavors derived from a marriage of American and European Oak casks.

The Maturation Odyssey:
The Bruichladdich Black Art 02.2 embarked on a maturation journey that spanned over two decades, beginning in the year 1989. As the spirit slumbered within the warehouses of Bruichladdich, it was carefully nurtured in a marriage of American and European Oak casks. The deliberate choice of cask types added layers of complexity, with each cask contributing unique characteristics to the final expression. Bottled in 2010, the Black Art 02.2 is a testament to the artistry of the distillery's whisky makers, who embrace the mysterious and esoteric.

Tasting Notes:
As the amber elixir graces the glass, it invites enthusiasts to partake in a sensory journey that transcends the ordinary.

Nose:
The first encounter is a mysterious symphony of aromas that dance on the edge of perception. Dark and brooding, the nose reveals hints of rich fruit compote, dried figs, and dates. Deep layers of toffee and molasses intertwine with the subtle sweetness of vanilla. As the complexities unfold, whispers of oak spice and a faint smokiness add an alluring depth to the olfactory experience.

Taste:
On the palate, the Bruichladdich Black Art 02.2 delivers a luxurious and velvety mouthfeel. The marriage of American and European Oak makes its presence known, with waves of rich dark chocolate, honeyed sweetness, and the warmth of baking spices. Orchestrated complexity emerges as dried fruits, plums, and a touch of citrus zest add vibrancy. The taste is an interplay of sweet and savory, a manifestation of the distillery's commitment to crafting expressions that defy convention.

Finish:
The grand finale is a lingering finish that echoes the nuances of the cask alchemy. The warmth persists, with oak spices evolving into a subtle smokiness. The finish is a testament to the enduring influence of the carefully chosen casks, leaving a lasting impression that invites contemplation.

Conclusion:
The Bruichladdich Black Art 02.2 is not merely a whisky; it is an enigmatic elixir that encapsulates the distillery's ethos of exploration and innovation. With each sip, enthusiasts are transported to the mysterious realms of Islay, where the marriage of American and European Oak unfolds a tale of complexity and depth. As the Black Art series continues to mystify and captivate, the 02.2 release stands as a beacon of the distillery's unwavering commitment to crafting expressions that transcend the ordinary and embrace the artistry of the unknown.