Bruichladdich Cuvée 640 Eroica Oh Mensch! Gieb Acht! 21 Years Old 46% NV

Professional reviews

BOW (87)

Tasting Notes by Jim McEwan, head distiller;

Character: Curvaceous, buxom, captivating yet elegant with a silky texture that is divine.

Colour: Mahogany/ bronze

Nose: The opening notes are of marinated pears, apricot, mango, spicy apple; then drifts of dark chocolate orange and espresso coffee can be detected together with vanilla-rich toffee. The seductive notes of old style malt whisky rise serenely; warm, reassuring and deceptively potent. The aromatics flirt shamelessly with the senses and then you realise that this is no ordinary spirit – it’s just so wonderfully fragrant. Gentle spices, citrus, dried fruit & herbs pop up like champagne bubbles keeping the mood one of celebration and joy.

Palate: Fantastique! The taste is rich and mellow. Many flavours continue to evolve – rich ripe apple, Turkish delight, soft strawberries, candied almonds and above all others that beguiling maltiness that is the mark of all Bruichladdich spirits. This, plus the coastal marine freshness adds life and vitality arousing the senses to an even higher level. You just know that this is authentic Islay heaven, simultaneously delicate and potent. The amorous embrace of France has not turned the islander's head. He remains mature and mellow while thoroughly enjoying the smouldering warmth of the femme fatale.

Finish: Ultra sexy, a rare and wonderful experience – if this was a movie it would have to be “Casablanca”. One to be enjoyed at the close of the day with others who share the same passion for the rare things in life.

Mood: A spirit as much for the mind as for the palate.