Brora 5th Release 30 Years Old 55.7% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (94)

Colour: pale gold. Nose: much more powerful and full of youth at first nosing, almost like if it would be 15 years younger. Rawer, rougher, starting mostly on huge farmy notes (wet hay, cow stable, wet dog), eucalyptus, wax, almonds, old books, wet cardboard, smoked tea, apple skin, walnuts… Well, the list is endless as expected. Gets even wilder after a moment (hare’s belly – having run on grass after the rain at 5 in the morning as some wine buffs would say -, civet, pheasant…) Hints of mint. Peatier than both the Talisker and the Lagavulin. Just amazing at 30 years, I guess there’s still quite some Brora from the early 70’s in the vatting. Mouth: bang! Rich, invading, thick, fat and almost oily, much more compact and ‘direct’ than both the Talisker and the Lagavulin. Truckloads of peat, apple skin, marzipan and liquorice, with a little vanilla in the background and also lots of quince jelly, strong smoked tea and spices (pepper, nutmeg, dried cardamom). Hints of horseradish and mustard. Amazingly punchy, I’m so glad I tasted the Talisker and the Lagavulin first. Very long finish of course, with again a little salt and quite some lemon skin, smoked tea and, of course, peat. Brilliantly compact, even if I feel the ‘2004’ version was maybe still a slight notch above this one. But let’s not split hairs, this is just what the doctor ordered! 94 points, just like the ‘2005’.

BOW (94)

Brora 5th Release 30 Years Old: A Testament to Brora's Rich Legacy

The Brora 5th Release 30 Years Old, part of the Diageo Special Releases 2006 collection, is an exceptional whisky that pays homage to the illustrious history and remarkable quality of Brora distillery. Bottled in 2006, this expression showcases the distillery's renowned craftsmanship and offers whisky enthusiasts a captivating glimpse into the past. Brora distillery, located in the town of Brora, Scotland, has a storied legacy, operating from 1819 to 1983 before being mothballed. However, in recent years, the distillery has been revived, reigniting the spirit of this iconic establishment.

A Historical Legacy:

Brora's origins can be traced back to 1819 when it was established by the Marquess of Stafford. Initially named "Clynelish," the distillery underwent a change in name when the Clynelish Distillery was opened in 1968, adopting the moniker "Brora" to distinguish between the two. During its early years, Brora produced heavily peated whisky from May 1969 to July 1973, compensating for the shortage of Islay whisky caused by a regional drought. Subsequently, Brora transitioned to a lightly peated Highland style.

A Pause in Production:

In 1983, Brora distillery ceased production and was mothballed, marking the end of an era. Whisky enthusiasts were left with limited access to the exceptional spirits it once produced. However, the reputation and desirability of Brora whiskies continued to grow, solidifying their status as highly sought-after treasures in the whisky world.

The 5th Release 30 Years Old:

The Brora 5th Release 30 Years Old, part of the prestigious Diageo Special Releases 2006 collection, captures the essence of Brora's legacy. Bottled in 2006, this expression stands as a testament to the exceptional quality of Brora whiskies and the meticulous maturation process spanning three decades. With an impressive ABV of 55.7%, this whisky promises a bold and intricate flavor profile that reflects the distinct characteristics of Brora.

Reviving Brora's Legacy:

In a momentous announcement, Diageo revealed plans to revive the Brora distillery, with production recommencing in 2020. This news was met with great enthusiasm and anticipation among whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The reopening of Brora represents a significant milestone in preserving the distillery's heritage and ensuring its continued contribution to the world of single malt Scotch whisky.

Conclusion:

The Brora 5th Release 30 Years Old, part of the Diageo Special Releases 2006, stands as a tribute to the illustrious history of Brora distillery. Its release offers enthusiasts the opportunity to savor the flavors of this revered establishment and experience the exceptional craftsmanship that has made Brora whiskies highly sought after. As the distillery reopens and production resumes, the future of Brora looks promising, promising a continuation of the legacy that began almost two centuries ago. Raise a glass to celebrate Brora and its enduring contribution to the world of whisky.