As an entity intensely proud of the authenticity of its craft, the Bruichladdich distillery is typically very revealing of its methods. It is, for example, extremely invested in its local terroir. Located on the famous whisky-making Scottish island of Islay, Bruichladdich obtains more than half of its barley supply from 19 local farmers. It is also capable of distilling, ageing, and bottling its whisky locally, making it one of just two Islay distilleries that can claim a true Islay end-to-end product.
Responsible for some iconic modern whiskies such as Classic Laddie, Port Charlotte, and Octomore—the most heavily peated whisky in the world—there is nonetheless one Bruichladdich collection that remains shrouded in secrecy: Black Art. Now in its 10th edition, The Bruichladdich Black Art is known for its mysterious, black-labelled bottle, the lack of any information other than what is legally required, its limited availability, and being a consistently intriguing experience.
All we know about the Bruichladdich Black Art Edition 10 is that it is unpeated, bottled at 45.9 per cent ABV, and is 29 years old. We also know that it is non-chill filtered and contains no added colouring—but then we always knew that about Bruichladdich products, anyway. Only Adam Hannett, Bruichladdich’s head distiller, knows any more, which makes it an interesting exercise in whisky connoisseurship. Hannett is under no pressure to present it in a certain way, and consumers have no preconceived notions with which to colour the palate.
And Black Art Edition 10 is indeed an exceptional dram. Creamy on the nose, candied orange is pronounced on the tongue, balanced by a light sweetness, and gives way to a clean, warm, finish, with a touch of pepper and spices. It is an obliging expression, with a combination of sophistry and easiness that only seems to come with older whiskies. As with all Black Art expressions, once the run is completed it will be gone forever—so its magic will, as ever, be fleeting.
