Whisky Review/Tasting: Bruichladdich Black Art 1990

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Islay, Scotland
Type: Unpeated Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled, matured, and bottled at the Bruichladdich distillery. The whisky is unchill-filtered and coloring-free. It is suggested that the whisky was initially matured in American oak casks and then possibly finished in French oak, which is less common for whisky maturation.
Age Statement: 23 years
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is uncolored, presenting its natural hue, which is described as slightly lighter than its predecessor. The bottle and tin tube are adorned with symbols representing the "Black Art" theme, emphasizing the mystical and secretive nature of its creation.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky offers a complex balance of rich, deep flavors, with a notable absence of strong vanilla or oakiness despite its age. The balance leans towards resinous, honeyed notes with a hint of citrus.
Unique Characteristics: The flavor profile is described as intense and warming, with a rewarding finish. Notable for its rich, resinous, and slightly spicy honey notes, complemented by a subtle citrus presence. The absence of a strong oak influence suggests a unique maturation process.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique maturation process and flavor profile set it apart, particularly the use of French oak for finishing.

Jim McEwan's Legacy: The whisky is a testament to the "spellbinding craft" of former head distiller Jim McEwan, whose secretive and alchemic methods in creating the Black Art series are highlighted. Despite the distillery's acquisition by Rémy Cointreau in 2012, McEwan's legacy and influence on Bruichladdich's products are emphasized.
Mothballing Period: The distillery experienced a period of mothballing from 1994 to 2000, making aged stocks like this 23-year-old whisky increasingly rare and valuable.

Islay's Terroir: The distillery's commitment to terroir, authenticity, provenance, and traceability is stressed, underlining the importance of Islay's unique environment and community in the creation of their whisky.

"This whisky might be from the devil and not from heaven." - A playful remark on the "Black Art" theme.
"What a whisky! This is one of the four actual available single malt whiskies from Bruichladdich." - High praise for the whisky's quality and uniqueness.

Bruichladdich Black Art 1990 is a 23-year-old unpeated Islay single malt, matured in American and possibly finished in French oak.
The whisky showcases a complex, rich, and warming flavor profile, with resinous honey and subtle citrus notes.
Created by former head distiller Jim McEwan, the whisky embodies his secretive and alchemic approach to whisky making.
The distillery emphasizes the significance of Islay's terroir and the importance of authenticity and provenance.
The whisky is highly praised for its quality and uniqueness, making it a sought-after bottle for collectors and enthusiasts.

Whisky Collectors: Given its rarity, unique maturation process, and the story behind its creation, collectors would find this bottle a valuable addition to their collection.
Islay Whisky Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the distinct character of Islay whiskies and are interested in exploring unpeated expressions from the region.
Connoisseurs Seeking Complexity: Individuals who enjoy dissecting complex flavor profiles and are intrigued by the craftsmanship behind whisky making.