Only a few days have gone by since Wu Dram Clan surprised us (well, not really) with the excellent Glen Garioch 2003 single cask, and here is their next release already. This time they’re taking us to Islay, with an undisclosed Islay (LA) sourced from the Signatory Vintage warehouses.
The addition (LA) is gives us a good indication of the distillery, one that is quite famous among independent bottlers for its excellent 1989-1990-1991-1992 casks. While these casks seem to be less available, Wu Dram Clan managed to find one more.
Islay (LA) 34 yo 1990 (51,7%, Signatory Vintage for Wu Dram Clan 2025, bourbon barrel #4342, 221 btl.)
Nose: totally in line with expectations. Fine smoky notes in the background and yellow fruits in front row. Mainly citrus but also peach and light vanilla. Then some sunflower oil, as well as a fresh sea breeze with light chalky touches.
Mouth: the island character is more robust than expected. Plenty of briny notes and earthiness, along with sharp lemon peels, peppermint and mild antiseptics. Quite vertical, with less tropical fruits than some sister casks. Light mango does appear towards the end, rounded by natural vanilla. Then balanced wood spice, generous smoky notes and herbal sharpness as it fades.
Finish: quite long and warming, on herbal tea, citrus peels, black peppercorns and salty peat.
Whereas some of these casks give up most of their peatiness in exchange for tropical fruits, this release stays true to its coastal and medicinal origins. The fruitiness is slightly more modest, but nonetheless it’s a great release. Around € 650 from several partner shops.