Brora. The 2nd most sought after whisky (or 2nd most pricy whisky) in the Diageo Special release line of whiskies. For me, Brora (I’ve tried a few, not a lot but enough) is more exciting than Port Ellens even tough they are not as collectible for some reason (Maybe since Clynelish is still working?) , at any rate, after trying last year’s Excellent Brora 37, I was really looking forward to this one, knowing it would be good, and I am happy to say, I was not wrong…
This Brora is a 1977 vintage , and is a vatting of both refill American oak hogsheads and refill European oak butts, there are 2984 bottles of this nectar, pricing set at £1,425, Yes. It’
Brora 38 yo 1977 2016 Special Release, 48,6 % abv, £1,425 
Nose: Excellent start with a lovely melange of smoke, fruity notes (peach , ripe orange) and a nice musty feel to it as well. it’s quite reeky , and there’s some wet cardboard / wet dog in the background as well which adds a nice depth, and goes lovely with the smoky / waxy overall experience. If you’re a fan of old wood , you’re going to feel at home here, as there’s plenty of that, 38 years in quality wood. Yes.
Palate: With such a nose, the palate should not fail us.. and It surely does not. What a great mouth feel with ‘just’ under 49% abv. Smoky, and savoury with some creamy vanilla, crème brûlée , warm wood smoke, ash, and more of that lovely waxy feel / ripe blood orange. And more yummy old wood, lots of that, and some dark chocolate on the enxt wave of sensations. I am smiling!
Finish: Long, lovely with, the old wood, smoke, gentle earthy peat and chocolate.
Conclusion:
This is a truly exceptional whisky. Rich, complex, with a great mouthfeel, that delivers everything it promises, and except the hefty price, I can not find anything bad to say about it. I wish i had cases of this stuff, and not to sell, but to drink… It leaves the Port Ellen in the dust (review coming, not to worry). Superb.
Score: 96/100
Available at bestofwhiskies.com ,€ 1,803