A bold, forward-thinking innovation has just entered the spirits market. The Bruichladdich distillery, always ready to push the boundaries of innovation, unveils its latest creation: The Regeneration Project, Islay’s very first rye whisky.
Born of crop diversification in 2016, when Bruichladdich supported long-time farmer Andrew Jones in adding rye to his crop rotation, The Regeneration Project is more than just an innovation. It’s a bottle that tells a story of sustainability, regenerative agriculture and dedication to innovation.
Rye, a beneficial cereal in many respects, offers natural protection to soils. It insulates excess nitrate, improves drainage and retains soil moisture, while reducing costs for the farmer through less reliance on artificial pesticides and fertilizers. By turning to rye, Bruichladdich has not only improved the health of local soils, but also created a visionary and unique whisky.
The Regeneration Project is a blend of 55% rye and 45% malted barley, both grown on Islay. Aged in a blend of bourbon and virgin American oak casks, this non-chill-filtered whisky offers a tasting experience of unprecedented richness. The spicy, peppery notes of rye combine with nuances of licorice, balanced by subtle maritime notes that attest to the whisky’s maturation on the Isle of Islay.
On the nose, the spiciness of rye is enhanced by aromas of licorice, black pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg. On the palate, the warmth of rye is softened by flavors of marzipan, vanilla and chocolate, all enhanced by the citrus and green fruit notes of Islay-grown barley. The finish pays homage to oak, with its floral and fruity character, leaving a delicate sensation of vanilla custard on the finish.
The Regeneration Project is the symbol of Bruichladdich’s long-term vision. It testifies to the distillery’s determination to turn its business into a force for good. With this new reference, Bruichladdich aims to advance the conversation around regenerative agriculture and alternative solutions to modern farming practices.
The Bruichladdich distillery is an iconic figure in the spirits landscape, and has been ever since it was founded in 1881. Renowned for its five distinct spirits – Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte, Octomore, The Botanist and now The Regeneration Project – it is a pillar of innovation and quality in the drinks sector.
The distillery has experienced periods of closure and uncertainty, including the Second World War and a seven-year shutdown between 1994 and 2001. However, thanks to the ingenuity and determination of Mark Reynier, Simon Coughlin and Jim McEwan, Bruichladdich reopened in 2001 and has since made constant efforts to revitalize the local community.
To date, 45% of the barley used to produce Bruichladdich is grown on Islay, and all the distillery’s single malts are conceived, distilled, matured and bottled on the island. It is this devotion to local community and authenticity that has enabled Bruichladdich to become Europe’s first BCorp-labeled distillery in 2020, a distinction that rewards its commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
In 2012, high-end spirits company Rémy Cointreau acquired Bruichladdich, continuing to invest in the distillery’s values, its roots on Islay and the local community.
The launch of The Regeneration Project, limited to 1,800 bottles, marks a major turning point for the Bruichladdich distillery and the whisky industry as a whole. Available for €150.00 online from the distillery’s website, this bold innovation is the fruit of regenerative farming and an unwavering dedication to innovation.
In conclusion, The Regeneration Project is much more than just a whisky. It’s a visionary project that illustrates the positive impact of regenerative farming practices on the planet, and on the flavor and sustainability of Scotch whisky. The Bruichladdich distillery continues to push the boundaries of spirits innovation and focus on the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.
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