Pure Single Malt 1961–1973 BBR 43%

A sensuous, old-world character with dusty notes of grapefruit zest and acidity, ripe oranges and apricot jam, strawberries and plums, damp leather and old peat. The texture feels condensed and powdery with a chewy mouthfeel, remaining sensuous with ripe citrus, gentle tropical fruits like peach and strawberry, damp old peat. The jammy sweetness is balanced with citrus acidity and saltiness, leading to a long finish. 【Very Good/Excellent】 This bottle, labeled 'Pure Single Malt' and bottled by BBR in 1973, is said to have been distilled in 1961, making it approximately 12 years old. It was released as part of the 15th anniversary celebration by Campbelltown Loch's Yurakucho. The aroma immediately presents a strong old-world character and sensuous nuances. Citrus notes of grapefruit zest, ripe oranges, strawberries, and cooked fruits create a diverse fruity profile. The old peat character is clearly present. On the palate, it has a condensed texture with unexpected chewiness, not typical of chill-filtered bottles. The fruity profile remains diverse, including citrus, tropical fruits, peaches, and strawberries, with a strong old peat presence. The jammy sweetness is balanced with acidity and saltiness, leading to a long finish despite the moderate body. Though no distillery is listed, the distinct peat character suggests an Islay malt. From a fruity perspective, it could be Bowmore or Laphroaig. However, the unique powdery texture, emphasis on strawberries and peaches, and lack of overt tropical notes lean more toward Laphroaig. As a chill-filtered bottle with significant aging, it may have started to decline from its peak due to the lengthy time since bottling. While identifying the distillery becomes harder with such aging, personally I'd lean more toward Laphroaig over Bowmore. A sensuous, fruity and peaty malt that remains thrilling to drink. Yet, it's a bottle I wish I had tried 10 years earlier.