End Of Message Single Malt Whiskies - The Legacy

A Father's Legacy: Unveiling the End of Message Islay Single Malts

There's a special kind of magic in a shared experience. In 2002, Mark & Andrew of Constantine Stores / Drink Finder took a group of passionate local customers from Cornwall on a whisky pilgrimage to the storied distilleries of Islay. Little did they know, this trip would spark a legacy – the End of Message single malts, a tale of family, tradition, and what turned out to be exceptional whisky. There were many casks bought by several customers over the trip and over the years we have been fortunate to try samples when they have been regauged or bottled for family celebrations. But the two very special single casks that form the End of Message bottlings are the last from this trip and as far as we are aware the oldest bottled Bruichladdich aged exclusively in Chateau d’Yquem Premier Grand Cru Sauternes casks.

A Father's Gift, A Whisky's Legacy

The story starts with a heartwarming gesture. A devoted father, on a trip to Islay, secured not one, but two casks, a thoughtful present for his children in many years to come. These weren't just any casks, mind you. Distilled in 2002 at the revered Bruichladdich distillery, they spent their years slumbering in something truly unique: Premier Grand Cru Sauternes casks from Chateau d'Yquem – without a doubt the grandest and best known of all the great Sauternes estates.

Chateau d'Yquem Casks: A Whisky First

Here's where things get groundbreaking. These casks are believed to be the oldest full-term maturation in Chateau d'Yquem ever used for Islay whisky. Others might boast cask finishes or much younger expressions, but the End of Message bottlings stands apart, a testament to patience and meticulous cask selection and bottled at 16 and 19 years of age for optimal impact.

Two Casks, Two Stories: The Sister's Cask and the Brother's Cask

The journey continues with a personal touch. The casks are affectionately named "The Sister's Cask" (EOM Bruichladdich 16 Year Old) and "The Brother's Cask" (EOM Bruichladdich 19 Year Old), a tribute to the father's love and the unique bond between siblings. Each cask boasts a limited bottling – 281 bottles for the Sister's Cask and 253 for the Brother's Cask – making them truly unique.

A Collaboration of Greats: Islay Meets Sauternes

The magic of these whiskies lies not just in their provenance, but in the exceptional marriage of two worlds. Bruichladdich, a progressive Islay distillery known for its innovative spirit, meets Chateau d'Yquem, a legendary Sauternes producer. The result? A whisky that transcends boundaries, a symphony of flavours waiting to be explored.

Tasting Notes: A Journey for the Senses

The Brother's Cask (19 Year Old):

Nose: A captivating blend of mature fruit with hints of lemon and banana, all wrapped in a touch of smoky elegance.

Palate: The initial sweetness explodes on the tongue, followed by a rich liqueur character with subtle notes of brine and black pepper.

Finish: A stunningly dry conclusion, where the 19 years in French oak shine through, leaving a lingering, luxurious aftertaste. The Islay roots peek through with a subtle peppery finish, a reminder of its coastal heritage.

Tasting notes provided by legendary Whisky Ambassador Colin Dunn.

The Sister's Cask (16 Year Old):

Nose: A harmonious union of smouldering honey and citrus, with a touch of residual sweetness.

Palate: A flavour explosion of honey, grapes, and sweet oak, beautifully complemented by toasted barley notes.

Finish: The French oak influence continues to play a leading role, providing a dry, spicy character that lingers on the palate. A well-balanced dram with a smoky undercurrent that lingers.

Tasting notes provided by legendary Whisky Ambassador Colin Dunn.

The "Auld Alliance" Lives On

The End of Message single malts are more than just exceptional whiskies; they're a story of family, adventure, and the pursuit of excellence. They embody the spirit of the "Auld Alliance" between Scotland and France, showcasing the magic that can be created when two great traditions come together.

Are you ready to experience this unique whisky legacy? Head over to Constantine Stores or Drink Finder to secure your bottle of the End of Message, a message in a bottle waiting to be savoured and shared.