Bruichladdich Finishes Whisky in Never Before Used Casks

Tuesday, 30 September 2025 at 12:01The Spirits Business

Bruichladdich Grace Vineyard whisky series

Distilleries are increasingly embarking on a journey of discovery with the maturation possibilities of whisky. Among them is Bruichladdich, leading to a world-first: the initial whiskies from Chinese red wine barrels.

FAQ

Where is Bruichladdich Distillery located?
On the Scottish island of Islay.

What is Bruichladdich's world-first?
The distillery has had a first-of-its-kind finish in Chinese red wine casks.

Which winemaker supplied the casks for Bruichladdich's premiere?
Grace Vineyard, a pioneer of Chinese winemaking.

Bruichladdich pioneers Chinese wine barrel in the Grace Vineyard whisky series

The Islay distillery has joined forces with China's Grace Vineyard for the new series. The Chinese vineyard was established in 1997 and put Chinese winemaking on the international map. The winemaker produces varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, among others.

The Scottish whisky underwent a finishing process in red wine casks from Grace Vineyard after its initial maturation. These were Chairman’s Reserve barrels.

What are the three Bruichladdich Grace Vineyard whiskies?

The three whiskies that Bruichladdich has released differ significantly in maturation process, age, and alcohol content. Below are the three bottles detailed:

Bruichladdich Grace Vineyard 9 Years Old

Maturation: first-fill bourbon barrel (2015 vintage).
Tasting notes: black cherry, berries, forest fruits, hint of citrus.
Alcohol content: 63% ABV.

Bruichladdich Grace Vineyard 15 Years Old

Maturation: second-fill Syrah barrel.
Tasting notes: Nuances of ripe plum, apricot, and soft oils.
Alcohol content: 56% ABV.

Bruichladdich Grace Vineyard 21 Years Old

Maturation: Second-fill Oloroso hogshead 2003 (vintage).
Tasting notes: Red fruit, warm spices, and mineral notes.
Alcohol content: 56% ABV.

Where is the Bruichladdich Grace Vineyard collection available?

The whisky series from Bruichladdich has been released exclusively in China. The bottles are hitting the shelves in limited quantities there, with prices ranging from 115 to 335 euros. Whether Grace Vineyard whiskies will come to other countries later has not been announced.

More distilleries working with Grace wine barrels

Bruichladdich is not the only player collaborating with Grace Vineyard. There is another Chinese distillery, Dexi, which is working with the winery. However, no official whisky has yet been produced from this collaboration.