Yula is a celebration of the traditions of the islands around Scotland, much of which is Norse. While reviewing the first Yula, the 20 year old, I brought the full story which you can read here. I will say, however, that Yula is deeply connected to the story of the formation of the islands. The first edition was music to my palate, and I was really curious to see how it is.
In short, while a tad shyer and needing a bit of coaxing, it’s every bit as beautiful, with orange sweetness coming in and being more dominant than the grapefruit at first. The extra year in the casks definitely had an effect, and it goes beyond dropping in ABV from 52.6% to 52.3%. I can hardly wait for next October to taste the third chapter in this saga.
Photo Credit: douglaslaing.com
Douglas Laing’s Yula II – 21 Years Old Island Malt Blend, 900 Bottles (52.3% ABV, NCF, NC)
Appearance: Amber, necklace remains for a long time with a lot of residue.
Nose: Peat rises to the nose, with brine and a residue of honey. The nose is somewhat shy at first, and needs some time in the glass to open up, and looks like some water would serve it well. With time, honeysuckle blossoms are added over the briny peat. A few drops of water bring out honey candy and a hint of freshly ground nutmeg
Palate: Thick with citrus rind dissolving into peat and some orange sweetness. Bitterness and heather honey with smoke wafting through, before some spice washes over the tongue. The mouth feel is rich, and the orange sets this apart. You’ll get even more of the orange after some time and a few drop of water and then the spice is definitely white pepper with some notes of grapefruit on the back of the tongue.
Linger: WOW, this finish is stunning with light smoke on the palate, bittersweet orange rind, a residual dryness all over the mouth.
Conclusion
It took some time for the sample to make its way to me, so those 900 bottles are probably all sold out by now, but if you come across one, pick it up. This expression isn’t for a quick dram, it’s complex and needs time, and will reward you for investing it. Great stuff!
Official Sample provided by Douglas Laing Co. Thanks Jenny and Slainte!