Bruichladdich launches 16YO for GTR

Rémy Cointreau-owned Islay distillery Bruichladdich has expanded its global travel retail (GTR) offerings with Organic Barley 16-year-old whisky.

The new GTR-exclusive release is crafted with 100% organically grown barley from Mid Coul Farm in Inverness, Scotland. Sustainably farmed without artificial fertilisers, agrochemicals or pesticides, the new single malt expression is said to showcase the brand’s commitment to terroir and barley exploration. Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16-year-old has been aged entirely in ex-Bourbon American oak casks on the distillery's home island of Islay. Adam Hannett, head distiller of Bruichladdich, said: “We’re passionate about creating the most thought-provoking spirits, and that starts with our essential raw ingredients. “Great consideration is given to the type of barley varietals we distil, as well as where and how the grain is grown. With a complex and nuanced flavour profile, organic malting barley is a great example of a naturally grown cereal which not only tastes incredible but has long-term environmental benefits.” Bottled at 50% ABV, Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16-year-old displays aromas of tropical fruits with malt sugar, warm straw, and sweet toffee popcorn notes on the palate. Hannett continued: “The clarity of flavour from the organically grown malting barley is quite remarkable. Free from chemical intervention, the barley is the purest expression of its terroir, shaped by its geographical location, climate, and the soil in which it has grown. "It’s a delicate balancing act to ensure that the influence of the cask doesn’t dominate the overall flavour, and this expression lets the unctuous, rich cereal-forward notes of the organic barley shine.” 'Changi-first exclusive' The new single malt made its debut earlier this month at Singapore Changi Airport, in partnership with Lotte Duty Free Singapore, as part of a two-month exclusive listing period. The debut will be followed by a rollout to key airports, including Copenhagen, Frankfurt, London, Glasgow, the Middle East, and India. It will be supported by a promotional programme highlighting the broader Bruichladdich portfolio. Jeff Jeong Soongyu, managing director of Lotte Duty Free Singapore, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Rémy Cointreau to introduce the Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16-year-old as a Changi-first exclusive. “This world-first launch brings travellers a whisky with true character. Bruichladdich’s focus on provenance and quality resonates with today’s discerning consumers, and we’re pleased that Lotte Duty Free Singapore is the first to offer this exceptional release." The launch follows the Islay-based distillery's 'Not Your Classic Whisky' activation programme from last year, which featured the Bruichladdich Twenty One and The Classic Laddie Sherry Cask Edition. Fida Bou Chabke, CEO of GTR at Rémy Cointreau, said: "We know that travellers are increasingly seeking out brands that offer creativity, craftsmanship and meaningful consumption moments. "This new GTR-exclusive expression perfectly captures Bruichladdich’s unwavering commitment to transparency, traceability, and uncompromising quality." Earlier this month, The Spirits Business visited Bruichladdich Distillery in Islay.