Bruichladdich, the innovative distillery representing Scotland’s Isle of Islay, has shared news that will surprise whisky fans worldwide. Their flagship bottle, “The Classic Laddie,” is being renewed as a premium 10-year-old aged expression.
The most notable highlight of this renewal is the pre-release at Lawson, a major convenience store chain across Japan. Starting February 17, 2026 (Tuesday), a convenient 200ml (approx. 6.7 oz) size will be available on store shelves.
In Japan, the “Konbini” (convenience store) is not just a retail shop but a cultural hub where the latest trends and high-quality products are launched. The fact that an authentic 10-year-old single malt carrying the soul of Islay can be found at a local convenience store symbolizes the maturity of Japan’s whisky culture.
The Depth and Philosophy of the “10 Years” Age Statement
Previously enjoyed as a “Non-Age Statement” (NAS) bottle, this expression finally bears the number “10.” This is a testament to the steady accumulation of mature spirit stocks since the distillery’s resurrection in 2001.
Bruichladdich holds a philosophy that emphasizes “terroir”—the character of the land—much like fine wine. A decade is a crucial period for the spirit to interact with Islay’s harsh natural environment and perfect its individuality. While maintaining the traditional “citrus and floral” style, it has evolved into a bottle where one can experience overwhelming reality, with increased complexity and mellow richness brought by aging.
Product Lineup and Launch Schedule
In this renewal, the accessible small bottles will make their debut first.
Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie 10 Years (200ml / approx. 6.7 oz)
- Release Date: February 17, 2026 (Tuesday)
- Availability: Lawson stores nationwide (excluding Lawson Store 100)
- Price: 2,640 yen (approx. $17.60 / tax included)
Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie 10 Years (700ml / approx. 23.7 oz)
- Release Date: March 2, 2026 (Monday)
- Price: 7,370 yen (approx. $49.13 / tax included)
Note: Alcohol by volume (ABV) is 50%. Sales are limited to stores that carry alcoholic beverages.
100% Scottish Barley and the Commitment to Unpeated Whisky
The reason Bruichladdich whisky is praised as a “handshake to the world” lies in its purity and transparency.
- Pursuit of Ingredients: Uses only 100% Scottish-grown barley.
- Unpeated Identity: While Islay whiskies are generally associated with a “smoky” (heavily peated) image, Bruichladdich intentionally pursues a fruity and elegant profile by remaining unpeated.
- Consistent Production: Every step—distillation, maturation, and bottling—is performed on the Isle of Islay. By using no chill-filtration and no added coloring, the natural flavor of the ingredients is maximized.
Tasting Notes to Stimulate the Five Senses
By earning the title of “10 Years,” its aroma and flavor have reached new heights.
- Nose: Ripe fruit and toasted oak aromas. Freshness from lemon zest and orange evokes the sea breeze of Islay. Warm nuances like vanilla and gingerbread harmonize beautifully.
- Palate: Remarkably smooth, belying its 50% ABV. Juicy fruit flavors of apricot and peach blend exquisitely with the sweetness of malt sugar and the nuttiness of toast.
- Finish: The mineral character unique to Bruichladdich and delicate floral notes linger for a long time.
The “B Corp” Spirit Shaping a Sustainable Future
Bruichladdich Distillery is a pioneer, being the first Scotch whisky distillery to earn “B Corp” certification—a status granted to companies that meet high social and environmental standards.
Aiming to decarbonize production activities by 2025, they are implementing circular heating systems and switching to biofuels. Picking up this aqua-blue bottle also means supporting the distillery’s noble philosophy of protecting the planet’s future.
Please experience this new dimension of flavor, nurtured by the sea breeze of Islay and ten years of time, at Lawson stores across Japan.
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