Swedish whisky distillery Gotland Whisky proudly presents Bläse – This Year’s Christmas Whisky – a 10-year-old single malt whisky crafted to honor the rich history and natural resources of Gotland. Named after Bläse kalkbruk, a historic limestone quarry founded in 1866 by Edvard Vilhelm Cleve, the whisky carries a legacy of resilience and ingenuity. While the quarry ceased operations in 1954, the mineral-rich limestone water continues to play a vital role in shaping this exceptional whisky.
In the mid-1800s, a sloop was shipwrecked off Kappelshamn Bay on the northwest coast of Gotland. The surviving bookkeeper, Edvard Vilhelm Cleve, ended up in Bläse. Hearing about the hidden riches of the limestone mountain, he purchased land and founded the Bläse lime quarry in 1866.
Nearly 100 years and several ownership changes later, the lime quarry closed in 1954. And here the story could have ended. But the limestone-rich water lives on in this flavorful whisky, aged for ten years in bourbon casks.
Bläse is a limited-edition release, matured in a mix of eight bourbon casks: five first-fill and three second-fill barrels. Six of these casks were filled in 2013, one in December 2013, and the final one in May 2014, making this whisky a well-rounded 10 years old. Crafted from Gotland Whisky’s unpeated recipe, the barrels were aged in the distillery’s cool, humid lower warehouse, allowing the whisky to mature slowly and evenly.
The barrels were filled at spirit strength—directly from the still at approximately 71% alcohol by volume. Over a decade of aging has reduced the ABV in the different barrels to between 51% and 56%, showcasing how Gotland’s unique conditions preserve volume while enhancing flavor.
Aromas and flavor profile of Bläse
Bläse offers a refined exploration of bourbon barrel maturation, featuring classic first-fill bourbon notes of vanilla, honey, tropical fruit, and caramel. It’s a testament to the distillery’s dedication to creating whiskies that reflect Gotland’s distinct terroir and craftsmanship.
Bläse continues Gotland Whisky’s cherished Christmas tradition, following in the footsteps of last year’s festive release, Trullaik. This annual tradition celebrates Gotland’s rich heritage and dedication to crafting exceptional whiskies that reflect the island’s unique character. With Bläse, Gotland Whisky invites enthusiasts to experience the spirit of the season through a whisky steeped in history and crafted with care