I just read about how Bruichladdich, an Islay whiskey distillery, is producing five thousand bottles of the “world’s strongest whisky” by distilling it four times to 92% alcohol, 184 proof. Whiskey is typically distilled two times but Bruichladdich is planning on doubling that to replicate a drink described in a 1965 travel book, The Western Isles of Scotland.

According to Spittoon.biz has the following to say about the book:

A book dated 1695 details a journey in the Hebrides and refers to a quadruple distilled whisky known as usquebaugh-baul pronounced something like ‘woo-sh-ka-voll’ and which does not appear to have any current meaning known to Gaelic speakers.

The only tasting note available, and perhaps the oldest whisky tasting note of all, states: “… the first taste affects all the members of the body: two spoonfuls of this last liquor is a sufficient dose; and if any man should exceed this, it would presently stop his breath, and endanger his life”. The writer went on to say “Two spoonfuls of this last liquor is a sufficient dose; if any man should exceed this, it would presently stop his breath, and endanger his life”.

92%, huh? That’s some potent stuff… I would prefer not to stop my breath or endanger my life. 🙂