Description

Peathia 2021 – 2025 Single Cask for Whiskyfestival Delft 50cl

This special bottling marks a historic moment for Peathia enthusiasts. It is the first Single Cask Whisky from Peathia to reach the age of three years, officially qualifying as a Single Malt Whisky. What makes this release even more special is that Peathia is no longer being distilled at the Bruges Whisky Company, making this edition a rare and unique collector’s item. With only 90 bottles available, this Single Cask offers an exclusive opportunity to experience the bold legacy of Peathia.

Tasting Notes

Nose

An elegant peat smoke rises immediately, with refined tones of campfire wood. Subtle hints of sweet vanilla, stewed pears, and a touch of citrus add a pleasant balance and depth. Young, yet perfectly harmonious. The peat is present but does not overpower; instead, it offers a delicate undertone.

Taste

Full and expressive, with a fine smokiness blending into notes of light chocolate, currants, and raisins. Hints of black pepper and nutmeg provide a powerful undertone, while soft honey and oak round out the complexity.

Finish

Long and warming, where the peat beautifully highlights a hint of caramel and roasted nuts. A touch of sea salt ensures an elegant and layered conclusion.

Additional Information

On the label, you will see the Delftse Turftonsters (Delft Peat Carriers) against the skyline of Bruges.

The Delft Peat Carriers

The Delft Peat Carriers were women who, in the 17th and 18th centuries, worked in Delft carrying peat, an important fuel source at the time. They played a crucial role in the city’s energy supply, as peat was widely used for heating homes, breweries, bakeries, and various other crafts.

What Did the Peat Carriers Do?

Peat carriers transported heavy baskets or wheelbarrows full of peat on their backs, often from ships to storage areas or directly to customers. The peat was shipped in from bog regions such as those around Gouda and the Alblasserwaard. It was then either loaded onto carts or carried directly by the peat carriers to households and businesses in Delft.

Hard Labor and a Unique Trade

The job of a peat carrier was physically demanding and was primarily done by women. They often worked in loosely organized groups or guilds, although their profession was not officially recognized as a trade like other skilled labor in Delft. These women were known for their hard work and were sometimes seen as colorful figures in local society, with their own distinct language and customs.

Economic and Social Role

The peat carriers were an essential link in Delft’s urban economy. They ensured that the city stayed warm and that craftsmen and businesses could continue their work. At the same time, they belonged to the working class and often lived in modest conditions.

Peat Carriers and the City of Delft

In the 17th century, Delft had a thriving economy, partly due to the presence of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the Delft pottery industry. Peat was an essential fuel for the kilns used to fire Delftware and for the city’s heating systems. The peat carriers played a crucial role in keeping these industries running.

The Disappearance of the Profession

With the rise of coal and other energy sources in the 19th century, the use of peat gradually declined, leading to the disappearance of the peat carrier profession. Today, there are still references to these women in Delft’s history, and their work remains an interesting part of the city’s heritage.