Otto Hermelin in Warehouse 14 at Bruichladdich

Otto is Associate Professor, Director of Studies in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Stockholm. He is conducting a study of the effects of temperature and humidity on the maturation of Scotch whisky in Islay warehouses. He is monitoring ten casks in each of Bruichladdich, Kilchoman, Ardbeg and Bunnahabhain distilleries. Samples are drawn twice a year from casks located in different parts of the warehouses, and sensors constantly monitor the atmosphere.
The samples are taken back to Stockholm and subject to detailed chemical and spectroscopic analysis of both organic and inorganic compounds and how these vary over time. The study is expected to last ten years.