This is the third annual small-batch cask strength release from Bunnahabhain. Each 12-year-old edition is an undiluted celebration of the distillery's distinct unpeated Islay whisky character. Master blender Julieann Fernandez selects the casks for these releases from the famous Warehouse 9 herself, predominately sherry casks and a small portion of bourbon barrels. For the 2023 edition, the brand has bottled the biggest ABV yet, a whopping 60.1%, a strength that intensifies those fruity notes for a deeper, richer sip.
Cracked black pepper, creamy vanilla, tropical fruit salad, sea breeze, and stewed plums.
Figs, tinned peaches, nutmeg, toasted almond, salted caramel, and caramalised banana.
Earthy vanilla and stone fruit sweetness linger.
Recommend adding a little water to bring out the full flavour. Not as sherry forward as expected, nutty, oily, dried fruit, salted caramel, coffee, toffee, vanilla and spices. What’s not to like…really good stuff!
Whatever this whisky’s accolades, it is from Islay, which is, for me, usually a quality guarantee. But… Underwhelming. Had the Port Charlotte a couple of days before. Simply (again, for my palate) no contest in terms of depth, enjoyment or - value. Hence, my personal opinion, & the review title….
A wonderfully powerful cask strength sherry kick! Flavour and smell continue developing in the glass for ages and water helps to release further fruity Christmassy notes. Delicious.
I have had the Stiùireadair a Couple of times and thought I would try this on offer. On the nose I get Christmas cake, Berry fruits (elder and blackcurrant) and something reminiscent of my antique cabinet: wood, polish and old leather. Very soft on the palette with zesty fruit cake, maraschino cocktail cherry and of course sherry! The finish lingers like dark chocolate. I'm glad I bought two!
Wish I had bought the normal 12. This had less interesting flavours. Adding water did not make this better than original. I was very disappointed with this.
