The fantastic flagship from Bunnahabhain (pronounced boo-na-ha-ven), launched as the distillery's original single malt in 1979, this Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old. It is aged in a mixture of bourbon and sherry casks and, since a relaunch in 2010, has been bottled at a big 46.3% ABV without chill-filtration or additional colouring. Very impressive. Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old is unpeated, unlike most Islay whisky, but has a beautiful coastal quality complemented by its fruity, light, sweet and nutty character. It’s one of those whiskies that newcomers and enthusiasts alike appreciate.
Fresh, sweet, and a little floral. There’s seaweed, rich malt, dried fruit, camphor, caramel, chocolate orange, and apple poached in cinnamon.
Soft and supple with a nutty, sherried quality leading among vanilla, marmalade, sultanas, and a bright coastal element.
Mochaccino, dried herbs, Christmas cake spice, and a balanced salty tang.
I hate peat, and I hate it in whisky, but this one has just the right amount to love it and enjoy with friends. Highly recommended for somebody who loves Glengoyne and Speyside whiskies (Just like I do.).
I'm with you Mr Frank (2 reviews below). If they have to put the price up, to maintain a proper age-statement entry level malt of this standard, then so be it. If you're exploring peated whiskies, it's a stone cold must.
Loved this malt,heaven
Tried it for the first time 20 years ago and although the price keeps going up from year to year this one does it for me.
Normally, I would always drink a sherried malt, as being an Aussie, I think we have a sweeter tooth than those from the "Old World". Firstly, it was Pigs Nose (YUK!) - then it was Lagavulin 16,which is commendable, and then Bunnahabhain 12.........! Certainly a very smooth well made spirit and better than Tobermory 15. 97 points
