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.
Without a doubt you will not find a more complex 12yo whisky on the market for this price. Money well spent. You won't be disappointed. P.S- don't tell anyone else about this...I don't want them getting in on my supply;)
This has become my go-to dram when I am not looking for something specific (peat bomb, sherry bomb, etc). It is extremely well rounded; you get a bit of everything, and it works very well together. I hadn't tried it prior to the improvements (46.3%, no coloring, non-chill filtered), but from what I hear, those of you who weren't impressed before should really give this one another taste. Great.
This is my go-to whisky, and I'm not ashamed to say it. No color and un-chillfiltered? Yes please! This has the maturity and complexity of a much older malt, a perfect balance of saltiness and sweet, and coastal characteristics that will take you right to the water's edge where the Bunnahabhain distillery sits. An amazing taste experience for the price! Guaranteed you'll feel the salt air, hear the gulls, and smell the damp green hills when you escape in this beautiful dram. It's worth every penny! Still on the fence? Order a sample from the chaps at Master of Malt!
I rarely find fault with a scotch. Not sure this one falls into that category. it tastes industrial, false and even tacky. I taste molasses and not enough bite. I regret purchasing a bottle; a first for this scotch lover.
I had my first taste of this last night and its my 5th Islay and I liked it the best of them all so far. The Laphroaig 10 and 18 are kind of single trick ponies, The Coal Ila 12 was great. The Ardbeg Corryvreckan is great as was the Kilchoman but I think the Bunnahabhain 12 is my favorite Islay now. Very little smoke and not a lot of typical over the top Islay flavor but very well rounded overall.
