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.
Interesting to read the varied reviews of Bunna 12YO - I think much is down to one's experience and expectations. I wouldn't say that it's one for malt whisky beginners nor for someone trying an Islay malt for the first time. Complex, unusual, rewarding, even 'burnt rubber' - it's all of those. I love it. I couldn't say which is my favourite Islay malt but Bunna 12YO is up there with Ardbeg, Caol Ila and Lagavulin. And much cheaper than any of those!
This whisky is good start to discover the peat taste. It has only 1-2 ppm phenol. You will not be shocked, as I was for the first time tasted Lagavulin 16 (about 35-40 ppm) :) Smooth and balanced drink. I recommend.
Not much to find on the nose, just some salted caramel and sea air. However, the surprisingly smooth, every so sweet and smoky palate lends itself to a long buttery finish with subtle complexities. Overall a very enjoyable dram, with light peat and great finish! Not overly complex, but far from being one-noted. A superb whisky for the price!!
What a delightful surprise. My wife and I visited Bunnahabhain whilst staying in Islag at the Laphroaig View Guest house. Since arriving back in South Australia, I have purchased two 12 year old Bunnahabhain Whisky bottles and I have introduced several people to this most excellent Whisky - smooth, lovely nose, lingering mellow aftertaste - thank you.
By far my favourite single malt. Not to peaty and long lasting smooth finish. Can't say much more other than it is truly a sublime whisky! SP
