Whisky Review
Bunnahabhain 12 yo
ABV: 46.3%
Maturation:
"It's a dram you mustn't underestimate. Its ABV is welcoming at 46.3% but you'd be wrong to class this as an everyday sipper."
Nose:
Wonderful on the nose. I get Dairy Milk caramel chocolate, prominent notes of salinity and general coastal character. Hazelnut and dark fruits transported from the strong sherry influence on this dram. The colour is a wonderful auburn shade and you can see the thick texture of the liquid as it swirls in the glass. I could enjoy smelling the aromas of this dram all day.
Taste: A lighter texture on the palate than predicted in terms of thickness, however the alcohol fizzes away at the tongue as the hazelnut and oak influence take initial dominance. Once the dram settles (and your tongue dies), you again get caramel, chocolate, hazelnut and a hint of spice. The maritime salinity is there, as the palate matches the nose perfectly with this dram. The finish is dry but very not too much in my opinion. It just invites you back.
Summary: Widely available in the UK at £40-45 you really cant go wrong with this whisky. An unpeated Islay which exudes quality and maritime character. The sailor certainly warrants his spot on the front of the bottle. It's a dram you mustn't underestimate. Its ABV is welcoming at 46.3% but you'd be wrong to class this as an everyday sipper. Take time with it, enjoy it, explore it, because there's much to enjoy here.
Score:
7/10
Well priced, readily available, full of character. What's not to love here? I hear Bunnahabhain struggle with batch differences but I've not noticed this yet personally. This bottle has only got better with time. I understand the cask strength version did very well in the 2023 OSWA's, but I'm personally yet to taste that. As I sit typing this review, I'm enjoying the time out that's its allowing to sit back and truly enjoy this wonderful dram full of character.
*This whisky was self-purchased and the above review reflects my personal opinions only.
No comments:
Post a Comment