Bunnahabhain 12 Year Cask Strength (2022 Edition)

The Bunnahabhain distillery shop is a treasure trove of Islay spirits, offering numerous distinct blends and single casks in various sizes. I managed to limit myself to just two 3cl samples during my visit in June, one of which was this most recent bottling of the cask strength 12. It's crucial to note that this bottling uses a different cask composition than the standard 12, with only a small proportion coming from bourbon barrels. It immediately signals its distinction upon pouring, appearing as a golden honey syrup that swirls luxuriously in the glass. The scents are captivating: rich raisins steeped in syrup with a touch of Cointreau and a whisper of aromatic wood, like a cedar plank. An initial peppery sensation in the mouth transitions to jammy flavors and notes of marinated blood oranges. The medium-dry finish echoes orange marmalade (the non-bitter kind) accompanied by a sprinkle of nutmeg. The mouthfeel is luxurious, with a silkiness that makes it easy to drink despite its strength. In essence, it's delightful, an indulgent dessert with just enough complexity to maintain interest.

Nose: Dried fruit, dark chocolate cherries, baking spices Palate: Dried fruit, stewed apple, cloves, cinnamon, salt/saline, caramel sauce, chocolate. Nutty & woody dryness. Christmas cake. Finish: Long finish. Salted caramel, cocoa, chocolate, cherries, nutmeg, sherry. Casks were ex-bourbon and (mostly) ex-Oloroso sherry. Unctuous, full-bodied and sherried. Toffee and dried fruit with a well balanced sweetness. Christmassy. Complex, layered and well integrated. This is a cracker of a dram! Came second out of the six drams, with 20% of the final vote for favourite of the night. 83% of those present said they enjoyed the whisky. This got my vote for favourite of the tasting.

Nose: Vanilla, Dark Stewed Fruits, Salinity, Malty Cream, Demerara Syrup, Raisin, Pepper, Toffee, Toast. Palate: Cocoa, Spice, Light Brine, Full oily body, Sweet Dried Fruits, Toffee, Mild Oak Tannins, Candy Orange Citrus. Great whisky, it takes a minute to open up, but being patient with this dram is well worth it. It is a bit abrasive at first and gives the robustness of a cask strength whisky. Lots of Spice, Cocoa and Pepper on the front. Once you get through the spices though you get a burst of sweeter notes. Toffee, Vanilla, Dark Fruits, Sweet Orange-Citrus, and mild oak tannins round out the whisky.

Few current releases are worth seeking out, but this cask strength Bunnahabhain stands out. The nose offers prunes, almonds, and earthy sherry notes alongside bitter chocolate and currants. It's very appealing and complex. The rich initial taste is full of dark fruits, toffee, and cocoa, with nutmeg, mint, and hints of salt emerging mid-palate. The mouthfeel is sublime. A slightly dry oak, roasted coffee, and eucalyptus linger in the extended finish. A delightful sherry bomb; I can only echo Ralfy: What an absolute joy! SCORE: 4.4/5.0 stars ≙ 90 pts → SUPERB [-]

Sampled from a double-walled glass, without ice. Right away, the sherry's effect is apparent on the nose, bringing notes of dark orchard fruits and dried grapes. Its presence grows the longer it rests. A touch of saltiness and spice also seems present. On the palate, there's spice, particularly clove, and notes of baking. The sherry characteristics bring forth flavors of plum and dark cherry. The salty element mirrors what was on the nose. The conclusion is extended and slightly dry. I don't find any sweetness. What I do detect is aged, charred timber with subtle hints of rhubarb and additional spice. An absolutely fantastic pour!

Nose: Dark chocolate, raisins, heather and honey, maple syrup Palate: Not harsh, smooth, well-balanced, bright at the start, with a sour and bitter finish Finish: Long with subtle cereal notes Comments: This is a truly impressive offering if you appreciate this style. I still favor some peaty character over this light, floral dram.