Bunnahabhain 1988 (Scott's Selection)

Distilled in 1988. Bottled in 2004. Cask strength. No details on cask type. 53.8% ABV. Sometimes, older Scotch isn't definitively better than the mass-produced, formulaic spirits of today. Certain distilleries are currently producing their finest expressions. Bunnahabhain is one of them. This doesn't mean the 1988 vintage bottled by “Scott’s Selection” is bad. I've had other bottlings from Scott’s Selection before; they offer genuine whisky that often goes unnoticed, sits on shelves, and doesn't gain value on the secondary market. They knew how to age spirits, as their releases have a distinct character, but I suspect they used inexpensive, imperfect casks. This bottler has been out of business for years, and no resellers have shown any interest. This Bunnahabhain presents lovely scents of candied lemon; tangy, briny fruits, and flowers. It has a confident, resilient quality. There's very subtle peat. Vanilla ice cream. A slight hint of soapiness. The sweet citrus transforms into a mineral and salty taste in the mouth. The finish is peppery with an overly harsh oakiness that lingers too long. Adding some water is advised, as it reveals notes of chocolate and tobacco. I don't regret buying this bottle; it's enjoyable but not remarkable. Compared to a modern Bunna 12, which is much sweeter and engineered for wider appeal, I can't definitively say the older one is superior. Score: 0 (forgettable) Estimated cost: Likely secondary market only. Should be around $150. My valuation: $85

Nose: Bright honeyed apples, mild salt, grilled pineapple, peach (additionally with water) A subtle hint of cracked black pepper emerges with water. Taste: Rich, oily, a touch of brine, ripe peaches and nectarines, dried apricots, candied ginger, sugared nuts (with water) It's not as rich, becomes a bit drier, but the flavors remain the same. Finish: Sweet canned peaches, faint metallic hints, a whisper of salt, light nut skin bitterness (with water) The metallic sensation is greatly reduced, and it's less bitter. Score: 92/100 Final Thoughts: I truly appreciated this dram, though my fondness for Bunnahabhain might be a factor. If I were to create a name for it, it would be "canned dried peaches in syrup" as I believe that captures its essence. It possesses a delightful ripe stone fruit character that I really enjoy, along with a pleasing blend of fresh and dried sweetness. A tiny bit of water slightly diminishes the nose, but I find it genuinely helps to eliminate that metallic note, which I perceive as slightly distracting yet also evocative of the past. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Yes Would I buy a bottle? - Perhaps NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.