Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair

This is my third Bunnahabhain expression, following the 12-year-old and the Ceobanach. The initial pour offered a pleasant malty aroma. Subsequent pours revealed a nose that was initially more alcoholic and less robust, though it improved after swirling. The sherry influence was minimal. I may favor the 12-year-old, although I haven't directly compared them yet. The Stiùiredair shares a sweet, grainy character with the 12-year-old but possesses fewer caramel and vanilla notes. There's no peat present. However, I found the alcoholic and sharp aroma (reminiscent of Kirschschnaps) somewhat off-putting, perhaps something that will mellow with time and air exposure. It might contribute to the "coastal" character, as there's a subtle saltiness. The texture in the mouth is less velvety and full compared to the 12-year-old. There's a slight bitterness – perhaps more oak influence? (As it's a No Age Statement, it's likely younger). Overall, it's an acceptable dram, but I derive more pleasure from the 12-year-old. Scored 2.75 out of 5. Re-evaluation on December 3, 2021: The bottle has been open for two months. I must concede it has improved. The alcoholic sharpness is significantly reduced. The sherry notes are now distinctly apparent. In fact, I'm finding myself quite enjoying it now… Rating increased from 2.75 to 3.0.

Welcome to another Bunnahabhain's unpronounceable expression, this one called "STRUYERYER" (that's how it sounds, allegedly, when spoken). Stiuireadair means Helmsman, the sailor who steers a ship's helm. Bottled at 46.3%abv, matured in first and second fill sherry casks. On the nose, it is very tropical. Pineapple, spongy cake, tropical fruits like peaches. Honey; very appealing on the nose, yeasty cake. There is a ghostly chocolate and brownies. I loved it. On the palate, it is very sweet. Vanilla, spongy cake and "dulce de tres leches" topping. It is very spongy and cakey. Reminds me of glenmorangie a tale of cake. Aftertaste was good but was the least good part. Chocolate, salty and gingery. Vanilla, Tres leches and red fruit finish. Overall, this was actually an incredible whisky for a very good price. This is not expensive at all, and it is full of flavor, an instant favorite, everyday dram. It has a decent amount of abv to achieve all this nice notes. My score for it is 93 out of 100.

For those unfamiliar with Bunna 12, this is a tasty dram. While it is indeed hot due to its youth, it retains many qualities of the Bunnahabhain distillery. It has respectable sherry characteristics like cherries, raisins, and almonds, along with a decent oily mouthfeel. The maritime, salty notes help to temper the spirit's youthfulness. However, this is where the whisky falters; it's young, hot, and spicy. The 12-year expression possesses all the positive attributes of this one, plus more leather, sherry influence, and salinity. It's essentially this whisky aged for at least 12 years. I genuinely like this spirit and the Bunnahabhain flavor profile it exhibits. It's just not as good as the 12, especially considering their similar price points. My main criticism is that Bunnahabhain produces a superior whisky for only slightly more money in my market. It's not a bad dram, but I recommend getting the 12.

Initially, there were subtle traces of peat, but no hint of salinity, which was unexpected from a coastal distillery. As the dram developed, the peat quickly disappeared, making way for a balanced profile of crisp apple, warm cinnamon, and a touch of ginger, enhanced by the higher proof and oak influence. The overall blend is refined and harmonious, showcasing Bunnahabhain's craftsmanship. While it makes a strong first impression, the flavor profile becomes somewhat monotonous over time, lacking the complexity to maintain long-term interest. Final Impression: A well-made and accessible expression with excellent balance, but one that may not hold prolonged interest for experienced enthusiasts. 87/100 or 4.25/5

Attractive presentation. Good value. The name is surely intended to pique interest while simultaneously confusing international customers. Light golden brown with an orange hue. Nutty aroma - clearly sherry-influenced, but pleasantly so. Almond extract. Pear. Jasmine. Begins with sweet syrup, then a vegetal cocoa lacking the creaminess needed for chocolate. Full-bodied and sharp, it comes across as quite salty (a characteristic I also detect in the 12-year expression). A hint of crisp Granny Smith apple tartness. Strongly reminiscent of a salted chocolate syrup with prominent nutty, sherry notes. A rich and substantial spirit. I've thoroughly enjoyed this bottle and would readily recommend it to anyone who appreciates bold, sherry-matured single malts at an entry-level price. It's well-crafted and not negatively impacted by the absence of an age statement.

No age statement. 46.3% alcohol by volume. No artificial coloring, No chill filtration. Aroma: Reminiscent of an old bookstore, a musty attic by the lake, salty ship's rope, and brine. Sherry, sweet dark fruit, toffee. Sweet fruits again. Taste: rough, spicy, the flavor isn't its strongest aspect, an untamed young spirit. Dried fruits in the background. Sweet. Finish: fructose sweetness, a pleasant and enjoyable aftertaste. I appreciate the 46% ABV, no coloring, and no chill filtration! That's the way to do it! It's not smooth but has its own distinct character. Super sweet with a cigar. Definitely should try the 12-year-old. Reasonable price