Malt Mission 2007 #17

Bunnahabhain 12yo
Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
40% abv
£25
$52(USD)

Looking more like a wine-making chateau than a distillery, Bunnahabain occupies a remote section of northwest Islay with a series of utilitarian grey buildings in a gorgeous setting. All the space was used for employees as there was a time when 50-70 people worked at this distillery.

The stills are unusally onion shaped and quite enormous producing a distinctly oily spirit. The stuff produced is probably the least typical of the perception of Islay whisky as it is not heavily peated,smoky, or medicinal.

This is a distillery made for mass production, initially to produce a high volume to supply the blending market in Glasgow, sea connections making it an easy trip down towards the Clyde.

TASTING NOTES:

Light and breezy, sea air, sweet yoghurt and orange syrup. Baking flour and vanilla. Balsamic vinegar. Fruity.

Smooth and very pleasant. Nutty/oily and feels great in the mouth. Chewy. Turns bitter, like orange juice after brushing teeth, and slightly peaty showing off its islay ruggedness. Oaky, creamy, and slighly salty finish. Doesn't linger.

SUMMARY:

Good straight-up, matter-of-fact whisky. The mouthfeel is the biggest sell and its warming chewiness makes it an anytime kind of drink. It's Ran's favorite whisky and you gotta love him for it. Good value and tasty, Bunnahabhain is a go-to malt for many whisky drinkers.

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