A regular release from Bunnahabhain, this 12 year comes at us aged primarily in ex-bourbon casks but composed with 30% ex-sherry which elegantly lends some beautiful colour and fruit sweetness to the expression. This whisky is somewhat of a darling in my circle as I am sure it is in every circle, mostly because it comes at a price of $60ish CAD and is one of the most drinkable whiskies on the shelf.
Whenever I am introducing the land of Islay to a new whisky drinker, there is not a better choice than Bunna 12. With all the fresh sea like characteristics quintessential to the region but with less of the peat punch you’ll get in the Laphies and Laggies, makes it a perfectly palatable introduction to the genre.
ABV – 46.3% / Age – 12 Years / Mash – 100% Malted Barley / Region â Scotland (Islay) / Cask – ex-Bourbon (70%) & ex- Sherry (30%)
Mike Brisebois (Distell Brand Ambassador) happens to be a good friend of the society which makes a lot of people around here pretty happy. The perk of this friendship is that Bunna 12 tends to flow around our tasting like water. Along with our other faithful pre-dram – Deanston 12 year, Bunna 12 is a perfect way to wet your palate and get those buds ready for the evening or even turn your buzz into a night ending fizzle. Like I said, water is sometimes the second most beverage consumed at these tastings…
It’s funny, I have been drinking this whisky for so long that when someone asked me what my tasting notes were… I kind of froze. I then thought to myself, I have been drinking and enjoying it for so long that I never really stopped to actually appreciate it. So… in the realization of my complacency, I figured I would pull myself together to complete a review and tasting notes. Here we go…
NOSE – A waft of sherry along with some fresh briny citrus from the get go. After nosing past the citrusy sting, the Islay character very subtly shines through with earthy smoke.
PALATE – A significant richness you do not normally find in a 12 year. Full of earthy, nutty, sherried fruitiness and spice with a slight botanical character reminiscent of an unripe mango or a lemon peel. Intermittently throughout is a very light peat and smokiness, but not a crude peat like we are used to but vegetal like you’re burning the fresh branches and leaves from the vineyard, grapes and all.
FINISH – The finish is light and pleasant but carries nicely with all the lingering qualities of the palate. Short to medium in length which is perfect for this dram because the drink-ability of it makes sure the next sip is never far behind.
I should really come up with a measuring basis for these reviews to provide some context but until then you will just have to read my mind. Based on value alone, Bunna 12 scores high for me. Its no secret that I have a soft spot for this whisky and highly recommend it to all drinkers alike. My rating is 8.6/10.
- Review by Steven Shaw
