Doris Debbeler is bringing us a young Bunnahabhain, peated and matured in a sherry cask. Two versions are available, one at 59% (180 bottles) and another one at 46% (120 bottles – € 6 off).
Bunnahabhain 9 yo 2000
(59%, Whisky-Doris 2010, sherry butt, 180 btl.)
Bunnahabhain 9 yo 2000 Nose: a nice, dry, medium-strength peat aroma with roasted nuts and some bread crust. Nicely balanced with some sherry influence: raisins and prunes. A hint of ginger. Water highlights dried fruits and some cocoa.
Mouth: quite huge, really powerful – actually too strong to unfold itself. Peaty with a tarry / liquorice edge, lots of spices and herbs. Resinous oak. Water makes it more smokey and brings out unexpected notes of sweet cider apples.
Finish: long, sweet and spicy (nutmeg, cinnamon).
A young and unconstrained Bunnahabhain – I can’t think of many other drams with this profile. It’s peaty but very different from other Islay malts. Available from Whisky-Doris for € 42.
Score: 85/100