Some time ago when reviewing the Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair, I said I needed to try a recent batch of the Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old which it would be replacing (in part).
This version of Bunna 12 was introduced in 2011. It was upgraded on different levels: higher strength from 40% to 46.3% ABV and it is now bottled unchill-filtered and uncoloured. It was about time I updated my review of the old batch.
Bunnahabhain 12 yo
(46,3%, OB +/- 2017)
Bunnahabhain 12 yoNose: sweet and creamy, but also earthy and leafy, with some smoky oak and light sherry. A bit of chocolate. Blackcurrant jam. A hint of brighter lemon and sour orange. Mild hints of allspice and sandalwood.
Mouth: oily, even slightly syrupy, with dark cherries and chocolate. After a while it turns towards sharp wood spices and more punch than you’d expect from the nose. Candied ginger and cloves. Plenty of cinnamon. Vanilla. Hints of sour herbs and roasted nuts. Still subtle sherry notes.
Finish: medium long, herbal with hints of smoke.
An excellent spicy entry-level whisky, much better than how I remember the old version. Not extremely complex, but it shows some interesting aromas that will also appeal to more advanced whisky drinkers. Around € 45-50.
Score: 85/100