When I scramble through my sample drawer, I’m sometimes confused as to why I bought a certain sample. Take this Bunnahabhain for example. A young, high strength single malt matured in a 1st fill sherry hogshead. Not exactly something I would jump on if I saw it in a store somewhere, but because it is a Gordon & MacPhail release, I know the floor for this whisky is at least pretty high.
After a little more research, I noticed Serge Valentin scored this whisky 90 points, which is high for any whisky, let alone one of this age. So I suppose that’s what tempted me to acquire a sample, because mister Valentin does hold some sway over the whisky community, doesn’t he?
Bunnahabhain 2009 7 Years (60.5%, Gordon & MacPhail, C#323-325)
Nose: Touches of calvados, but mostly very malty, reminiscent of the grist that’s the result after milling the grains. There’s a whiff of sour cherries, copper and even orris root. After a little while it becomes sweeter—a bit more candy-esque.
Taste: Very creamy and mouthcoating with pronounced notes of sweet oranges, caramel, fudge and a touch of port-stewed pears. Water bring out brown sugar, tobacco and red apple, but also charred lemon peel.
Finish: Hints of pear skin and apple parts, accompanied by soft spices.
Score: 88
Rather a good and unusual single malt, that I probably should’ve snapped up a few years ago, as it was priced below 50 euro. But, no regrets here, just glad I got to enjoy it!
Photo: Whiskybase