Bunnahabhain 12 Year

This is my first Islay whiskey to taste. It’s interesting for sure, I won’t be drinking it again though. I like the smokey elements in it, but I’m not a fan of the sweetness and the fruitiness in tandem with the smokiness. I would much rather have a scotch that is only smoky and savory and salty with very little fruitiness and sweetness. This one doesn’t check those boxes off.

Another ‘go-to’ dram for me. On the nose, it’s sweet and seaweedy with an almost honeysuckle note in the background. On first taste, you get the softness - no harsh alcohol or overpowering flavours that are so often synonymous with Islay. There’s some lovely dried fruit flavours, a good hit of light sherry and some saltiness. As it develops, the sherry and fruit develops into a long, herbal and very slightly smoky aftertaste. Hints of coffee, chocolate and salt. This is a beautifully well-balanced dram. Delicious!

I'll miss this one until the next time I buy it