“Bunnahabhain & Friends” tasting at The Oak Barrel, Sydney, 15 June 2022. Whisky #2 Nose: Leafy, like dry autumn leaves. Sherry, cocoa powder. The nose has initial impact but is surprisingly shy and lacks complexity. Water does the nose no favours. Palate: Big, grippy arrival. Raisins, walnuts, peanut skins, dark hard toffee, bitter chocolate, tobacco leaf, a touch of ash, intense spice, liquorice, leather, and raw alcohol. Water lengthens the palate but does not significantly change it. Finish: Medium/long. Spicy/sour. Cocoa, nuts and oak. Dry and astringent. I would never in a million years have pegged this as a PX finished whisky. It’s sherried, for sure, but the profile shows more of an oloroso influence and not one that is derived from the best quality casks. The nose and palate are dry and share walnut, resin and dried fig characteristics. The palate is a little “dirty”, but not in a good way, and there is a naked ethanol presence in both nose and palate - you occasionally get a waft or taste of straight ethanol cutting through. The profile also lacks juiciness or light, fresh fruit. On the whole this whisky tastes as if it is old before its time, but not mature. This was not available for purchase on the night, but when stocks come in it will probably be around $200, and I would not pay that much. “Good (just)” : 83/100 (3.5 stars)