2008 Bunnahabhain 14 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Hogshead Cask Strength Islay Single Malt ~ Scotch Whisky News
David Othenin-Girard | K&L Spirits Buyer | Review Date: June 06, 2023
I have no clue what’s going on with this Bunnah, but it ain’t like the last few we’ve had. Distilled in March of 2009, I’m thinking that this is one of the first batches of unpeated barley after the winter heavy peat runs, or otherwise perhaps they’ve simply used some peat here for God knows why. Maybe the mistaken barley is the reason it was sold off, but whatever the reason this is definitely above the normal 2 ppm that Bunnahabhain usually boasts. It’s not anywhere near the Staoisha/Moine casks, which are circa 45ppm, but it’s definitely peated. Here it is. Color is pale white wine. The nose isn’t a smack you around peater, but instead a beautiful, salty, savory saline solution coupled with roasted herbs and sweet malt. On the palate, the beautiful green peat smoke comes first, followed by wonderful sweet herbs and a vibrant, pithy citrus oil. It’s earthy and herbal and so inviting. The tiniest bit of water brings more peat to the nose, but it remains subtle. There’s more non-peat smoke now too and some crushed oyster shell. Very complex now, with many herbs and different roasting things behind. While the water upped the smoke on the nose, it adds sweetness and zest on the palate. This is just damned good Bunnah, but it will shock a few unsuspecting souls. It’s gentle enough not to turn them off though. I’m totally into it.
Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA
