Bunnahabhain – 12 Year Old (70cl, 46.3%)

Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old is an Islay single malt bottled at 46.3% ABV in a 70cl bottle. The distillery was founded in 1881 near the fishing village of Port Askaig, and it uses unpeated malt, so the whisky is soft and sweet rather than smoky. It was matured for 12 years in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, which gives a balance of sweet fruit and gentle wood. The nose is fresh and coastal, with toasted almonds, dried fruit and honeyed malt. The palate brings orchard fruit, vanilla, toasted oak and subtle spice. The finish is long and warming, with soft oak and a faint touch of brine.