Bunnahabhain – 1973 42 Year Old Signatory Vintage Rare Reserve (70cl, 47.9%)

This is an unpeated Islay single malt from Bunnahabhain, distilled on 16 December 1973 and bottled by Signatory Vintage on 11 January 2016 for its Cask Strength Collection. It is 42 years old and was matured in a refill sherry butt, which added dried fruit flavours. The outturn is 427 bottles, at 47.9% in 70cl. The nose is floral, with lilac, lily of the valley and roses, then light flower honey, aromatic herbs, raisins and dried plums. The palate is punchy and full of earthy dried fruit such as small figs, with a meaty note of ham. The finish is medium and jammy, with rooty raisins and mint tea in the aftertaste.