
Bunnahabhain 18 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Bunnahabhain · Bunnahabhain Distillery
Bunnahabhain's 18-year expression is the quiet counterpoint to Islay's smoke-forward reputation. It demonstrates that patience on this island yields sherry-rich, maritime complexity without ever reaching for peat. A benchmark for non-peated Islay whisky.
Nose
Dried fruit and sherry dominate the opening, with waves of honey, malt, and a gentle brine. Underneath, hazelnut and clove spice add complexity without competing.
Palate
Generous and layered with caramel, cocoa, and stewed stone fruit. The mouthfeel is oily and coating, with sherry-cask influence lending dried fruit and a subtle woody tannic grip. A whisper of sea air keeps it from becoming too heavy.
Finish
Extended and warming, with clove spice, dried fruit, and a clean malt character that lingers beautifully.
- Region
- Islay
- Cask Type
- Oloroso and Fino sherry casks
- Peat Level (PPM)
- 2–3 ppm (unpeated)
- Distillation
- Double distilled in copper pot stills
- Maturation
- Aged 18 years in a combination of oloroso and fino sherry casks
- Chill-Filtered
- Non-chill filtered
Food Pairing
Dark chocolate tart with sea salt
Nestled at the northern tip of Islay where the Sound of Jura meets open Atlantic, Bunnahabhain has quietly aged unpeated spirit in sherry casks since 1881.
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