The Still & The VineSchool of Wine & Spirits
Bunnahabhain 18 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Scotch WhiskyIssue 61

Bunnahabhain 18 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Bunnahabhain · Bunnahabhain Distillery

92.6 proof18 YearIslay, Scotland
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.

Kit Aromas

Tasting Notes

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.

Specifications
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
Serve & Pair

Food Pairing

Dark chocolate tart with sea salt

The Story

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.

Train These Aromas
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