2011 Bunnahabhain, Aonadh, 10-Year-Old, Bottled 2021, Islay, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (56.2%)

This whisky was aged in a combination of sherry and port casks. The team at Bunnahabhain have skilfully married the two, ensuring neither fortified wine dominates whilst both offer fruit and tannic spice. Some dried fruit notes are playing off against their cooked equivalents, with support from cacao and enervating salinity. 

It is, perhaps, that saltiness creating the real complexity once the finish gets going. A wonderfully moreish Mexican chocolate Mole pushes forwards here too. I strongly recommend a drop or two of water, and crucially, a few minutes in the glass. That will open up what might appear a very shy whisky at first glance.

Rob Whitehead, Spirits Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (February 2023)