Bunnahabhain has released two limited-edition single malts that have been crafted through maturation in different kinds of casks including ex-marsala.
The 17-year-old Bunnahabhain Westering Home, with only 301 bottles available, has been matured in a rich ex-cognac cask and then finished in a Sauterne dessert wine cask.
The result is aromas of marmalade, honeycomb and white chocolate give this single malt a complex, opulent and exotic finish. Its ABV is 53.4%.
It is named after a century-old traditional Islay song, which recounts the story of a mariner travelling back to his beloved Islay.
Through the label, Bunnahabhain intends to raise awareness and support for The Fishermen’s Mission, the only charity which provides emergency support as well as practical and emotional care to fishermen and their families.
The second limited edition is the 10-year-old smoky Bunnahabhain Dràm an Stiùreadair (pronounced Draam an Yoù-radar – meaning The Helmsman’s Dram in Gaelic). Only 632 bottles have been released.
It was first matured in ex-American bourbon casks for nine years before being finished for one year in a marsala cask. Its ABV is 56.7%.
The unique combination of the casks results in its smoky and rich oaky and vanilla flavours entwined with the sweet, aromatic extract imparted by the Italian dessert wine influence.
The two new limited releases were launched at this year’s Feis Ile – the Islay Festival of Malt and Music – which took place on the island from May 23 to 31.
Michelle Lansdowne, senior brand manager at Bunnahabhain owner Burn Stewart, added: “We wanted to create something special for this year’s whisky festival and with such limited availability of these exclusive single malts, they will definitely appeal to anyone attending the festival, as well as international collectors of rare malts.
“The flavours, aromas and finish of both these expressions add a further layer of complexity to the wonderful signature taste profile of Bunnahabhain.
“It’s very special for us to be able to support The Fishermen’s Mission through Westering Home. Islay’s link with the fishing industry dates back centuries and our label design allows us to support and drive awareness of the charity.”
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