BUNNAHABHAIN 1989 30 YEARS OLD 47,6% WILSON & MORGAN

Bunnahabhain 1989 30 Years Old 47.6% Wilson & Morgan is a remarkably distinguished Scotch whisky originating from the prestigious Bunnahabhain distillery located on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. With a contemplative age of 30 years, this exquisite single malt represents the harmony of time-honored tradition and skilled craftsmanship inherent in the distilling legacy of Bunnahabhain.

Bunnahabhain, established in 1881, has a storied history of producing some of the most refined and complex whiskies in the world. Known for its milder peating level relative to other Islay whiskies, Bunnahabhain focuses on the nuanced and subtle notes that malt whisky can offer. This expression, distilled in 1989, is no exception, showcasing a deep mastery over the delicate balance between spirit and wood.

The vintage 1989 malt was carefully matured for 30 years, reaching a perfect point of maturity. The casks used for this particular batch, nos. 5681-5683, were former Oloroso sherry casks, which is a critical aspect of what makes this release stand out. Oloroso sherry wood is known for imparting rich, robust flavors of dried fruits, spices, and nutty notes to the whisky, enhancing the complexity and depth of the whisky’s profile without overpowering the original distillate characteristics.

This Bunnahabhain 30 Year Old has been bottled by Wilson & Morgan, an esteemed independent bottler known for its discerning cask selection and bottling of premium Scotch whiskies. Founded in the early 1990s by the Morgan family, Wilson & Morgan has earned a reputation for bottling high-quality single malts that cater to connoisseurs around the globe. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality ensure that each bottle offers a unique and memorable drinking experience.

This release is limited to just 402 bottles, making it a coveted addition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. At 47.6% ABV, it strikes an ideal balance, offering enough strength to enhance the flavor profile while still allowing for a smooth and approachable sip. The whisky itself greets the palate with a rich tapestry of flavors: expect notes of dark chocolate, dried fruits, hints of nutmeg and cinnamon, and a lingering finish that brings hints of oak and subtle peat smoke—an echo of its Islay heritage.

The regionality of Bunnahabhain, indicated here as region '4', refers to Islay, an acclaimed area especially noted for its peat-laden Scotch whiskies which are celebrated worldwide. However, this Bunnahabhain expression, with its focus primarily on the richer, sherried characteristics, provides a sublime contrast to the typically peaty Islay profile.

Enthusiasts of Scotch and collectors of fine whiskies would find the Bunnahabhain 1989 30 Years Old a grand showcase of the impact of prolonged aging in sherry casks. It's not only a testament to the Bunnahabhain distillery’s exemplary production practices but also a reflection of Wilson & Morgan’s prowess in selecting and presenting whiskies that offer both complexity and a high degree of drinking pleasure.

In conclusion, the Bunnahabhain 1989 30 Years Old by Wilson & Morgan is an exceptional whisky that encapsulates the best of Islay’s non-peaty expressions with the luxurious richness of sherry cask maturation. Its limited availability adds an exclusive allure, promising to be a rewarding experience for those lucky enough to acquire a bottle.