In 2021 Bunnahabhain distillery launched a brand new Cask Power model of its Bunnahabhain 12 12 months Previous. It takes its inspiration from the customer tastings of their Warehouse 9. In a manner this permits us to strive Bunnahabhain in its purest type, with none dilution or filtering. The distillery arrives a bit of late to the occasion, I’d say, as so many different distilleries supply a cask energy model of (a few of) their core vary expressions.
From what I can discover this cask energy model has a barely larger share of sherry casks in its recipe, in comparison with the usual launch.
We strive the unique 2021 version. I suppose a brand new one will arrive later this 12 months.
Bunnahabhain 12 yo – Cask Power (55,1%, OB 2021)
Nostril: malty notes, yeasty touches and butter toffee / caramel aromas are the primary to look. These aromas are fairly bloated and take away the freshness. There’s a leafy and barely soiled edge from the sherry casks as properly (one thing I additionally discovered within the common Bunnahabhain 12 Years). Apart from that we discover good black peppercorn aromas and a few raisins. Then additionally lemon and orange zest. Hints of ginger cookies as properly.
Mouth: fairly thick and oily, with a number of punch. Black pepper and warming oak in entrance row. Then closely infused black tea and a delicate saline notice. Darkish chocolate follows, alongside herbs and some charred notes. Nonetheless a sulphury edge. Tobacco leaves and roasted nuts. There’s a pleasant kick however extra astringency as properly.
End: lengthy, actually spicy and natural. Additionally salty notes, liquorice and a touch of chilly espresso.
Granted, I’m not the largest fan of the 12 12 months Previous within the first place. This cask energy model provides little to alter my thoughts, besides extra alcohol and wooden spice. Is greater all the time higher? Most bottles appear to be offered anyway, however TWE remains to be promoting 3cl samples in case you wish to double-check.
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