Bunnahabhain brings rare whiskies to US

Campari Group-backed Islay distillery Bunnahabhain has launched its 30- and 40-year-old single malt whiskies in the States.

Aged in Sherry casks, the Bunnahabhain 30- and 40-year-old showcase the distillery’s signature unpeated single malt and coastal influences.

“Our 30- and 40-year-old whiskies are a tribute to Bunnahabhain’s dedication to quality and patience,” master distiller Juliann Fernandez said. “These releases have been nurtured with the utmost care, allowing the complex layers of flavour to develop over time. From the rich Sherry notes to the coastal breeze woven into every drop, these whiskies invite true connoisseurs to experience the essence of Islay at its finest.”

Bunnahabhain 30-year-old is bottled at 46.3% ABV and priced at US$1,000. It is matured in 100% Sherry casks and is the newest member to the Bunnahabhain core range. On the nose it shows aromas of butterscotch, beeswax and sweet Sherry, while the palate brings notes of strawberries and cream, honey nut cereal and rich toffee.

Bunnahabhain 40-year-old is bottled at 41.9% ABV and priced at US$3,786. The casks used were discovered by Bunnahabhain’s blending team while reviewing warehouse ledgers and were sourced from wine spirits merchant JG Turney. On the nose, there are notes of bananas, berries, vanilla, rich nuttiness, and sweet oak. On the palate, the whisky offers flavours of sweet malt, creamy caramel, toasted nuts, and pineapple.

Earlier this week, Bunnahabhain debuted a 21-year-old annual release, the first in a new cask-strength range. These releases follow news in September that Campari Group had purchased a 14.6% stake in the owner of Scottish distillers Bunnahabhain, Deanston and Tobermory for £69.6 million (US$92m).