Bunnahabhain 1988 "Kirsch Gâteau" (Wemyss Malts)

Bunnahabhain 1988 "Kirsch Gâteau", 26 YO, 56 %

The Bunnahabhain 1988 "Kirsch Gâteau" is one of the latest releases from independent bottler Wemyss Malts. It was released in February 2015. The whisky itself was distilled in 1988, matured in a sherry butt, and bottled in 2014. The total outturn was 442 bottles.

We have tested many of the single cask releases from Wemyss Malts by now, and are impressed by the output provided. Most of the releases are bottled at 46 % ABV, however, where we would usually have preferred to have them at cask strength. Well, in this case we got it our way! This whisky is bottled at a cask strength of 56 % ABV.

The Bunnahabhain 1988 "Kirsch Gâteau" is available to buy in Norway at NOK 2100 (item number 2162201). It is currently not available to buy in Sweden.

Nose (23/25): Very fruity! Banana, ripe apples, baked apples and raisins. Leather and polished mahogany. A delightful fruit dessert served with the finest sherry on the side. Soft spiciness as well; cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. There's actually a lot of cinnamon here, and I love it!

Taste (22/25): Full-bodied and rich mouthfeel. This is what I would call a full-blown sherry bomb. I love the dessert like dried fruits and the rich sweetness. I did not find any of the typical maritime notes on the nose, but to taste it is slightly salty. A bit of oakiness; mahogany furniture (yeah I know, not everyone gnaws on old furniture). A hint of leather (again with the weird diet, I know).

Finish (22/25): There's a slight burnt caramel edge added to the dried fruits now, a hint of bitterness - bitter oranges perhaps. It works well - really well. Slightly salty. A long and warm finish.

Balance (22/25): A delightful old Bunnahabhain.

Score (89/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas