Bunnahabhain Feis Ile 2020 Whisky Sample 2002 18 Year Old Madeira Finish (30ml, 53%)

Bunnahabhain Feis Ile 2020 Whisky Sample 2002 18 Year Old Madeira Finish (30ml, 53%)

The Bunnahabhain 2002 18 Year Old Madeira Cask Finish was the "stay-at-home" star of the 2020 Fèis Ìle. Because the physical festival was cancelled, this bottle became a sought-after prize for those navigating the distillery's online shop.

While most Bunnahabhain fans are used to the heavy influence of Sherry, this release uses Madeira hogsheads to provide a "brighter," more sun-drenched sweetness that perfectly complements the distillery's unpeated, coastal spirit.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Bold and festive. It opens with strong orange marmalade and apricot jam. There is a distinct "confectionery" sweetness—think golden syrup, jelly babies, and liquorice allsorts. As it breathes, deeper notes of ripe figs, wood wax, and candied dates emerge, followed by a soft, floral hint of violets.

Palate: Thick and oily. The arrival is rich with sweet vanilla and caramelized fruits, but a spicy "oak bite" quickly takes hold. You'll find cinnamon swirls, nutmeg, and black pepper cutting through the sugar. Mid-palate, it reveals a savory side: roasted almonds, hazelnuts, and a pleasant filigree of sea salt.

Finish: Medium to long and quite drying. The wood spices (ginger and clove) dominate the end, fading slowly into lingering marmalade, cocoa powder, and a touch of dry tobacco.

Why it's special

• The "Three-Year" Rule: Many finishes are 6–12 months. By giving this spirit three full years in Madeira wood, the distillery ensured the wine influence wasn't just a surface-level "top note" but had fully integrated into the 18-year-old spirit.

• Madeira vs. Sherry: While Oloroso brings dark chocolate and leather, Madeira brings acidity and bright citrus. This makes the 2002 vintage feel "fresher" and more vibrant than the standard 18-year-old core expression.

• Complex Balance: Madeira casks can sometimes be overly "acidic" or "thin," but the natural oiliness of Bunnahabhain's distillate provides the necessary weight to carry those high-toned wine notes.