Bunnahabhain Whisky Sample 2012 8 Year Old Warehouse 9 Moine Oloroso Hand Filled Cask 2114 2020 Release (30ml, 59.2%)

Bunnahabhain Whisky Sample 2012 8 Year Old Warehouse 9 Moine Oloroso Hand Filled Cask 2114 2020 Release (30ml, 59.2%)

This is a "powerhouse" Bunnahabhain. Unlike their standard unpeated range, the Mòine (Gaelic for 'Peat') releases showcase the distillery’s ability to produce heavy, smoky spirit that rivals its Islay neighbours.

Being a Warehouse 9 Hand-Filled bottling, this was drawn directly from a single cask (#2114) at the distillery. These releases are famous for their "raw" intensity because they are bottled at a staggering cask strength, often exceeding 60% ABV, and represent the purest possible interaction between heavy peat and rich Oloroso sherry.

Tasting Notes

Nose: An immediate "industrial" punch. Thick billows of peat smoke collide with the scent of an old mechanics' workshop—oily rags and hot metal. Beneath the smoke, the Oloroso influence provides a dense base of brandy-soaked raisins, dark chocolate, and balsamic-glazed figs. There is a savory touch of smoked sea salt and leather.

Palate: Massive and viscous. The high ABV delivers an explosion of charred oak, espresso beans, and black treacle. The "Mòine" peat is earthy and soot-like, rather than medicinal, tasting of a dying bonfire on a cold beach. Mid-palate, it softens into spiced plum jam, cinnamon sticks, and salted caramel.

Finish: Extremely long and warming. The smoke turns to cold ash, accompanied by the drying tannins of European oak. It leaves a final, lingering impression of dark cocoa, walnuts, and a whisper of maritime brine.