Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample Bunnahabhain 1990 28 Year Old (30ml, 42.5%)

Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample Bunnahabhain 1990 28 Year Old (30ml, 42.5%)

The Thompson Brothers 1990 Bunnahabhain 28 Year Old is a highly regarded independent bottling that captures the "gentle giant" of Islay in a sophisticated, well-aged state. Bottled by the Dornoch-based Thompson Brothers, this expression is known for its vibrant fruitiness and the lack of heavy peat typical of many Islay malts.

Tasting Notes

This bottling is often celebrated for its "old-school" profile, leaning heavily into tropical and orchard fruits rather than the maritime saltiness found in younger Bunnahabhains.

• Nose: An immediate explosion of green fruits. You'll find crisp green apples, underripe pears, and a distinct note of unripe mango. There is a subtle, elegant waxy character (reminiscent of some old Clynelish) accompanied by lemon zest and a faint hint of chamomile tea.

• Palate: Despite the relatively low ABV of 42.5%, the mouthfeel remains oily and "easy drinking." The fruitiness from the nose carries over but becomes sweeter—think vanilla bean, honeyed malt, and poached pears. The waxiness turns into a silky texture on the tongue.

• Finish: Medium to long. It is remarkably precise and clean, leaving a lingering sweetness of orchard fruit skins and a soft, peppery oak spice.