Bunnahabhain 20 Year Cask Strength is an Islay single malt Scotch whisky bottled at natural cask strength of 54.9% ABV, matured for two decades in a first fill Oloroso sherry butt. This exceptional expression from the renowned Bunnahabhain distillery represents one of only 491 bottles from cask #800188, distilled in April 2004 and bottled in June 2024 as part of Signatory Vintage's Cask Strength Collection.
Bunnahabhain distillery stands as one of Islay's most distinctive producers, known for its unpeated single malts that showcase the island's maritime character without the heavy smoke typical of its neighbors. Founded in 1881 on Islay's remote northeast coast, Bunnahabhain has built a reputation for elegant, sherry-influenced whiskies that capture the essence of coastal Scotland through expert cask selection and patient maturation.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Rich Christmas cake, dried figs, orange zest, toasted almonds, sea salt breeze
- Palate: Dark chocolate, stewed prunes, cinnamon spice, honeyed nuts, leather undertones
- Finish: Long and warming with lingering sherry sweetness, black pepper, dark fruit compote
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky |
|---|---|
| ABV | 54.9% |
| Volume | 700ml |
| Age Statement | 20 Years |
| Distillery | Bunnahabhain |
| Region | Islay, Scotland |
| Barrel Type | First Fill Oloroso Sherry Butt |
| Cask Number | #800188 |
| Bottles Produced | 491 |
| Distilled | April 14, 2004 |
| Bottled | June 26, 2024 |
Perfect For
- Special Occasions: Marking milestone celebrations with this rare, limited-edition single malt
- Whisky Collectors: Adding an exceptional cask strength Bunnahabhain to premium collections
- Contemplative Sipping: Savoring neat or with a splash of water to unlock complex flavors
- Gifts for Connoisseurs: Presenting serious whisky enthusiasts with an unforgettable Islay experience
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Bunnahabhain 20 Year Cask Strength taste like?
Bunnahabhain 20 Year Cask Strength delivers rich sherry-influenced flavors with Christmas cake and dried fruit on the nose, followed by dark chocolate, stewed prunes, and warming spices on the palate. The long finish showcases the whisky's complexity with lingering sherry sweetness and gentle maritime notes characteristic of Islay single malts.
Should I add water to cask strength whisky?
Yes, adding a few drops of water to this 54.9% ABV whisky can help unlock additional flavors and aromas while making it more approachable. Start with just a small amount and adjust to your preference, as cask strength whiskies often reveal different characteristics as you explore various dilution levels.
What makes this Bunnahabhain special?
This expression is special due to its 20-year maturation in a first fill Oloroso sherry butt, cask strength bottling at natural proof, and extremely limited availability with only 491 bottles produced. The combination of Bunnahabhain's elegant house style with intensive sherry cask influence creates a uniquely complex and collectible single malt.
Is Bunnahabhain peated like other Islay whiskies?
No, Bunnahabhain is one of the few Islay distilleries that produces primarily unpeated single malts. This allows the maritime character and sherry cask influence to shine through without the heavy smoke that characterizes many other Islay whiskies, making it an excellent introduction to the island's diverse whisky styles.
How should I store this whisky?
Store this bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. As a cask strength whisky with high alcohol content, it will remain stable for many years when properly stored, making it an excellent candidate for long-term cellaring or collection.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.