Origin: Isle of Islay (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 45.2%ABV
Ageing casks: Finished in Ex-Sherry PX
Chillfiltered: No
Added colouring: No
Owner: Wilson & Morgan
Average price: € 360.00
Official website: www.wilsonandmorgan.com
We go back to Wilson & Morgan, also known as Rossi&Rossi, with a proposal from a few years ago taken from the Barrel Selection, showcasing the popular independent bottler from Treviso, Italy.
A peated Bunnahabhain, distilled in 1989, finished in ex-PX casks and bottled in 2014, just before reaching the quarter-century mark, at 45.2%abv, in its natural color and unchillfiltered, in 599 bottles that are practically impossible to find today (hence the indicative price).
Wilson & Morgan’s offer has never let me down, let’s see how it goes in this case.
Tasting Notes
The color is amber.
On the nose, the first encounter is with scents that declare the influence of ex-PX barrels: raisins, caramel, and orange zest, accompanied by a fruity backdrop of apricot and peach. The smoke is light, lurking in the background, presenting itself in the aromatic forms of a fireplace extinguished for hours. The meeting between this unexaggerated sweetness and the smoke I would describe as elegant is framed by a mineral note that is clearly perceived but not easily translated sensorially. As the analysis progresses, the fruit ends up on the grill.
Overall, the palate is quite consistent (caramel, orange zest, and grilled fruit gain intensity), although the inclination towards sweetness is more evident, with an added touch of custard, while the peaty note drastically diminishes to the point of being almost nonexistent. The body is smooth with slight mineral streaks. A hint of pepper is added, which is not detected in the aroma.
The persistent and rather spicy finish leaves a memory in the mouth where the sweet notes and smoke blend into a harmonious and inviting ensemble.
Review: A whisky of absolute elegance and another gem from Wilson & Morgan. The 24 years of aging have softened the smoke, but the influence of the ex-PX casks has been masterfully managed, enriching the original distillate without distorting it.
Vote: 89/100