Whisky Review/Tasting: Bunnahabhain 1978 Murray McDavid

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Bunnahabhain Distillery, Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in sherry and port casks, showcasing a unique dual cask influence. The whisky is a part of the Murray McDavid Mission Range, selected by Jim McEwan.
Age Statement: 32 years old, vintage 1978.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is not colored, indicating its natural appearance. The exact color is not described, but the maturation in sherry and port casks suggests a potentially rich hue.
Bottle Design and Packaging: The bottle experienced leakage due to a faulty cork, which separated from the wooden cap. The packaging includes a box where leakage was evident. The label contains information that is difficult to read due to color choices (brown on brown).

Balance of Flavors: Initially sharp due to high alcohol content (52.3% ABV), but becomes elegant and wonderfully balanced with the addition of a few drops of water.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky exhibits a complex aroma with a long aftertaste. It transitions from fruitiness to oakiness smoothly, with notable spiciness and caramel notes. The addition of water reveals more fruitiness, depth, and oak, without introducing bitterness.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its complexity and balance are highlighted as exceptional.

Anecdotes: The bottle reviewed was one of the last available, making it a rare find. The leakage issue due to the cork is mentioned as a past problem with the supplier at Bruchlerich, linking the story of this bottle to broader distillery experiences.
Trivia: The selection process for the Mission Range by Jim McEwan and the team at Murray McDavid is detailed, emphasizing the luck involved in acquiring such exceptional casks.

The whisky's Islay origin and the involvement of renowned figures like Jim McEwan in its selection process underscore its significance within the Scotch whisky community. The maturation in sherry and port casks adds a layer of cultural richness, blending Scottish distillation with influences from Spanish and Portuguese fortified wines.

Opinions: The reviewer, Horst Luening, highly recommends this whisky, praising its complexity, balance, and the skillful selection for the Mission Range.
Quotes: "A wonderful complex aroma. Extremely long aftertaste... It's a definite buy."

Bunnahabhain 1978 Murray McDavid is a 32-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in sherry and port casks.
Exhibits a complex and balanced flavor profile, enhanced by the addition of water.
The whisky is part of a rare collection, with its selection overseen by Jim McEwan.
Cultural significance is tied to its Islay origin and the maturation process.
Highly praised by the reviewer for its elegance, complexity, and long aftertaste.

Whisky Collectors: Due to its rarity and unique story, collectors would find this bottle a prized addition.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for aged, complex whiskies would appreciate its depth and the craftsmanship behind its production.
Fans of Sherry or Port Cask Whiskies: Individuals who enjoy the rich, fruity notes typical of these cask types would likely enjoy this whisky's profile.