Whisky Review/Tasting: Bunnahabhain MacPhail's Collection 9 Years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Bunnahabhain Distillery, Isle of Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in first fill and refill sherry hogsheads. Hogsheads are constructed from deconstructed sherry casks reassembled into new barrels.
Age Statement: 9 to 10 years, distilled in 2006 and bottled in 2016.
ABV: 43% (86 proof).
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the influence of sherry casks suggests a potentially rich color.
Bottle Design: Not described, but as an independent bottling by Gordon & MacPhail, it likely features their branding alongside specific distillery details.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of fruitiness, slight phenolic notes, and oakiness.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its bittersweet profile with prominent citrus flavors like grapefruit and blood oranges, complemented by apricot. A subtle undertone of sweetness persists throughout the tasting experience.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its profile of fruitiness combined with a slight medicinal note and oakiness is somewhat unique, especially for an Islay whisky.

Distillery Renovation: The Bunnahabhain distillery underwent renovation in 2015, with ongoing improvements. The distillery's remote location on the Isle of Islay is highlighted as both a charm and a challenge for visitors.

Islay Whisky: Bunnahabhain is part of Islay's renowned whisky-producing region, known for its peaty and smoky whiskies. However, this particular expression showcases a different side of Islay whisky with its emphasis on sherry cask maturation and a more subtle phenolic presence.

"It's a complex one so if you have this bottle, I'll recommend you drink it with care. Like you want to find out what it is all about." - This quote emphasizes the whisky's complexity and the recommendation to savor it thoughtfully.

Bunnahabhain MacPhail's Collection 9 Years is a single malt Scotch whisky from the Isle of Islay, matured in sherry hogsheads.
It features a complex flavor profile with a balance of bittersweet citrus, apricot, and a hint of oakiness.
The whisky is part of an independent bottling by Gordon & MacPhail, with a specific age statement of 9 to 10 years.
The distillery's recent renovations and its remote location on Islay are highlighted as points of interest.
The tasting experience is described as complex, warranting careful and thoughtful consumption to fully appreciate its nuances.

For the Islay Enthusiast: Those typically drawn to the peaty and smoky profiles of Islay whiskies may find this expression a delightful exploration of the region's versatility.
For the Sherry Cask Aficionado: Lovers of sherry cask-matured whiskies will appreciate the rich fruitiness and subtle sweetness imparted by the first fill and refill sherry hogsheads.
For the Whisky Explorer: Individuals seeking complexity and a whisky that challenges the palate to uncover its layers would likely enjoy this Bunnahabhain expression.
For the Novice: While potentially challenging for a complete beginner due to its complexity, it could serve as an intriguing step into more nuanced whisky profiles for those with a budding interest.