Bunnahabhain Moine Signatory Vintage 2008 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky comes from the Bunnahabhain distillery, an independent bottler Signatory Vintage.
Type: It is a heavily peated Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled on February 7th, 2008, and bottled on January 13th, 2015, making it a 6-year-old whisky. It was matured in a hogshead cask (cask number 800044).
Age Statement: 6 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The specific color of the whisky isn't mentioned, but it is described as light, similar to white wine. The bottle design specifics are not detailed, but it is noted that the bottle labels the whisky as "BUNA HEAVEN MOIN" and "heavily peated."

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by heavy peat and medicinal notes, with a background of faint fruitiness, vanilla, and caramel. The cask influence is minimal due to the short maturation period.
Unique Characteristics: Notably medicinal with a strong peat smoke presence. The whisky maintains a high ABV of 58.9%, contributing to its intense flavor profile.
Comparison: The review does not directly compare this whisky to others, but it implies that its heavily peated character sets it apart from less peated expressions from Bunnahabhain.

Interesting Stories: The name "Moine" refers to a geological anomaly in the north of Scotland, suggesting a connection between the whisky's peated character and the natural landscape of its origin. The process of switching production between peated and unpeated whisky at the distillery is also highlighted, emphasizing the careful management required to maintain distinct flavor profiles.

Significance: The name "Moine" and its geological reference underscore the whisky's deep connection to the Scottish landscape, particularly the peat-rich regions that influence its flavor.

Opinions: Horst Luening describes the whisky as "quite young, quite straight," and "not a bad one if you like smoky whisky." He suggests that the whisky would benefit from finishing in a sherry or sauterne cask to enhance its flavor profile.
Quotes: "Heavily, heavily peated. In the first it's very medicinal."

Heavily peated and medicinal flavor profile with faint fruitiness, vanilla, and caramel.
6-year-old whisky from Bunnahabhain distillery, bottled by Signatory Vintage.
Matured in a hogshead cask, resulting in a light color and minimal cask influence.
Named "Moine" after a geological feature in Scotland, highlighting its peated character.
High ABV of 58.9%, described as quite strong and not for everyone.
Recommended for specialists interested in a young, distillery-character-driven whisky.

Peat Lovers: Individuals who enjoy heavily peated and medicinal whiskies will likely appreciate this expression.
Cask Finish Enthusiasts: Those interested in the potential of whisky finishing might be intrigued by the suggestion of maturing this whisky further in a sherry or sauterne cask.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: Given its high ABV and unique flavor profile, more experienced drinkers looking for something distinct and challenging may find this whisky appealing.
Not Recommended for Beginners: Due to its intense peatiness and high alcohol content, this whisky might not be suitable for those new to whisky or those who prefer milder flavors.