Bunnahabhain 12Y (2013-2025) Bourbon Hogshead 55.4 "Liquid Art"

Liquid Art recently released a young Staoisha, the peated version of Bunnahabhain from Islay.

On the nose, it’s very pronounced with smoked mackerel, sweet peat, oyster brine and fish oil, garden herbs, nettles, and walnuts, complemented by fruity notes of apples, lime, and a stray green banana. Nicely dirty and oily, just as it should be.

On the palate, it’s almost creamy and quite a bit sweeter than the nose suggested. The maritime character dominates—think peat, seaweed, brackish water—but is beautifully supported by vanilla, banana, and even some barbecued pineapple. The smokiness seems to build steadily, creating a pleasant warmth in the mouth. The balance between sweet and salty is nearly perfect. Water? No, thank you.

The long finish starts sweet but gradually turns briny and peppery. The smoke lingers for a very long time. Delightful. A powerful, almost naked Staoisha.

Tasting Notes by Mark Dermul