WHO ADDED SPICE TO THE COFFEE? – Score: 7/10
Alistair Walker presents us with a Bunnahabhain that has spent nine full years maturing in Pedro Ximénez casks. Rumour has it that the casks selected for Infrequent Flyers were personally and meticulously hand-picked by none other than his father, Billy Walker. Such lineage in expertise would naturally account for the remarkable precision and unwavering quality of the bottlings from this independent house, which continues to delight enthusiasts with expressions that are both distinctive and consistently well-crafted.
This edition stands as a quintessential sherry bomb, richly enveloped in layers of coffee, dark fruits, and polished wood. The peat, though not overwhelming, is undeniably present and offers a harmonious counterpoint to the sweetness of the PX influence. As the tasting progresses, a vibrant note of spice emerges with growing intensity, gradually asserting itself and adding depth to the overall profile. The interplay between sweetness, smoke, and fiery spice creates a dynamic and evolving experience in the glass.
In sum, this is a bold and expressive whisky—one that demands attention and is best appreciated by palates seasoned and prepared for a robust, flavour-driven journey. A dram for those who seek character and complexity rather than restraint.
