My brother I was pleasantly surprised by this bottle when I tried it. Expectations tend to be low when it's a NAS travel exclusive but this was a solid offering.
I recently was gifted Bunnahabhain Eirigh Na Greine ("French Wine Cask Matured", which sounds mucho interesting) and Cruach Mhona (Heavily Peated), both Travel Retail, unsure of their prices, and both still unopened. I doubt I'll see this bottle you just reviewed, but it's good to know it's out there. It does sound like a youngish Bunnahabhain 12 @50% in a 1L bottle, which given a good price, can be a good thing; just like Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair (fully Sherry-matured) is a good budget-bottle IMO. And as for Bunnahabhain-hate, a certain RUclipsr who shall remain nameless, went on a bit of an unhinged rant a while back about Bunnahabhain 18's quality, which I contend is still one of the very best things being bottled in Scotland, but he feels has slipped substantially. Personally I think he was just in a bad mood that day and it reflected on his review; something which isn't all that uncommon. Predicably, and mean like on a dime, his subscribers turned on Bunnahabhain. I mean it was kinda hysterical, and a bit sad to watch. Way too many people, particularly people in these circles, seem to have blind faith and are dying to be programmed IMHO ✌️
It took me some time to warm up to the Eirigh na Greine as I did NOT like it initially. Once it gets a little air, it softens up and reveals itself as a pretty decent dram. The Cruach Mhona is a quite young spirit-forward whisky but the peat works well in its favor. Both aren't bad by any stretch.
The Eirigh Na Greine is one I haven't tried yet, but it's been recommended a few times down here in the comments. Wine casks can be hit-or-miss, but I'm quite curious about it. As for the Cruach-Mhona... it's good! Won't blow you away, but a very fun and well-made peaty blast with a good abv and a decent price. Good stuff! As for the 18... you might not like my upcoming review of it, then. I also think it's not where it used to be. I say that as a completely independent voice. The recent bottling I have has changed a LOT, unfortunately. 🥃
Sounds like the poster child for Age Statements. I was just talking about malt forward drams. Or lack of in the market. Aside from Bruichladdich, it's hard to find a whisky that's not all about the cask. Sounds like this would be good at 10 years, but then the price would be relatively higher.
A few malt forward drams. Bruichladdich comes to mind. Have you tried Kingsbarns? Really enjoying that one. A bright malty whisky from a new distillery. Good price, too! 🥃
I need your help, I’m a big fan of the Oban 14 it’s one my favorite every day sipping whiskey. I just need your recommendation for another bottle that have the same profile as the Oban 14 but more rich and complex. I need something like the bunahabien 12 with the same sweetness and hint of smoke like the Oban 14. A bottle that combines Oban and Bunna together 😃
Oof that's a tough order. I'm not sure such a whisky exists. Have you tried Benromach? Gentle peat and typically more sherried than Ardnamurchan. Best I can do. 🥃
So cool of you to do a review of this. I have a few of the Travel Retail editions, and this one is a decent whisky. I got it on offer (37.50 EUR) and I love the presentation. I still prefer the 12, but in No Nonsense Whisky terms: this is a great "guard whisky". It's got some slightly acidic notes that I've begun appreciating more with time. I'm giving this an 83.
It really opens up after a couple of months. So much so that I bought a second after finishing the bottle. It has a nice slap to the face quality about it.
Nice review man. Your Great sense of humour helps with those hiccups. The sinking feeling the moment in recording when you realize the obvious mistake... 100% can relate 😅
Nice review. Just to put your mind at rest all the names that you thought may be made up are all genuine Gaelic words. I'm sure that Roy(Aqvavitae) would steer you right on these. I do happen to know that Stuireadaire means helmsman in Gaelic as I have almost finished my first bottle of this and have already purchased a replacement bottle. Keep up the good work.
Great review as always ,thanks! Indeed it has flaws but, anyway. I love ir! Add a few drops of water,put it to rest for a while,and you'll have an amazing experience!. Not the least,quite affordable .😊
Thanks for diving in and forming your own opinion on this one for the benefit of the internet. Sounds like replacing my open Ceobanach and finding a 12 CS will remain at the top of my Bunnahabhain-Priority List. Also… I see that Glenturret 10 Peat Smoked in the background! Excited to hear your thoughts on it once when you get around to it. I really dug the ‘20 maiden release… less so the ‘21, and have not opened the ‘22 yet to get an idea where it’s trending for me. Cheers, Geoff.
The 12 Cask Strength is a whisky I can't recommend enough. Absolutely amazing! The review will be out soon. As for the 10... I'll try to bump it up on the to-do list! 🥃
I'm good with anything Bunna does. I completely agree with you on this one and most of their NAS releases. They're good value, high abv nice tasting whiskies you don't need to think too much about. These Bunnas are the ones I take over to a place I'm invited where I know people are slightly interested in whisky and would like to see something different. Cheers Geoff!
I like this one, quite inexpensive and gets a plus the liter bottle! I like the red bottle as well, the "Eirigh na greine" with wine cask finishing. But it might be even younger. Cheers!
Almost bought this earlier today, but a couple of reviews I found said it had metallic notes, which is my least favorite note ever. Based on your review looks like I made the right decision. I guess the “hate” comes from the fact that it can’t justify its existence, given that the 12 is alao sherry-forward, age stated, accessible and practically the same price.
Hi Geoff, Bunnahabhain do like using unpronounceable names for their whiskies don’t they. Haven’t had this but it’s gonna take a good standard bunnha expression to top the regular 12. Good review Geoff, nice one, slàinte.
Hello Geoff, I love a good Bunna, and there are a lot of great Bunnas out there with Age Statements (OBs and IBs), but for me none of the NAS is good as the 12 (12Cs is another Level 😅...until now). The Only NAS i really like is the Cruach Mhóna. The Rest of the Entry Levels are too flat for my Palate or just too hot with its Alcohol. Thanks for sharing your Opinion about this one. Greetings from Germany 😎🤘
I agree that the Cruach Mhona is probably the most interesting NAS they've got. Like you I prefer the standard 12. Bunna is at its best with an age statement imo. That being said... I drink the 12 less these days. BUT... still plenty of entry-level whiskies I still enjoy. 🥃
I thought the Cruach Mhona was pretty decent, for the price I paid it was great value, and eminently enjoyable as a session whisky with some mates. Have not tried this but have my eyes open for a good price point.
This is a small tip for the pronunciation of this Bunna. (oh well - or maybe just because I really enjoy your videos in general... you get to decide for yourself). Cheers buddy!
Sir, how dare you rip the powder blue label color ... I'm with you on the 1 vs. 2 label thing, but that color is boss, bro! 😛 More seriously, thanks for bringing this one to the channel. Cheers!
I like both An Cladach and Eirigh na Greine better then the bunna 12. think the red wine one is my favorit bunna so far, iam not really o big fan of their stuff. some of my 12 was poured in coke for sure (not amazing in coke either:) cheers G!
High praise! The 12 still beats out An Cladach for me, but I think they occupy different spaces in the lineup, despitbe both being sherry forward. I'll have to try the Eirigh na Greine. Sounds interesting! ...Bunna 12 in coke? Blasphemy! 🥃
If it helps, I tracked down that girl you asked out and she's got 3 kids from 4 different dads, gained 100 kgs, and makes a meager living from Only Fans doing live shows. I'd say you dodged a bullet, my friend. 🤣
i pressed LIKE at the hint that Gaelic is Klingon(-ese) ! ... Travel retail is now a scam : up to 7-8y ago, duty-free = tax free, like no tax, it must be , BY DEFINITION , cheaper -- but, BUT, it aint ! ! ----------------- SOunds ALOT like Stew-a-Deer . . . hummmm
Yeah honestly what was once considered a cheap alternative to standard bottlings have now become super premiumized. As I mentioned, there are a few diamonds in the rough but I'm happy to walk past 95% of travel retail. Cheers buddy! 🥃
I think Bunnahabhain is flipping their collective bird at all native English speaking customers with all the names of these new expressions. I'm not really complaining since this is my 2nd favorite distillery. But still. Those names... Killing me.
Duty-free shops are a big disaster for whisky connoisseurs. If you look at Singapore and Dubai duty-free this is where all the No age statement Scotch gets launched. Right now in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Duty-free, there are at least 5 Macallans without an age statement and their usual 40 ABV is getting promoted and the price is exorbitant. These are the shops where whisky like JW double black was launched. Mostly its workers from the Gulf who are going back to India on a visit and they have very less knowledge about good whisky. For Canadians the best place to buy whisky at a nice price is in the USA - you dont even have to buy at the duty-free!
Agree... some airports can be pretty underwhelming. As I mentioned in the video, there are a few diamonds in the rough, but overall it's not much of a scene these days. Cheers. 🥃
Thanks for trying to pronounce this one Geoff. Think the fact not many people talk about it is... the pronounciation. Tbh. never had this one or maybe a sip I just do not remember anymore. Let's leave it at that. Slàinte mhath
Hah well this isn't the most memorable whisky tbh. Without RUclips as an archive I'd probably forget quite a few of whiskies I've tried over the years! 🥃
Sshhhhh yes let’s keep it quiet and stop talking about it so the prices don’t inflate, it’s my favourite distillery.
My brother I was pleasantly surprised by this bottle when I tried it. Expectations tend to be low when it's a NAS travel exclusive but this was a solid offering.
Agree. I wasn't expecting much myself. Pleasantly surprised! 🥃
I recently was gifted Bunnahabhain Eirigh Na Greine ("French Wine Cask Matured", which sounds mucho interesting) and Cruach Mhona (Heavily Peated), both Travel Retail, unsure of their prices, and both still unopened.
I doubt I'll see this bottle you just reviewed, but it's good to know it's out there. It does sound like a youngish Bunnahabhain 12 @50% in a 1L bottle, which given a good price, can be a good thing; just like Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair (fully Sherry-matured) is a good budget-bottle IMO.
And as for Bunnahabhain-hate, a certain RUclipsr who shall remain nameless, went on a bit of an unhinged rant a while back about Bunnahabhain 18's quality, which I contend is still one of the very best things being bottled in Scotland, but he feels has slipped substantially.
Personally I think he was just in a bad mood that day and it reflected on his review; something which isn't all that uncommon.
Predicably, and mean like on a dime, his subscribers turned on Bunnahabhain. I mean it was kinda hysterical, and a bit sad to watch.
Way too many people, particularly people in these circles, seem to have blind faith and are dying to be programmed IMHO ✌️
It took me some time to warm up to the Eirigh na Greine as I did NOT like it initially. Once it gets a little air, it softens up and reveals itself as a pretty decent dram. The Cruach Mhona is a quite young spirit-forward whisky but the peat works well in its favor. Both aren't bad by any stretch.
@@ConcaCon Thanks for that input ✌️
The Eirigh Na Greine is one I haven't tried yet, but it's been recommended a few times down here in the comments. Wine casks can be hit-or-miss, but I'm quite curious about it.
As for the Cruach-Mhona... it's good! Won't blow you away, but a very fun and well-made peaty blast with a good abv and a decent price. Good stuff!
As for the 18... you might not like my upcoming review of it, then. I also think it's not where it used to be. I say that as a completely independent voice. The recent bottling I have has changed a LOT, unfortunately. 🥃
@@Gwhisky 😳
Sounds like the poster child for Age Statements.
I was just talking about malt forward drams. Or lack of in the market. Aside from Bruichladdich, it's hard to find a whisky that's not all about the cask.
Sounds like this would be good at 10 years, but then the price would be relatively higher.
A few malt forward drams. Bruichladdich comes to mind. Have you tried Kingsbarns? Really enjoying that one. A bright malty whisky from a new distillery. Good price, too! 🥃
I need your help, I’m a big fan of the Oban 14 it’s one my favorite every day sipping whiskey. I just need your recommendation for another bottle that have the same profile as the Oban 14 but more rich and complex. I need something like the bunahabien 12 with the same sweetness and hint of smoke like the Oban 14. A bottle that combines Oban and Bunna together 😃
Oof that's a tough order. I'm not sure such a whisky exists. Have you tried Benromach? Gentle peat and typically more sherried than Ardnamurchan. Best I can do. 🥃
So cool of you to do a review of this. I have a few of the Travel Retail editions, and this one is a decent whisky. I got it on offer (37.50 EUR) and I love the presentation. I still prefer the 12, but in No Nonsense Whisky terms: this is a great "guard whisky". It's got some slightly acidic notes that I've begun appreciating more with time. I'm giving this an 83.
worth buying at that price.
Seems like we're on the same page. Guard whisky... that works! 🥃
Haven't tried or seen An Cladach but certainly appreciate an honest opinion from a strong, independent lass!
It really opens up after a couple of months. So much so that I bought a second after finishing the bottle. It has a nice slap to the face quality about it.
Mine's been open for like 1 month. I suppose more time is needed. Still... already good! 🥃
I almost bought this last weekend from travel retail, but still settled for Bunna 12
Can't go wrong with the 12. A classic! 🥃
Nice review man. Your Great sense of humour helps with those hiccups. The sinking feeling the moment in recording when you realize the obvious mistake... 100% can relate 😅
Hah I usually edit them out, but fun to leave them in from time to time. 🥃
You go girl!
✊✊✊
Nice review. Just to put your mind at rest all the names that you thought may be made up are all genuine Gaelic words. I'm sure that Roy(Aqvavitae) would steer you right on these. I do happen to know that Stuireadaire means helmsman in Gaelic as I have almost finished my first bottle of this and have already purchased a replacement bottle. Keep up the good work.
Hah good to know. I consulted my Klingon dictionary to no avail. Legit Gaelic it is! 🥃
Great review as always
,thanks! Indeed it has flaws but, anyway. I love ir! Add a few drops of water,put it to rest for a while,and you'll have an amazing experience!. Not the least,quite affordable .😊
It's good stuff... definitely not my favourite Bunna but I don't get the hate. And yes.. better with water and time! 🥃
Very useful review, thank you! I still think I would buy the 12 again despite the fact that this one is 1L and 50%abv.
Yeah the 12 is still better imo. Cheers Willem. 🥃
Thanks for diving in and forming your own opinion on this one for the benefit of the internet. Sounds like replacing my open Ceobanach and finding a 12 CS will remain at the top of my Bunnahabhain-Priority List.
Also… I see that Glenturret 10 Peat Smoked in the background! Excited to hear your thoughts on it once when you get around to it. I really dug the ‘20 maiden release… less so the ‘21, and have not opened the ‘22 yet to get an idea where it’s trending for me.
Cheers, Geoff.
The 12 Cask Strength is a whisky I can't recommend enough. Absolutely amazing! The review will be out soon. As for the 10... I'll try to bump it up on the to-do list! 🥃
Nice Gowron appearance, haha! Stiùireadair looks kinda like Sto'Vo'Kor.
Nobody's going to convince me that Toiteach A Dhà isn't Klingon. Qapla! 🥃
I'm good with anything Bunna does. I completely agree with you on this one and most of their NAS releases. They're good value, high abv nice tasting whiskies you don't need to think too much about. These Bunnas are the ones I take over to a place I'm invited where I know people are slightly interested in whisky and would like to see something different. Cheers Geoff!
Totally! Perfect intro whiskies. The natural presentation and generous bottle size make them really good sharers! Cheers buddy! 🥃
Never drink but i very like ))))) Good job mr.Geoff , like ) Cheers !
Thanks Light. Cheers to you! 🥃
I like this one, quite inexpensive and gets a plus the liter bottle! I like the red bottle as well, the "Eirigh na greine" with wine cask finishing. But it might be even younger. Cheers!
That wine cask one has been recommended a couple times down here in the comments. I'll be on the lookout for it! 🥃
Wonderful stuff!
Almost bought this earlier today, but a couple of reviews I found said it had metallic notes, which is my least favorite note ever. Based on your review looks like I made the right decision. I guess the “hate” comes from the fact that it can’t justify its existence, given that the 12 is alao sherry-forward, age stated, accessible and practically the same price.
Well with this one being less heavy on the sherry with a higher abv, I'd say it's got its own place in the lineup. But yes... the 12 is better imo. 🥃
Hi Geoff, Bunnahabhain do like using unpronounceable names for their whiskies don’t they. Haven’t had this but it’s gonna take a good standard bunnha expression to top the regular 12. Good review Geoff, nice one, slàinte.
Hah yeah I'm still sticking with the 12 myself. Cheers David! 🥃
Waiting for the BruichLaddach An Claddach myself.
Laddie 🤔🙄😎
Hello Geoff,
I love a good Bunna, and
there are a lot of great Bunnas out there with Age Statements (OBs and IBs), but for me none of the NAS is good as the 12 (12Cs is another Level 😅...until now). The Only NAS i really like is the Cruach Mhóna. The Rest of the Entry Levels are too flat for my Palate or just too hot with its Alcohol.
Thanks for sharing your Opinion about
this one.
Greetings from Germany 😎🤘
I agree that the Cruach Mhona is probably the most interesting NAS they've got. Like you I prefer the standard 12. Bunna is at its best with an age statement imo. That being said... I drink the 12 less these days. BUT... still plenty of entry-level whiskies I still enjoy. 🥃
I thought the Cruach Mhona was pretty decent, for the price I paid it was great value, and eminently enjoyable as a session whisky with some mates. Have not tried this but have my eyes open for a good price point.
I enjoyed the Cruach Mhona. Good stuff! 🥃
This is a small tip for the pronunciation of this Bunna.
(oh well - or maybe just because I really enjoy your videos in general... you get to decide for yourself).
Cheers buddy!
Cheers Benny. Appreciate the kind words! 🙏 🥃
Sir, how dare you rip the powder blue label color ... I'm with you on the 1 vs. 2 label thing, but that color is boss, bro! 😛 More seriously, thanks for bringing this one to the channel. Cheers!
Hah nah you're not going to sell me on that blue! Thanks for consistently watching and commenting Robert. Cheers, sir! 🥃
It's actually very good! A friend of mine likes it better then the 12
That's understandable. 🥃
I like both An Cladach and Eirigh na Greine better then the bunna 12. think the red wine one is my favorit bunna so far, iam not really o big fan of their stuff. some of my 12 was poured in coke for sure (not amazing in coke either:) cheers G!
High praise! The 12 still beats out An Cladach for me, but I think they occupy different spaces in the lineup, despitbe both being sherry forward. I'll have to try the Eirigh na Greine. Sounds interesting!
...Bunna 12 in coke? Blasphemy! 🥃
If it helps, I tracked down that girl you asked out and she's got 3 kids from 4 different dads, gained 100 kgs, and makes a meager living from Only Fans doing live shows. I'd say you dodged a bullet, my friend. 🤣
3 kids from 4 dads. 😂😂😂
i pressed LIKE at the hint that Gaelic is Klingon(-ese) ! ... Travel retail is now a scam : up to 7-8y ago, duty-free = tax free, like no tax, it must be , BY DEFINITION , cheaper -- but, BUT, it aint ! ! ----------------- SOunds ALOT like Stew-a-Deer . . . hummmm
Yeah honestly what was once considered a cheap alternative to standard bottlings have now become super premiumized. As I mentioned, there are a few diamonds in the rough but I'm happy to walk past 95% of travel retail. Cheers buddy! 🥃
I think Bunnahabhain is flipping their collective bird at all native English speaking customers with all the names of these new expressions. I'm not really complaining since this is my 2nd favorite distillery. But still. Those names... Killing me.
I dread doing these Bunna reviews because each time I know I'm going to butcher the name. 😂
@@Gwhisky that's hilarious. At least the 12 Cask Strength should be a breeze. 😁
I guess 12 is better than this one
I think so. 🥃
Duty-free shops are a big disaster for whisky connoisseurs. If you look at Singapore and Dubai duty-free this is where all the No age statement Scotch gets launched. Right now in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Duty-free, there are at least 5 Macallans without an age statement and their usual 40 ABV is getting promoted and the price is exorbitant. These are the shops where whisky like JW double black was launched. Mostly its workers from the Gulf who are going back to India on a visit and they have very less knowledge about good whisky. For Canadians the best place to buy whisky at a nice price is in the USA - you dont even have to buy at the duty-free!
Agree... some airports can be pretty underwhelming. As I mentioned in the video, there are a few diamonds in the rough, but overall it's not much of a scene these days. Cheers. 🥃
Thanks for trying to pronounce this one Geoff.
Think the fact not many people talk about it is... the pronounciation.
Tbh. never had this one or maybe a sip I just do not remember anymore. Let's leave it at that.
Slàinte mhath
Hah well this isn't the most memorable whisky tbh. Without RUclips as an archive I'd probably forget quite a few of whiskies I've tried over the years! 🥃