Description
Bunnahabhain Toiteach Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Once the barley has been mashed, it is fermented in washbacks made of Oregon Pine for nearly three days. While wooden washbacks are more expensive and difficult to maintain as compared to stainless steel washbacks, they absorb a portion of the heat generated during the fermentation process and thus, create a lighter and richer whisky. Following fermentation, the wash is distilled twice, first through Bunnahabhain's copper-pot wash still and again through its copper-pot spirit still. Then, the heads and tails of the distillate are removed by Robin Morton, Bunnahabhain's stillman (Morton began working at the distillery in 1978), before the whisky is allowed to mature at Bunnahabhain's warehouse.
The sea-facing warehouse, which rests on the banks of the Sound of Islay, enjoys a cool, salty breeze that adds a touch of salt to the whisky as it ages. "Over the years, you get this slight salty taste," says Andrew Brown, Bunnahabhain's distillery manager. "The older the whisky gets, the saltier it becomes. It's not overpowering — it's just a hint.”
”Distinct from that of other Bunnahabhain single malts famous for their welcoming taste, Toiteach (meaning smoky in Scots Gaelic), is a delicious, peaty whisky. This bottling offers the connoisseur an opportunity to try something truly unique. The liquid has been masterfully distilled and quietly matured at the distillery, never for a moment leaving Islay during this process” (Bunnahabhain).
Tasting Notes
The nose tells the tale of a charming subtle peatiness with prickling strength emanating from the dram. The taste has immediate warming flavors drifting towards a slightly sweet sherry influence with delicate peppery notes. The finish has a good robust length with an extremely pleasant aftertaste.
