Bunnahabhain 9 yo (2013/2023), Signatory – The Un-Chillfiltered Collection (Pinot Noir), 46%

Introduction

Bunnahabhain 9-year-old represents the perfect marriage between traditional Islay distillation methods and innovative cask finishing, with Signatory Vintage capturing the distillery’s distinctive coastal character while introducing complementary wine influences through careful maturation.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley sourced for Bunnahabhain’s distinctive lightly-peated style, combined with the pure spring water from the Margadale River on Islay
• Distillation process: Double distillation in Bunnahabhain’s traditional copper pot stills, known for producing a remarkably clean and fruity new make spirit
• Maturation: Initial maturation in traditional oak casks followed by finishing period in carefully selected Pinot Noir wine casks, with total aging of 9 years (2013-2023)
• Special techniques: Bottled as part of Signatory’s Un-Chillfiltered Collection, preserving all natural whisky oils and flavor compounds that would otherwise be removed during conventional filtration

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fresh maritime breeze with red berry compote, hints of cereal sweetness, vanilla custard, and subtle spiced oak with delicate vinous notes from the Pinot Noir influence
• Palate: Creamy mouthfeel with layers of summer fruits, particularly strawberries and cherries, balanced by malted barley, gentle oak spices, and a subtle saltiness typical of Bunnahabhain
• Finish: Medium to long finish with lingering red fruit notes, warming peppery spice, and a pleasantly dry oakiness with traces of coastal minerality

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat to appreciate the complex interplay between the distillery character and wine cask influence; a few drops of spring water can help open additional layers of flavor
• Food pairings: Pairs excellently with dark chocolate desserts, fruit tarts, mature cheeses, or lightly smoked salmon

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland/Islay
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Signatory’s respected Un-Chillfiltered Collection, known for preserving whisky’s authentic character

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This 9-year-old Bunnahabhain represents an extraordinary intersection of traditional Islay whisky-making and innovative wine cask maturation, yielding a profile seldom encountered in standard releases.

With only a limited number of bottles produced from specific casks selected by Signatory’s expert team, this expression offers a taste experience that simply cannot be replicated once the allocation is depleted.

Signatory Vintage is recognized globally as one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers, with their Un-Chillfiltered Collection standing as a testament to their commitment to presenting whisky in its most authentic form.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Discerning whisky enthusiasts consistently seek out Signatory’s Un-Chillfiltered bottlings for their reputation in preserving all natural whisky characteristics that mass-produced expressions often sacrifice.

Collectors who have previously invested in Bunnahabhain’s special releases or Signatory’s wine-finished expressions frequently add this bottle to their collection, recognizing its place in the evolution of modern Scotch whisky.

The combination of Bunnahabhain’s approachable style with Pinot Noir’s elegant influence has garnered appreciation from both traditional whisky drinkers and those with a background in fine wine appreciation.

From Islay to You

Each bottle of this Bunnahabhain 9-year-old offers a genuine connection to Islay’s whisky heritage, delivering an authentic taste of the island’s distinctive spirit enhanced by Signatory’s careful stewardship.

The approachable yet complex character of this expression makes it particularly appealing for both special occasions and moments of personal enjoyment, creating memorable experiences worth sharing.

By choosing this Bunnahabhain, you join a community of whisky enthusiasts who value craftsmanship and authenticity, embracing the artisanal approach that makes each independently bottled Scotch whisky a unique discovery.