Rare single malt releases in South Africa

To celebrate its release, the whisky comes packaged in a natural un-dyed leather case and includes a pewter Quaich, a historic drinking vessel that is one of the most symbolic elements portraying friendship, sharing and trust. A small leather tag, embossed with the Bunnahabhain seafarer on the label and the bottle number, is attached to the handle of the case. The set also includes a small glass tube containing a parchment scroll commemorating the release of this limited-release whisky.

According to South African spokesperson for Bunnahabhain, Brian Glass, the whisky also bears the 1980 vintage year on the label, proudly acknowledging the whisky's undisturbed maturation for 30 years at the distillery's shore-side warehouse.

The whisky is un-chill filtered, with a natural cask strength of 45.4% alcohol by volume and released in its most pure form, the way whisky would have been produced at the hands of its distillers many years ago. According to master distiller, Ian MacMillan, by un-chill filtering the whisky, nothing is taken away or added. "The whisky retains its depth of flavour, allowing the gentle, subtle notes of the malt to come through, providing a purer taste, nose and appearance."

He says the whisky holds a rich, aromatic nose with a sophisticated balance of oak, gingerbread, moist fruit cake, prunes, old leather, roasted nuts and a hint of sea air. "The palate opens up to produce a creamy, silky taste with sweet oak, liquorice and nutmeg intertwined with citrus, vanilla, eucalyptus and a hint of coconut. The finish is long and elegant with flavours of digestive biscuits, soft vanilla, a tinge of ginger and sea salt coating your mouth."

It is expected to retail for around R3 800 per bottle. For a lists of stockists, email az.oc.lletsid@neyooRnavA.