Head to Head...

[jwise]

I'm going to use this thread to showcase whiskies that are similar, and rate them head-to-head.

To start off with, let's take Bunnahabhain 12yr



vs. Highland Park 12yr



Winner: HP 12yr.

The HP was much better balanced, and the hint of smoke really adds something to the overall taste. The Bunny just had too much marine flavor (sea air, salt, etc...), throwing it off balance.

[awhiskeydrink]

Was the Islay as peaty as most from the peat fire roasting? I don't mind the marine flavors, or even the seaweed.

Highland Park, even the 12, is high level competition.

Thanks for the post. Wasn't familiar with Bunny.

[HP12]

Thanks JWise! I like the idea of commenting on head-to-head tastings. HP12 is (and will always be on hand) with the "Bunny 12" on order. I look forward to doing my own B2B tasting with these two.

[jwise]

The Bunnahabhain is not a typical Islay, but instead has little to no peat influence. Some of their offerings do, but they are uniquely labeled. It is the oddball on the Island! Without this peaty influence, it is closer to some of the other island drams, like Isle of Jura, Highland Park, and even Tobermory. However, I think it is better than Jura and Tobermory.

[Gary Wells]

I tried Highland Park once and did not care for it over Bunna 12, but on your recommendation, I will give it another try, jwise. Many thanks for the comparison.
Does Highland make a 18, and if so, are you planning on doing a comparison on Bunna 18 versus Highland 18?

[jwise]

Highland Park 18yr is incredible. I've heard Bunna 18yr is also very good. However, I don't have plans to buy a bottle, so any tasting is out.

I have plenty of others to taste against each other.