Ardbeg 10 vs Bunnahabhain 12

Last Updated on: 13th April 2024, 12:26 am

Learn about the contrasts between Ardbeg 10 and Bunnahabhain 12 in this detailed comparison, and figure out which Single Malt suits your taste best!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Ardbeg 10 vs Bunnahabhain 12: Comparison

When deciding between Ardbeg 10 and Bunnahabhain 12 from Islay, the key difference lies in their smokiness.

Ardbeg 10 is famed for its intense smokiness with a peat level of 55 ppm, showcasing flavors like smoke, ash, and bacon, ideal for those who love heavily peated whiskies.

In contrast, Bunnahabhain 12 presents a milder peat level of 3 ppm, offering a gentler flavor profile with light smoke and sherry, perfect for beginners or those preferring less peat, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Your choice depends on your smoke preference in whisky.

Related: Top Islay Scotch

Ardbeg 10: A Bold and Smoky Single Malt for Peat Lovers

• Alcohol content: 93 proof (46.3% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Smokehead 10

Aromatic Journey: Ardbeg 10 starts with a punch of smoke, ash, and coal, but as it breathes, it reveals a sweet and inviting caramel aroma.

Rich and Smoky: This whisky boasts a rich, creamy texture and explodes with smoky flavors. Notes of tobacco, espresso, and savory bacon appear alongside the smoke, balanced by a touch of caramel, offering a complex and enjoyable experience.

Long Finish: The finish lingers with smoke, sweet caramel, and a hint of black pepper.

For Peat Enthusiasts: Ardbeg 10 caters specifically to those who love bold and smoky flavors. It offers a well-rounded character, balancing smoke, caramel, minerals, and sweetness.

Not for Everyone: Be aware that this Islay malt’s intense smokiness might not appeal to everyone, especially those new to peated whiskies. It takes time and experience to develop a taste for such bold flavors. However, for those who appreciate it, Ardbeg 10 can become their go-to dram.

Bonus Facts:

• Aged in bourbon barrels for 10 years.
• Won prestigious awards including Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• Unfiltered and has no added coloring.

Bunnahabhain 12: A Milder Islay Single Malt with Sherry Notes

• Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Bruichladdich Classic Laddie

Aromatic Hints: Bunnahabhain 12 offers a subtle smoky aroma with hints of raisins, prunes, and a touch of cocoa.

Creamy & Sweet: This whisky has a creamy mouthfeel and starts with a smooth and sweet taste, dominated by sherry and red fruit notes. Towards the finish, oak spice emerges, adding a slight bitterness.

Medium Finish: The finish is of medium length, with subtle nutty notes and a more prominent oak spice, contributing to a touch of bitterness.

Water’s Influence: Adding a little water enhances the sweetness and reduces the oak spice, making for a more approachable experience.

Unique Islay: Unlike other Islay whiskies known for their intense smoke, Bunnahabhain 12 is the least smoky on the island. Its profile is milder, similar to Speyside whiskies like Glenfiddich.

Ideal for Beginners: This whisky is a great introduction to smoky malts, offering a gentle and easy-drinking experience, especially with a touch of water.

Bonus Facts:

• Aged 12 years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
• Natural color, unchill-filtered.
• Founded in 1881, the most remote distillery on Islay.