How to Drink Aberlour A’Bunadh

Last Updated on: 26th April 2024, 05:24 pm

Discover the best way of drinking Aberlour A’Bunadh: Ideas for tasting, pairing, and enjoying this fiery Scotch.

Written by: J Highland

Key Takeaways

• Scotch expert Neil Coleman mentions that it is best enjoyed neat, with water added to taste, or over a large ice ball.
• Adding water can unveil complex flavors, despite its high proof (over 120).
• Glencairn glass is recommended for aroma and taste.
• Tasting notes include caramel, brown sugar, figs, dark chocolate, and baking spices.
• Works well in robust cocktails like Cask Strength Old Fashioned.
• Pairs with dark chocolate, blue cheese, dried fruits, and smoked meats.
• 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.

Best Way to Drink Aberlour A’Bunadh

“Aberlour A’Bunadh, with its cask strength intensity, is best enjoyed neat, with water added to taste, or served over a large ice ball.”, states whisky expert Neil Coleman.

Its high proof delivers a bold and richly flavored experience, making it suitable for experienced whisky aficionados or those seeking an intense flavor journey.

If you’re after a strong and tasty whisky to add to your collection, Aberlour A’Bunadh is definitely worth considering.

I strongly recommend this bold Scotch for those who like a full-flavored drink.

If you find it too bold, just add a little water to tone it down.

Once you try Aberlour A’Bunadh, you might find it hard to go back to regular Scotches – take it from me.

Related: Best High-Proof Scotch Whiskies

Adding Water

Given its cask strength nature, typically over 120 proof (60% ABV), Aberlour A’Bunadh benefits from adding water.

A dash of water not only tames the heat but also helps unveil its complex layers of flavor.

Start by sipping it neat, then gradually add water until you reach your preferred balance.

On the Rocks

For a chilled version, a large ice ball is the ideal choice.

It cools the whisky while melting slowly, minimizing dilution and allowing you to savor the whisky’s robust profile.

Choosing the Ideal Glass

A Glencairn glass is the traditional choice, enhancing the whisky’s aromatics and tasting experience.

Alternatively, a whisky tumbler can also be used, especially if you prefer your whisky over ice.

Tasting Notes

The nose is rich with strong caramel notes, complemented by brown sugar, figs, and a subtle oakiness.

Despite its 120 proof, the alcohol aroma is pleasantly subdued.

Upon tasting, the whiskey’s oily texture offers a pleasing feel in the mouth.

The first sip introduces a gentle warmth typical of high-proof spirits, yet it’s not too intense.

You’ll taste a burst of warm pepper first, then layers of dark chocolate, caramel, and baking spices follow.

Aberlour A’Bunadh in Cocktails

While A’Bunadh shines brightest when enjoyed neat or with water, its robustness can also enhance cocktails such as:

• Cask Strength Old Fashioned: Scotch, a sugar cube, bitters, and a twist of orange.
• Sherry Cask Manhattan: Scotch, sweet vermouth, bitters, and a cherry.
• Highland Rob Roy: Scotch, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters.

Food Pairings

Aberlour A’Bunadh pairs splendidly with:

• Dark Chocolate: Complements its rich sherry notes.
• Blue Cheese: Accentuates its spicy character.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: Echo its dried fruit and nutty flavors.
• Smoked Meats: Balances its intensity with savory smokiness.

Its robust profile allows for a wide array of pairing possibilities.

Storing the Bottle

To maintain Aberlour A’Bunadh’s bold character:

• Store upright to prevent cork damage.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight and heat sources.
• Keep in a cool, dark place.
• Enjoy it in a timely manner, especially when the bottle is low, to preserve its full flavors.

About Aberlour A’Bunadh

• A’Bunadh, meaning ‘the original’ in Gaelic, honors Aberlour’s founder, James Fleming.
• It is a cask-strength single malt, aged exclusively in Spanish Oloroso sherry butts.
• World Whiskey Awards 2021: Gold (Single Malt)
• 2015 International Wine and Spirits Competition: Silver Outstanding
• 2016 International Wine and Spirits Competition: Gold Outstanding