Maltbarn - Staoisha (Bunnahabhain) 12 Year Old 2013 Fractals

Bunnahabhain

Bunnahabhain, located in the northern part of Islay, stands out for its unpeated style among the island’s typically smoky distilleries. Established in 1881, it is known for producing soft, fruity whiskies with a touch of sea salt, showcasing a gentler side of Islay character. The distillery sits on a remote coastal bay, accessible only via winding roads, and its proximity to the sea imparts a fresh, maritime influence during maturation, resulting in a clean and elegant profile.

Bunnahabhain’s core range—including the 12, 18, and 25 Year Old expressions—focuses on sherry cask maturation, offering rich dried fruit and caramel notes. In recent years, the distillery has also introduced moderately peated variants, adding depth to its flavor spectrum. Bunnahabhain remains committed to non-chill filtration and natural coloring, emphasizing authenticity and quality. Whether for newcomers or seasoned collectors, Bunnahabhain provides a refined gateway to a different face of Islay whisky.

Maltbarn

Maltbarn is an independent bottling brand founded by German whisky enthusiast and photographer Martin Diekmann, focusing on selecting and bottling high-quality single cask whiskies. Unlike commercially driven brands, Maltbarn emphasizes personal taste and integrity—Martin only bottles what he truly loves. This selective and honest approach has earned the brand a loyal following among seasoned collectors.

In addition to Scotch whisky, Maltbarn also bottles Cognac and rum, consistently upholding its standards of quality and transparent labeling. The minimalist bottle design often features Martin’s own nature or animal photography, reflecting the brand’s deep appreciation for natural purity. Each release is not just a bottle of spirit, but a thoughtful interpretation of terroir and time.