Best Bottles: Bunnahabhain 12

In Gaelic, Bunnahabhain means “mouth of the river”—in this case, the Margadale Spring on the shores of the Sound of Islay.

The distillery’s roots stretch to 1879, though it shuttered in 1930 for seven years. In 1960 the formerly water-access-only distillery got a road, and with it more easily obtained supplies. Progress followed quickly. This 12-year-old Islay single malt was introduced in 1979 and it’s a beauty. Floral and fruity on the nose, with delicate smoke and sea air. Notably supple and viscous texture, with flavours of dried fruit and nuts, vanilla and honey. The finish is balanced, smooth, sweetly spicy and long. Quite seductive and delicious. $90