This 30-year-old single malt was distilled at Islya’s Bunnahbhain distillery on 1st December 1988. Matured for almost three decades, it was transferred to four Marsala wine hogsheads on 7th July 2016 and matured for a further two years. Bottled at a natural cask strength of 47.4% abv, free from chill filtration and artificial colouring, just 1,260 bottles have been filled.

The nose is rich and fruity with honeyed nuts and berries, floral aspects and a touch of candied fruit. The palate is well-rounded with notes of rich oak, honeyed nuts, dark chocolate and sweet grape, alongside vanilla, caramel and a subtle wood spice, before a long and lingering fruity finish.

Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish is an exceptional vintage Islay single malt distilled in 1988 and matured for decades before being finished in sweet Marsala wine casks. This rare expression combines Bunnahabhain’s signature coastal character with layered wine-driven richness and aged complexity.

Featured Details:
Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch
Distilled: 1988
Finish: Marsala Wine Cask
ABV: Natural cask strength (varies by release)
Profile: Dried fruit, sea salt, honey, oak spice

On the nose, Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish opens with ripe raisin, fig, and orange peel layered over gentle maritime salinity. Subtle notes of toasted almond, honey, and antique oak develop as it breathes. The Marsala finish adds depth and sweetness without overpowering the spirit.

The palate of Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish is rich and structured. Sweet malt, dark caramel, dried fruit, and warm spice unfold gradually. The extended maturation softens the spirit while preserving balance and elegance. Unlike heavily peated Islay malts, Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish focuses on sherry-like richness and refined oak complexity.

The finish of Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish is long and warming. Lingering fruit sweetness, subtle spice, and polished oak dryness create a sophisticated conclusion. Collectors pursue Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish for its vintage year, Marsala cask influence, and limited availability.

If you seek ultra-mature Islay Scotch with distinctive wine-cask character, Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish stands as a rare and prestigious addition to any high-end whisky portfolio.

Authority & Authenticity

Bunnahabhain Distillery, founded in 1881 on Islay, is known for producing unpeated or lightly peated maritime-style single malts. Vintage and wine-cask finishes are highly respected among collectors. You can learn more about Islay whisky heritage through the official Scotch whisky overview on Wikipedia.

If you value vintage Islay expressions, explore our Old & Rare Magnum Ardbeg 1991 30 Year Old 1.5L — another aged coastal release with collector prestige.

FAQ

Is Bunnahabhain 1988 Marsala Cask Finish limited?
Yes. Vintage wine-cask finishes are bottled in restricted quantities.

Is it heavily peated?
No. It is typically unpeated or lightly peated.

Is it suitable for collectors?
Absolutely. A 1988 vintage release carries strong investment appeal.

How should it be stored?
Store upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.