Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair

Bunnahabhain Stiiùireadair is a peated expression from an Islay distillery that is unusual for producing both heavily peated and unpeated expressions — Stiiùireadair (Scottish Gaelic for ‘helmsman’) is the core heavily peated Bunnahabhain, matured in a combination of sherry casks and bourbon barrels at 46.3% ABV without chill filtration.

Bunnahabhain sits at the northern tip of Islay and is best known for its unpeated expressions (the 12 Year and standard range). The peated expressions — Stiiùireadair and Toiteach A Dhà — showcase what Bunnahabhain’s maritime character does when combined with heavy peat. The sherry cask element gives Stiiùireadair a richer, darker quality than most bourbon-barrel-only Islay peated expressions. Browse all Scotch whisky at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Stiiùireadair mean?

Scottish Gaelic for ‘helmsman’ — referencing the maritime tradition of Bunnahabhain on the northern coast of Islay, where the distillery overlooks the Sound of Islay and the passing maritime traffic that shaped the island’s history.

How does Stiiùireadair compare to Toiteach A Dhà?

Both are peated Bunnahabhain expressions. Stiiùireadair uses a combination of sherry casks and bourbon barrels; Toiteach A Dhà (the second expression) uses predominantly Oloroso sherry casks. Toiteach A Dhà is richer and more intensely sherried; Stiiùireadair is slightly more balanced between peat and wood influence.