Islay Smoke with a Softer Accent

Toiteach A Dhà, meaning “Smoky Two” in Gaelic, is Bunnahabhain’s more assertive exploration of peat within its otherwise typically unpeated house style. It is a NAS release, bottled at higher strength, and positioned as a layered, sherried take on Islay smoke. Unlike many coastal peers, it does not aim for brute force. It prefers depth and integration.

Who Is This For?

For drinkers who enjoy peated whisky but want something rounder and more composed than the usual medicinal Islay profile. It suits those who appreciate smoke woven into sweetness rather than sitting on top of it.

Overall Character

Medium to full-bodied. Sweet smoke, dried fruit, toasted oak, and maritime salinity. It balances richness with clarity and avoids becoming heavy.

Production Style

Peated malted barley. Matured in a combination of American oak and sherry casks. Non-chill filtered and natural colour.

Nose

A measured wave of earthy peat smoke rises first, followed by raisins, dates, and polished oak. There is dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a faint coastal brine. The smoke is present but controlled, framing rather than dominating the sweeter notes.

Palate

Textured and confident. Sweet malt and dried fruit arrive early, then charred oak and warming spice. The peat is richer here, slightly ashy, but never acrid. Sherry influence shows as fig, cocoa, and a gentle tannic grip. Alcohol is well managed, lending structure without harshness.

Finish

Long and warming. Lingering smoke, dark sugar, and dry oak spice remain. A faint saline edge persists at the edges of the tongue. It fades slowly, with dignity.

Strengths

Excellent integration of peat and sherry influence

Solid texture at 46.3% ABV

Complex without becoming muddled

Limitations

I sometimes find the oak just slightly drying toward the end.

Value & Use Case

A strong option for those wanting a sherried peated Islay that does not overwhelm. It works well as an evening dram and pairs comfortably with richer food. It also bridges the gap between classic smoky malts and fuller sherry-driven styles.

Similar Whiskies

Ardbeg Uigeadail – Peat and sherry combined, though more intense and sweeter.

Laphroaig Lore – Layered smoke with oak depth, slightly more medicinal.

Port Charlotte 10 – Structured peat with balanced sweetness and higher precision.

Final Verdict

Toiteach A Dhà shows that Bunnahabhain handles peat with deliberation. It does not chase extremity. Instead, it builds weight through integration. In a category where volume often substitutes for character, this whisky chooses composure. That decision pays off.

Score

Nose – 87 / 100

Palate – 88 / 100

Finish – 86 / 100

Balance – 87 / 100

Overall – 87 / 100