Whisky Names Explained: Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair

It's Monday, and that means it's time for a new Whisky Names Explained. This time, we're diving into a Bunnahabhain whisky. Today, we explain where the name Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair comes from. Difficult to pronounce, perhaps, but the meaning behind it is surprising.

Located in a bay on the island of Islay, Bunnahabhain has been producing whiskies with a distinct maritime character since 1881. While many Islay whiskies are famous for their smoky, peated style, Bunnahabhain sails a different course: crafting subtle, unpeated whiskies.

At Bunnahabhain, the island’s maritime past and present are central to the story. Stiùireadair, pronounced "stew-rahdur," means ‘helmsman’ in Scots-Gaelic. Where a helmsman normally guides a ship through stormy weather to make sure it reaches it's destination safely, this helmsman takes care of the distillery.

The helmsman represented by Stiùireadair stands for the men and women who have guided the distillery through all kinds of weather.

The label on a Bunnahabhain whisky bottle proudly features the face of the helmsman, gazing out over the sea and reminding us of the fishing boats that entered the bay and the storms that were weathered.

Besides telling a beautiful story with the helmsman, the sea is never far away. Not just geographically, but also in the flavour and aroma.

According to the distillery, the nose opens with creamy toffee, raisins, and a hint of walnut, followed by the fresh scent of sea air and a subtle spicy undertone. On the palate, it is full and velvety, with flavours of ripe figs, dark chocolate, orange peel, and elegant spice. The finish is long, warm, and slightly salty.

Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair is more than just a whisky. It is an ode to craftsmanship, to history, and to the beauty of Islay. It is a tribute to those who set the course and to those who now take the helm.

So raise your glass to the helmsman. Slàinte mhath!