Some time has pasted since we last posted tasting notes on a BenRiach but of all of the expressions we’ve posted tasting notes on, somehow, we noticed we hadn’t posted any on this rather delightful 12-year-old drop of liquid-gold. This luscious 12 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is unconventionally made using three facets of sherry cask maturation: full sherry cask maturation, combined with Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry cask finishing, for unexpected layers of fruit sweetness and toasted oak spice. Furthermore, this expression is so well regarded it won gold at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition – which speaks volumes of this humble dram.
On the nose: you’ll experience sweet notes of vibrant rich poached pears, figs, candyfloss, lemon sherbet and apricots. Followed by notes of maraschino cherries, mandarins and spicy notes of cinnamon and cloves. Notes of honey, marzipan, vanilla and creme-caramel start to appear. Completing the nose are notes of pine nuts, fruit salad, grapes and a light floral note. The palate: is replete with those fruit salad notes, as well as figs pears and a hint of pineapple. Spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg start to emerge, followed by vanilla, raisins, currants, dark chocolate ganache and muscavado sugar. Rounding-off the palate are notes of aniseed, honey comb, lemon zest, a creamy note and a hint of oak. The finish: is long, spicy, with lingering notes of lemon zest, star anise and oak.
The verdict: I’m a great admirer of BenRiach and even more so of what Master Blender, Rachel Barrie is doing at both BenRiach and GlenDronach. The nose and palate of this 12yo Sherry Wood has a nice balance of depth and youth. With an ABV of 46%, in my opinion is doesn’t really need any water but do so if this is how you prefer your scotch. This 12-year-old Sherry Wood is a drop that should be savoured with every sip to fully experience its layers of fruity goodness.
This BenRiach Sherry Wood 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be found in any well-stocked whisky shop for approximately £45.
For more information on this Sherry Oak 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch expression, visit the official BenRiach website.
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