We highlighted a 10-year-old expression from The BenRiach distillery a few weeks ago and how under the guidance of one the industries leading whisky experts, Billy Walker, it is once again thriving. BenRiach are very well-known for their sweet and punchy sherry notes, which they call the sherry bomb. However, this 25 year-old Authenticus is one from their Peated range, which still offers much in the way of fruity notes just like the 10yo. This final expression from the peated range is said to be full-bodied. Formerly available as a 21-year-old single malt, distilled from peated malted barley, this whisky demonstrates a fusion of rich peat and smouldering embers with herbs and honey.
On the nose: you’ll experience sweet notes of vibrant red apples, toffee, mixed fruits, orange notes and vanilla. This is closely followed by hints of pineapples, mangos, lemon bonbons and star anise. The nose is nicely rounded off by a musky sherbet note, hints of rose-water, smoke, heather and a lingering note of rhubarb. The palate: delivers the all-expected peatiness, which is nicely followed by those mixed fruits, as well as grapes, plums and interestingly enough, lavender. Notes of salty caramel and toffees start to appear, alongside spicer notes of pepper, cinnamon , with the slightest suggestion of aniseed. The palate is nicely rounded-off with walnuts and toasted oats. The finish: is long, dry, peaty, with lingering mixed fruits and nutiness.
The verdict: Before the tasting we published a few weeks back on the 10-year-old peated expression from The BenRiach, we’d never really highlighted any of their scotch. However, just like the 10, I was very, very impressed. The nose and palate of the Authenticus has a peaty nature but of course has tonnes of fruity, light, elegant notes that I find are well-balanced. 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. As we noted: the 10yo Curiositas is a lovely dram that should be shared with friends, however, the 25yo Authenticus is one that should be savoured with every sip.
This BenRiach Authenticus 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be found in-store or online at The Whisky Shop for approximately £140.
For more information on this Authenticus 25 Year Single Malt Scotch expression, visit the official BenRiach website.
