Benromach Distillery, nestled in the picturesque Speyside region, is making waves in the world of Scotch whisky with its latest offering – the Benromach Contrasts: Double Matured Bordeaux Wine Cask Finish. This 12-year-old limited release is a true testament to the art of whisky making, having undergone a unique double maturation process that imparts a delightful complexity to the liquid within.
The journey of this exceptional whisky begins in first-fill bourbon barrels, where it soaks in the rich, oaky goodness that characterizes this American classic. However, the story doesn't end there. The whisky is then transferred to Bordeaux red wine casks, where it undergoes an additional five years of maturation. This second chapter in the cask maturation saga brings about a captivating transformation in the spirit.
The result is a sensory delight that tantalizes the palate with a symphony of flavors. Delicate notes of honey and florals greet the nose, a prelude to the multi-layered experience that follows. On the palate, one encounters zesty tangerine, dark forest fruits, and toasted oak, an ensemble of flavors that dance across the taste buds. But it's the medium-bodied finish that truly distinguishes this whisky – a finish characterized by Benromach's signature soft peat smoke, a gentle reminder of the distillery's distinctive style.
Keith Cruickshank, the dedicated Distillery Manager at Benromach, expressed his enthusiasm for this exceptional release. He shared, "Creating the newest Benromach Contrasts release has been a very exciting project – allowing us to add another intriguing whisky to our range. Double maturing this whisky in both bourbon and Bordeaux wine casks has helped create an interesting depth of flavor, balancing both sweet and fruity notes with our signature soft smoke brought about by our lightly peated malt. It has also influenced the color of the whisky itself, producing a much darker, richer dram."
The outcome of this intricate maturation process is a whisky that exhibits a rich and alluring deep amber hue, a visual reflection of its journey from bourbon to Bordeaux. The aroma is a delicate bouquet, with subtle hints of rose leading to the sweetness of honey and the ripeness of red fruits. This serves as a gentle invitation to explore the intricacies of this remarkable whisky.
As for the taste, it's a true revelation. Smooth and sweet flavors of zesty tangerine and dark forest fruits are artfully balanced by the influence of toasted oak. The Bordeaux wine cask's imprint is evident, imparting a rich, fruity depth that sets this whisky apart. It's a medium-bodied experience that culminates with a subtle peat smoke, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
With an ABV strength of 46%, this whisky boasts the perfect balance of power and subtlety. It's a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Benromach whisky, a distillery with a rich history and a bright future.
Whisky connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike will be eager to secure a bottle of the Benromach Contrasts: Double Matured Bordeaux Wine Cask Finish. However, they should act swiftly, as the availability of this limited edition is indeed limited. Priced at a recommended retail price of £59.99, it's an opportunity to savor a piece of liquid artistry that doesn't come around often.
In conclusion, Benromach Distillery's latest creation is a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship that drives the Scotch whisky industry. The Contrasts: Double Matured Bordeaux Wine Cask Finish is a whisky that embodies the essence of Speyside and showcases the creativity of the distillery team. It's a must-try for any whisky aficionado, a journey through flavor that starts in the heart of bourbon and concludes in the soul of Bordeaux, all captured in a single bottle. For those eager to explore this remarkable whisky further, more information is available on the Benromach Distillery website.
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About The Benromach Distillery
Benromach Distillery is a renowned Scottish single malt whisky distillery located in the Speyside region, specifically in the town of Forres. Established in 1898, Benromach has a storied history with periods of inactivity, but it was revived in the late 20th century and is now celebrated for its craftsmanship and commitment to producing traditional and characterful Scotch whisky.
One of the distinctive features of Benromach is its traditional approach to whisky production. The distillery uses classic methods, including copper pot stills, wooden washbacks for fermentation, and direct-fired wash stills, all of which contribute to the character of their whisky. Benromach is known for creating a classic Speyside style of whisky that balances fruitiness with a light touch of peat smoke.
Benromach offers a range of expressions, with its core range including the Benromach 10-Year-Old and the Benromach 15-Year-Old. The 10-Year-Old is celebrated for its approachable and well-balanced flavors, featuring notes of fruit, malt, and a subtle touch of smoke. The 15-Year-Old offers a more mature and complex expression. The distillery also releases limited-edition and special bottlings that cater to a diverse array of whisky preferences. Explore all Benromach whiskies.
Visitors to Benromach Distillery can explore the brand's heritage and production methods through guided tours and tastings. The distillery's picturesque location in the Speyside region offers visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Scottish countryside and the world of traditional Scotch whisky-making.
Benromach's dedication to traditional methods and its classic Speyside character have earned it a respected place in the world of single malt Scotch whisky. Its craftsmanship, balance of flavors, and commitment to traditional production techniques make it a beloved choice among those who appreciate the classic Speyside whisky style.
