Benriach, the esteemed distillery nestled in Speyside, proudly announces the eagerly awaited release of its third edition of single malt scotch whisky, exclusively crafted from barley malted within its traditional floor maltings. This latest creation, known as the Malting Season Third Edition, showcases the impeccable artistry of master blender Dr. Rachel Barrie, who has meticulously chosen concerto barley to craft this exquisite spirit.
The journey of the Malting Season whisky involves a meticulous maturation process. The spirit is nurtured within virgin oak and first-fill Bourbon casks, gradually attaining its distinct character. Bottled at an exquisite 48.3% ABV, this edition preserves the essence of the malt.
The roots of this collection can be traced back to the inaugural Benriach Malting Season release in August 2021, a historic event that marked the first bottling of its kind from the revered Brown-Forman-owned distillery in a century. Following the success of the debut, the second edition was introduced in May 2022, cementing the legacy of this unique series.
One of Scotland's treasures, Benriach stands among the select eight distilleries upholding the time-honored 'century-old tradition' of employing handcrafted malt from floor maltings. The distillery's dedication to this age-old process pays homage to its founder, John Duff, and his enduring legacy of crafting malt with a timeless touch.
Stewart Buchanan, the global brand ambassador at Benriach, shares insights into the captivating process. He says, "During each 'Maltings Season,' our devoted team undertakes the meticulous task of hand-malting carefully selected barley on-site. This ancient practice serves as a tribute to our visionary founder, John Duff, and his painstaking craftsmanship in historic maltings, which we proudly carry forward. The pursuit of unparalleled flavor remains at the heart of this endeavor."
Each iteration of the Malting Season showcases distinct barley varietals and unique bottling strengths, encapsulating a one-of-a-kind experience with each annual release.
Immerse your senses in the Malting Season Third Edition's captivating aromas and flavors. The nose reveals a delightful malt sweetness intertwined with notes of wild bergamot, pear, and meadowsweet honey. On the palate, a symphony of clementine, floral honey, and gentle barley spice unfolds, followed by nuances of apricot, malted almond, and fleeting traces of wild cherry.
Whisky connoisseurs and enthusiasts worldwide can indulge in the elegance of Benriach Malting Season Third Edition, available in select global markets starting from August. This masterpiece is priced at an attractive RRP of £110 (US$140), offering an exceptional journey into the world of unparalleled whisky craftsmanship.
About Benriach Distillery
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Speyside, Scotland, the Benriach Distillery stands as a testament to centuries of whisky-making tradition. With a history dating back to 1898, Benriach has traversed through time, preserving its heritage while continually pushing the boundaries of flavor and craftsmanship.
A Distinctive Legacy:
Founded by John Duff, an entrepreneur with a profound passion for whisky, Benriach started its journey as a malt whisky distillery. The distillery's location was carefully chosen, sitting adjacent to the Longmorn Distillery, which would prove to be instrumental in Benriach's early success.
Innovative Beginnings:
Even from its inception, Benriach exhibited an innovative spirit. It was one of the few distilleries in Speyside that utilized peated malt, resulting in a unique flavor profile. This approach set the stage for the distillery's exploration of diverse maturation techniques, cask types, and barley varieties.
A Whisky Renaissance:
Throughout its history, Benriach has experienced various ownership changes, periods of production hiatus, and transformations. However, it wasn't until the early 21st century that the distillery truly re-emerged onto the global whisky stage. Under the guidance of master blender Dr. Rachel Barrie, who joined in 2018, Benriach experienced a renaissance marked by innovative releases, unique cask finishes, and a renewed commitment to quality.
Whisky with Character:
Benriach's approach to whisky-making is deeply rooted in its commitment to flavor exploration. The distillery sources barley from diverse regions and experiments with an array of malt styles. Its portfolio features a wide range of expressions, from unpeated to heavily peated, showcasing the spectrum of flavors that can be achieved through meticulous production and maturation.
Floor Maltings Tradition:
One of Benriach's notable traditions is the continuation of floor maltings—a practice that pays homage to its historical roots. This labor-intensive process involves manually turning and malt drying on the distillery's floor, creating a connection to the past and contributing to the whisky's distinct character.
Artistry in Maturation:
Benriach's warehouses are home to an array of casks, including ex-Bourbon, Sherry, and wine casks. This diversity allows for a complex interplay of flavors, resulting in expressions that range from fruity and floral to rich and spiced.
A Global Treasure:
Benriach's revitalized approach has garnered recognition from whisky enthusiasts and experts worldwide. Its releases consistently receive accolades for their complexity, balance, and unique character, contributing to the distillery's standing as a beloved and respected name in the whisky industry.
Embrace the Journey:
From its inception in the late 19th century to its modern-day renaissance, Benriach Distillery embodies the spirit of exploration and innovation. Each bottle tells a tale of craftsmanship, tradition, and a dedication to creating whiskies that captivate the senses and leave an indelible mark on the world of whisky.
