Benromach Distillery has recently unveiled two captivating additions to its exclusive Contrasts range, introducing the Contrasts Air Dried Oak and Contrasts Kiln Dried Oak whiskies.
Crafted in 2012 and carefully bottled in early 2023, these distinctive whiskies employ diverse methods to dry the wooden staves that form the casks.
Contrasts Air Dried Oak
The Contrasts Air Dried Oak expression showcases oak that has been air dried for a duration of three years prior to toasting. Bottled at an impressive 46% ABV, this remarkable spirit is characterized by its delightful aroma of sweet vanilla fudge, accompanied by subtle hints of cracked black pepper on the palate, complemented by the comforting essence of toasted cereal and fresh garden mint.
Price: £59.99
ABV: 46%.
Contrasts Air Dried Oak Tasting Profile:
Aroma: Experience the enticing scent of sweet vanilla fudge intertwined with a harmonious blend of mixed citrus, oak, and subtle smokiness.
Taste: Delight your palate with the initial burst of cracked black pepper, followed by the invigorating flavors of citrus, toasted cereal, fresh garden mint, and oak.
Finish: Indulge in a lingering finish, where delicate traces of smoke gracefully linger on the palate.
Contrasts Kiln Dried Oak
The Contrasts Kiln Dried Oak variant presents whisky matured in oak that has undergone a two-year air drying process, followed by swift drying in a kiln to expedite the procedure. With an equally impressive 46% ABV, this captivating whisky entices the senses with its enticing bouquet of waxy lemon peel, while offering a delightful combination of flavors on the palate, including pineapple, barley sugar, fresh lime, and ginger.
Price: £59.99
ABV: 46%.
Contrasts Kiln Dried Oak Tasting Profile:
Aroma: Immerse yourself in the captivating aromas of waxy lemon peel, enticing toffee apple, sweet hay, and malt biscuit.
Taste: Indulge in the creamy texture and savor the delightful tropical pineapple flavors. Discover additional layers of barley sugar, fresh lime, ginger, and a subtle hint of menthol, all complemented by the presence of oak.
Finish: The journey concludes with a sweet and lingering finish, where notes of smoke add an intriguing touch.
Keith Cruickshank, the esteemed distillery manager at Benromach, shared his insight, stating, "Benromach's unwavering commitment lies in crafting truly distinctive whisky with an authentic and genuine character. Our Contrasts range allows us the freedom to delve into the realm of experimentation, venturing into uncharted flavors."
"These two exquisite whiskies were born from a deliberate experiment aimed at exploring the potential impact of different wood drying techniques on flavor profiles. They beautifully exemplify how subtle alterations can profoundly influence taste, and this enigmatic quality lies at the heart of the air- and kiln-dried variations. It will undoubtedly be enthralling to observe the interpretations of whisky enthusiasts as they savor these remarkable drams, relishing their nuances and expressing their preferences," Cruickshank added.
Both of these captivating releases are available for purchase at a recommended retail price of £59.99. Further details can be obtained from the Benromach website, where enthusiasts can embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation.
About Benromach
Benromach is a renowned distillery located in Forres, Scotland. With a rich history spanning over a century, it has gained a reputation for producing exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies. The distillery was established in 1898 and has since undergone various transformations, including periods of closure and reopening. Today, Benromach is owned by Gordon & MacPhail, a respected family-owned company with extensive experience in the whisky industry.
Benromach takes pride in its traditional and hands-on approach to whisky production. The distillery is known for its small-scale operations, allowing for meticulous attention to detail at every stage of the whisky-making process. From the selection of high-quality barley to the traditional copper pot stills and the maturation process in oak casks, every aspect is carefully executed to ensure the creation of whiskies with distinct character and exceptional quality.
The whiskies produced at Benromach are known for their balanced and nuanced flavor profiles. The distillery offers a range of expressions, including their flagship 10-Year-Old, which showcases a combination of fruity notes, gentle peat smoke, and a touch of maltiness. There core range also contains a 15-year-old and 21-year-old. Benromach whiskies often exhibit a classic Speyside style with a touch of smokiness, making them a favorite among whisky enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded and slightly peated dram.
In addition to their core range, Benromach occasionally releases limited-edition expressions and experimental whiskies, allowing whisky lovers to explore unique flavor profiles and cask finishes. The distillery's commitment to experimentation and innovation is evident in their Contrasts range, which explores the influence of different wood drying techniques on whisky flavors.
With its rich history, traditional production methods, and dedication to crafting whiskies of exceptional quality, Benromach continues to captivate whisky enthusiasts around the world. Whether it's their classic expressions or their adventurous experiments, Benromach remains a beloved distillery, cherished for its commitment to craftsmanship and the creation of remarkable Scotch whiskies.
