This one isn’t even out yet! Supposedly, if things to right, it will be in three weeks though!
A 26 year old BenRiach is always something interesting, but the PX finish makes it a bit of an oddball. Generally, whiskies of this age aren’t finished anymore, but in this case they decided to do so. It makes me wonder what the reasoning behind it is!
Anyway, a nice badger on the label, of course done by Hans Dillesse, bottled at 100 proof (the Imperial one) which also is interesting. A very high ABV for the age, I think.
Sniff:
Barley and chocolate, some straw and a gentle note of oak behind it all. Slightly honeyed and soft, but with a charcoal like tinge too. There’s definitely some sherry in this one, but it’s not overpowering or strong. It’s married well with the spirit.
Sip:
The palate, even though it’s a 100 proof dram, is gentle. There’s a little bit of bite of course, but surprisingly little. There’s oak, straw, barley and a bitter note of fruit stones like dates and cherries.
Swallow:
The finish shows the sherry a little bit more with notes of dried fruits, and that hint of bitterness accompanies the fruity sweetness. Some barley and honey too.
I have to admit I was a bit skeptical when I read the label of my sample and it stated that it was a PX finish. My skepticism was unwarranted though, because this is a very lovely dram. It’s well balanced, with lots of nice flavors and a bitter note for depth and morishness. I’m very glad the sweetness has been kept in check!
89/100
It will be available on February 9th at Best of Wines for € 399