Banff was closed in 1983 and demolished in a fire in 1991. There’s limited stock left so expressions are pretty rare. The distillery doesn’t have much fame and Banffs tend to be a little unbalanced, but some early 1970’s expressions are great.
This Banff 1978 was distilled in October 1978, so within the first weeks of your reviewers existence. It has been matured in a sherry cask and bottled by Ian Macleod (owners of Glengoyne distillery) in their Chieftain’s range.
Banff 26 yo 1978 (46%, Chieftain’s 2004, sherry cask #3771, 462 btl.)
Banff 26 yo 1978 (46%, Chieftain’s 2004, sherry cask #3771, 462 btl.)Nose: a sherry nose allright. Dried fruits like sultanas and figs. Fresher, sparkling apricot notes as well. Sour apples. Some leather. Cinnamon and liquorice. A faint hint of smoke and fat, which makes this a nice full-bodied old-style nose.
Mouth: spicy Christmas cake, a few burnt notes. Nutmeg. Sour cherries. Cinnamon. Raisins.
Finish: not too long, spicy and drying, fading to liquorice.
Well, this Banff is not of exceptional quality, but it’s quite balanced and certainly enjoyable. Difficult to find, expect to pay around € 135.
Score: 84/100