Today Benromach distillery launches the latest addition to its Contrasts range. It is a double matured, 12 year old single malt. It rested in first-fill bourbon casks and then five years in Bordeaux wine casks. Benromach says they will release a very limited number of bottles, without specifying further.
Merely three months ago we had an interesting air dried / kiln dried combo in the same series.
Benromach Contrasts – Double Matured: Bordeaux Wine Cask Finish (46%, OB 2023)
Nose: there’s a hint of sour grape and cranberry, as well as ripe red apples. The vinosity is not overdone at all (good news). Hints of raspberry and pink grapefruit, as well as some floral / grassy notes. Drops of dark honey. Light smoke in the distance.
Mouth: sweet and sour, clearly more wine-influenced now. Hints of grape peels and sour berries, as well as blood orange peels. Then toasted wood, hints of nutmeg and subtle tannins. Any rubbery notes are kept at bay. Blackcurrant leaves, hints of tea and lemon oil. Liquorice as well.
Finish: medium length, with dark fruits, citrus and Benromach’s signature warming smoke.
Red wine casks are generally undesirable for whisky maturation, in my opinion. While I still think that way, I have to admit this whisky managed to challenge my prejudices. The subtle smoky note helps to balance the wine, exceeding my expectations overall. I’d still recommend the Peat Smoke Sherry version though. Already available from the Benromach website and later today from different retailers.