Whisky-Fässle has two new releases, a Bowmore 1997 and this BenRiach 1996, matured in a bourbon hogshead.
BenRiach 16 yo 1996 (47,7%, Whisky-Fässle 2012, bourbon hogshead)
Nose: modern whisky, very fresh with a biscuity core and a bright fruitiness. Lots of marshmallow notes. Some mint. A bit of lemon and gristy barley. Pleasantly uncomplicated.
Mouth: starts with fruity notes again (apple, pear, citrus) but it quickly becomes drier, with some pepper and soft grassy notes. A little grainy and a tad too neutral for my taste. There’s even a slightly alcoholic edge.
Finish: fairly long and fairly dry.
Nice marshmallow sweetness on the nose, coupled to a drier, grassier profile in the mouth. Modern whisky, nothing to complain about. Around € 75. Available from Whisky-Fässle.
Score: 83/100