BenRiach was one of the first Speyside distilleries to bring out a serious range of peated spirit alongside their classic unpeated whisky. In general I like their peated style and there’s now a 1995 single cask exclusively bottled for the Belgian importer.
BenRiach 20 yo 1995 (51,8%, OB for Premium Spirits Belgium 2015, Oloroso butt #7377, 636 btl.)
BenRiach 20 yo 1995 (51,8%, OB for Premium Spirits Belgium 2015, Oloroso butt #7377, 636 btl.)Nose: the combination of the Oloroso (which can have a smoky character sometimes) and the actual peat makes it rather earthy. Pipe tobacco, cigar boxes, hints of cured meats and leather. Also raisins, chocolate and dry spices.
Mouth: rich and spicy, if a little on the dry side. Medium peat, hints of cigars and smoked ham, even tar. Walnuts and ginger. Hints of fragrant lemon (even violet sweets) and some menthol.
Finish: medium long, dry and nicely warming.
This one is completely overtaken by peat and sherry, showing hardly any trademark fruity notes. Reminds me of some sherried Bowmore, including the violet sweets. Fine but not a success across the board. Around € 145.
Score: 85/100