BenRiach 8 Year Old 2005 Peated / Virgin Oak

Batch 10 of BenRiach’s single cask releases contains no less than 12 single casks, varying in age from 8 to 37 years and almost as many different types of casks and finishes. I will try the youngest in the series, this 8 years old peated BenRiach, matured on American Virgin Oak. Apart from the new make, this is no doubt the youngest BenRiach I have ever tried.

The nose is a mix of spices on the barbecue, with red apples on the skewer. I also get some dried plums, wrapped in a slice of bacon. Quite a bit of toffee as well. Sweet and pleasant.

The attack is fierce and for a moment I think I am on Islay. Very smoky with sweet peat. Black pepper on white fruit. Toffee returns.

The medium long finish remains spicy and sweet.

Fairly straightforward and not complex (hey, this is only 8 years old, what did you expect?), but pleasant nonetheless. Around 60 EUR. Thanks, Jeroen.

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