BenRiach 25 YO

BenRiach 25 YO, 50 %

Today I want to write about a whisky from the BenRiach Distillery in "the heart of Speyside". Through a change of ownership they became an independent distillery in 2003. Their history, however, goes back all the way to 1898. They have built a rather impressive and expansive range of products over the past few years. I count a total of 29 expressions on their website now, and that does not include any of their many single cask releases.

I have now tasted the BenRiach 25 YO. This whisky is bottled at a very pleasant (in my opinion) ABV of 50 %. This whisky is available to buy in Norway at NOK 1980 (item number 1629901). A new version has been launched in Norway, at an ABV of 46,8 % and the cost is NOK 2350 (item number 2039501). I could not find it to be available in Sweden.

Nose (24/25): My first impression is that this is an Autumn whisky. I find a lot of berries (blueberries, strawberries, etc), as well as Autumn leaves and earthy notes. Given time it reveals more aromas; mustard seeds, vanilla, some oak and dried apples. It is very delicate and well-composed. This is a nose to fall in love with.

Taste (23/25): Smooth and fruity (apples and oranges). White pepper, ginger and honey. Very soft and somewhat oily mouth-feel.

Finish (22/25): Caramel, ice cream with hot fudge sauce, rich honey and a hint of licorice. It is long and warming.

Balance (23/25): A really nice dram. One of the very best whiskies I have had from BenRiach. I have only tried a couple of their older single cask expressions that reach this very high level.

Score (92/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas