BenRiach 2008 Vintage (Berry Bros & Rudd)
BenRiach 2008 Vintage (Berry Bros & Rudd), ~13 YO, 56.2 %
Distilled 2008, matured in a single ex-sherry hogshead (cask #150), and bottled 2022. Limited to 302 bottles.
The BenRiach 2008 Vintage (Berry Bros & Rudd) will be available in Norway starting next week, at NOK 1463 (16622701).
Nose: Initially very mild and shy, it teases with light caramel notes and the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream, followed by a hint of oaky spices. Given time, it unfurls to reveal warm, autumnal notes of rowan berries, wet leaves, and dried fruits.
Taste: Despite its gentle nose, the palate is met with a surprisingly full body and a somewhat heavy-handed character. The first sip is a bold, sweet clash of oaky astringency.
Finish: The finish is medium-long and continues the theme of intensity. What starts heavy evolves into a rich perfume and robust fresh herbs. As it tapers off, there's a surprising twist of white pepper, cherry jam, and the greenness of tomato vine.
Comment: Very strange, but not unlikeable at all.
Score 84/100
Sláinte!
-Thomas
