Benrinnes

Mountainous in more ways than one, Benrinnes Distillery takes its name from ominously looming peak in the background. Not only does Ben Rinnes, the local Corbett, provide a moody and atmospheric landscape, it also supplies the eponymously named distillery with the mineral-rich water source used to make its whisky.

Benrinnes is a big, broad shouldered spirit; its distinctly meaty, copper influenced flavour is heavily influenced by the use of worm tubs, traditional pipe-spirals immersed in cold water, to condense the spirit vapours back into a liquid.

Arguably one of the boldest and distinctive spirits in the Speyside region, Benrinnes sits perfectly as an after dinner dram, full of warming spicy qualities.

Tasting notes:

Nose: Bright salted lemon flavours are followed by honeysuckle and pineapple. Dried apricots come to the fore alongside brown sugar.

Taste: Sweet citrus fruits and watermelon are balanced by spicy peppercorns. Marzipan and subtle charred oak develops alongside a hint of dried tobacco.

Finish: A medium to long finish with roasted nuts.