A Modern Classic: Benromach 10yo 100 Proof

The good people at Benromach are doing almost everything right lately. Their whisky is top notch, they swear by age statements (even releasing a 5 year old expression) and the new packaging is wonderful. It’s no surprise Benromach is slowly becoming the darling of the whisky world. I’ve visited Benromach twice now, and both times I came away with the feeling that the people are truly passionate about their work.

What I particularly love about Benromach is that they try to emulate the style of Speyside-whisky that was made in the fifties and sixties. Since buying actual whisky from those decades is way too expensive for most people, getting your hand on Benromach is the next best thing. I already reviewed their new 10yo here, and now it is time for the supercharged version, the 100 Proof.

The 100 Proof is basically a stronger version of the regular 10yo, and has the same recipe. It’s a mix of 80 percent ex-bourbon and 20 percent ex-sherry casks. They are married after nine years and then spend a final year of oloroso sherry casks.

Benromach 10yo 100 Proof (57%, OB)

Nose: What a lovely mix of fruity, dark sherry and subtle, smoky (barbeque) notes. They just complement each other so well. There is a hint of mint or aniseed, along with some vanilla and some nice ripe bananas as well. Also some chocolate, marzipan and plums.
Taste: It certainly has a kick to it, with a fairly peppery arrival. The mouth feel is lovely oily and thick. The smoke blends in with dried red fruit. The ripe banana again makes an appearance, as does the lovely barbeque-esque flavor.
Finish: Mostly smoke, with some ashes and orange. Mildly drying and very long.

Rating: 89

This for me is easily the best value for money whisky out there. A modern classic if you ask me. It is simply wonderful and has become my go to whisky. Not long after I purchased my first bottle, I bought three new ones, just to make sure I can enjoy this whisky for the foreseeable future.