Whereas other distilleries may have seen several Rare Malts releases, Benromach only featured once in Diageo’s iconic series. Today the Benromach 1978 Rare Malts will be the third entry in my Benromach Extravaganza. It was bottled in 1998 as a nod to Benromach’s centenary. If I had to guess it’s most likely a vatting of both ex-bourbon and a smaller percentage of ex-sherry casks, but I don’t know for sure.
Benromach 1978/1998 (63,8%, OB, Rare Malts Selection)
Nose: Creamy and very malty, with hints of sweet porridge, a touch of coconut shavings and a bit of glue also. Behind all this is a thin layer of plums, stewed pears and apricots.
Taste: Agressive arrival, to be expected at this high strength. Water is no luxury. Lots of chili pepper. Once that quits down a bit, there’s a layer of fruit. Oranges and apples. A tiny, tiny trace of smoke.
Finish: Candied oranges. Tannins and oak, with a touch of menthol.
Rating: 88
You need to add water, but then it turns into a very rewarding whisky.
