Just a few weeks ago, The Whisky Exchange unveiled a new range called The Seasons: Summer. According to the retailer, these whiskies are “perfect drams to enjoy on a warm evening, or any time of year when you need a taste of sunshine.” The series includes a BenRiach 2008 15 Years, Lowland Single Malt 2012 11 Years and Ardmore 1997 26 Years.
These three single casks are the first in the new collection, The Seasons. Over the next year 12 single malt Scotch whiskies will be released, reflecting “the feel and flavours of the four seasons.” The Ardmore, BenRiach and Lowland Single Malt are available as a set, but can be purchased separately also.
Lowland Single Malt 2012 11 Years (58.8%, The Whisky Exchange, C#3478)
Nose: Sweet, rich and fruity. Lots of stewed fruits, nectarines, peaches and a good pinch of vanilla paste. Also some jammy apricots, granulated sugar and a just a tinge of ozone. Very inviting.
Taste: It just continues down the same path. A lovely combination of sweetness and fruitiness. Some pollen and honeycomb, but also just more summer fruits. The high abv adds some oomph and a hit if warming spices, but is not overpowering in any way.
Finish: Medium length. Vibrant fruits. A pinch of white pepper.
Benriach 2008 15 Years (51.9%, The Whisky Exchange, C#47387)
Nose: Slightly buttery. Plenty of rich fruits such as oranges, pomelo and papaya, but also a touch of pear skin. Then notes of fudge, some millionaire’s shortbread and a sliver of oak char.
Taste: A creamy, velvety mouthfeel. Initially a tinge of smoke and some char, but then also stewed fruits and cantaloupe, as well as a whisper of mango. Some spices too, accompanied by a gentle nuttiness and heather.
Finish: Medium length with lingering hints of burnt toast. Ending on fruitier notes.
Ardmore 1997 26 Years (50.3%, The Whisky Exchange, C#901299)
Nose: My mind immediately wanders to the WhiskyNerds release from the same vintage. Slightly waxy. And it’s recognizable Ardmore, yet with very mature (faint) peat influence. There’s some plaster and subtle sootiness, as well as just grilled pineapple, stone fruits and lime zest. Glazed pastries as well. Really good and highly sophisticated.
Taste: Velvety, almost waxy mouthfeel. Hints of charcoal, hessian and banana cream, but also mango and grapefruit, as well as some hoppy IPA. Then notes of smoked barley husks, waxes and lime zest.
Finish: Long. Stewed fruits alongside subtle phenolic and medicinal notes.
Samples provided by The Whisky Exchange
