Whisky Review/Tasting: Beinn Dubh

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is associated with the Cairngorm region, specifically referencing Ben Macdui, the highest mountain in the area.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: The whisky is matured or finished in ruby black and tawny casks from the Douro Valley in Portugal, which are traditionally used for producing Vinho do Porto (Port wine). This contributes to its unique color and flavor profile.
Age Statement: Carries no age statement.
Color and Bottle Design: Described as "really, really dark," almost black, attributed to the use of E150 (caramel coloring). The bottle design includes space-side engraving with risen letters, and the distillery is established in 1895. However, the specific distillery is not mentioned on the label.

Aromas: Fresh fruits, sultanas, and black resins that open up in layers, revealing a deeper dark side.
Taste: Dominated by dark flavors at first, including currants and rich black chocolate. Bitterness and sweetness are present in equal proportions, leading to a long finish. The flavor profile is described as uneven and not very balanced, with a whiny taste at the start and bitterness towards the end.
Unique Characteristics: The intense and bitter taste is noted, possibly due to the heavy use of caramel coloring (E150), which adds bitterness rather than sweetness.

The name "Beinn Dubh" translates to "the black or the dark mountain," referencing Ben Macdui and its associated legend of the Big Grey Man, a mysterious figure akin to Bigfoot or the Yeti. This legend, shared by Professor Norman Colley in 1925, adds a layer of mystique to the whisky.

Beinn Dubh draws its identity from the Cairngorm region's highest mountain, Ben Macdui, and the local legend of the Big Grey Man. The use of ruby black and tawny casks from Portugal for maturation links the whisky to the traditional production of Port wine, blending Scottish and Portuguese influences.

Horst Luening, the mastertaster, expresses skepticism about the heavy use of caramel coloring, suggesting it's a marketing gimmick and contributes to the whisky's uneven flavor profile. He remarks on the need to taste the whisky twice, indicating it might not be to everyone's liking due to its imbalance.

Beinn Dubh is a single malt Scotch whisky with a unique, almost black color, attributed to caramel coloring and possibly its maturation in Port wine casks from Portugal.
The flavor profile is complex but uneven, with a mix of dark fruits, bitterness, and sweetness.
The whisky's name and storytelling elements draw from the legend of the Big Grey Man of Ben Macdui, adding a mystical aspect.
Cultural significance is found in the blend of Scottish whisky-making traditions and Portuguese wine cask maturation.
Expert opinion suggests skepticism towards the marketing and flavor balance of Beinn Dubh, highlighting the potential overuse of caramel coloring.

For Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals interested in unique, story-rich whiskies with unconventional flavor profiles might find Beinn Dubh intriguing.
For Whisky Collectors: Collectors looking for whiskies with interesting backstories or those that incorporate elements from different cultures might appreciate Beinn Dubh.
For Casual Drinkers: Due to its uneven flavor profile and bitterness, casual drinkers or those new to whisky might find Beinn Dubh challenging as an introductory whisky.