Whisky Review/Tasting: Ben Nevis 22 years Signatory 1991

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The Ben Nevis distillery, owned by a Japanese company.
Type: Single malt whisky, single cask.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in a Sherry Butt, specifically cask number 2907. It is a sherry cask matured single malt whisky.
Age Statement: 22 years old, distilled on 16th (month not specified) 1991 and bottled on December 17th, 2013.
Color and Clarity: Dark amber to ruby, indicating a significant influence from the sherry cask, likely an Oloroso or similar type.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it is part of the unchill filtered collection of Signatory Vintage, with a bottle number of 413 of 829.
Additional Characteristics: Non-chill filtered, uncolored, and reduced in strength to 46%.

Balance of Flavors: Presents a balance between spiciness and dark fruits, with an underlying sweetness that is not overpowering.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is noted for its lack of smoke and moderate sweetness, with flavors of dark plums, figs, vanilla, and caramel. A hint of milk chocolate is present, without the bitterness often associated with dark chocolate.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its profile is distinct from typical Oloroso sherry cask matured whiskies due to its specific flavor nuances.

Interesting Stories: The Ben Nevis distillery's ownership by a Japanese company is highlighted, along with the increasing availability of casks to independent bottlers like Signatory Vintage. The rarity of original bottlings from Ben Nevis on the market is also mentioned.

Significance: The whisky's connection to the Ben Nevis distillery and its Japanese ownership adds an interesting layer to its story, reflecting the global nature of the whisky industry and the role of independent bottlers in bringing unique expressions to the market.

"It's quite old...22 years old." - Emphasizing the age and maturity of the whisky.
"The unchill filtered collection of Signatory Vintage is reasonably priced." - Highlighting the value proposition of this whisky.
"This one is one of these very very old ones, but it's reduced in strength to 46%." - Noting the balance between age and approachability in terms of alcohol strength.

Ben Nevis 22 years old single malt whisky, matured in a Sherry Butt, is a product of the Ben Nevis distillery now owned by a Japanese company.
It features a rich, dark amber to ruby color, indicative of its sherry cask maturation, likely in an Oloroso or similar sherry cask.
The flavor profile is characterized by a balance of spiciness, dark fruits, and a moderate sweetness, with notable flavors of dark plums, figs, vanilla, caramel, and milk chocolate.
The whisky is part of the reasonably priced unchill filtered collection of Signatory Vintage, emphasizing its value.
The story of the Ben Nevis distillery and the role of independent bottlers like Signatory Vintage in the whisky market adds depth to the whisky's narrative.

For Whisky Collectors: The rarity and unique characteristics of this Ben Nevis 22 years old make it a valuable addition to any collection.
For Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the rich, complex flavors imparted by sherry cask maturation will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
For Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The nuanced flavor profile and the story behind this whisky make it a compelling choice for those with a developed palate and an interest in the intricacies of whisky production and maturation.