Benromach 21 Years

Benromach 21 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: The whisky is from Benromach Distillery.
  • Type: It is a single malt Scotch whisky.
  • Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is aged for 21 years in first-fill casks, with a mix of 30-40% sherry casks and 60-70% bourbon casks.
  • Age Statement: 21 years old.
  • Color and Bottle Design: The specific color and bottle design were not detailed, but the whisky was noted to be darker compared to a Glen Garioch 15, suggesting a rich color likely influenced by the sherry casks.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a balanced mix of fruitiness and oakiness, with a bittersweet tone and a glowing sensation in the mouth.
  • Unique Characteristics: It features a light to medium peatiness (12 ppm), which is not immediately noticeable on the nose but becomes apparent in the taste and aftertaste. The peatiness is described as light and smoky, adding complexity to the flavor profile.
  • Comparison: Compared to Glen Garioch 15, Benromach 21 is much darker and damper, with less maltiness and no cereal or hay notes. Instead, it offers a combination of fruitiness, oakiness, and a light smokiness.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Production Policy: Benromach's policy of using only first-fill casks for this whisky is highlighted, emphasizing the handcrafted nature of their product.
  • Gordon McPhail Era: The whisky represents the oldest casks from the Gordon McPhail era, adding a layer of historical significance to its story.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • The review does not explicitly mention cultural or geographical significance beyond the fact that Benromach is a Scotch whisky, implying its Scottish origin and heritage.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • Expert Opinion: The reviewer highly rates the whisky, noting its exceptional quality with a 4.5-star rating in their German shop, which is considered quite high given their honest review system.
  • Noteworthy Quote: "21 is just an incredible age... it's between 18 to 22, 24 is the ideal range for a whisky as in price, quality, and just flavor."

Summary

  • Benromach 21 Years Old is a single malt Scotch whisky aged in first-fill sherry and bourbon casks.
  • It features a balanced flavor profile with fruitiness, oakiness, and a light to medium peatiness.
  • The whisky is part of the oldest casks from the Gordon McPhail era, emphasizing its handcrafted nature.
  • It is highly rated by the reviewer, who appreciates its complexity and considers it to have an ideal age for flavor development.
  • The whisky is expected to be featured again in future award videos, indicating its high quality and recommendation.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Peat Lovers: While the peatiness is light, those interested in exploring lightly peated whiskies might find this a delightful introduction.
  • For Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: The complexity and age of this whisky make it a great choice for seasoned drinkers looking for depth and nuanced flavors.
  • For Collectors: Given its significance as part of the oldest casks from the Gordon McPhail era, collectors might be particularly interested in acquiring this bottle.
  • For Gift Givers: The high rating and the handcrafted nature of this whisky make it an excellent gift for whisky aficionados.