Benromach Château Cissac Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Benromach Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured for over five years in first-fill ex-bourbon casks, followed by a 25-month finishing period in Château Cissac red wine casks from the Haute-Médoc region in France.
Age Statement: Vintage 2009, bottled in 2017.
ABV: 45%.
Color and Clarity: Described as having a darker hue, indicative of the red wine cask finishing.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but as part of the wood finish series, it likely follows Benromach's branding and design ethos.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of rich fruits, zingy lemonade, wine tannins, peppery vanilla notes, and a light wisp of bonfire embers.
Unique Characteristics: Notably, the whisky has a slight smokiness (3 to 5 ppm) adding complexity without overwhelming, and a full, complex mouthfeel with flavors of ripe red apple, melon, and grape notes.
Comparison: This whisky stands out for its unique finishing process in Château Cissac casks, offering a distinct flavor profile compared to other Benromach expressions, particularly with its darker fruits and subtle smokiness.

Château Cissac Connection: The finishing in Château Cissac casks, a notable but not widely known winery in the Haute-Médoc region, adds a layer of exclusivity and narrative to the whisky, connecting it to the rich wine heritage of Bordeaux.
Limited Edition: With only 4,200 bottles available worldwide, this expression is presented as a rare and collectible item, enhancing its appeal among whisky enthusiasts.

Haute-Médoc Influence: The use of Château Cissac casks from the prestigious Haute-Médoc region adds a French wine cultural element to the Scotch whisky, bridging two renowned worlds of fine spirits.
Historical Context: The backstory of Château Cissac, including its historical silence during the crucial 1855 classification and its status change over time, enriches the whisky's narrative with historical and geographical depth.

"A little bit of complexity to the whiskey... Just enough to give it a little bit more of complexity." - Horst Luening, highlighting the subtle smokiness.
"It's full complex, 45% ABV enough for a forgiving expression mouth feeling." - On the whisky's balanced and complex profile.
"The aftertaste is quite immense for such a young whiskey." - Praising the depth and lasting impression of the whisky's finish.

Benromach Château Cissac is a unique single malt Scotch whisky, vintage 2009, bottled in 2017, with a 45% ABV.
Matured in first-fill ex-bourbon casks and finished in Château Cissac red wine casks for 25 months.
Features a complex flavor profile with a balance of rich fruits, peppery vanilla, and a hint of smokiness.
Limited edition with only 4,200 bottles available worldwide.
The whisky connects Scottish distillation with French wine heritage, offering a rich narrative and cultural significance.

Whisky Collectors: Due to its limited availability and unique finishing process, this whisky is highly recommended for collectors seeking rare and distinctive bottles.
Fans of Complex Flavors: Individuals who appreciate a complex balance of fruit, spice, and subtle smokiness would find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
Wine and Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with an interest in both wine and whisky might appreciate the cross-cultural aspect of the Château Cissac finish, offering a unique tasting experience.