Benromach, 50-Year-Old, Speyside, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (54.6%)

Tasting a 50-year-old whisky is always a rather special event, and with the experts in ultra-aged whisky, Gordon & Macphail, behind this particular distillery, this was sure to not disappoint. Stewed fruit, incense, dried figs, orange zest, cedar, beeswax, brown butter and a hint of leather are just the tip of the iceberg for the flavours here. On the nose there is both that delicious spice one might expect from a spirit of this age and a deep core of fruit, that bursts with freshness and vitality, despite its half century in barrel.

There is also a slight whiff of smoke, gentle and certainly not overpowering, but just enough to balance the rich sweetness of the Sherry cask flavours. From citrus to tobacco smoke, fruit cake to cracked black pepper, this is a dram that keeps on surprising with every swirl. One of 248 bottles produced.

Berry Bros. & Rudd (September 2024)