The Benromach Distillery has been producing exceptional Speyside whisky since 1898, famed for their devotion in using a personal touch, and aside from smell they use sight, sound and touch without a computer or pressure gauge in sight – the result; Benromach produces exceptionally smooth and lightly smoked whiskies.
Beyond having a core range comprising a few age statement scotches, Benromach has also long played the game of experimentation. This has been seen recently in their Wood Finish series, which sees their spirit aged in different types of casks. The Benromach Château Cissac is finished in casks from Chateau Cissac in the French wine region of Haut-Médoc near Bordeaux for just a touch over two years. The dominant grape grown in this region is Cabernet Sauvignon.
Bottled in 2028, this single malt from the Benromach’s Wood Finish Series is a limited-edition expression is matured in first fill bourbon casks before being finished for just over two years in ex Château Cissac wine cask from the Haut-Médoc region of Bordeaux, in southwestern France, the result is deep dark golden liquid.
Tasting Notes:
The nose opens with that lovely Benromach wood and smoke, coupled with some zesty citrus. This is all good. On the nose expect an immediate nod to this iconic Château with notes of red apples, dark berries, and sweet smokiness.
The palate is smooth with notes of creamy vanilla, smoke continues as do the rich berries. The background of pepper is noticeable, especially if you add a drop of water. The finish is a warming mix of orange peel, smoke, and spice. It feels suddenly worlds away from what you were just smelling. There’s almost a sour lime element with some general nuttiness, like hazelnuts or almonds, before transitioning into some damp smoke and mild white pepper, but not even enough to be really called a zing.
