Rum Cask Influenced Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a unique and exotic fusion in the world of spirits. This style of whisky is finished or aged in casks that previously held rum, imparting a distinctive tropical twist to the traditional Scotch profile. The influence of the rum casks brings forward rich notes of molasses, caramel, and exotic fruits, melded seamlessly with the classic flavors of Scotch whisky. This innovative maturation process creates a complex and intriguing dram, offering whisky enthusiasts a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and malty depth. It's a captivating expression for those seeking a whisky that combines the robust character of Scotch with the warm, sunny essence of the Caribbean.
Distilled and matured at the Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown, at the heart of Speyside, this 21 year old expression represents one of the most distinctive releases in the distillery's core range. Founded in 1887 by William Grant, Glenfiddich remains family owned and is one of the most celebrated single malt producers in Scotland. Two decades of patient maturation in traditional oak casks allows the distillery's signature character to develop fully before Malt Master Brian Kinsman hand selects individual barrels for the final stage.
Those selected casks are transferred into Caribbean reserva rum casks for a finishing period that introduces a layer of tropical warmth and spice to the established Speyside foundation. The result is a whisky of considerable complexity, balancing the restrained richness of a long Speyside maturation with the more animated character that rum cask finishing imparts. At 40% ABV, it is approachable without sacrificing depth, and presents exceptionally well as a gift or a considered addition to a maturing collection.
Tasting Note by Glenfiddich:Nose: Intense and vanilla sweet. Floral, hints of banana, figs, rich toffee, new leather and oak.Palate: Initially soft, then brisk, vibrant and drying, peppery, a touch of smoke, oak, lime, ginger and spices.Finish: Very long, warming, dry and spicy.
Benriach The Smoky Ten Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a distinctive expression that pays homage to Benriach's unconventional approach to whisky-making. In the early 1970s, the distillery broke with tradition in Speyside by returning to the old-style method of distilling batches of whisky with malted barley that was smoked with Highland peat.
This unique approach using wood-rich Highland peat gives Benriach's peated whiskies a distinctly sweet and smoky character. The Smoky Ten is crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit. It undergoes a triple maturation process, spending at least ten years in a combination of bourbon barrels, Jamaican rum casks, and toasted virgin oak.
Tasting Note by BenRiach:Nose: Ripe orchard fruit syrup, smoked honey glaze and oak spice.Palate: Smoked applewood, honey maple and spiced pear finishing with lingering fruit and smoked oak.
