Benromach 2012 Peat Smoke Bourbon Matured

Released as part of Benromach’s Contrasts range, this small-batch Speyside single malt explores the distillery’s smokier side. Distilled in 2012 and matured for 9 years in first-fill bourbon barrels, the whisky is made using heavily peated malted barley with phenol levels of 55ppm — a level of peat more commonly associated with Islay smoke-bombs such as Ardbeg and Laphroaig.

The result is a bold and characterful dram that balances classic Speyside fruit with powerful peat smoke.

On the nose, expect vanilla, ripe apricot, citrus and fragrant peat smoke. The palate delivers smoky sweetness with layers of vanilla bean, charred lemon, butterscotch and toasted oak, all intertwined with warming bonfire smoke. The finish lingers with sweet lemon and persistent peat smoke.

A fascinating contrast from Benromach that shows how Speyside spirit stands up to serious peat.