Benromach 2012 Contrasts: Kiln Dried Oak 10 yo

 

 

 

46°

Distillery : Benromach - Speyside

Virgin Oak Barrels 

Original Bottling 

Limited Edition 

Single Malt 

Bottled in 2023

Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured

Peated around 12 ppm

 

 

 

To compare with the Air Dried Oak, aged in air-dried casks for three years, they have released this Kilm Dried Oak, distilled at the same time as the previous one, of the same age, but aged in air-dried casks for just two years before being heated in a kiln. We don't know how many bottles were produced. This is typical of the Contrasts range, which was launched three years ago: it's all about experimenting.

Let's Taste It : 

It's very honeyed and woody, with gingerbread, shortbread biscuits and smoked tea. The fruit is present but a little hidden, with a fine, sweet smoke. Soft caramel, warm butter, bread just out of the oven. A few dried fruits, raisins, apricots. Nougat and braised vanilla. It's velvety on the palate, but a little light, quince jam and braised corn, angelica, it's ethereal, floral, with herbaceous nuances. Nice, syrupy spices. The finish is fairly long and rich, tobacco, heather, coffee grounds, chicory, dark chocolate.

In Short, 

I preferred this one, which was warmer, more woody and honeyed, and more expressive on the nose. On the other hand, the palate seemed a bit lighter to me. But to each his own, Ruben preferred the Air Dried Oak, for example. As for the price, it's just as expensive as the other one, but this time it's a bargain in my opinion.

Score : 87

                                           To Be Listened While Sipping :

 

                                           Daniel Caesar - Best Part