Benromach Origins Batch 5 Golden Promise Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

The question of which barley makes for a better whisky remains contentious. Within the industry some still maintain the only thing that’s required from the grain is that a good amount of fermentable sugar is obtainable after malting. At the same time, Grand Marques like Macallan have built their reputation during the early 1980s and ‘90s in large part by emphasising hardline traditional practises - 100% Sherry maturation and a predominant use of a special variety of barley called “Golden Promise”. In fact, they released a 50 Year Old (one of their most expensive whiskies) made exclusively with Golden Promise. This dunce performer of the barley world is relatively low yielding and disease-prone enough for most farmers to have happily forgotten about, yet in the Scotch whisky world, it’s traditionally been highly prized for its rich, nutty flavour. As production has expanded at Macallan, they’ve surreptitiously surrendered the fact that since 1994 Golden Promise constitutes no more than 30% of their mash bill.

Glengoyne are the only distillery to persist with the variety, however, we can now add Benromach to that list.

This is another in a series in the ever-expanding range hailing from Gordon & MacPhail’s own distillery in Forres. It was distilled in 2005 using the much revered "Golden Promise" barley and peated to 12ppm. Bottled 2013.

Tasting note: Crystal clear, bright straw gold appearance. Offers up scents of linseed oil, beeswax, vanilla and old parchment. There's a sweet spot here too that's sponge cake-like and nutty. Entry is light but intensifies into a weighty, concentrated, nutty, oily delivery with a creamy texture that's eclipsed by surging spices and a tingly mouthfeel. Holds its balance well. Some delicious, sweet biscuity malt comes out towards the finish while the aftertaste is waxy, peppery, long and nicely poised with a late whisper of lingering peat. Big, buxom Benromach with a rock'n'roll soul. 50% Alc./Vol.