2009 Adelphi Benrinnes 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Here's one for serious malt hunters.

Another consistently 'Top Class' malt according to Adelphi's Charles McLean, Benrinnes is a famously big, robust Speysider, not completely dominated by 'sherry wood' maturation, though not commonly found in first-fill butts. This one's an exception, having been entirely matured in one refill sherry cask and showing fantastic colour for it's relative youth. Adelphi's past Benrinnes selections have showcased the distillery's oft cited "meatiness" alongside notes of rich red fruits and toffee. The brand has never become 'mainstream', so kudos to Adelphi for sourcing such a gem.

Notes from Adelphi... Drawn from a first fill oloroso sherry butt, this has the colour of mahogany and has an excellent bead. On the nose we found chocolate brownies that have been left in the oven for too long, ginger snaps and a steak peppercorn sauce. The palate delivers a massive mouthfeel, great texture with beach bonfire, streaky bacon, old leather and a surprisingly savoury finish. Very unusual for the make and region. 589 bottles from cask no 301814. 55.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.