2015 Signatory Vintage Ben Nevis 9 Year Old 100 Proof Edition #48 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

"...impresses with astonishing depth and maturity for a 9-year-old whisky." - whiskybase.com

Our last direct import shipment of Signatory Vintage's 100 Proof series delivered some knockout buys. The range has been acclaimed for bringing value back to the independent category in a big way. With a fresh consignment just landed, there's plenty more fun to be had. We're kicking off with two well-sherried malts from one of our favourite, though rarely encountered West Highlanders.

It's never been a big brand, with a measly 25,000 bottles typically sold annually. Yet, Ben Nevis is a bit of a star amongst aficionados. Since 1989 when the distillery was sold to Nikka, the majority has been sold as 'Japanese' whisky (hence, you can confidently say Ben Nevis has contributed to the current glory of many a Japanese, too). The distillery's official 10 year old comes out of a mix of Bourbon, sherry and red wine casks. First-fill oloroso matured expressions like this are far less common. Consensus is that while it lacks the distillery’s hallmark peated signature, this 100 Proof bottling boasts fabulous depth and maturity for a 9 year old. 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Other reviews... Taste: Spicy and assertive, with pepper leading the way. Bitter almond shells and cocoa intertwine with thick tannins that coat the tongue. Earthy humus, and smoky soil. Cooked raisins return, lifted by a faint zest of lemon and a wave of spices. Finish: Medium in length, monolithic yet memorable. Dark chocolate bitterness, stewed fruits, damp earth, and lemon zest linger, leaving a dry tea-like aftertaste. - whiskybase.com