BenRiach Cask Strength Batch 1

First Cask Strength BenRiach. One for the history books.

In the heart of Speyside, between the barley fields and the foothills of the Grampian Mountains, lies this famous Scottish distillery. BenRiach is a story of loss and return. John Duff founded the distillery in Morayshire back in 1898. Just two years later the stills were mothballed in the wake of the The Great Whisky Recession and famous Pattison’s bankruptcy. In order to keep the lights on, Duff malted grain at BenRiach and distilled at Longmorn. The property changed hands several times among industry giants. But then a group of passionate dram-lovers contacted the famous Whisky expert Billy Walker to help them rescue this noble house in 2004. Today it is one of the rare, independent Scotch distilleries.

As for all great distilleries they use mostly, if not exclusively, resources that are locally available. The grains used for production grow all around the distillery and the water is drawn through the rocks from deep below. They obviously found the recipe for success, since they are winning major awards across their entire single malt range.

The introduction of their first cask strength bottling only solidifies their place on the map of Whisky royalty. The first batch of the series has been bottled at a whopping 57,2 % ABV, is non-chill filtered and in its natural colour, exactly as it was made in the cask and in that sense a true showcase of their character and quality. You only get one chance to make a first impression, after all. Despite the obvious strength, don’t be afraid! It’s an extremely drinkable dram – even without any added water.

This is a must try dram for all you BenRiach fans out there. It’s a proper daily dram, with a particularly proper price. With that said – if you’re not a fan already, this is a good bottle as any to start your BenRiach adventure. Because, what do you know, this just might be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.