Ben Nevis 10 Year Old 2014/2024 - James Eadie
Nose
The first impression? A sultana explosion straight to the face - like opening a bag of Christmas cheer! Caramel and soft oak emphasise this sweet and spicy base, while earthier notes of tobacco and brown sugar tickle the nose. If you sniff closely, you will even detect a hint of peanuts, which gives the fragrance a nutty depth.
Taste
The whisky is viscous, almost syrupy on the tongue - a mouthfeel that triggers feelings of pure luxury. Malty notes dominate at the beginning before a symphony of sultanas, dates and candied apple unfolds. A touch of caramel provides a pleasant sweetness, while the nutty peanut flavour provides a contrast. Anyone who enjoys rich, full-bodied whiskies could go into raptures here.
Finish
Medium length with roasted almonds and cloves. Candied fruit adds a spicy twist, and there is a sudden flash of tropical freshness from mango and papaya.
Thoughts
This Ben Nevis 10 year old 2014/2024 bottled by James Eadie is no half measure - it is an intense sherry bomb in the truest sense of the word. The first-fill sherry cask gives it an impressive depth, which is perfectly emphasised by the cask strength. Power and elegance go hand in hand here.
For the perfect accompaniment, we recommend dark chocolate truffles or a juicy fruit tart. If you like it savoury, you can also enjoy this drop with a lightly salted nut mixture or mature Manchego.
Rating: 85/100 - Excellent (Marcel: 85 | Sascha: 85)
Value for Money: 4/5 - Good
Preview Image Source: Whiskybase