Ben Nevis 2013/2024 10 Years - Dràm Mòr
Some time ago, we had the pleasure of tasting the blended malt "Dumbarton Rock" from the Independent Bottler Dràm Mòr. The company's primary focus lies in bottling individual single malt casks. They showcase a seasonal selection of special releases quarterly – of course uncolored and unfiltered. Today, we savor a 10-years Ben Nevis from the Summer Collection 2023, featuring a finish of undisclosed duration in Palo Cortado Sherry Hogsheads.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The opening on the nose is characterized by intense maltiness. A fascinating blend of sweet scents evokes memories of roasted marshmallows and milk chocolate. Over time, the aroma unfolds into more robust notes. A hint of old leather becomes perceptible, and the chocolate note evolves towards bittersweet. In the background, a subtle notion of blackcurrants emerges. Top notes carry a touch of honey and vanilla.
Palate
Notably, the malt exhibits a pronounced dry mouthfeel. Coupled with its high oiliness, it imparts a distinctive astringency to the whisky. On the palate, it presents a spicy-oaky profile with subtle hints of forest honey on the tip of the tongue. These harmoniously evolve into typical Sherry notes of forest berries and chocolate, where the "Sherry bomb" is present in flavor but not overpowering. Towards the back it reveals an almost mineral note reminiscent of tobacco leaves.
Finish
The finish of this Ben Nevis is medium-length and warming, with the image of an old leather sofa consistently present. Here, a persistent honey note remains, while the conclusion is pleasantly spicy, accompanied by zesty white pepper.
Thoughts
Marcel 83/100
This Ben Nevis showcases how uncomplicated drinking pleasure tastes with its pleasant sweetness and subtle sherry finish. It combines malty warmth with a hint of leather and honey, never once becoming boring – a perfect companion for relaxed evenings. Not the most extravagant, but an absolute delight that leaves you wanting more.
Sascha 84/100
The Ben Nevis 2013/2024 impresses with its balanced structure between dry spice, intense sherry notes, and an oily texture that creates a precise harmony. The subtle minerality and medium-length, warming finish with peppery accents underline its complexity, even though the cask strength can occasionally feel a bit dominant. Overall, a technically clean whisky with a clear profile and solid maturation work.
Value for Money: Good
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Drám Mór. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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82/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Palo Cortado sherry finish special in the Ben Nevis 2013/2024?
The Palo Cortado sherry finish imparts the whisky with complex aromas of forest berries, chocolate, and a subtle oak note. It delivers a balanced sherry bomb that enriches the malt’s flavor without overpowering it.
How do the high oiliness and dry mouthfeel affect the enjoyment of this whisky?
The combination of high oiliness and dry mouthfeel creates a distinctive astringent effect that intensifies the flavor and particularly highlights the spicy, honeyed, and peppery notes.
Why is this Ben Nevis whisky bottled unfiltered and without coloring?
Unfiltered and non-colored bottlings preserve the whisky’s natural aromas and original color, providing a more authentic tasting experience and better showcasing the typical characteristics of the cask.