Benromach 11 Years (2010/2022) Contrasts Peat Smoke
The Benromach 11 Years (2010/2022) Contrasts Peat Smoke is an experimental single malt from Speyside, in which Benromach audibly turns up the use of peated barley. It was matured exclusively in first-fill bourbon casks; added to that are 57 ppm and a vintage design that refers to the once hand-painted sign above the kiln as well as the distillery's red gates. Sounds like a grand performance, but in the glass it would rather charmingly trip over its own shoelaces.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, it starts musty and more in an offbeat than a flattering way. There is also some citrus, though not fresh, but rather with the charm of over-soured apples. Light phenolics are there, accompanied by algae or seaweed, and overall the profile feels distinctly maritime. This is not a walk on the beach in sunshine, more like the North Sea with a crosswind.
Palate
On the palate, it shows itself salty-sour and initially somewhat sharp. White pepper sets clear accents, joined by orange and a hint of vanilla. Charcoal is also present, though without the smoke completely taking command. It is precisely these rough edges that make it interesting, even if it does not come across entirely polished.
Finish
The finish is shorter than expected and dry. Slightly meaty notes appear, along with salt and pepper again. That fits the maritime impression, but it says goodbye more quickly than one would assume from such a profile.
Thoughts
Marcel 73/100 - (Very good)
This Contrasts is definitely a nice experiment, even though I personally clearly prefer the classic Benromach 10 years . Still, that is exactly what makes the series appealing: it is exciting to experience these contrasts in the distillery character so clearly carved out.
Sascha 78/100 - (Very good)
It fits well into the Contrasts series because it deliberately exaggerates one aspect of the overall profile. I really like the maritime side, but the slightly alcoholic sharpness less so. It is certainly interesting because of its many rough edges, but at the same time it feels somewhat thin.
Value for Money: 4/5 (Good)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How smoky is the Benromach 11 Years Contrasts Peat Smoke?
It is clearly designed to be peaty, but in taste it does not come across like a pure smoke bomb. Alongside barbecue charcoal, maritime, salty, peppery and sour notes are primarily in the foreground.
What cask maturation was used?
The whisky was matured exclusively in first-fill bourbon casks. Here, this maturation shows itself more in a slight vanilla note than in lush sweetness.
Who is this bottling particularly interesting for?
Above all for the curious who enjoy the Contrasts series and edgier Benromach bottlings. If you like maritime, phenolic and salty-peppery profiles, you will find more here to talk about than a comfort blanket.
