Benromach 9 Years (2014/2024) Contrasts unpeated
Benromach is primarily known for reviving a lightly peated Speyside style, but the Contrasts Unpeated deliberately shows the other side of the distillery. This nine-year-old single malt from Bourbon and Sherry casks comes in at 46 % vol. and clearly focuses on an unpeated, approachable aromatic profile.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, the whisky starts with a slightly charred note that immediately builds character and pleasantly sets itself apart from generic sweetness. There is also toasted marshmallow and vanillin sugar, which initially feels soft but does not turn sticky. Fresh lime brings a zesty contrast, while Nashi pear keeps the fruity side bright and juicy.
Palate
On the palate, a massive oak spice sets the tone without pushing the whisky into bitter or dry territory. Pear and white peach provide plenty of fruit, and there is once again noticeable wood, which here creates freshness rather than heaviness. The texture is very creamy and makes the dram exceptionally approachable. In some places it seems slightly thin, but overall it remains lively, fresh, and cleanly structured.
Finish
The finish is short but concise. Fresh, fruity, and sweet impressions remain clearly behind without lingering for long. It is not monumental, but it fits the whisky’s overall direct style.
Thoughts
Marcel 80/100 - (Excellent)
The slightly charred note is the real appeal factor here and gives the whisky a distinctive, almost cool vibe. That is fun and sets it apart from the crowd of mild Speyside bottlings. The short finish costs it some depth, but overall it feels very clean and surprisingly precise.
Sascha 82/100 - (Excellent)
This is a well-rounded affair and above all extremely beginner-friendly without becoming banal. Creamy and mild meets a proper variety of aromas that never feels overloaded. Anyone looking for an approachable but not boring Benromach without peat smoke gets a coherent overall package here.
Value for Money: 5/5 (Excellent)
💸 This whisky offers an outstanding value for money and is our value pick.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Benromach 9 Years Contrasts Unpeated a peated whisky?
No, this bottling is explicitly unpeated and is intended to show what Benromach tastes like without the influence of peated malt.
Which cask types were used for the Benromach 9 Years Contrasts Unpeated?
According to the available information, the whisky matured in Bourbon and Sherry casks.
Who is this whisky particularly suitable for?
It feels very beginner-friendly because it remains creamy, mild, and aromatic without being overloaded. At the same time, the slightly charred note also offers an interesting accent for experienced drinkers.
