Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2007 (Batch 1)

Rating: 16/23 Nose: This might need a few minutes. I'm detecting hints of toasted grain with roasted pork loin seasoned with salt and black pepper. A subtle dry smoke reminiscent of Benromach emerges, but it's not too pronounced. There's the faintest nutty oiliness that evokes Oloroso sherry. If you can imagine even fainter cherry and lemon notes, then you can picture some fruit being present. A little wood starts to appear, showing some complexity with mild vanilla first, followed by a sprinkle of cinnamon and a small amount of other baking spices. There's a hint of vegetal tar mixing with the smoke, but not excessively. Palate: It's full-bodied, as expected at this proof. It begins quite rich with some sweetness, but as it progresses, the smoke takes over and it becomes hotter. Towards the end of the palate, some oiliness appears. The initial sweetness is fruity, with cherry gradually shifting towards a sort of herbal PX funk as the smoke integrates. There are also spices initially, with cinnamon being dominant, followed by black pepper, clove, and ginger. It's actually quite nice. The full progression (though quite short) over the palate is challenging, but it's a solid smoky scotch for those who appreciate drams like Ardbeg. Finish: Abundant smoke. It's oily. Occasional hints of cherry sweetness. Otherwise, this is primarily a very smoky finish. Conclusion: Bold flavor with sherry sweetness. Definitely smoky, but other elements are present. This is a great profile to consider as an alternative to an Islay scotch. While not the most complex, it's satisfyingly tasty for that specific craving. However, upon tasting it side-by-side with Ardbeg 10 (rated 16/23), this lacks the same nuance. It has a more pronounced dry bitterness, bordering on barbecue flavors. Complexity does gradually emerge, but it's not as palatable. If I had to choose right now, I'd give it a 15. Yes, this has quite ashy smoke with Oloroso and PX sherry. It's an unusual combination. I certainly don't see it surpassing a 15. Old Pulteney 12 (rated 14/23) is maltier and oilier with more of a 'dirty' still character. Its flavors are a bit more muddled, but their balance is superior. The sherry and spices in this expression are pleasant, though. The smoke is a bit too ashy. I'm leaning towards this one based on it being less muddled. Compared to Benromach Peat Smoke 2006, I appreciate the fullness and richness here. If this were older, which I doubt it is by much, the Benromach Peat Smoke tastes more like an immature Islay scotch, very similar to Kilchoman (with a touch of Laphroaig). Were it not for the sherry influence, this would not be on the same level as Ardbeg 10. As it stands, the sherry reminds me sufficiently of Ardbeg Uigeadail to elevate my rating from a 15 to a 16. There's more sherry here than in the Uigeadail (especially PX), but I enjoy the fruitiness and funk. Heavy smoke is a situation where PX can indeed work very well, I suppose. Thank you to a friend for this sample!

I've always enjoyed Benromach 10, so I immediately bought this Cask Strength version when I saw it for $40 at the local store. It's nearly 58% ABV with significant sherry cask influence and peat. The aroma has a strong, leathery sherry note along with some musty peat. On the palate, there's sweet orange blossom; the peat lessens, and the leathery sherry becomes more prominent. Unfortunately, the finish is a bit peppery and bitter, making me want to dilute it with water. Overall, I feel it's less than the sum of its parts, but adding water significantly improves it. My experience varied with the amount of water added, suggesting a balance point exists. For now, it receives a slightly lower rating. An interesting note: the next day, the glass smells exactly like pancake syrup. If that flavor were more pronounced in the dram, I'd be thrilled.

A scarce bottle. The aroma presents a wonderful fusion of peat, sherry, and salt. The taste is outstanding. Exceptionally rich. Sugar, creamy, buttery, peat, wood. It truly coats the mouth and delivers a powerful impact at 58.2%. Secured a bottle for $64 and will certainly repurchase.

Aroma of nutty, young oak and barley. Rich barley sugar, seasoned oak, caramelized sugar, peppercorns, and candied ginger, all mingled with a touch of peat.

Rich flavor with subtle notes of peat, smoke, vanilla, and spices. I prefer this neat, without ice or water.