Olde Funkey Butte 78.68 9 Year Old (SMWS) (Ben Nevis)

The nose presents notes of Branston pickle, funk, sulphur, nuts, dried dark fruit, and baking spices. The palate is more agreeably earthy, dirty, and funky, with nutty, oak, dark fruit, baked apples, spices (cinnamon, white pepper, ginger), orange zest, dark chocolate, and liquorice. The finish is long, continuing the theme of the palate, leaning into spiced Christmas cake and burnt raisins, with a pleasantly bitter and leathery aftertaste. Adding water brings out more dark fruit and orange notes; the spirit is enjoyable with or without it, though a few drops are usually added to mellow the high ABV. This 9-year-old Ben Nevis, bottled at 67.3% ABV from a 2nd fill ex-oloroso butt, is a punchy, dirty, fruity, and nutty dram. The high proof is noticeable but not jarring, making it a good option for cask strength fans. It made a great first impression and is a favorite among recent high ABV Ben Nevis expressions.