Benriach – 27 Year Old 1996 (Milroy's)

This is a 27 year old Benriach from 1996, bottled by Milroy's for its Vintage Reserve range. It comes from a North Speyside distillery and was matured in a single type of cask, a refill hogshead, rather than a mix of casks. It recalls the time when floor maltings were common at the distillery. The nose is grassy yet dessert-like, with poached pears, coconut, peanut, cashew, rich tea biscuits and a dusting of icing sugar. The palate is richer, with profiteroles, red fruits and caramel in a brandy butter texture. The finish is medium to long, with rich oak.