Benromach – 2013 Cask Strength Batch 01 (70cl, 59.7%)

This is Batch 01 of the Cask Strength series from Benromach, a Speyside single malt at 59.7% in a 70cl bottle. It is natural colour and non-chill-filtered. It was distilled in 2013 and bottled in 2023, after maturing in first-fill bourbon and first-fill sherry casks. Campfire smoke, minerals, citrus, sugared almonds and honey come first on the nose. The palate is creamy with a peppery start, then burnt oak, dark chocolate, orange marmalade and leather. The finish is complex, with spice, chocolate and seaweed.