Benromach – Contrasts: High Enzyme 12 Year Old 2012 (46%)

A 12 year old Speyside single malt from Benromach, distilled in 2012 and part of the distillery's Contrasts series, in which individual production steps are changed to show how they shape a whisky. This edition uses high enzyme malted barley, chosen for its intense sugar conversion and a markedly fruity spirit. It matured in first fill bourbon barrels, which add vanilla, oak and creamy tones without covering the fruit. The distillery's light smoke stays in the background. It is bottled at 46% ABV. The nose is usually described as fresh apple, ripe pineapple and fine mint, with gentle oak and a discreet smokiness.