Benromach – Contrasts: High Enzyme 2012 (70cl, 46%)

A limited edition Benromach from Speyside, part of the Contrasts series, which explores flavours beyond the distillery's usual subtly smoky and sherried style. It is made from unpeated high enzyme malted barley, a type of grain more often associated with grain whisky distilling. Distilled in 2012, it matured for 12 years in first-fill bourbon barrels and was bottled in 2024 at 46%, in a 70cl bottle. The nose is delicate, with lemon sherbet, malted barley, green apple and jasmine. The palate is sweet and creamy, with pink grapefruit, lemon and lime, then pineapple, honeycomb and spicy pepper. The finish is long and fresh, with charred oak and peppermint.