Benriach Classic Version 7 Year Old, Bourbon Cask, Cask #BH1522, 2015, Hidden Spirits, 48%

honeycomb owl4 Sept

Fresh fruit salad and buttery vanilla make the nose sound inviting, with nutmeg adding a useful contrast. On the palate, silky vanilla caramel and toffee sponge carry the sweeter side forward, while candied orange and peppery spice keep it varied. The finish turns to honeyed nuts and a little oak char, which gives the sweetness a different ending. I like the way the fruit and spice sit alongside those richer notes; it makes this an appealing choice for someone who prefers an approachable malt without wanting it to feel plain. The sweeter flavours still have the lead, so it may be less suited to someone looking for a whisky driven mainly by spice.