10 years

Benromach was founded in 1898 by Duncan MacCallum and F.W. Brickmann near Forres, though its early years were marked by disruption: production didn't begin until 1909, halted two years later, and the distillery remained shuttered from 1931 to 1937. Now owned by independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, Benromach has emerged as a progressive Speyside producer known for its subtle smoky character and award-winning quality.

This 10-year-old single malt matures in a deliberate split: 80% bourbon casks and 20% sherry hogsheads, finished in first-fill Oloroso casks. The golden result balances sherry and malt without excess—a restrained equilibrium where the light smoke from lightly peated barley (12 ppm) never overwhelms.

Nose and palate work in concert: roasted notes, dried fruit, chocolate and cinnamon greet first, followed by full malt, raspberry, bramble and a wisp of smoke on the tongue. The finish clings to sweet sherry and gentle smoke, delivering depth without harshness despite the modest 43% ABV.