Ben Nevis Single Malt Scotch Whisky
1996, 29 Years Old
Oloroso re-fill Butt / 436 bottles
48.9% ABV
Artwork by: @WHISKYHOBO
Nose: An immediate and profound display of maturity. The nose opens with the heavy, evocative scent of aged leather bags and dried apple rings, followed by the richness of cinnamon-burnt butter. The Oloroso influence is masterfully integrated, offering deep rancio notes and syrupy dates alongside a playful hit of cola bottles and thick Manuka honey. It is an incredibly rich bouquet where the “perfect” sherry shines without ever obscuring the fruity, weighty West Coast spirit beneath.
Palate: The rancio character carries through with exceptional grace, bringing with it the refined notes of polished furniture and more of that aged leather. A soft, deep Muscovado sugar sweetness grows on the mid-palate, eventually giving way to the vintage’s hallmark: a flood of over-ripe tropical fruits. Dense layers of dates and dried damsons are balanced by the caramelised sweetness of a pear Tatin. This is an exceptional palate, echoing the complexity and “soul” of whiskies from a bygone era.
Finish: The transition into the finish is seamless and elegant. It lingers on spiced apples and aromatic chai tea, before a final, vibrant burst of passionfruit and creamy mango lassi. Gentle, warming spices – cloves and cinnamon – provide a sophisticated, drying finish.
Non-chill filtered and natural colour. This spirit may haze at low temperatures and under dilution.
