I have been looking forward to getting my hands on Whisky Reviews: Benriach Malting Season, Smoke Season from Barrie. Bottled at 48.9% ABV and priced at $159.99 for 700 ml, it promises genuine character.
Nose
An almost translucent honeyed hay color. Glazed yellow corn. A little sweet, a little tart, a little funk thats the trilogy of sensations I got from this tasting. The whisky enjoys notes of dandelion, oatmeal, and vanilla bean, with a hint of citrus and a short finish. Final Thoughts: This is a very pleasant sip. I would love to offer friends who arent naturally drawn to Scotch whisky as an example of the myriad options of the classic spirit. I enjoy witnessing the innovation being explored by Benriach and Master Distiller Barrie. Score: 4/5 Benriach Smoke Season (image via Benriach) Tasting Notes: Benriach Second Edition Smoke Season Vital Stats: 52.8% ABV. SRP $77.99 for 750 ml. Appearance: Glazed yellow corn. Nose: BBQ and sweet corn, charred bits of peat. Palate: Meat smoked on an open fire, balsam, caramel, nutmeg, clove, and ginger. Its a strong smoky profile without blowing out the palate. Final Thoughts: I could go so far as to say I might enjoy this Scotch as a sipper, as the smokiness has found a pleasant balance and doesnt overpower the other notes in the whisky. I would still give pause to offer this before the Malting Season expression, but I do think that Scotch fans will appreciate the complexity of this spirit. Score: 4/5
Palate
Strong notes of wet foliage, honey, peach or apricot seed, and sweet lemon drop. BBQ and sweet corn, charred bits of peat. Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Whisky Reviews: Benriach Malting Season, Smoke Season did not quite work for me. At $159.99 for 700 ml, I would steer you toward other bottles that offer more for your money in this category.
