BENRINNES 11 Year Old 2010 COLLECTIVE 5.0, 48% ABV

Intimately connected by a finely crafted malty thread, the three phases of this exceptional Benrinnes tasting still stand as distinctive experiences. The intensely floral nose, the richly fruity palate, and the wonderfully chocolatey, roasted, and spiced finish each shine independently while harmonizing beautifully, marked by a balance of maturity and vibrant freshness.

Tasting Notes

Color: Mahogany.

Nose: Light and refined, the nose opens with remarkable aromas of marmalade, rose petals, mauve lilac, and ripe mango. As it breathes, it gains spiced complexity (pepper, cloves), hints of camphor, and an even more floral bouquet of freesia, hyacinth, and lime. A delicate layer of candy sugar and caramel emerges, followed by notes of apricot and quince jelly that crown the aromatic profile.

Palate: Sophisticated and lively, the palate picks up seamlessly from the nose, showcasing a crisp, fruity distillate with flavors of pear and kirsch. The mid-palate introduces harmonious tones of frangipane, cocoa, and tobacco, while the aftertaste features vibrant red fruits like raspberry and strawberry, balanced by the richness of dark chocolate squares.

Finish: Long and plush, the finish begins with subtle tannic notes of prune, toast, and beeswax. Sprinkled with nutmeg and chocolate shavings, it also evokes the elegance of premium red tea. Fresh herbal notes radiate in retro-olfaction, returning to the mid-palate's tobacco essence (smoldering Havana). The empty glass reveals a roasted, malted profile with hints of coffee, tonka bean, and resinous wood like thuja and cedar.