Benriach – The Twelve Three Cask Matured 12 Years 70 cl. 46%

BenRiach The Twelve is a distinguished 12-year-old single malt whisky from Speyside, expertly crafted to showcase both elegance and complexity. Matured in a trio of cask types—American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and virgin oak—this expression offers a beautifully layered flavor profile that balances rich fruitiness, warm spice, and a gentle oak influence.

About the Producer
BenRiach Distillery, founded in 1898 by John Duff, is located in the renowned Speyside region of Scotland. With well over a century of heritage, BenRiach has earned acclaim for combining time-honored distillation techniques with a spirit of innovation. Known for producing both unpeated and peated expressions, the distillery consistently experiments with different cask finishes to highlight the versatility and depth of Speyside malts. BenRiach’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensures that each release reflects a meticulous attention to detail.

Tasting Notes
Appearance: Warm golden amber with subtle copper reflections.
Nose: Inviting and layered—initial aromas of orchard fruits (ripe apple and pear) give way to honeyed malt, gentle vanilla, and a faint spiciness. A subtle wisp of toasted oak emerges on the mid-nose.
Palate: Smooth and well-rounded, with rich flavors of dried orchard fruits and malted barley. The influence of the three casks shines through: bourbon barrels contribute vanilla and caramel sweetness; sherry butts add dried fruit and nutty undertones; virgin oak provides soft spice and a hint of toasted wood. A faint touch of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth without overpowering.
Finish: Medium to long, with lingering notes of warm oak, light dried fruit, and a gently spiced, almost sugary malt echo.
Production and Maturation
Distillation: BenRiach employs traditional copper pot stills and a carefully controlled fermentation to preserve delicate malt character.
Cask Regimen:
American Bourbon Barrels: Impart classic vanilla, caramel, and light oak sweetness.
Spanish Sherry Butts: Contribute dried fruit nuance—raisin and fig—and a subtle nuttiness.
Virgin Oak Casks: Introduce a layer of soft spice (clove, cinnamon) and a subtle toasted oak character.
Maturation Period: A full 12 years in warehouse conditions, allowing the spirit to develop depth and harmony across the three cask influences.
Serving Suggestions
Neat or with Water: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to coax out hidden aromas.
Temperature & Glassware: Serve at approximately 18 °C in a tulip-shaped glass (or Glencairn) to concentrate the rich, layered aromatics.
Food Pairings: Pairs beautifully with aged cheeses (especially Manchego or mature cheddar), dried fruit compotes, and chocolate desserts. It also complements smoked poultry or pork, where the subtle oak sweetness and dried fruit notes can shine.
BenRiach The Twelve Three Cask Matured 12 Years embodies the distillery’s heritage of careful cask selection and its talent for balance. The result is a sophisticated, approachable whisky that rewards both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts with its harmonious layers of fruit, spice, and oak.