BenRiach The Smoky Twelve is a rich and complex 12-year-old single malt whisky from Speyside, renowned for its harmonious balance of gentle peat smoke and deep, layered flavors. This expression is matured in three different types of casks — bourbon, sherry, and virgin oak — creating a rich and nuanced flavor profile with notes of sweetness, spice, and smoke.
About the Producer
Founded in 1898 by John Duff, BenRiach Distillery is located in the heart of Scotland’s Speyside region, one of the world’s most famous whisky-producing areas. With over a century of history, BenRiach expertly blends traditional Scottish craftsmanship with modern innovation. The distillery is well known for producing a diverse range of whiskies, from unpeated to heavily peated styles, showcasing the versatility of Speyside malts. BenRiach has earned a reputation for experimenting with different cask types and consistently delivering complex, balanced, and exciting whiskies.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep golden amber with warm highlights.
Nose: Rich aromas of peat smoke, ripe apples, vanilla, dried fruits, and spices like cinnamon and clove, complemented by hints of honey and citrus.
Palate: Full-bodied and well-balanced, featuring a perfect blend of smoke, fruity notes, sweetness, and spice. Flavors of peat intertwine with ripe apples, dried fruit, oak, and gentle spices.
Finish: Long, warm, and satisfying, with lingering smoky notes, spice, and soft sweetness.
Production and Maturation
This whisky is matured in three types of casks: American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and virgin oak casks. This combination creates a complex character where the sweetness and fruitiness from bourbon and sherry casks meet the strength and smoky notes of virgin oak. The lightly peated style is typical for BenRiach, offering a fine balance between the smooth Speyside character and smokiness.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy neat or with a few drops of water to open up its complex aromas. It pairs wonderfully with richer foods such as smoked meats, spicy cheeses, and dark chocolate. The Smoky Twelve is an excellent whisky for both peat enthusiasts and those seeking a more complex and balanced tasting experience.
