Benriach The Original Twelve

A little background

The Benriach Distillery was founded in 1898 by John Duff. Having previously been used in blends, Benriach was released for the first time as a 10-year-old Single Malt in 1994. Today the distillery has continued to explore the possibilities of Speyside single malt by creating three styles of whisky; classic, peated and triple distilled. This review is of “The Original Twelve”, a core range offering from Benriach that’s a signature expression that defines Benriach Single Malts. Benriach The Original Twelve is three cask matured (Bourbon, Sherry, and Port), bottled at 46% ABV, and has a retail price of $60 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Gold

Nose

Soft notes of maple syrup, dark fruits, and cocoa.

Palate

Rich and sweet with hazelnut, candied oranges, and baking spices.

Finish

Long-lasting finish leaving the mouth coated in wonderful notes of almonds, golden raisins, baking spice, and mocha.

In closing

Benriach The Original Twelve is quite a step up from The Original Ten, especially considering there is only a $5 price dollar price difference. The Port Wine influence is quite pleasant and has contributed to making deliver a wonderful nutty baking spice quality that reminds me of the holidays. At $60, Benriach The Original Twelve is an absolute bargain and one you should definitely consider!

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of The Benriach Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.