One of the many interpretations of the name “Ben Nevis” (in gaelic binn nibheis) è “venomous mountain”: that’s how it’s called the highest peak of the whole United Kingdom, and so is called also a distillery, close to Fort William. Western Highlands, yes. An ex-sherry cask, full of whisky distilled in 1990, was selected by Silver Seal, who decided to bottle it last November. The angels don’t seem to have taken too much of their share: but most probably, Ben Nevis sometimes fills casks without reducing the spirit strength – a few days ago we tasted a 14 yo Ben Nevis by Cadenhead’s at the impressive abv of 66,1%… But let’s get back to this fellow, amber at sight.
N: surprisingly open, given the strength; there’s a ‘dirty’ sherry feeling, that reminds us of some Mortlachs, with light sulphury notes, bouillon cubes, leather, orange peel. Not everyone will like this style, but we must admit this side remains enjoyable, since is quite well integrated in the context. Quite dark, with red fruits (lovely indeed, mon cheri, cherries and strawberries). Ripe oranges, tamarind, dried figs and apricots. Spiced wood, maybe also a mineral feeling, here and there. Water softens the sweet and fruity side, leaving space to the leathery side.
P: quite soft, surprisingly again. Coherent, with a sulphury and yet creamy sherry: red fruit, dark chocolate with orange peel. Not too sweet, quite balanced and intense: there’s a curious feeling of.. rum!, then banana, passion fruit, bitter wood. A note of tea leaves: with water, this side gets bigger, and the whole dram is much more herbal. Licorice, black pepper.
F: long and bittersweet; infinite licorice, tea leaves, red fruit, chocolate. A bit toasted.
Very fun to drink: you can’t say it has a normal profile, it’s always on the verge of getting too herbal and too bitter, but the soft sherry sweetness is a perfect counterpart: the whole is really nice, and – again – very peculiar and uncommon. 87/100 in our book, and thank to Max and Betty for the sample.
Recommended soundtrack: Spite Extreme Wing – Il tempio ad est
