Benromach Adds Another Ex-French Red Wine Cask Whisky to its Mix

The Benromach whisky distillery in Scotland is known in part for its diverse Wood Finish portfolio, which sees its Scotch finished in various types of ex-wine casks. The latest of these has now been announced, and it saw finishing time in first fill Chateau Cissac casks from France.

Benromach Chateau Cissac Wood Finish 2009, according to those behind it, was finished in first fill Chateau Cissac casks for 25 months after being filled into first fill Bourbon casks. These ex-red wine barrels herald from the distinguished French wine region of Haut-Médoc near Bordeaux, and are said to impart some peppery taste to the final expression.

“Our latest Wood Finish expression is a welcome addition to our growing family of Speyside single malt whiskies,” said Benromach Distillery Manager Keith Cruickshank in a prepared statement. “Our previous wood finish expressions, including Benromach Sassicaia and Benromach Hermitage, have proved to be very popular and we are looking forward to hearing what whisky lovers around think of this Chateau Cissac; it certainly has plenty of character so I’m sure this new single malt will be appreciated by new and existing Benromach fans around the world.

“Those who enjoy our flagship 10 Years Old will enjoy the chance to experience Benromach in a different way. The maturation in wine casks from the distinguished region creates a distinct flavour in the whisky and allows a truly unique character to develop.”

Plans call for this whisky, priced around £40 (about $55 USD) and bottled at 45% ABV, to be available globally. You’ll find very limited official tasting notes below.

An initial peppery taste with sweet vanilla and creamy milk chocolates notes and hints of red wine tannins and lingering peat smoke.