Benromach 1977 Cask #1266, 49.3%

This beautiful and rare bottle of Benromach 1977 was born on the northern fringes of Speyside not too far from the Moray Firth. It's so rare, in fact, that this is one of only 124 bottles from a single cask.

Pour your dram of Benromach 1977, cask number 1266, and prepare your senses to encounter an experience as rare as this gorgeous whisky. First, lift your glass to the light and appreciate the beautiful golden amber hue created by lingering for 40 years in a single refill American Hogshead as the whisky grew and matured in character.

Take a short inhalation, appreciating the wonderful aromas without water . . . enjoy the vibrant notes of sweet butterscotch and candied fruits, mingling with fresh citrus undertones and subtle hints of aniseed, pear, apple and cocoa.

Now take a sip. Savour the smooth sweetness beautifully balanced by a touch of black pepper. Baked apple and luscious peach follow, with a hint of mature oak on the tongue. Notes of rich dark chocolate and orange zest develop, followed by hints of dried tobacco, leading to traces of mature oak and a lingering smoky finish.

Add a few drops of water and take time to enjoy the nose as it develops . . . Deep honeyed notes mingle with ripe nectarine, pear, blackcurrant and subtle hints of white chocolate and fresh menthol. Now lift it to your lips and enjoy a slow sip . . . a smooth sweetness immediately emerges. Hints of luscious tropical fruits, red apple, poached pear and warm spice follow, complemented by touches of toasted oak on the finish. Magnificent.