Benrinnes 2012 100 Proof Edition #56 Signatory Vintage

Profile: The Benrinnes 2012 100 Proof Edition #56 Signatory Vintage at a glance

• Benrinnes 2012: For those for whom "strong" is not strong enough
• Edition #56 of the Signatory 100 Proof Edition
• 1st Fill & Refill Oloroso Sherry Butts: Cask aging with a good influence
• Independently bottled: Benrinnes as you rarely get it
• Value for money: You can hardly get more bang for your buck
• Signatory Vintage: The independent Bottler houses more than 10,000 Casks

Portrait: What makes the Benrinnes 2012 100 Proof Edition #56 Signatory Vintage so special.

If the word "Benrinnes" immediately brings to mind a sleepy little village, you're right, geographically speaking - but whisky-wise, it still has a long way to go. Because this Speyside distillery is a true hidden champion. Hardly found as an original bottling, but all the more exciting when independent bottlers like Signatory Vintage take it on. This is what happened with the 100 Proof Edition #56.

As the name suggests: This series isn't for cuddling. 57.1% vol. - that's not only a decent sip, but also exactly the point at which alcohol-soaked gunpowder used to be ignitable. And lo and behold: The Benrinnes 2012 packs a serious fire without immediately setting the place on fire.

But no fire without a cask: In this case, the fine drop was allowed to bathe in First Fill Oloroso Sherry Butts - which, in the whisky world, roughly translates as: deluxe finishing with plenty of character.

Nine years of rest, maturity, and rebellion later, the Benrinnes finally lands in the bottle - ready to impress whisky lovers with a blend of power, depth, and dried fruit aura.

And the best part? Despite its alcoholic self-confidence, the price remains surprisingly reasonable. High voltage meets low budget – that's modern whisky enjoyment with a bang.

So anyone who thinks Speyside can only be sweet and smooth should try this Benrinnes. (Tip: take a deep breath first. And then hold on tight.)

Tasting Notes: This is how the Benrinnes 2012 100 Proof Edition #56 Signatory Vintage tastes like

• Nose: Dark dried fruits immediately greet the nose - raisins, figs and dates set the tone - behind it is a spicy wood scent, leather, a touch of tobacco and a pinch of cinnamon - the Oloroso influence is present, but not overwhelming - with a little air, nuts and a hint of dark chocolate emerge
• Palate: Powerful attack - no wonder at 57.1%vol. - Sherry sweetness meets oak spice and a subtle bitterness - intense notes of dark fruit compote, cloves, and a hint of licorice - the texture is oily, the body full and deep
• Finish: long, warming, and distinctly sherry-like - dried fruits linger, accompanied by roasted aromas, oak, and a subtle hint of espresso - the alcohol remains well integrated and delivers a structured, powerful finish