What is quite striking about this single malt is the American virgin oak barrels used at Benromach; they lend themselves to a nose that’s powerfully oaky yet vibrant and fresh. It’s the liveliness, not the heaviness that manifests on the palate, which is dominated by creamy honey, raisin and milk chocolate notes the wood makes another appearance in the end when the cocoa flavors give way to a well-structured, peppery finish.

Virgin American oak casks

Single malt – 43% – 70cl

Speyside, Scotland