As a big fan of BenRiach in general I came across mentions of this whisky quite often here on Distiller. It is nearly impossible to find anymore so I wasn’t able to get samples. But I finally found a bottle. Nose: dry sherry notes with blackberries and currants, then a wide peat bottom which somehow elevates all other aromas: leather, pears, whole grain shortbread, creamy silky custard, fresh cloudy apple juice and then some super delicious peat-strings on the side, later mixed-nut-butter, the nose gets better and better by combining everything into such a perfect blend - just wow. The peat starts off and remains just remarkable - very interesting and so enjoyable. Palate: full frontal smooth but very present peat, then silky sweet fresh fruit mousse with a hugely enjoyable mouth feel and rich flavor segments. Vanilla creme with cooked orchard fruits. Finish: buttery crisp toast with sour & sweet red berries jam, molten chocolate, lemon/grapefruit peel, medium long but super delicious. I like BenRiach - especially some of their peated expressions really convinced me. This one here is a step up from what I knew so far. It is so interesting and makes for a very intense experience. It is very different to what BenRaich offers today in their peated range - not to compare. It reminds me of ‘Loch Gorm‘ from Kilchoman which I also like a lot. It really conveys Islay character without trying to copy it - but that’s how good the peat is utilized. Yet it is remains unique. My favorite BenRiach to date.