Tastings Latest

Taster biographies

Phoebe Calver

After studying English and Journalism at university, Phoebe has turned her hand to writing for the drinks industry. She splits her time between the UK and US as editor of American Whisky Magazine and Whisky Magazine’s deputy editor.

Christopher Coates

A member of the team since 2013 and a keen whisky drinker long before that, Christopher was appointed as editor of Whisky Magazine in 2020. Beyond this, he is head of content for this title’s parent company, a keen photographer and chair of judges for the World Whiskies Awards and the Independent Bottlers Challenge.

THE PROCESS

• All samples are blind tasted, with ABV, country/region and style the only information disclosed
• Samples are tasted individually over a two week period
• Tasters are provided tasting and scoring guidelines for consistency
• The top scorer is awarded Editor’s Choice
• Scores of 16.5+ receive a Recommended award

Benriach

Smoke Season, Double Cask Matured

BROWN-FORMAN

ABV: 52.8%

Style: Single Malt

Region: Speyside

Price per bottle:

Bottling: Distillery

Availability: UK, US, EU

SCOTLAND

Phoebe

Nose: Musty at first, like a cellar, then buttercream frosting. Green leaves and freshly cut grass, poached pear, sticky ginger loaf, dates and a hint of charcoal.

Palate: Light at first, with elderflower cordial, then pear frangipane. Much sweeter, with honeysuckle and gooseberry. Then cedarwood and menthol.

Finish: The menthol lingers, with chewy dates for a long finish.

Comments: Although it’s very interesting, some aspects seem to overpower or underwhelm, missing that middle ground.

8.0

Christopher

Nose: Sweet fruit flan with poached pear, fresh strawberry, red grapes, caramel sauce and whipped cream. Oak leaf wine. Something of the pumpkin spice latte in here. Pear drop and delicate woodsmoke.

Palate: Light to medium bodied. Dried apple and honeydew melon. Sweet sémillion. A touch of spearmint. Subtle vanilla notes. A little gooseberry jam.

Finish: Medium-long. Fades on sweet dried fruits (sultana, banana) and roasted almond.

Comments: Very autumnal. Makes me think of Thanksgiving desserts.