Benromach London Bartender Edition 2012 #599 59% 70cl

Benromach single malt Scotch whisky is a Speyside malt with a character that harks back to an earlier era of Scotch production, lightly peated, balanced, and full of depth. Founded in 1898 on the outskirts of Forres, Benromach has a turbulent history, with periods of closure and multiple changes in ownership. Its revival in 1993 by independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail marked a turning point, and today it is recognised as one of Scotland’s most respected small-scale distilleries.

Benromach’s ethos is rooted in traditional, hands-on whisky-making. The distillery is compact, with a small team overseeing every step of the process without reliance on computer automation. Production is deliberately small, allowing for close control over quality. The water comes from the Chapelton Springs in the Romach Hills, naturally soft and perfect for whisky-making, while the barley is malted to a slightly peated specification, around 10–12ppm, adding a gentle smoky thread that sets Benromach apart from most modern Speyside malts.

Fermentation times are long, developing fruity esters that give the spirit its orchard fruit and citrus backbone. Distillation takes place in just two copper pot stills, producing a weighty, oily spirit that stands up well to long maturation. The whisky is typically aged in a combination of first-fill ex-bourbon barrels and ex-sherry casks, with Gordon & MacPhail’s cask expertise ensuring consistent quality and flavour.

The core range begins with the Benromach 10 Year Old, a benchmark dram offering a harmonious balance of ripe fruit, malty sweetness, light smoke, and spice. The 15 Year Old builds on this with richer sherry influence, dark chocolate, and dried fruit depth, while the Peat Smoke series explores higher levels of phenols for those who enjoy a bolder profile. Limited editions and vintage releases, often matured in exclusive cask types such as port pipes or wine barrels, add further variety to the range.

Independent in ownership and approach, Benromach is unafraid to maintain a style that bucks current Speyside trends. While many neighbouring distilleries have moved towards exclusively unpeated spirit, Benromach’s subtle smoke is a nod to how Speyside malts were made in the mid-20th century. This traditional approach has earned it a loyal following among whisky enthusiasts who appreciate both its flavour and its authenticity.

The distillery’s character is often described as balanced and versatile: sweet malt, juicy fruit, soft peat smoke, and a touch of earthy spice, all wrapped in a medium-bodied, oily texture. It is equally enjoyable neat, with a splash of water, or paired with robust foods such as smoked salmon, mature cheese, or dark chocolate.

Our Benromach Single Malt Scotch Whisky selection features the classic core range, higher age statements, and special limited releases that capture the distillery’s traditional spirit. Whether you’re seeking a Speyside malt with an old-fashioned twist, a smoky alternative to heavily peated island drams, or a collectible vintage bottling, Benromach offers a taste of whisky heritage brought to life by one of Scotland’s most dedicated independent producers.