Ben Nevis 23 Year Old 1996 The Whisky Jury

Belgian bottler The Whisky Jury made his entrance last year with a Ben Nevis 1995. By now he has launched his third release (the second, a Caol Ila 1983, will be tasted right after this one) and behold: it’s another Ben Nevis. This one was distilled in 1996 and like it’s predecessor matured on a refill hogshead.

Candy-like sweet and very waxy nose on tropical fruit. Think pineapple, peach, banana, sugared orange peel and meringue. Underneath some chalk and pebbles. I experienced the same with the previous release. A fresh leaf of mint and some cherry tea. Who remembers those so-called ‘Superman-logo’ candy that tasted like apricots? Yup, but then in liquid form and with cajones.

OMG, this is good! Waxy, sweet and fruity, powerful, mineral. And yes, that Superman-logo candy returns in full force on the palate! A nice peppery note gives it some punch, while the sweet, tropical fruitiness effortlessly seduces your taste buds. Honing offers a succulent twist, while mint offers a fresh uplift. What a balance!

Long, waxy finish on mint, pepper and tropical fruit that keep the party going. A bittersweet death.

Critics might say it’s too close to the first release, but lovers of excellent malt will rejoice (for their bottle of the first release will be long gone). 140 EUR? Really? Take my money! Recommended.

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