I am not very fond of the BenRiach Curiositas to be honest. That probably explains why I have not tried it since 2010. My buddy Pat gave me a sample from a more recent bottling and told me to give it another go. Well, why not?
The nose is soft and accessible and shows some iodine and sea weeds next to lovely notes of white fruit and vanilla. Having said that, the nose is quite closed. After a few minutes of breathing some white bread and heather join in. But the whole is very light.
It is mildly oily and sweet, but quite peppery from the start with lots of maritime elements. It shows some vanilla, white fruit, heather and soft peat. But from the second sip forwards, I also get oyster sap and some soot. That may not sound great, but it does work.
The finish is medium long on loads of earth and sweet malt.
Still one of my least favorite expressions from BenRaich, but much better than I remembered.
@Hewie - Seems that the 46% one gets more favourable feedback so could be worth a gander?
In fairness, I'm finding that in general, and bar a few notable exceptions, sweet style distillate with peat, especially non Islay, isn't my thing. I feel Ardmore has a similar profile to the Curiositas and whilst it's not bad it just doesn't 'do it for me'. Even Lagavulin at 8 years I found a bit too much on the sweet side so take that as you will, mate
@Hewie, I wouldn't hesitate to buy a decently priced 46% Curiositas if I was looking for a change of peaty pace.