1996 Ben Nevis 17 Year Old Exclusive Malts "Ex-Sherry" Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky (750ml)

It's easy to get caught up in what you'd expect a Ben Nevis to be. Most people have no expectations because the little distillery in Fort Williams, owned by Nikka in Japan, hasn't released a bottling in this country for ages. That all might change soon, but in the meantime, we've got this exceptional cask to prove that wonderful things happen in Fort Williams these days. Far flung in the Western Highlands, a trip to Fort Williams is a slow going endeavor but well worth your time. With this whisky, we're transported there instantly, all the wonderful Highland complexity jumping right out of the glass. The sherry is present but not all-encompassing. Instead, deep heathery notes and nut butters are framed by whispers of raw honey and a deep, earthy sweetness. A splendid mouth-feel and a clean, rich palate exhibit wonderful sherry notes, with light floral and summer fruit around the edges. Very clean and round for a Nevis. A very special cask, which should hold anyone over until the distillery offers something stateside.