Scotch whisky label Benriach has unveiled its “oldest and rarest” whisky expression ever: a 50-year-old cask release that was first laid down in September 1966. Officially dubbed the ‘Benriach 1966 Cask Aged 50 Years’, the latest bottling is the culmination of decades’ worth of maturation, persistence, and foresight, marking the “pinnacle” of the Speyside distillery‘s whisky-making efforts. When you consider Benriach’s esteemed pedigree dates back as far as 1898, that’s no small claim, by any stretch of the imagination.
Crafted from a single bourbon barrel, the new release is an elevated take on the classic Benriach style. Rich, fruit-forward and staunchly unpeated, 1966 Cask Aged 50 Years is heavy on complexity, offering a multi-layered sensory experience. According to Dr Rachel Barrie, master blender at Benriach Distillery, bourbon cask 2383 was the remarkable cask hand-selected for the generational journey, which now represents the oldest and most exclusive release ever to bear the Benriach name.
“Benriach 1966 Cask Aged 50 Years is a true embodiment of the depth and history of Benriach. It isn’t just the years it spent maturing, but the stories it holds that make it so special,” Dr Barrie tells us. “Each sip is a journey through history dating from 21 September 1966, where the one exceptional bourbon cask, 2383, was handpicked for its exquisite character, destined to become the oldest remaining vintage and rarest example of Benriach, standing the test of time.”
As the 30-year veteran of the Scotch whisky industry explains, the new expression is a poignant moment for Benriach. Marking a renewed focus on premiumisation in the market, the 50-year-old takes what whisky fans know and love about Benriach and dials all facets up to 11.
Even the presentation has been elevated, with each bottling offered within a bespoke crystal decanter, crafted by Scottish artisan Glasstorm. From there, the decanters are presented in a box made by Elgin-based master craftsman John Galvin, which is inspired by the colourful array of eclectic casks that fill Benriach’s warehouses.
“Benriach 1966 Cask Aged 50 Years holds immense significance for Benriach as a brand,” Dr Barrie explains. “This expression marks a pinnacle in the brand’s history, being the oldest and most exclusive release to date. Crafted from a single exceptional bourbon cask, carefully selected for its exquisite character, this whisky represents Benriach’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship.”
Limited to just 37 special edition bottles worldwide, the Benriach 1966 Cask Aged 50 Years is an extremely exclusive release and naturally, it has a price tag to match. Offered for a stunning AUD$48,000 per bottling, the Benriach drop is among the most expensive in the Speyside distillery’s 126-year history. it will be available for purchase in Australia from select retailers from June 2024.
Benriach 1966 Cask Aged 50 Years Tasting Notes
- Colour: Rouge chestnut gold
- Nose: Perfectly honed oak leads with chestnut, maraschino cherry, and gentle acacia honey, interwoven with seductive truffle, narcissus, and refined musk.
- Palate: Sip fifty years of luxurious refinement, with sublime honeyed dates and delicate oak spices, in harmony with the lingering finesse of apple, pear, and traces of grapefruit.
