Benriach 9 yo (2014/2024), Murray McDavid – Tokaji Wine, 53.2%

Introduction

Benriach 9 yo (2014/2024) represents the innovative spirit of independent bottler Murray McDavid, who have expertly married traditional Scottish whisky-making with the exotic influence of Hungarian sweet wine casks to create a truly distinctive single malt expression.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Premium Scottish malted barley from the Speyside region, fermented with Benriach’s proprietary yeast strains
• Distillation process: Double distilled in Benriach’s traditional copper pot stills, preserving the fruity, malty character that the distillery is known for
• Maturation: Initially matured in traditional oak casks before being transferred to specially selected Tokaji wine casks from Hungary for a finishing period
• Special techniques: Murray McDavid’s “Art of Maturation” approach, where cask selection is paramount, allowing the sweet, honeyed notes of the Tokaji wine to impart complexity without overwhelming the spirit’s character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Bright orchard fruits with honey, apricot jam, and baking spices. The Tokaji influence brings notes of sweet wine, botrytis, and delicate floral hints
• Palate: Rich and full-bodied with layers of vanilla custard, baked apple, honeysuckle, and candied ginger. The wine finish contributes a distinctive grape sweetness balanced with oak spice and hints of nutmeg
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering spice, dried fruits, and a pleasant vinous sweetness that gradually fades to leave subtle oak tannins

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat, though a few drops of water can open up additional complexity and soften the cask strength alcohol
• Food pairings: Pairs excellently with desserts featuring stone fruits, blue cheeses, or traditional Scottish shortbread

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 53.2% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Speyside
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Murray McDavid’s highly regarded Benchmark series, representing exceptional quality and innovative cask maturation

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Benriach 9-year-old represents a rare intersection of Scottish whisky tradition and Hungarian wine excellence, offering a flavor profile not found in standard distillery bottlings.

With only a limited number of bottles produced from this 2014 distillation, this expression represents a fleeting opportunity to experience a truly distinctive malt whisky innovation.

Murray McDavid’s reputation as masters of cask selection and finishing is on full display with this release, showcasing their authority in the art of whisky maturation.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts and collectors have consistently sought out Murray McDavid’s Benchmark series for their quality and distinctive character, making them highly coveted additions to any serious collection.

By choosing this Benriach expression, you join a discerning community of whisky aficionados who appreciate the subtle art of cask finishing and its transformative effect on fine spirits.

The marriage of Benriach’s distinctive distillery character with the exotic influence of Tokaji wine casks demonstrates why Murray McDavid remains at the forefront of innovative whisky maturation.

From Speyside and Hungary to You

Each bottle represents not just a whisky but a cultural exchange, offering you the gift of experiencing two great European drink traditions expertly combined into one exceptional spirit.

The approachable yet complex character of this whisky makes it an ideal addition to moments of celebration or contemplation, whether shared with friends or savored in peaceful solitude.

As part of the family of whisky enthusiasts who appreciate craft and innovation, this Benriach 9-year-old invites you to discover the remarkable difference that thoughtful cask selection can make to an already excellent spirit.