Benrinnes 2011 (bottled 2022), Wilson & Morgan – Barrel Selection (PX Finish), 46%

Introduction

Benrinnes 2011 from Wilson & Morgan represents a beautiful marriage between a historic Speyside distillery and one of Italy’s most respected independent bottlers, capturing the essence of Scottish whisky tradition with a Mediterranean flair.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Malted Scottish barley sourced from the fertile fields surrounding the Speyside region, combined with the pristine waters from the Scurran and Rowantree burns that flow from Ben Rinnes mountain
• Distillation process: Distilled in Benrinnes’ traditional copper pot stills using their distinctive partial triple distillation method which contributes to the spirit’s robust character
• Maturation: Initial maturation in bourbon oak casks for approximately 9-10 years, followed by a finishing period in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks from southern Spain
• Special techniques: Bottled at 46% without chill-filtration to preserve the whisky’s natural oils and complex flavor compounds, allowing for maximum expression of character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich dried fruits, sultanas and raisins from the PX influence, complemented by vanilla, toffee and subtle malty notes with a hint of baking spices
• Palate: Velvety mouthfeel with sweet honeyed malt, dark chocolate, stewed plums, cinnamon, and nutmeg, balanced by oak tannins and a touch of espresso
• Finish: Medium to long finish with lingering sweet sherry influences, dried fruit, gentle spice warmth, and subtle toasted oak notes

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up additional flavor dimensions
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate desserts, dried fruit and nut selections, aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, or simply savor alone as a contemplative after-dinner dram

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Speyside
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Wilson & Morgan’s renowned Barrel Selection series, recognized for their exceptional cask selection expertise

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Benrinnes 2011 represents a masterful expression of one of Speyside’s most distinctive distilleries, known for its meaty, complex spirit character, now enhanced through the perfect PX sherry finish.

As a limited edition bottling from Wilson & Morgan, each bottle represents one of a finite number of casks selected for this special release, making it increasingly difficult to obtain as supplies diminish.

Endorsed by whisky experts for its exceptional quality-to-value ratio, this bottling demonstrates Wilson & Morgan’s decades of expertise in selecting only the finest casks worthy of their Barrel Selection designation.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Discerning whisky collectors and enthusiasts regularly seek out Wilson & Morgan bottlings for their consistent quality and thoughtful cask selection, with their Benrinnes expressions being particularly prized.

By adding this bottle to your collection, you’re joining a community of whisky aficionados who recognize the value of independently bottled expressions that highlight a distillery’s true character.

The appreciation for these limited bottlings continues to grow within the global whisky community, where Wilson & Morgan has established a reputation for releasing only the most interesting and characterful expressions.

From Speyside to Your Glass

In offering this exceptional Benrinnes, Wilson & Morgan shares the fruits of their decades-long relationships with Scotland’s finest distilleries and most respected cask suppliers.

The approachable character of this whisky, with its perfect balance of distillery character and sherry influence, makes it both an excellent introduction to independent bottlings and a worthy addition to any connoisseur’s collection.

Whether you’re a longtime Benrinnes enthusiast or discovering this hidden gem of Speyside for the first time, this bottling invites you to be part of a tradition of whisky appreciation that spans generations – experience this remarkable dram today while supplies last.