Benromach launches rare 1974 single cask

The Benromach Distillery Company has expanded its range with the launch of an “incredibly rare” single cask Scotch whisky distilled in 1974.

Benromach 1974 carries an RRP of £1,200

Aged for 41 years in a Sherry butt, Benromach 1974 dates back to a time before the Urquhart family brought the Speyside-based Benromach Distillery back into production in the 1990s.

The whisky is said to have a flavour of plump sultana, sharp green apple and zesty orange peel with underlying notes of beeswax polish, menthol and dark chocolate.

It is contained in a decanter with a bottleneck shaped like a copper pot still. The presentation box also reflects the copper stills as well as the grained wood of the original washbacks.

“Benromach 1974, cask number 1583, is incredibly rare, as very few casks of Benromach remain from that time,” said distillery manager Keith Cruickshank.

“This whisky has matured for many years in a single sherry butt and we have now decided to release it for savouring and enjoying today. For all of us at the distillery, this is a moment to be treasured.”

Former distiller Tom Anderson, who still lives in a cottage at the distillery, filled the casks in 1974, while former malt man and warehouseman Willie McArthur was responsible for tending to the casks.

Just 452 bottles of Benromach 1974 (49.1% abv) have been made available to international whisky retailers at an RRP of £1,200.