I have reviewed quite some Ben Nevises on this blog already (seven!), and as can be seen from the results it often — but not always — hits a special spot with my preferences, earning a ❤️ on three occations. I have longed to own a full bottle of an outstanding BN in the 20+ year old range for some time, but pretty much reconciled myself to the idea that it’s always going to be too expensive (in the €300 range) to take a chance on given that my full satisfaction is not guaranteed from any old cask. But then a 24yo BN in a refill bourbon cask appear at my go-to online retailer Brühler Whiskyhaus as their own independent bottling, for “just” €187.90. I’ve only tried one of Marco’s bottling (a 26yo Glen Keith, review pending), and that was OK but a bit disappointing, which is also the general impression I get from whiskybase regarding most of his recent bottlings that also tend to be finished in various heavy cask types. But on paper this one looked so promising. Refill bourbon is the *perfect* kind of cask for an older BN. In my opinion 50% is the sweet spot ABV for whisky. Not so strong it has to be diluted, but strong enough that it can be. So I decided to take a hedged chance: I got the 10cl sample bottle (€27.90), and a full 70cl bottle that I could sell on if my hopes were dashed. What will it be?
Ben Nevis| 24yo (bott. 2023) | 50.3% | Brühler Whiskyhaus
🌐
🪵
🔆
💲
🔗
Scotch single malt
refill bourbon hogshead
unchillfiltered & natural color
sold out, retailed at €187.90 (70cl), €27.90 (10cl)
First impression
⚡Experience
Fruity, fruity, fruity. Strawberry, black currant, tropical fruit, red apple skins, wine gums of assorted flavours. Floral impressions too (hibiscus?). Just slightly farmy, cheesy, and a little dusty, with a streak of tar. The expected cream and vanilla of the bourbon casks is there, but doesn’t overshadow the more interesting aromas. Overall, not deviating from my expectations of a good Ben Nevis nose — a nose which the palate confirms. It’s a thick and fruity, a syrupy delight, with some smoky and savoury notes, like a mix of old cheese, overripe tropical fruits, and lightly smoked ham. A great dessert plate! A bitterness creeps in with the finish, but it actually helps hold the boldness of the palate together, like the bitter in a good cocktail. Nothing is off, this is just a great Ben Nevis.
💡Thoughts
Brilliant. Couldn’t ask for more, really. It’s maybe not one of the drams that’ll be remembered for the rest of one’s life, but it’s pretty darn good.
Reading the chatter in whiskybase after I formed my own impressions, many people seem to think this is one of or the best bottling from BWH in recent year. And by rating, it’s in the Top 10 ever, and the mark currently lies at 89.56 with 37 votes. At the end of the day, only my own impression really matters, but it feels nice that the bottle I took a deliberated chance on was one many people agree was a standout! I will slowly enjoy the rest of my sample bottle in the coming months, and save the full bottle for a future special occasion.
Worthwhile and Enjoyable
Personal Favourite
DuckDrams 
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