In the early 1970s, Benriach broke convention in Speyside by returning to distilling batches of whisky in the old, 19th century style, using malted barley smoked with Highland peat. This wood rich Highland peat imparts distinctly sweet and smoky notes into Benriach peated whiskies. Benriach Smoky Quarter Cask has been crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit; first matured in bourbon barrels, then undergoing a second maturation in bespoke quarter casks. These smaller quarter casks allow more interaction between the wood and the spirit, intensifying maturation for depth and richness of flavour, to create layers of ripe fruit, fresh wood smoke and spiced vanilla, with finishing notes of mellow smoke and nutty oak. All in perfect balance. Taste: Smoked nectarine, peppered malt and creamy vanilla, with finishing notes of mellow smoke and nutty oak. Aroma: Woodsmoke, pear and freshly kilned malt.