Ben Nevis Traditional Peated Malt Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 46%

Most people connect peat smoke with Islay and salt water. Here it comes from inland, from bogs a long way from the sea, so the smoke turns drier and earthier than the medicinal version from the west coast.

The expert's description

Ben Nevis Traditional Peated Malt is a Single Highland Malt Scotch Whisky without an age statement, bottled at 46 %.

The distillery in Fort William produces both peated and unpeated spirit, and the peated part is only made in limited periods. This bottling is the standing expression of that style, combining the smoke with the weight and sweetness of the Ben Nevis spirit.

The smoke is clear but not dominant. It sits as a layer beneath the caramel and the spice rather than taking over the glass, which makes the bottling a different experience from the heavily peated whiskies of Islay.

Tasting notes

Nose

Delicate smoke making room for cream caramel and gingerbread. There is a light floral touch and honey notes as well, balancing the smoky character.

Palate

Mild smoke that quickly gives way to cream caramel and spiced gingerbread. Fruity shades of pear juice mix with traces of liquorice and earthy undertones.

Finish

Long and smooth with lightly creamy and smoky notes that linger on the tongue.

Specifications

Name: Ben Nevis Traditional Peated Malt
Distillery: Ben Nevis
Region/Country: Highland, Scotland
Type: Single Highland Malt Scotch Whisky
ABV: 46 %
Size: 70 CL
Edition: Traditional Peated Malt
EAN no.: 5026673000616

Flavour profile

Smoky · Creamy · Spiced · Fruity · Earthy

Did you know?

Ben Nevis ran peated production as early as the 1990s, long before smoky whisky from the mainland became common. Much of that early peated output disappeared into blends and never surfaced under the distillery own name.

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Frequently asked questions about Ben Nevis Traditional Peated Malt

How smoky is it?

Clearly, but not fiercely. The smoke is mild on the attack and quickly gives way to caramel and spice, where a heavy Islay whisky would hold on to the peat the whole way through.

What is the difference between Highland peat and Islay peat?

Islay peat is formed from seaweed and moss close to the sea and gives medicinal, iodine and salty notes. Inland peat from the Highland is more plant based and gives a drier, earthier smoke with a sweeter edge.

Is there an age statement?

No. The bottling is assembled from casks of different ages, and the distillery has chosen a consistent profile over a number. That is common for peated releases, where casks rarely mature alike.

Does it suit someone just starting with peated whisky?

Yes. The sweetness of the spirit makes the smoke easy to approach, and there is neither iodine nor tar to wrestle with. Pour it into a whisky glass and let it stand five minutes, and the smoke opens gently.

What should you eat with it?

Smoked fish, grilled meat or a cheese with some edge. The smoke meets the food halfway, and the caramel keeps it from drying out on the tongue.

Does Ben Nevis also make unpeated whisky?

Yes, by far the greater part of production is unpeated. The ten year old and Coire Leis are both unpeated, and the smoke is only made in limited periods each year.