The launch of Benromach Heritage 1973 will see a very limited run of 52 bottles of the single malt being released by the firm.
Benromach 1973 (48.1% ABV), cask number 4606, is a dark golden malt, matured in a refill American hogshead, with hints of dark chocolate and a peppery smooth finish.
The rare Speyside single malt is presented in a decanter-style bottle – the contours of the neck and shoulder line sculpted to represent copper stills with a copper-coloured neck collar.
Presentation box
The wooden presentation box is inspired by the home of Benromach, including the copper of the stills in use today, as well as the dark, grained wood of the original washbacks and the white of the lime-washed distillery walls.
A book accompanies the whisky focusing on Benromach history and providing whisky fans with stories about the people behind the variant.
The spirit was distilled before the Urquhart family took the reins and brought Benromach Distillery back to life in 1998.
Cask filling
Former brewer Tom Anderson, who lives in a cottage at the distillery, witnessed the filling of the last casks at the old distillery before it was brought back to life – and has signed his name on the wall of the filling store. Former warehouse worker, Willie McArthur, was responsible for tending to the casks.
Distillery manager Keith Cruickshank said: “Benromach 1973 is very much a dram to be treasured. It was crafted with great care using many of the same skills and practices adopted at Benromach today.
“It’s been maturing for 42 years, but now is the time for whisky lovers to savour this precious single malt. I’m sure those who really take their whisky seriously will enjoy the chance to experience a little bit of Benromach history.”