Benriach Smoke Season Scotch Whisky
Benriach Smoke Season Scotch Whisky is the Speyside distillery's peatiest release to date — a 52.8% ABV (105.6-proof) single malt distilled at a full 45ppm during BenRiach's annual seasonal peated production run, the tradition revived more than 50 years ago. Two-cask matured in first-fill bourbon barrels plus a high proportion of charred and toasted American virgin oak, bottled at natural color and non-chill filtered. Available in 750mL — order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 52.8% (105.6 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: No age statement
- Peat: 45ppm — intensely peated
- Casks: First-fill bourbon barrels + charred/toasted American virgin oak
- Style: Natural color, non-chill filtered
- Origin: Speyside, Scotland — The BenRiach (est. 1898)
Peat Season at BenRiach
Every year, BenRiach runs a seasonal peated production — "Smoke Season" — and the 2021 edition bottled that spirit at full intensity. Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie built it around a heavy virgin-oak influence to stand up to the smoke. For the unpeated counterpoint from the same distillery, see the Benriach Malting Season, or explore the full Benriach range.
Tasting Notes
Burnished gold. Caramel smoke, oak spice, and citrus peel on the nose; the palate brings smoked dark vanilla, seared apple, and cinnamon, with lingering charred orange into a sweet, smoky finish. Smoke level: intense (official distillery notes).
How to Enjoy
Neat with a splash of water to open the smoke, or in a bold smoky cocktail. Pair with dark chocolate or grilled meats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BenRiach Smoke Season?
An intensely peated (45ppm) single malt Scotch whisky from BenRiach in Speyside, matured in bourbon and virgin oak casks and bottled at 52.8% ABV.
Is it an age-stated whisky?
No — Smoke Season carries no age statement.
How peaty is it?
Distilled at 45ppm, it was the peatiest expression BenRiach had released to date.
What is the ABV?
52.8% ABV (105.6 proof).
For peat lovers, nothing in the BenRiach range goes further — order Benriach Smoke Season Scotch Whisky online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.