The 25yo Authenticus was the pinnacle of the peated BenRiach range after it replacedthe 21yo Authenticus in 2012. Those were the days of Billy Walker and his two South African business partners though, and since the sale of the distillery these releases have been discontinued and are rarities. Non-chillfiltered, naturally coloured and bottled at 46%.

Nose:Ripe pineapple, fresh herbs and a profusion of sweet peat. A pungent blast of ashy peat smoke.

Palate:Full bodied and audacious. A fantastic fusion of rich peat and smouldering embers bound together by fresh herbs – oregano, aniseed and chicory in particular.

Finish:A rush of sweet, wild honey provides a lovely contrast to this lively, intense expression.