Whisky Review/Tasting: Ben Nevis 15 year old 1998

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: West Highland, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in a single sherry cask for 15 years, non-chill filtered
Age Statement: 15 years (Vintage 1998)
ABV: 56.1%
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but implied to be rich due to sherry cask maturation
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but includes a defect cork and is a single squared bottle, numbered 219 of 595

Balance of Flavors: Intense sherry character, with a balance between exotic fruits, spice, and a hint of chocolate
Unique Characteristics: The addition of water reveals hidden aromas and flavors, including a light licorice or oak taste in the aftertaste
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but first-fill sherry cask maturation is highlighted as a desirable trait for rich flavor

Anecdotes: The opportunity to taste this whisky arose from a defect cork, showcasing the natural imperfections in cork production
Trivia: One out of a thousand corks may have a defect that affects taste, but this particular bottle was unaffected

Historical Context: Ben Nevis is one of only two malt distilleries on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands, drawing production water from Scotland's highest mountain, Ben Nevis
Geographical Significance: The distillery's location and water source are emphasized as unique attributes contributing to the whisky's identity

"And they are wonderful. They are full, intense, a strong, sherry character in it."
"This is definitely a good one. It's quite expensive. But I think it's worth the money you spend for it."

Ben Nevis 15 year old 1998 is a single malt Scotch whisky, matured in a single sherry cask, with an ABV of 56.1%.
It features a rich flavor profile with a strong sherry influence, exotic fruits, spice, and hints of chocolate and licorice.
The whisky's story includes a unique tasting opportunity due to a defect cork, highlighting the natural imperfections in cork production.
Ben Nevis distillery's location and water source from Scotland's highest mountain add to the whisky's cultural and geographical significance.
Expert opinion deems the whisky as wonderful, intense, and worth the investment despite its high price.

Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the rich, intense flavors derived from first-fill sherry cask maturation.
Collectors: Those interested in unique, single cask expressions with limited bottling (219 of 595) and specific vintage (1998).
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: Connoisseurs looking for complex flavor profiles and willing to experiment with water addition to reveal hidden aromas.
Gift Seekers: Anyone looking to purchase a special, high-quality whisky as a gift, considering its uniqueness and price point.