Tasting the Benriach 17 Year Old from Fragrant Drops: A Rare Summer Delight
Hello and welcome to Another Dram Du Jour, where we delve into the world of unique, intriguing, and downright delicious drams. I’m Scott Wilson, and today we’re stepping into my whisky room for a special tasting—one that features a limited release from an independent bottler who’s quickly become a favourite of mine.
The bottle in question comes from Fragrant Drops, a name that’s fast earning a reputation among purveyors of fine, small-batch spirits. This particular release is a 17-year-old Benriach, distilled in 2007 and bottled just this year, in 2025. Matured in a refill ex-bourbon hogshead and with only 278 bottles available, it’s not a whisky you’re likely to come across often—so let’s savour this one.
First Impressions: Appearance and Aroma
In the glass, the Benriach 17 is surprisingly pale—very light in colour—but don’t let that fool you. The legs are long and strong, hinting at a viscous texture that promises a mouth-coating experience.
On the nose, this dram bursts with summer fruits—think fresh orchard notes mingled with soft sweetness. There’s honey, a gentle drizzle of toffee, and a juicy note of red apple that rounds things out beautifully.
But here’s where it gets interesting. As a member of a private tasting group called the Masters of Malt, I’ve shared many a dram with fellow enthusiasts. One of our members, Mark, often picks out strawberry notes in various whiskies—something I rarely detect. But this time? I’m with him. There’s an unmistakable whiff of strawberry here, like a sugar-dusted strawberry doughnut. Mark, this one’s coming with me to our next gathering!
It’s fresh, fruity, and sweet—a profile that invites you in. And at 47.3% ABV, there’s a slight tingle in the nostrils, just enough to let you know this isn’t pulling any punches.
The Palate: Fruit Forward and Full of Charm
Taking the first sip, I’m greeted with an elegant, fruit-laden experience. There’s a pleasant sharpness up front—apricot and pear, perhaps—but it quickly mellows into something softer and rounder, with notes of peach and melon bringing a gentle sweetness.
The mouthfeel is rich yet smooth, delivering a satisfying texture that is neither too heavy nor overwhelming. The finish is medium in length, with just enough persistence to leave you wanting more. It’s neither drying nor bitter—just a calm, clean close to a bright and fruity experience.
With Water: Sweetness Unlocked
Adding a few drops of water opens the whisky up even more. The fruit sweetness intensifies, reminding me of boiled sweets or even a sweet dessert wine—the kind you’d serve at the end of a summer supper.
On the finish, there’s now a subtle spice kick, like ginger or nutmeg, dancing lightly on the tongue. A warming note, perhaps even reminiscent of paper-thin ginger biscuits or a touch of spiced pear cake. It’s a lovely contrast to the bright fruits that dominate the nose and initial palate.
Final Thoughts: A Rare Treat Worth the Hunt
I’ve long been a fan of the Benriach distillery, and this independent bottling from Fragrant Drops is a shining example of why. A 17-year-old, refill bourbon cask-matured whisky, limited to just 278 bottles, it’s both refined and playful—a real treat for the senses.
I was lucky enough to receive this bottle as a gift (thank you again, David and Dougie), and it’s safe to say it’s earned a prized spot on my shelf. If you come across a bottle or even a dram, don’t hesitate. Grab it, savour it, and share it with good company.
