#3 Whiskey of the Year, Whiskey Advocate 2020. BenRiach, one of the most underrated distilleries in Scotland, is stepping into the spotlight with their revamped lineup. The new Smoky Twelve is a stunning display of classic Scottish goodness. It's packing abundant ripe apples and stone fruit, a chewy malty middle, and a lovely thread of peat smoke throughout that never overwhelms but adds grace and sophistication to each sip. A- from Drink Hacker: "Peated whisky, matured in bourbon, sherry, and Marsala wine casks. Restrained but mildly smoky on the nose, with hints of mint and some camphor. The smoke hits on the palate, with a buttercream base propping up notes of sweet apple pie, milk chocolate, and vanilla. There’s a hint of red fruit on the finish. My favorite of the lineup." (CN, 12-2020)