Whisky Ben Nevis 9 ans 2016 1st Fill Montravel Hogshead Signatory Vintage

The Ben Nevis 9 Year Old 2016 First Fill Montravel Hogshead from Signatory Vintage is an original expression from this sturdy Highland distillery, matured in a rare hogshead that previously held a dry white wine from the Bergeracois region, bringing unexpected fruity finesse to Ben Nevis's robust character.

A bottling presented by Signatory Vintage, one of Scotland's most respected independent bottlers, distilled at Ben Nevis in 2016 and aged nine years in first fill Montravel hogshead. Bottled without added colour or chill filtration. Ben Nevis remains one of the most sturdy and structured distilleries in the Highlands, nestled at the foot of Britain's highest peak, and this Montravel hogshead selection continues Signatory Vintage's most daring bottling programme.

Ageing and provenance

Matured exclusively in first fill Montravel hogshead, this single malt marries the fleshy, waxy power characteristic of Ben Nevis with the fruity finesse and subtle acidity of a dry white wine from south west France. The Montravel appellation, a satellite of the Bergeracois producing dry whites based on Semillon and Sauvignon, brings notes of stone fruit, subtle minerality and refreshing acidity to the robust Highland style, balancing the distillery's natural fatty texture with unexpected fruity elegance. Located in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, the distillery was founded in 1825 and shares its name with Britain's highest mountain.

Tasting profile

On the nose, stone fruit notes (pear, peach and apricot) mingle with generous beeswax, subtle fruity acidity inherited from the Montravel ageing and a hint of floral honey. Beneath these aromatic layers, Ben Nevis's fleshy and oily character emerges, carried by subtle notes of vanilla and fresh wood. A touch of white pepper and mineral character add further complexity, a direct echo of the dry white wine maturation. On the palate, the whisky is dense and fruity, balancing waxy power with delicate refreshing acidity. The palate reveals notes of ripe pear, honey, sweet spice and subtle fruity bitterness that structure the whole. The finish is long and fruity, with lingering stone fruit and persistent wax notes.

The producer

Signatory Vintage is one of Scotland's most respected and prolific independent bottlers, recognised for its ability to select exceptional casks from the country's greatest distilleries. Its bottlings in casks from south west French wines reflect a consistent desire to explore original pairings between Scottish malt and uncommon finishes, revealing unexpected facets of distilleries with assertive characters.

Tasting and food pairing

This Ben Nevis 9 Year Old First Fill Montravel Hogshead is best enjoyed neat in a tulip glass at room temperature to fully appreciate the balance between waxy power and fruity finesse from the Montravel ageing. A few drops of pure water will further reveal stone fruit notes and the subtle minerality of the cask. It pairs beautifully with herb roasted poultry, aged goat's cheese, a white fruit tart or semi cooked foie gras, whose richness responds wonderfully to the fruity sweetness and fleshy texture characteristic of this expression.