BEN NEVIS 2018 Wine Casks Burgundy 2nd fill Hogshead

Distilled in 2018 and matured for six years, this Ben Nevis single malt is part of a Wine Cask range, showcasing a distinctive ageing period in Burgundy red wine casks before being bottled at 46% ABV.

Wine cask maturation remains a relatively niche approach in Scotch whisky, and when done well, it highlights the fascinating parallels between the worlds of whisky and wine. In this expression, the influence of Burgundy red wine casks brings an expressive fruit-driven profile, layering vibrancy and structure onto Ben Nevis’ robust Highland spirit. The result is a whisky that feels both lively and unconventional, offering a fresh lens through which to experience the distillery’s character.

This bottling stands out for its atypical profile, appealing equally to curious newcomers and seasoned drinkers seeking something beyond classic sherry or bourbon cask maturation.

Located at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis Distillery is one of Scotland’s most storied Highland producers. Founded in 1825, it has long been known for producing a muscular yet nuanced spirit capable of ageing gracefully in a variety of cask types.

In 1955, under the ownership of Joseph W. Hobbs, Ben Nevis became one of the very few Scottish distilleries to operate both traditional pot stills and a Coffey-style column still—a rare and forward-thinking setup at the time. The distillery later changed hands to Long John Distillers in 1981, after which the Coffey stills were dismantled.

Ben Nevis experienced several periods of mothballing during the late 1970s and 1980s before being acquired by the Japanese group Nikka in 1989, under whose stewardship it continues to operate today. While the distillery is best known for whiskies matured predominantly in ex-sherry casks, recent independent releases—such as this wine cask-matured expression—highlight its versatility and enduring appeal.