Thalassa Whisky – Benrinnes 9 Year Old (Ex-Rum Cask) Review
Benrinnes has always stood slightly apart in Speyside. Known for its meaty, robust spirit—historically influenced by partial triple distillation and worm-tub condensers—the distillery produces a weighty new make that thrives in casks offering depth, sweetness and structure. It’s a character that lends itself beautifully to bold maturation styles, and this new Thalassa Whisky release is a thrilling example of what happens when Benrinnes meets maritime Dynamism.
Thalassa Whisky has become known for its Dynamic Ageing approach: a maturation technique where casks travel at sea, exposing the whisky to constant temperature fluctuations, salt-laden air, and gentle motion. This maritime agitation encourages increased wood interaction and micro-oxidation, accelerating the development of deeper flavours without rushing the whisky. Previous Thalassa releases on Dram1.com have shown how profoundly this process can shape a whisky’s identity, and this 9-year-old Benrinnes continues that tradition with striking confidence.
Finished in an ex-rum cask and bottled by Dam Dranken at a punchy 55.3%, this expression brings together Benrinnes’ muscular spirit and the sweetness of rum in a way that feels both natural and adventurous.
Stats
- Age: 9 years old
- ABV: 55.3% (110.6 proof)
- Distillery: Benrinnes
- Bottled by: Dam Dranken
- Chill-filtered: No
- Natural Colour: Yes
Tasting Notes Thalassa Whisky Benrinnes Rum Cask
Nose
Rum-soaked raisins lead the charge for this Thalassa Benrinnes Rum edition, followed by heavy syrup-drenched pancakes, soft slices of apple cake, and warm vanilla custard. As it opens, a whisper of old leather and a sprinkle of nutmeg add depth and maturity—an aromatic profile that feels older than its years.
Palate
Vibrant cherry popsicles and red peppers burst forward before giving way to richer tones of maple syrup and treacle. Beneath the sweetness lies a solid backbone of wood-driven flavours: heavy vanilla, hot cocoa, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. The star of the palate, however, is a striking ruby chocolate note that ties everything together with silky elegance.
Finish
Very long and warming, leaving lingering impressions of ruby chocolate, marzipan, mocha, espresso, dates, and raisins. A finish that refuses to fade quickly—and you won’t want it to.
Food Pairing
One of the most pairing-friendly Thalassa releases yet. Dark chocolate and caramel ice cream brings out the whisky’s cocoa depth, while peanut butter cups create a decadent sweet-salty contrast that works astonishingly well.
Verdict
Strengths
Bold and powerful, this whisky delivers full-on dark flavours that feel far older than its age statement. It is complex yet balanced, with a flavour profile one might expect from a whisky three times its age. The Dynamic Ageing influence seems to intensify the rum cask’s impact, resulting in a dram that is immersive from the first sniff to the final lingering finish.
Weaknesses
Its youth shows slightly through an alcoholic bite, but this is a minor imperfection in an otherwise impressive whisky—and one that water or time in the glass will easily tame.
