Benrinnes 21 Years Grand Crescendo - Diageo Special Releases (2024)
Once again, the new Diageo Special Releases are here – this time under the name Grand Crescendo. As always, expectations are high, especially given the hefty price tag that accompanies these limited editions year after year. This time, the spotlight is on a 21-years Benrinnes from Speyside – a distillery cherished by insiders but rarely highlighted in such a prominent way. A good reason to take a closer look at this single malt.
The panel
Mean 88.5 · spread 3
Value for money 0/5
- Distillery
- Benrinnes
- Type
- Single Malt
- Region
- Speyside
- Country
- Scotland
- Age
- 21 years
- Strength
- 55.4% ABV
- Character
- rich
Tasting
Nose
The aromas are powerful from the start. A vibrant fruit basket emerges with distinct notes of peach, mango, and berries – exotic, sweet, and inviting. Marzipan and a hint of caramel add depth, while tobacco leaves introduce a spicy edge. Despite the 55.4% ABV, everything is well integrated and aromatically precise.
Palate
As expected: full-bodied and intense. The initial impression is bold, almost explosive – a true flavor journey. Sweet fruit pairs with elegant yet noticeable oak spice. A tangy orange note adds freshness, complemented by hints of strawberry and a nutty element reminiscent of hazelnut. A slight dryness rounds out the mouthfeel.
Finish
The finish is long, robust, and notably astringent. Menthol brings a cooling freshness, while strong oak notes and leather add structure. Walnuts leave a slightly bitter, nutty final note. A finish that lingers – and challenges.
Verdicts
Marcel
This Benrinnes 21 Grand Crescendo is a true Speyside rocker: powerful, multi-layered, and full of character. Despite its hefty price tag, it impresses with pure drinking pleasure and an exciting variety of aromas that leave you wanting more – but you really should savor each sip, not just stash it on the shelf.
Sascha
A technically impressive single malt with a pronounced balance between intense fruitiness, elegant oak spice, and a long, structured finish. The Benrinnes 21 demonstrates how precisely matured whisky can be crafted, though its price feels a bit ambitious for everyday enjoyment.
What it is worth
We do not yet hold bottle-level auction results — that sits behind Whisky Hunter’s authenticated feed. What follows is the market for Benrinnes as a whole, which sets the weather for this bottling without pricing it.
Latest mean bid £106 across 100 lots · 2024-08