Murray McDavid·BenchmarkGlenAllachie

This Speyside single malt was distilled in 2014 and bottled at 9 years old by independent bottler Murray McDavid as a single cask release. It was matured in a Pedro Ximenez sherry cask, a style of oak often associated with richer, sweeter whisky character.

For a novice drinker, that usually suggests a fuller style with notes leaning toward dried fruit, sweetness, and spice rather than a light or delicate profile. At 54.4% ABV, it is likely to be concentrated and robust, so a small splash of water may help open it up.