Speyside stalwart Benriach has unveiled a striking new chapter in its long history with the release of “Shades of Smoke” — a 31‑year-old single malt that merges whisky craftsmanship with contemporary art. The expression comes from the 1994 vintage and is bottled at 48.1% ABV. What makes this release stand out is not just the venerable age, but the way it’s presented: each bottle carries a unique, digitally created label and box, the work of Italian‑Dominican artist Stefano Contiero, inspired by the whisky’s smoky‑fruity tasting profile. 
According to the master blender, the dram offers a refined balance of smoke and fruit — with tasting notes pointing to juniper smoke, yuzu, wildflower honey, mandarin, orange‑caramel, and lingering lemon‑ginger. The blending remains traditional in the glass, but packaging brings a modern, collectible dimension, underlining how whisky continues to evolve as both spirit and cultural artefact. 
At a time when many releases seem defined by novelty or age‑stated extremes, Benriach Shades of Smoke strikes an interesting line: a mature dram that appeals both to traditionalists and to collectors looking for something visually and conceptually distinct. It deserves attention not just as a liquid, but as a thoughtful statement about where premium Scotch can go in 2025.
