Hunter Laing 'Hepburns Choice' Ben Nevis 9 years

Score: 39

Hunter Laing’s Hepburn’s Choice Ben Nevis 9-Year-Old wasn’t just a misstep—it was shoe polish in a glass. The cask influence didn’t just fail to support the distillate; it hijacked the whole experience, turning what should have been a vibrant Highland malt into a harsh, bitter mess. There were glimpses of classic Ben Nevis—tropical fruit, malty richness—but they were quickly steamrolled by overwhelming varnish-like notes, dry wood, and aggressive tannins. The finish? Astringent, lingering in the worst way, with a sharp, chemical edge. An absolute dud. Avoid at all costs.