Balvenie 12 years The Sweet Toast Of American Oak

Balvenie 12 Years The Sweet Toast of American Oak offers a playful and rich take on the use of new American oak in the world of Scottish single malts. The sweet influences of vanilla and toffee are beautifully combined with the fresh fruitiness and light spiciness typical of Balvenie. The result is a whisky that is both accessible and complex, beautifully highlighting the sweeter sides of Speyside whisky.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose immediately opens with a deliciously sweet aroma of vanilla and butterscotch, typical of the influence of new American oak. There are inviting notes of toffee, fresh cream, and a touch of warm honey. As the whisky breathes, light aromas of candied orange, creamy coconut and subtle hints of fresh apple and pear emerge. There is also a hint of light spiciness from cinnamon and nutmeg that provides a pleasing depth.

Taste

On the palate, this whisky is silky and full-bodied, with a creamy texture that fills the mouth completely. The sweet notes of vanilla, caramel and honey are beautifully balanced by the slightly spicy influences of the toasted oak. The palate is lively and fresh, with accents of tropical fruits such as pineapple and ripe peach, giving a playful character to the whisky. Underlying notes of oak, lightly toasted almonds, and a hint of butterscotch add layers of complexity.

Finish

The finish is medium-long and wonderfully warming, with lingering sweetness of vanilla and a slight woody dryness that refines the whole. A hint of candied orange peel and soft spices lingers, providing a pleasant aftertaste without bitterness. The finish ends with a subtle hint of cocoa, which is a nice counterpart to the sweeter notes of the whisky.

Balvenie Distillery

Balvenie Distillery is located in picturesque Dufftown, in the Speyside region of Scotland. Founded in 1892 by William Grant, Balvenie has a rich history of producing high-quality single malt whiskies. The distillery is unique in that it still uses traditional craft methods rarely seen elsewhere today.

A specific feature of Balvenie is that it carries out almost all steps of the whisky production process on its own premises. This includes growing barley on its own farm, malting it on its traditional malting floors, distilling it in copper pot stills and working its own casks in its cooperage. This dedication to craftsmanship ensures exceptional consistency and quality in their whiskies.

Balvenie whiskies are known for their rich, smooth and complex flavour profiles, with notes of honey, vanilla, fruit and a subtle spiciness. The whiskies are mainly matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, ensuring a deep and refined taste experience.

The combination of an idyllic location, traditional techniques and high-quality production makes Balvenie a prominent name in the world of Scotch whisky.