Welcome, fellow whisky enthusiasts, to another instalment of Dram Du Jour’s tasting room. Today we’re going to dive into something a bit different – The Balvenie Week of Peat, a 17-year-old expression that offers a unique twist to the classic Speyside profile.
Week of Peat
The back story of this interesting whisky takes us back to 2002 when the distillery manager, Ian Miller, had a trip to Islay. Inspired by the distinct character of Islay whiskies, he decided to experiment during a week of no production at Balvenie. The result? A peated whisky, produced just one week a year, aptly named the “Week of Peat.”
17 Years Old
The version we’re tasting today is the 17-year-old Week of Peat, a generous gift from my friend Ross. A glance at the golden hue promises a lush and indulgent experience.
First Impressions
Pouring into the glass, I first note the viscosity – it suggests an oily, full-bodied whisky, a notion supported by the peat’s medicinal, bandage-like aromas. The smell is rich, floral, and sweet, with a hint of citrus – but a mellow, candied fruit kind of citrus. There’s also a dash of malt and a fudgy, tablet-like sweetness lingering at the end.
Taste and Mouthfeel
The taste confirms the promise of the nose. It’s a magnificent experience, coating the entirety of the mouth without overpowering. The peat is mellow, and surprisingly, the palate is sweet. The whisky dries off with remarkable notes of vanilla and oak, harmoniously balanced. The finish is powerful, hinting at a high alcohol content – it’s 49.4% ABV, but the strength doesn’t punch you in the throat, it’s rather pleasant.
The aftertaste lingers, full-bodied and smoky, but the overwhelming finish takes me back to a homey kitchen scene – simmering fruits in a saucepan on a stove. It’s a comforting taste, laced with vanilla and a kick of festive cinnamon.
Adding Water
I rarely drink whisky neat, but this one calls for an exception. Adding water to it opens up more flavors – the smoke is still there but fainter. Now, the vanilla and sweet fudge notes take center stage, coupled with a maltiness that reminds me of Ovaltine.
Despite my initial hesitations about peated whisky, my taste evolved over time, and I’ve grown to appreciate its complexity and depth. This Balvenie Week of Peat, 17-Year-Old is a testament to this evolution. It’s a whisky that can convert even the most peat-wary among us into enthusiasts.
Overall
So, don’t let the word ‘peat’ on the label intimidate you. It’s an invitation to a unique, well-rounded experience that offers so much more than what meets the eye – or in this case, the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or an enthusiastic novice, the Balvenie Week of Peat is a charming addition to your whisky journey.
Slainje!