Light golden in colour and begging to be loved!
I’m a huge fan of whiskies matured in ex Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and was SO delighted to be gifted this for appearing on The Whisky Club podcast. In retrospect my decision to “crack it and share it” on air was generous but foolish as it’s such a special dram!
The nose was a bit lighter than I expected but plummy with a gentle woody hint and a delicate suggestion of cloves.
As this dram is 48.7% abv I expected a punch in the throat, but it was mellower than expected and with a much less powerful mouthfeel than I’d hoped. There was however elements of dark chocolate, more plums and the nip of fresh ginger.
The finish wasn’t as long as I’d hoped, but not short either, and suggested Borders Dark Chocolate Ginger biscuits, caramel and, as it fades, subtle hints of Grand Marnier.
I’m a huge Balvenie fan and, whilst this wasn’t a disappointment by any means, I’m not sure it can justify the price tag. If you can however, then you’ll enjoy a distinct and complex dram.
Thanks to www.whiskyclubcomps.com for the gift and I look forward to future podcasts.