The 2017 (and third) release of this esteemed bottling from highland distillery Balblair.
This edition follows the distillery’s practice of bottling by vintage rather than age statement, though it is around 18 years old.
A really delicious proposition, the spirit has been aged in a mixture of American oak, former Bourbon barrels, and ex-sherry butts.
The result is a precise, sharp whisky with plenty of classic Highland spice and warmth. Drinkers can expect flavours of rum-soaked raisins, caramel, citrus peel, cinnamon, ginger, clove and anise, rich oak, vanilla custard and heather honey.
Bottled at 46% ABV, and without chill filtration or artificial colouration, this is a satisfying, fully bodied dram.
Really nice smooth scotch. However, it needs just a drop or two of water. It has just a bit of an oily texture which I like in a scotch. It has good balance between the bourbon and sherry casks. Good for after dinner.