In early 2019, Balblair's core range received a relaunch, eschewing the vintages that had previously adorned the bottles in favour of age statements! This is the entry level expression of the range, a 12 year old single malt matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and double-fired American oak casks. Though the vintages are gone, Balblair's whisky retains its marvellous creaminess and fruit-forward flavour profile.
Waxy peels, sponge cake, soft cedar earthiness and some nutmeg.
Juicy red apple and cooked pear, with layers of honey and barley developing.
Honey continues, with some milky tea and sultana notes for company.
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When I first tried this whisky I was underwhelmed, I put it back on the shelf and didn’t bother with it for at least 3 months. Having went back to it after some time I feel you get a better understanding of this malt. It comes across very simple at first, yet it’s complex and is a perfect example of what gave single malt its popularity. Malty, honeyed, slightly fruity and juicy. Some barley sugar and slightly creamy . An absolute steal at the current price point given the way the price of whisky is going. Give it time and learn to appreciate this one , even if you don’t after a first taste.
This delicious dram worth every penny!!!! I had whiskeys double the price and could not come even close to this one. Balblair distillery should be congratulated!!! Natural colour and no chilled filtration at 46%. What else do you need? If you know how to drink these beauties then this one is for you. For me near perfect.....cheers
Throw it down the drain? Really? No matter how disappointed I doubt any1 actually throws an aged spirit down the bog lol, none I've ever tasted have ever been undrinkable... Suggestions if you don't fancy drinking neat : 1) Use it as a base for your own individual home made blend (adding a touch of older Scotch can elevate a dissipointment so much, get creative). 2) Use in cocktails / long drinks (Manhattans, Whisky Sours, or with Cola). 3) Use for culinary purposes (fruit cake, mince pies, peppercorn sauce).
We have been drinking whisky for over 40 years and never thought there was such a wretched whisky out there. Harsh and very unpleasant finish. Absolutely no depth just alcohol and an unpleasant taste. The reviews giving high ratings are a mystery to us. Thought it maybe down to a temporary loss of taste, but followed it with a 15 year old Glenfarclass, which, reassuringly, was its usual perfection. Going down the drain !
Light apple juice in colour, and this is replicated on the nose - a massive stewed apple whack with a good dose of nose tingling citrus too, lemon peel and a tartness. Doesn't have any of the spiciness on the nose you might expect from a Highland, smells more like a Speyside with no hint of smoke or peat. On the first sip it's a mouth tingler, the apple bursts with the sensation of sherbet, not agressive in any way, but also not a gentle malt like Glenmorangie, it has some zing and pleasing sourness to it. No hint of toffee at all, this one is 100% fruity, makes a nice change - it's palette cleansing and refreshing. Adding a drop of water gives it a white wine feel, smells of grape mixed with the apple. The water also brings out the spice, gentle ginger warmth and a little pepper. The finish is a little short, the tart apple remains, and a touch of banana sweetness, not unlike the foam sweet bananas you had as a kid.
