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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Lovely bouquet. Smooth with a warmth with a honey and pear finish. Definitely an after dinner drink.
I really wanted to like this one but I’m struggling with it. I bought this 12 from the Balblair distillery having tasted other in the range whilst there. The 12 was my preference. The nose is fabulous. Complex, huge variety of textures and bouquets going on and yet in the mouth it’s both light and simple. The 46% contributes a significant heft to the taste but even adding a drop of water fails to expose those wonderful elements promised by the nose. The finish is semi-dry, not oily but quite long lasting. I hope this bottle gives a little more as I work through it.
Just tried this as a sample in the york whisky shop. As the others who have tried this one. Delicate, smooth and a gentle warmth to this. I agree with the use of term " milky tea finish". For the reasonable cost and a free nosing glass I bought one to enjoy over the weekend of our 23rd wedding anniversary.
I do miss the vintage releases from Balblair but to be fair they have done a decent job here and for those of us who like a range of whisky flavours this wouldn’t be out of place in any whisky cabinet. For me, it’s a start of the night whisky – quite delicate, well balanced and there’s nothing too challenging or overpowering but there is enough complexity to make it interesting. I totally understand why someone would say buy the Clynelish 14 instead but I would say buy them both as they are equally excellent whiskies despite being completely different.
Would recommend this as a after dinner drink. Honey hints with the earthy taste
