Ballantines Finest whisky was Jim Murray's No Age Statement Blend of the Year with a whopping 96 points! The critic seems to have a real penchant for the brand, awarding the 17 year old expression a similar score. Ballantines Finest is a great all-rounder - easy-going and very flavoursome. A classic blend.
Expressive, crisp barley sugars. Touch of wood smoke, toffee.
Rich and sweet. Barley and caramel, very gentle peat.
Soft and sweet, fudge.
Was: £65.49Now: £46.76
This whisky is nice and smooth, and not has harsh as most others. I enjoy it on the rocks, and it’s soon become my favourite. I think this would be a great starter whisky too, as the harshness and smokiness of big brands can be too overwhelming. A very pleasant drink
Good blend, enjoyable, but probably good as a mixer. At its price point, it is hard to talk about faults.
Surprisingly crisp and flavoursome for the price. To my tastes, better drunk neat, on the rocks or with a drop of decent spring water. As a mixer, I think Johnnie Walker Red Label might have the edge, as the more subtle taste of Ballantines can be drowned out by whatever you're mixing it with.
I have enjoyed this whisky for some years. Very smooth dram. Excellent value. Just opened a bottle tonight (27/8/23) and there is a deeper flavour and a hint of smoke. Still silky smooth, but with more character. I like the old style, the new style is better. Lovely job.
Cool enjoy
