ABV 43%
Cheaper than buying a distillery on Islay but what's next? Speyside finished Caol Ila or a cask aged in every region?
Dave Broom
The Balvenie
Brand
Islay Cask, 17 Years Old
Expression
Single Malt
Type
17
Age (Years)
43%
ABV
Scotland
Region/Country
Standard (Distillery or blended)
Bottling Type
Taster
Nose: Well rounded. Honey and cream with some sultana and light phenolic notes.
Palate: An immediate sootiness. Soft, dessert like with a dry smouldering border. Lovely, if a bit schizoid.
Finish: Gentle with teasing smokiness.
Comment: Cheaper than buying a distillery on Islay but what's next? Speyside finished Caol Ila or a cask aged in every region?
Score: 7.8
Taster
Nose: Garden bonfires, or perhaps steam trains. A picnic in the park? After a number of nosings, there's seaweed and salt. Make that a picnic on the cliffs.
Palate: Honey. Sugar glazing and caramelising slightly. Nuts. A touch of candied orange peel. Lemon.
Finish: Fresh. Fragrantly smoky.
Comment: Reminiscent of the days when Speysiders were peatier.
Score: 9
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