The Balvenie 25 Years Old

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 13 by Michael Jackson and Jim Murray.

Whisky Magazine is the perfect complement to the dram in your glass. Every issue brings you fascinating articles on the art, science and romance of the 'water of life', plus page after page of tasting notes.

• Issue 13 online • Buy issue 13 (£5.95)
• Subscribe to Whisky Magazine (from £28.38)
• Preview current issue (73) • Preview other issues online

Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Honey, the dark, liquid kind. Flowery. Acacia-like. Palate The honey is there in the first taste, then it lingers behind the other flavours. Lightly syrupy. Mirabelle plums. Oranges. Lively, lemony flavours, especially when water is added. A hint of clove. More peat than I remember. Finish Firm, tingly. Comment A very sophisticated malt. Beautifully combined flavours.

Jim Murray Nose Mouth-watering malt surrounded by an almost minty freshness. Some tired oak but beautifully couched. Palate Every bit as lively as the nose suggests; waves of intense malt but of varying sharpness. Finish Some oiliness appears, generating length to that fabulous malt and bitter chocolate. Comment A rare treat. A malt that, despite an obvious over oakiness retains a truly impressive complexity and charm.