The Balvenie Islay Cask, 17 Years Old

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 18 by Michael Jackson and Dave Broom.

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Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson 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.

Dave Broom 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?