The Balvenie PortWood 21 Years Old

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 26 by Michael Jackson and Dave Broom.

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Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Rich, creamy, malty. Palate The maltiness becomes creamy, then honeyed, then develops raisiny notes (Scottish black bun) and nutty dryness. A inviting, seductive dryness. Finish Bitter black chocolate. Comment This expression beautifully highlights the qualities of The Balvenie as a whisky that is full of rich flavours yet gentler and less robust than, for example, Glenfarclas or The Macallan.

Dave Broom Nose Elegance personified. Rich and soft with peach, fudge, red fruits (cherry especially) and a tiny cough of smoke. Sexy stuff. Palate Very soft and quite sweet: acacia honey, red fruit and a gorgeous silky feel. Finish Orange peel. Comment Finishing is all about striking a balance. Here, the port just nudges the spirit into a new space but never dominates. Classy.