Balvenie 12 Year Old Sweet Toast of American Oak - The Balvenie (Single Malt Scotch Whisky)
ABV: 43% | Origin: Speyside, Scotland

This innovative release from The Balvenie is part of their Stories collection, crafted by Apprentice Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie in collaboration with Master Blender David C. Stewart MBE. It represents a unique exploration of double-wood aging using custom-toasted American oak barrels.

Tasting Profile:

• Nose: Luscious vanilla, gentle citrus, candied ginger, toasted coconut
• Palate: Sweet honey, fresh oak spice, vanilla custard, soft citrus notes
• Finish: Long and sweet with lingering vanilla, gentle spices, and toasted oak

Production Details:

• Distillation method: Traditional copper pot stills
• Cask type(s): Traditional American oak followed by heavily toasted virgin American oak barrels
• Special processes: Double maturation with custom toasting profile for second casks

Perfect For:

• This expression is ideal for those who appreciate innovation in traditional whisky-making.
• Perfect for both newcomers to single malts and experienced whisky enthusiasts interested in exploring the effects of different wood treatments on whisky maturation.

Expert Notes:

• Highly acclaimed for its innovative approach to cask finishing.
• Received multiple gold medals at international spirits competitions for its unique flavor profile and masterful execution.

Customer Reviews:

• "The vanilla notes are incredible - unlike any Balvenie I've tried before." - James M. ★★★★★
• "Sweet but not overwhelming. A beautiful evolution of the classic Balvenie style." - Sarah K. ★★★★½
• "The toasted oak influence is perfectly balanced. Exceptional dram." - Robert P. ★★★★★

Interesting Fact:

• The virgin oak casks used for this expression undergo a unique proprietary toasting process developed specifically for this whisky, with each barrel carefully monitored to achieve the perfect level of caramelization.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy neat in a tulip-shaped glass at room temperature
• Add a few drops of spring water to develop the sweeter notes
• Try paired with vanilla-based desserts to complement the whisky's profile

The Balvenie Distillery:

• Founded in 1892 in Dufftown, The Balvenie maintains its traditional hands-on approach to whisky-making, including growing their own barley and maintaining an on-site cooperage.
• They remain one of the few distilleries to still operate a working floor maltings.