Balvenie – 18 Year Old French Oak Pineau Cask (70cl)

This is an 18 year old Speyside single malt Scotch whisky from Balvenie, in a 70cl bottle. It began its maturation in American oak barrels and then spent eight years finishing in French oak casks that previously held Pineau des Charentes, a fortified French wine. The nose is typically described as honey and vanilla with fresh apple and pear. On the palate come citrus zest, dried fruits, ginger and nutmeg, with a silky, rich texture. The finish is sweet grapefruit and soft, lingering warmth.