The Balvenie – The Sweet Toast of American Oak 12 Year Old (75cl, 43%)

This is a 12 year old Speyside single malt from The Balvenie, made in Dufftown and bottled at 43%. It is Story No. 01, the first release in The Balvenie Stories range, launched in May 2019. The whisky first matured in ex-bourbon barrels, then was finished in virgin American oak barrels brought in from Kentucky and deep-toasted at The Balvenie Cooperage. The idea, from Kelsey McKechnie, was a fruitier, sweeter Balvenie. The nose is candied fruit, coconut and vanilla, with fudge, citrus, ginger and cinnamon. On the palate come candied orange and lemon peel, vanilla toffee, butterscotch and blossom honey. The finish is malty, with oak vanilla and a little spice.