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8.8
Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%

Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%

Scotland Blended Scotch Whisky Score: 8.8/10

Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40% is a highly acclaimed Blended Scotch Whisky whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.8/10, it features distinctive notes of Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking blended scotch whisky expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Ballantine’s 21 Year Old is a refined and elegant blended Scotch whisky, offering a luxurious drinking experience with a rich history. As part of the Ballantine’s core range of premium blends, this expression features a mix of some of the finest aged malt and grain whiskies, matured for at least 21 years. The whisky is known for its smoothness, complexity, and balance, combining sweet, fruity notes with a subtle smokiness and the depth of oak. Bottled at 40% ABV, it’s an approachable whisky with a sophisticated profile, ideal for those who enjoy a well-crafted blend that delivers both richness and finesse.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of Ballantine’s 21 Year Old is rich, inviting, and well-rounded. The first impression is one of soft, honeyed sweetness, with notes of golden toffee, vanilla, and a light fruitiness, reminiscent of ripe apples and pears. Subtle dried fruit aromas—sultanas, raisins, and a hint of prunes—add depth and complexity. As the whisky opens up, there are gentle notes of oak spice, with touches of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a faint hint of leather. A light whiff of smoke emerges as the whisky breathes, adding a faint, earthy quality to the nose. The overall experience is smooth, sweet, and balanced, with a slight warmth from the oak and a touch of dried herbs, creating a welcoming and complex bouquet.
TASTE: On the palate, Ballantine’s 21 Year Old is smooth, full-bodied, and rich, with a perfect balance between sweetness and depth. The honeyed, toffee sweetness continues from the nose, joined by a creamy vanilla and caramel flavor that coats the mouth. The fruity notes—apples, pears, and dried fruits—remain present, adding a touch of freshness alongside the richer, sweeter flavors. The oak influence becomes more prominent on the palate, offering a layer of warm spice, including cinnamon and a touch of cloves. There’s a mild smokiness that adds an extra layer of complexity without overpowering the smoothness of the whisky. A light maltiness balances the sweetness, and there is a subtle, slightly nutty character that adds further depth.
FINISH: The finish of Ballantine’s 21 Year Old is long, smooth, and elegant. The sweetness from the toffee, vanilla, and dried fruit lingers gently on the palate, while the oak spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—continue to provide warmth. A faint smokiness remains in the background, slowly fading, and leaving behind a delicate, mellow aftertaste. The finish is well-balanced, with the sweetness of the fruit and toffee giving way to the earthy richness of the oak, leaving a lasting impression of smooth, refined complexity. The whisky’s elegant character lingers long after the final sip, making it a memorable and satisfying experience.

Flavor Profile

Apple Caramel Cinnamon Clove Dried Honey Leather Nutmeg Oak Oats Pear Prune Smoke Sultana Toffee Vanilla

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Frequently Asked Questions About Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%

What type of whiskey is Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%?

Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40% is a Blended Scotch Whisky whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%?

Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40%?

The flavor profile of Ballantine’s 21 year old, 40% features Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon, Clove, Dried. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.