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8.3

The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%

Name: The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%
Brand: The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 8.3/10

The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43% is a well-regarded Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.3/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Biscuit. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

The Balvenie New Wood 17 Year Old is an exceptional single malt Scotch whisky that showcases the unique craftsmanship of Balvenie Distillery. This expression is part of their experimental range and is matured in traditional oak casks before being transferred to new American oak casks, which imparts a distinctive influence. The 17 years of aging in a combination of cask types has created a whisky that offers a rich depth of flavor, balancing the classic Balvenie honeyed sweetness with the vibrant spiciness and vanilla notes from the new oak. Bottled at 43% ABV, it provides a smooth yet flavorful drinking experience that highlights the innovative aging process.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: On the nose, The Balvenie New Wood 17 Year Old presents a warm and inviting aroma. Initially, there's a wave of vanilla sweetness that comes from the new oak influence, along with a distinct honeyed richness typical of Balvenie. The maltiness is evident, providing a solid backbone, and there's a delicate fruitiness in the background, with notes of ripe apples, pears, and a hint of dried apricot. The American oak adds a layer of spice, with touches of cinnamon, clove, and even a light pepperiness. As the whisky opens up, there’s a subtle nutty character, reminiscent of toasted almonds or hazelnuts, which further enriches the nose. The overall effect is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and fruity notes.

TASTE: On the palate, The Balvenie New Wood 17 Year Old is rich and smooth, with a creamy texture that coats the mouth. The vanilla sweetness from the oak is prominent, balanced beautifully by the signature honeyed notes of Balvenie. As you continue to sip, the fruitiness becomes more pronounced, with juicy apples, ripe pears, and a touch of citrus zest providing a fresh contrast to the sweetness. The influence of the new oak is felt here as well, with a gentle spiciness and a slightly toasted, woody character that adds complexity. There’s a hint of caramelized sugar and toffee, deepening the sweetness, while subtle floral notes of lavender and heather emerge towards the middle. The malt character is still very much present, lending a biscuity, slightly malty flavor that ties everything together.

FINISH: The finish is long and satisfying, with the sweetness from the honey and vanilla lingering, joined by the soft spice from the oak. The fruit notes remain in the background, and a delicate woodiness becomes more pronounced, offering a gentle, dry note that balances the earlier sweetness. The spiciness from the oak adds a pleasant warmth that lingers on the palate. The finish is elegant and rounded, with just enough complexity to leave you wanting another sip. The Balvenie New Wood 17 Year Old offers a beautifully balanced and complex whisky, with the influence of new oak providing an intriguing twist on the classic Balvenie character. The honeyed sweetness, combined with the vanilla, fruit, and spice, creates a well-rounded and satisfying experience. This expression is perfect for those who enjoy a whisky with both elegance and depth, and it would be ideal for sipping neat or with a touch of water to enhance the layers of flavor.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Biscuit Caramel Cinnamon Clove Dried Hazelnut Heather Honey Lavender Oak Oats Pear Pepper Toast Toffee Vanilla Zest

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%

What type of whiskey is The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%?

The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%?

For the best tasting experience, pour The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43% 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 The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%?

The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43%?

The flavor profile of The Balvenie New Wood 17 year old, 43% features Almond, Apple, Biscuit, Caramel, Cinnamon. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that appeals to a wide range of whiskey lovers.

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