Grassy & Floral | Flavour: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Single Malt Scotch Whisky with grassy and floral notes offers a delicate and refreshing experience, reminiscent of Scotland's lush landscapes. These whiskies are celebrated for their light, vibrant character, weaving together the fresh, herbaceous essence of green fields with the subtle, aromatic bouquets of wildflowers. The interplay of grassy and floral elements creates a harmonious and nuanced palate, often accompanied by hints of fruit, honey, or a light touch of oak. Ideal for those who appreciate a gentle and sophisticated dram, these whiskies embody the elegance and tranquility of Scotland's natural beauty.
Joining the esteemed Ultimate Range of the distillery, Ardbeg Wee Beastie emerges as the newest permanent member. Though it's a mere five years old, do not be deceived by its age. Wee Beastie lives up to its name, presenting itself as a spirited and fiery delight packed with a punch of unmatched flavor.
Its authenticity is preserved through a non-chill filtered process, ensuring every sip retains the whisky's true essence. Aged in both ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, it inherits whispers from each, blending the casks' histories and characteristics into a vibrant tapestry of taste. This young malt may be a "Wee Beastie," but it roars with the heart of a lion.
Tasting Note by ArdbegNose: Fresh herbal notes, with creeping hints of vanilla and pear. Rich Turkish coffee mingles with sappy pine resin, with honey-glazed ham lurking in the background. With water, more herbal top notes like vetiver and fennel captivate and pull you in, while beguiling scents of aniseed, green apple and leather cause you to drop your guard. Out of nowhere, a sharp tang of smoke and a crack of fresh black pepper fire warning shots across the senses.Palate: Suddenly, a rich, explosive mouthfeel bursts forth with chocolate, creosote and tar. A powerful blast of eucalyptus thrashes about with antiseptic lozenges and aniseed. The raw, smoky intensity gathers pace, before smoked bacon and savoury meats sink into the palate.Finish: The long, salty mouthcoating finish retreats, with hints of cocoa and fudge slinking slowly away.
Driven by a desire to explore new dimensions within The Balvenie's flavor profile, distillery manager Ian Millar drew inspiration from a recent visit to Islay. He ordered a batch of Speyside peat for the kiln, marking a significant departure from the distillery's traditional methods. During one week each year, The Balvenie distills a batch of peated malt, resulting in a whisky enriched with honeyed, vanilla, and citrus notes, adorned with an intriguing layer of delicate smokiness.
The Balvenie Distillery finds its essence in the stories shared from one generation of craftsmen to the next. The Balvenie Stories collection, comprising three unique whiskies, pays homage to these tales of character, determination, and craftsmanship.
Each whisky brought to life by The Balvenie encapsulates a human narrative, evolving in tandem with its protagonists and revealing unforeseen twists as it matures over the years. It's a celebration of the enduring craft and heritage embodied by The Balvenie.
Tasting Note by Balvenie:Nose: Gentle sweet peat smoke, lighter floral notes and delicate butterscotch honey.Palate: Velvety and round to taste with the peat smoke balancing citrus flavours, oaky vanilla and blossom honey.Finish: Gentle smoke with a lingering and creamy vanilla sweetness.
