About this whisky

The Balvenie is one of very few distilleries that still keeps the traditional crafts under one roof in Dufftown: it grows barley on its own farm, turns it on a floor maltings, and employs its own coopers and coppersmith. DoubleWood 12 is the whisky that made the name of Malt Master David Stewart MBE, who pioneered the idea of cask finishing. The spirit spends years in traditional oak whisky casks before moving into European oak sherry casks, and each wood leaves its own mark.

The bourbon casks bring honey and vanilla; the sherry casks add sweet fruit and a nutty, cinnamon warmth. The palate is smooth and mellow, and the finish long and warming. It is a beautifully balanced dram for someone exploring single malts for the first time, yet it has a loyal following among seasoned drinkers too, which makes it a safe and respected gift for a boss, an in-law or a client. Enjoy it neat, with a splash of water, or after a long Sunday lunch.

Key facts

• Matured in traditional oak whisky casks, then moved into European oak sherry casks
• Created by Malt Master David Stewart MBE, a pioneer of cask finishing
• The Balvenie grows its own barley and runs a traditional floor maltings
• Keeps its own coopers and coppersmith on site in Dufftown

Tasting notes

Nose:

sweet fruit and Oloroso sherry, layered with honey and vanilla

Palate:

smooth and mellow, with nutty sweetness, cinnamon and a gentle sherry layer

Finish:

long and warming

Serve

Neat or with a splash of water.

Food pairing

Pair with kosha mangsho and luchi, or a wedge of aged Manchego with quince paste.