Balvenie Classic Bottled 1980's

Balvenie 17 Year Old DoubleWood

This one has been sitting for a while, which has done it good. Whilst 43%, the **nose** is quite strong but calms with some 20min resting. All the classic sherry elements are there, but there is also a bit of red fruit in the background which adds an element of freshness. Some more tropical elements, over ripe mango and some spotted banana. None...

Score 85/100

Balvenie 15 Year Old

This is everything I like about Balvenie scotches at a really great value. It's got the usual Balvenie oak notes, though relatively less than the Double Wood 12yo (see my other review of that bottle). It's a single-barrel scotch, so it's a tad bit more variable than some of Balvenie's younger offerings, but the key elements go something like this....

Score 75/100

Balvenie 12 Year Old DoubleWood

In keeping with my latest entry-level dram series, we have this twelve year old DoubleWood. I believe it replaces the old 10 Year Old Founder's Reserve (which is excellent - grab it if you can find it), and is matured for ten years in ex-bourbon barrels, then another two years in ex-sherry casks. The colour is a deep amber. On the nose, quite...

Score 78/100

Balvenie 12 Year Old Single Barrel

I've tried a few Balvenies but never actually owned a full bottle until this one. I'll happily admit I saw a Ralfy review a couple of years ago and was curious so bought a bottle and have sat on it until now. This is from a first fill bourbon barrel. Bottle has 2/3s left and open just under two months. This review has about a tsp of water to a...

Score 87/100