August 28th 2024.
The Balvenie has recently unveiled the first of an exclusive trilogy of rare whisky expressions, which will be rolled out over the course of three years. This highly anticipated collection is sure to thrill whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Priced at a whopping £42,500, the first expression has been carefully selected by the esteemed Malt Master, Kelsey McKechnie. Aged in a European oak refill butt that was first filled in 1973, this single cask whisky perfectly embodies the depth and complexity that can only come from such a well-aged spirit.
Despite spending fifty years in the cask, this whisky has managed to maintain The Balvenie's signature sweet honey style, thanks to the influence of the European oak cask. On the nose, one can expect a symphony of deep fruits, cassis, and candied apricots, with delicate notes of cedar and a warm nutty spice.
On the palate, the whisky offers a rich and decadent experience, with flavors of caramelized fruits, bold spice, and smooth vanilla. These are beautifully balanced with a delicate kick of ginger spice and a refreshing touch of citrus.
For the Second Edition, Kelsey has expertly married a second American oak hogshead cask from 1973 with the first, before adding a third American oak barrel filled in 1974 for the final Edition Three. Only 125 bottles will be released from each of the three editions, making them truly rare and highly sought after.
Kelsey herself describes each edition in this collection as a testament to the craftsmanship that has defined The Balvenie for the past 50 years. She explains that the unique characteristics of these rare casks have come together to create an exceptional whisky that sets a new benchmark for The Balvenie in the rare and extraordinary whisky market.
Using a refill butt for the First Edition has allowed The Balvenie to establish a distinct flavor profile that will carry through to the next two releases, showcasing the impressive range of flavors and aromas found in their aged spirits. This collection is a true celebration of The Balvenie's legacy, passion, and unwavering commitment to producing some of the finest whiskies in the world.
It's worth noting that this particular cask was filled in 1973 by the team of craftspeople led by former Malt Master David Stewart. Many of these talented individuals are still a part of The Balvenie team today, and their dedication to the brand's five rare crafts has resulted in the implementation of new and innovative practices in whisky making over the past fifty years.
The first edition of The Balvenie Fifty Collection, with an ABV of 52.3%, will be available at select retailers nationwide starting from September 27th. Whisky enthusiasts can look forward to the release of the Second and Third Editions in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
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