701.7 BALVENIE DCS CHAPTER 2
BALVENIE DCS CHAPTER 2: THE INFLUENCE OF OAK
The Balvenie DCS Compendium Chapter Two features five extremely rare single-cask single malt whiskies and highlights the complex manner in which different oak casks influence the flavour of The Balvenie during the maturation process.
David Stewart MBE pioneered double cask maturation, or finishing, during his career at The Balvenie and this chapter showcases his vast knowledge and understanding of this process.
The whiskies in Chapter Two, range in age from 15 years to 43 years, with each of the casks chosen by David imparting their own distinct flavour profile to the final expression.
♦️ Balvenie 1972 (43 years): was filled to a European oak Oloroso sherry butt on 31st October 1972; NOSE Fragrant, floral and fruity, fresh pineapple juice and melons, a malty sweetness and soft oak vanilla. TASTE A syrupy sweetness, with honey, butterscotch, vanilla toffee and delicate cinnamon spice. FINISH Lingering with gentle waves of vanilla and subtle oak spices.
♦️ Balvenie 1990 (25 years): was filled to a first fill American oak bourbon barrel on 1st May 1990; NOSE Rich and deep, elegant oaky notes followed by sweet aromas of raisins, dates and gentle ginger spice. TASTE Velvety smooth with sweet dried fruits, a deep nuttiness and sherry oak. Gentle warm spices and a touch of oak tannin. FINISH Sumptuous with a sherried sweetness.
♦️ Balvenie 1990 (26 years): was filled to a European oak Oloroso sherry butt on 3rd October 1990; NOSE Rich and malty, sweet toffee, vanilla fudge with layers of honeycomb and a delicate spiciness. TASTE Rich maltiness, honey maple syrup and citrus notes, ending in delicate cinnamon spice and subtle oak vanilla. FINISH Rich with a creamy sweetness and gentle spices.
♦️ Balvenie 1997 (19 years): was filled to a European oak Port puncheon on 6th August 1997; NOSE Creamy toffee notes of brown sugar, hints of dried fruits and delicate spices of nutmeg and cinnamon. TASTE Warm and inviting, with prunes, plums and figs. Tropical fruit juice, sweet wood spices and dried fruits. FINISH Lingering with dried fruits, oak spices and sweet wine.
♦️ Balvenie 2001 (15 năm): was filled to a European oak Pedro Ximenez sherry butt on 25th April 2001. NOSE Deep and intensely fruity, peaches and mango, soft vanilla with layers of brown sugar and oak spices. TASTE Syrupy with a toffee sweetness, a touch of spicy ginger overlaid with gentle oak tannins. FINISH A fruity sweetness with gentle oak vanilla and spices
Balvenie DCS Compendium Chapter 2 delivers a wealth of inspirational experiences with an excellent malt whisky. Only fifty individually numbered Chapter Sets of all five whiskies have been released, presented in European oak and brass frames, handmade by Scottish craftsman, Sam Chinnery.
