The Balvenie 12 Years Old Triple Cask (Travel Retail Exclusive)

• 40% ABV,
• £49.99 for 1L
• Score:  78/100

What they say:

The three expressions in The Balvenie Triple Cask series have been matured in three kinds of wood – ‘traditional refill casks’ to mature and mellow the spirit, but not dominate its flavour; ‘first-fill ex-Bourbon barrels’, which add vanilla and coconut to the flavour; and ‘first-fill Oloroso sherry butts’, which typically impart rich dried fruits and spice to the spirit. They are bottled at 12, 16 and 25 years, and are exclusively available in travel retail.

Autumn mellow, with scents of bruised apples, dried herbs, sherry and sandalwood. A dry nose, but a sweet and spicy taste and a warming finish.

What I say:

Colour:

Dark amber gold

Nose:

Manuka honey, apple

Palate:

Sweet, honey, toffee, fruity sherry

Finish:

Short-medium, sour and sweet

Sampled at Water of Life Society 27/03/2014 – Annual General Meeting