Balvenie 12 Year Old DoubleWood

The Balvenie 12 year old DoubleWood gets its name from the, now commonly used, process of ‘wood finishing’. This technique was pioneered by one of Balvenie’s former Malt Master in 1980s and is something the distillery has been perfecting for a number of decades. They are, obviously, by no means the only distillery using this technique but as you’ll find out below, they may well be doing it better than the others.

Bottle

The bottle design itself is a work of art, a perfect blend of tradition and modern sophistication. The classic stout shape is my favourite styling for whisky bottles, yet the curves at the neck hint at a refinement befitting of one of Scotlands favourite distilleries. This bottle would look equally comfortable on a mountainside as a city bar, maybe as good as it gets?

Colour

A beautiful deep copper colour hints at the time the whisky has spent finishing in sherry casks for the last stint of its maturation. This whisky, from the heart of Speyside, classically embodies the rich colour of the regions whiskies that are finished in Sherry casks.

Nose - As the glass nears, delicate notes of sweet honey and vanilla embrace the senses, accompanied by a subtle floral elegance. A nuanced blend of oak and a whisper of dried fruit adds layers to the olfactory symphony, inviting the first sip.

Palate - On the palate, a velvety texture delivers a cascade of flavours. The honeyed sweetness intertwines with warm spices and a gentle oak infusion. Nutty undertones and a subtle hint of cinnamon contribute to the tapestry of complexity, beautifully brought together in this dram.

Finish - The grand finale is a lingering embrace, honeyed and warm. The influence of sherry introduces a nuanced conclusion, leaving a delightful afterglow.

Overall

This is a beloved whisky for many enthusiasts. An easy recommendation for any whisky drinker, whether they are a newcomer or an experienced dram drinker. At around £44 it is not the cheapest but among its peers in the core of the whisky world it is certainly one of the leaders. One of my favourites.

Available from Master of Malt for around £44, or check price and availability at Amazon