BALVENIE PORTWOOD 21 YEAR
Balvenie is most certainly known for the consistency and quality of their core range of whiskies, and the 21 year PortWood is nothing short of spectacular. Their flagship single malt (specifically from their PortWood series) is finished in 30 year old port pipes (casks).
The packaging is one of the nicer presentations for a 21yo bottling. A perfectly clear bottle, foil-wrapped cork, an elegant off-white label, and a red-felt lined box; no cardboard tube (as I would expect in this price-range).
To me, this is the perfect dram to be sipping while sitting out on the deck on a cool September night, or in front of the fire place. Take a sip, contemplate life, and watch the world pass by.
The only issue for me with this whisky is the price. In the US is priced relatively well at $299 but on this side of the border you’re looking at anywhere from $380-$450 depending which province you hail from. My suggestion, scoop a bottle if you can next time you’re in the U.S..
Cheers!
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Score: 9.5/10
Colour: Bright copper
Nose: Fruity, raisins, roasted nuts and a hint of smoke
Palate: Think raspberry coulis meets lightly burnt sugar (before it turns black), creamy (malt), slightly dry and a blast of sherry
Finish: Very long, sherry and oakiness with a touch of smoke and slightly bitter or even tartness
(WB-94.5, Distiller-93, WineMag-94)
Price: $380-$450 CAD depending what province you hail from
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